Hello Grannyrebel,
I take Turmeric with black pepper capsules twice a day. The black pepper is very important apparently so if you buy, make sure it's present in the mix. I get mine from a well known chain of health food shops.
I think you're probably starting an arthritic condition because what you describe, mirrors how mine started. I ended up with a total knee replacement but have staved off having the other knee replaced by not overdoing the walking and more recently, taking Turmeric with Black Pepper supplement. It hasn't cured my discomfort but it's taken the edge off the knee pain and the arthritis in one of my hands has definitely benefitted; the swelling is very much reduced.
No harm in trying but I recommend taking it regularly ever day without fail. If I run out of supplies my joints soon tell me! It's not a miracle cure but I hope you'll find it helpful. You've got nothing to lose!