Keep 'em moving (arthritis)

Page may contain affiliate links. Please see terms for details.

Fastpedaller

Über Member
Location
Norfolk
A couple of years ago the GP said " I think you've got arthritis" and then retired a couple of weeks later. I don't think my visit influenced his choice though. :smile:
He did say "we can get you replacement hips when they get worse, the waiting list is about 2 years". I left in a hurry.
On Sunday, before I went cycling I had a shooting pain in my R big toe. No problem cycling. Later in the day, I realised the joint in the toe nearest to my foot had a lump beside it ie between it and the next toe - If I touched this little lump, the pain was excruciating. My Wife suggested "maybe it's a bone spur or something?" I asked Dr Google about arthritis, and found an interesting article which said "wear and tear is a myth, particularly as most people don't do heavy physical jobs like years ago" This seemed sensible, so I carried on, where it stated the cartilage between the joints maintains itself better if the joint is regularly used. I moved the joint, both physically by hand, and then by using my foot muscles - very painful at first. I continued to move the joint about every hour, and yesterday it was much better and the little lump was gone. I'd say it's at 85% reduced pain if I had to put a figure on it. Remarkable, as I didn't expect a positive result, and certainly in such a short time. Hard -soled cycling shoes similar for the walks I do, suggest the toes don't get much movement - If I was climbing trees and clutching with my feet it would be ok. :laugh:
 

Gillstay

Veteran
There has been research on knees that points the same way and that keeping moving is the best thing you can do.

I have had arthritis since early twenties and have managed to keep moving rather well to my surprise.
 
Top Bottom