Hello All,
I have been lurking here for some time, so I figured I may as well join. I have found many answers to my questions by searching previous posts. Just wanted to say thanks to those that have shared their experiences. You have helped my search for a diagnosis and treatment greatly.
I am a 42yr old male. (though I feel like I am 80 at times) I have a family history of OA and my dad had his knees replaced at 50.
I was recently diagnosed with OA in both knees. I have been suffering with pain (extreme at times) for over a year. After hearing many BS diagnosis like; Muscle strain, Bursitis, and Tendonitis, and after going thru 3 rounds of PT to no avail, I was sent for an MRI. The MRI showed almost identical OA in both knees with "bone bruising". My Ortho guy tells me it is not advanced, which after reading a lot of the posts here I am pleased to hear. I mean no dis-respect, but reading what the people with advanced OA are going through, I am not looking forward to it.
I had 2 Cortisone shots that did absolutley nothing. I am now scheduled for a round of 3 injections of Euflexxa (sp?)
I have heard good/bad things about the injections and I have high hopes that it will relieve my pain. I know it won't last forever, but it would be great if it at least lasted the summer. How great it would be to at least be able to run again.
I take extended release pain meds, which most of the time work great, except for the occasional unexpected *shock* while walking up stairs or just moving the wrong way.
**I used the word shock because that is what it feels like. (being electrocuted) Anyone suffering with OA knows that instant pain that makes you stop breathing for a few seconds.*
I work 50-60hrs a week, but which would be impossible without my pain meds. I stopped taking them for a few days and the pain came back with a vengeance.