Osteoarthritis (again)

I’m really sorry you’re going through this. Please don’t feel like you’re “moaning”—pain, especially when it starts affecting your hands and daily life, can be deeply upsetting and frightening.

Osteoarthritis can feel like it’s spreading, but it doesn’t always progress in a straight line the way it seems in the moment. Many people go through flare-ups where things feel much worse, and then it settles again. So how you feel now is real—but it doesn’t necessarily mean this is how it will always be.

There are also things that can help ease both the pain and the progression. Gentle, regular movement (even simple hand exercises), warmth (like warm water soaks), and supporting the joints with the right nutrients can make a meaningful difference over time. Sometimes even small daily habits can reduce the intensity of symptoms.

Just as important—what you’re feeling emotionally matters too. That sense of “is this my life now?” can be overwhelming. But many people do find ways to regain comfort and function, even after a difficult period.

You’re not alone in this, and it’s okay to talk about it. Be kind to yourself as well.

I sympathise, Sallywally. It's the thought of being in pain for the rest of your life that is depressing.
I have to accept that there is nothing to be done about my spine and just learn to live with it. And now these horrible pains in my hands too. But, I am so grateful to still be here at age 88 and, apart from the pain, in reasonable health.
So I count my blessings. I'm still living my life, being a part of the universe, enjoying this beautiful planet.
Most days that helps, but now and again it just doesn't, does it.

I know how heavy it feels when the pain seems to move about and you start fearing it’s only going to get worse, I’ve had days like that myself. It doesn’t always keep spreading the way we imagine, and with the right help and a bit of patience you do find ways to ease it and carry on with life more comfortably.

I think for many of us - as we grow ever older - we have to accept that we have changed. Being old is not for the faint hearted. However, living in a time where the marvels of medical science gives us such a better standard of life, even with serious health conditions, is a bonus.
Yes, there are analgaesics out there, which can help to relief - if not totally control - painful conditions. There are so many wonderful aids that give us so much freedom. to be able to have good fulfilling lives.
I have osteoporosis, spinal stenosis - so cannot walk very far at all or stand for more than a few seconds. I manage well enough in my own lovely flat, thanks to my wonderful 4-motor riser/recliner chair, and adjustable bed, etc. Use a mobility scooter to get me out and about daily to meetings and social activities locally, and a lovely electric wheelchair which gives me access to all public transport (buses, trains, (& underground - when in London).
My bp is kept under reasonable control by meds, use a CPAP machine every night - which is a nuisance, BUT means I am able now to stay awake most of each day. My ileoostomy operation 36 years ago, means I am still alive (without would have died painfully many decades back). Another nuisance having to deal with that bag, - but much better than the alternative. Acromegaly - being brought under some control by having 4-weekly injections (which I am learning to self-administer).
I approach, with enjoyment -= thanks to all this medical help - my 85th birthday. Have a good, active life. Can look back to a different me - but do not spend anytime in mourning it.

I have been so lucky that I have been given this long life and have been able to see all my children (except the one that died), grow up and have their families and build their own careers. Am seeing my grandchildren grow up and able to attend their events (graduations, etc).
So much to be positive about - in the past I may have had my mobility, lots less meds, but there were so many problems - definitely enjoying these great latter retirements years.

I'm with you! What a blessed nuisance all this pain is!
No choice but to make the best of it .....

I’d give anything to just leave my house and walk in a way that I used to take for granted. And yes, I do feel sorry for myself and grieve for the person I once was even though I realise there are people far worse off than I am.

I agree, other people may be even worse off but that doesn’t diminish your pain. You would be kind to anyone else suffering from this so be kind to yourself.

I don’t know if you have tried them but a friend found compression gloves very helpful.

I say exactly the same to my orthopaedic consultant and he says just because people are worse off than you doesn't diminish your pain.

So I feel your pain with you. Some days I feel my whole life is dominated and compromised by continuous pain.

Then I have to lift myself out of the low mood and quietly reflect and give thanks for the smallest thing - like the bulbs flowering in my garden - having a better day when I cook myself a half decent meal. And look back on all the wonderful things I have experienced in my life.