Keep 'em moving (arthritis)

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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:
 
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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.
 
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Fastpedaller

Über Member
Location
Norfolk
Not physical jobs like years ago? That doc needs to come and see us work ! I already have 2 operations for wear and tear plus arthritis and currently have to dose up to manage.

I think the suggestion was that there is more incidence of arthritis nowadays, even though most people don't do heavy manual tasks - I can see the logic.
 

Webbo2

Über Member
I did physical jobs from the age of 15 to 30 then more sedate but I have cycled, rock climbed and weight trained from the age of 17 to 70 plus falling off rocks and bikes.
To say I have some arthritic changes might be a slight understatement but fortunately I don’t have to get up and go to work like cyberknight who has my greatest sympathy and I hope he can a resolution to his aches and pains.
 
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