Just as I've given up my codeine habit (well my 1200mg a day habit has been helping mask the pain) my knees which have been bad for a while turn out to have advanced osteoarthritis. I'm 37.
I live in a 3rd floor flat with no lift and its agony. Even when I just rest now it's got cold they hurt.
Tried paracetamol and ibuprofen - nothing.
Does anyone know what they can do? Will I end up back on painkillers. I'm just about to go back to work but driving is dangerous as they get stiff in any position.
Last took codeine in August. I'm still really struggling with my mental health. And my anger. I think I need anger management I constantly loose it with people.
sue I have osteoarthritis and take codeine because I can't take anti inflammatory medication. However for some time I've been prescribed Nefopam also known as Acupan. You can take it with other pain killers but it's not an opiate therefore not supposedly addictive. It is given to post operative patients and ladies in labour so it's obviously strong. I take it when I find my other medication doesn't work and it is effective.
Thank you. I will have a Google I've never heard of those.
Where do you have it? Do you tend to get it other places once you have it? I was just planning a job switch but it's very physical work. Now I'm thinking I won't be able to cope.
Thanks for the reply.
Sue
I have osteoarthritis in my shoulders, hands, knees and feet. It was diagnosed by X-Ray's after I was referred to a rheumatologist. I'd had a raised rheumatoid factor so my GP referred me to her. However blood tests since have been ok. I retired early almost 5 years ago without any symptoms then 3 years ago I started to have a very painful shoulder, it then just got worse and my other joints started to hurt. I'm not sure I would have coped at work to be honest.