What should I do? Arthritis all down my back, making so hard to walk

lauraheadford

I have arthritis all down my back, making so hard to walk, also my knees give way! What should I do 

steve51

Hi @lauraheadford

Good Afternoon & Welcome ???

I am very sorry to hear about your current problems.

Are you having any medical interventions currently???

@steve51

chiarieds

Hi @lauraheadford - Welcome to the community and thank you for sharing. I have arthritis in many joints and lower back pain, so understand a little.

Have you talked to your GP about this? They may refer you for physiotherapy to see if your mobility can be helped, or perhaps try you with an aid such as a walking stick.

lauraheadford

@chiarieds , @steve51 I’ve been to all the doctors appointments and they say exercise but I’m on steroids for having epilepsy, how would I go about getting a walking stick? 

steve51

Hi @lauraheadford

Your best bet is to have a visit from your local district nurse.

I have posted a link below for you:

https://www.healthcareers.nhs.uk/explore-roles/nursing/roles-nursing/district-nurse

Please please let me know if you have any further questions/problems???

@steve51

chiarieds

Hi @laurahead - You will be able to get a walking stick by asking your GP, who would then probably suggest you see a physio to get the right one for you, ensuring it's the correct height. I worked as a physio a long time ago, & when I needed elbow crutches I got them from the physio department. Hope that helps.

Cressida

@lauraheadford are you under the care of a rheumatologist? If so ask them if you can speak to one of their specialist nurses. They are really helpful and can give you more time than the consultant and get you access to what you might need. Please don't just go and buy a stick as things are more complicated than that. 

Rifi7

Hi Laura,
This weather does not help. I have the same problem. It’s nearly impossible to stand long enough to make a sandwich. I’ve been taking CBD oil and also keeping myself in warmth. If you need a walking stick then i would recommend the Flexy foot. It’s a great walking stick because it’s has a shock absorber on the base and it’s not as slippery on wet floor.

Chloe_Scope

Hi @lauraheadford and a very warm welcome to the community! It sounds like things are becoming more difficult.

Have you ever had a needs assessment? You can self-refer yourself here and I hope they'll be able to offer you some support.

deb74

Hi @lauraheadford I have got cervical spondylosis and although I am in pain most of the time and often have to stop when I walk anywhere and have definatley slowed down I have never been offered any physio. Like other people have said you need to talk to you dr  about it.