Knee problem preventing exercise

Bones, joints and muscles
1

I have a problem with my knees, and  neither my GP or physiotherapist has been specific about what is wrong.  However it is preventing me from  walking very much, and as I have diabetes my glucose levels are higher than I would like.

Would you like to advise me about exercises and what I should do?

2

Are you in pain all the time or only when you walk?

3

See a specialist or get a referral for an MRI

4

I'm a strong believer in getting to the right doc which in this case would be an orthopod. You need soft tissue tests ,(MRI) and professional diagnosis and a rehab plan. Get tough with the drs and insist on care

5

Noel, you definitely need to see a Dr who will take you seriously. Insist on a referral to a specialist. And you should by now have had x-rays, particularly if you're seeing a physio. Don't take no for an answer, and don't try to treat yourself with someone else's excercises. You might do more damage. Best of luck and keep us informed.

Denise from Oz

6

Thanks for your reply.

I only feel difficulty when walking.

7

Thanks for your reply.

Perhaps many have seen my problems as more serious.  Both my GP and physiotherapist sees no major problem.  Maybe age (I am 74) or wear may contribute.  An MRI seems excessive at this stage. 

8

Thanks for your reply.

As I wrote previously perhaps my problem is being seen as more serious than it is.  The physiotheerapist gave me some exercises, some of which seem to help.

9

Thanks for your reply.

Your advice not to use the exercises of others for my treatment is very important.

All the replies I have received are very helpful.  Perhaps the best approach for me would be to do what I can and use the exercises my physiotherapist gave me that help, and avoid her other exercises.  I had considered that sticking with her exercises might be a case of short-term pain for long-term gain, but they were discouraging as they were painful and I felt making things worse, while other simple exercies were helpful.

10

Hello Noel, I am sure if you asked your doctor for a simple xray of your knees (am assuming you live in the UK? If so this isn't a big cost to your GP or the NHS) This at least would establish whether or not the problem is arthritis, which is, I think, the most common cause of knee pain. Good luck in getting the help you need!