Osteoarthritis: Let's connect and support each other

@clairepeterson I think that the answer to that lies in what effect it would have on your quality of life. I imagine that the next couple of decades would be more enjoyable if your pain was reduced and if your knee were functioning the way it should. Surgeons can do wonders. And my experience has been that when I've had a successful procedure, my mental health improves.

You know what's important to you, and who cares about others might think. Have you talked with a doctor about it? She can give you the pros and cons of the surgery, the possible risks, and the benefits. Be prepared for the recovery time. If you do all of the exercises ahead of time that you'll have to do after surgery, recovery is a lot easier. So do those stretches!

Jim

I have what appears to be arthritis in my hands, knees and other places. My mom had it badly in her hands. I’ve not seen a doc as I think they’ll just prescribe a bunch of pills, which I won’t take. I take supplements for what ails me: for inflammation and other things. Most days are ok, only a few where the pain is very real. Good luck to everyone who suffers.

There are other choices to relieve the pain of osteoarthritis, including heat, activity, stretching and exercise, analgesic rubs like Voltaren, massage and MFR, braces to support painful joints...

But it is a really good idea to have a precise diagnosis, because if you happen to have rheumatoid arthritis, avoiding medication can lead to greater damage.

Also, osteo damage sometimes needs to be repaired surgically, and if ignored too long it's too late to fix. And sometimes, there are other therapies, including injections, that can help with the damage and pain by lubricating the joints, and sometimes even regrow some cartilage.

Good luck finding some strategies to help you manage.
Sue

Thank you, you’ve given me a lot to think about.