update: what is wrong with me

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a joint disease which causes the cartilage to breakdown.

OA results when the cartilage becomes worn out, allowing the bones underneath to rub against each other causing pain and swelling. As the condition progresses, the joint may become disfigured and small growths called osteophytes begin to grow inside the joints. Osteophytes are small, irregular, bony growths that are also called bone spurs. Bits of broken-off cartilage or bone are also found floating inside the joint. This causes even more pain, swelling and immobility of the joint.

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19 replies since 18th January 2010 • Last reply 18th January 2010

Reply #1:

That sounds terrible, it also sounds like the sort of condition for which there isn't much help=( Is there anything, apart from pain management, that can be done?

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Reply #2:

Sorry to hear about this Michelle. My Aunt suffers from this so I've seen how debilitating it can be. Have you tried accupuncture and yoga? If you do decide to try yoga, speak to the instructor first and make them aware of your situation. It will help a lot with the pain, movement and above all you will feel better mentally. I hope you can find some relief from this soon whatever you choose...

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Reply #3:

the worst is that I am only 30, and this is a desease that usually effects the elderly. It is in its mid stage, I have had this since I was young, in 10 years I will be crippled.

Mine is a quick process, which means its spreading rapidly. I can not work full time hours, sit for long periods of time or stand for more then an hour.

But I am glad that I did alot when I was symstom free.

I travelled the world, and lived in China, Ireland and Germany

learned how to figure skate, bellydance, social and latin ballroom

I tried the luge, rollerblading, biking, boating(rowing) and hiking

I have studied Art history, Photography and Design

so I think I have did alot. I want to see Africa and South america as well(I don't care if I have to endure 10 hours of pain-I am seeing it)

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Reply #4:

Sorry to hear about this...
But the most important thing is for you to think positive.
And you have done so cool stuff.You lived in places i know I can never even visit.
And dont forget you did 4O6 projects so far! Happy
I hope you get to see all the places you want to!

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Reply #5:

me too, well its only a desease, although one that will cripple me, I had a good run so far

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Reply #6:

I'm so sorry to hear that Michelle. Healing is well seated in your mind and emotions be sure to keep a positive outlook. If you like to read i would suggest The Secret. IT could help alot. also a series the begins with The Call is written by a woman with chronic fatigue syndrome might give you some helpful insights.

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Reply #7:

oh thanks, I heard alot about that book

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Reply #8:

Oh, no. Good luck! That runs in my family, and it's horrible. Happy I think I'm showing the beginning symptoms, myself..... :-s

Here's hope for a cure! :-D

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Reply #9:

eek, well get yourself to a doctor!

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Reply #10:

Never allow yourself to become a 'victim' of this disease. Maintain happy and healthy thoughts! See and plan your life as if the disease doesn't exist - mind over matter. The power of positive thinking is a powerful force, so let it be on your side! (I'm studying Neurolinguistic Programming and I'd be happy to talk to you a bit about it if you want to).

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Reply #11:

wow, thats cool. Although I would love to imange the pain is not there, it is. But it doesn't stop me from being active. I can't do as much as I used to, but I still dance for 30 mins a day, streatch and craft. If I don't work my body, it will just waste away quicker

I am staying postive, and I am going to work untill my body doesn't allow it any longer

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Reply #12:

That sounds horrible, Michelle, I can only imagine it must be even harder for someone who likes to be active like you.
But you seem to have a very positive way of looking at it, which can only help.

The things you have done are awesome, I would be thrilled if I can achieve half as much in the next 10 years.

I guess all you can do is make the very most of everything as long as your body can handle it, but it seems like that was already your plan Happy

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Reply #13:

yup, I can only do so much. If I got another 10 years, then I want to use it while I got it

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Reply #14:

It must be hard for you Michelle, and I'm glad to hear you're staying positive.
I was diagnosed with osteoarthritis about two years ago. I take "Arthrotec" ( diclofenac) for it, and I have started taking Glucosamine and chondroitin, which is supposed to help...I hope it does, but I have to take it for 3 months before I can expect results.
The worst thing about it is that it's affecting my hands, and I'm going soon to get cortisone injections into the joint at the base of my thumbs.
However, I don't spend any time at all worrying about it, as my mother had the same and after a while it didn't get any worse, and was managable with pain kilers and anti-inflamatories for many years. The most important thing seems to be to keep active, and that's what you're doing . Tracy has good advice, and perhaps Neurolinguistal Programming would be good for you, I've heard it helps a lot.

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