Hi all-
47 years old, nursing a compression fracture in my L4, and when I got my x-ray back, it showed signs of osteoarthritis (according to imaging write-up and doctor check-in.)
Doc's initial response was that it seemed typical of aging process, but I can't help but think that might be sugar coating it. Waking up in the morning has been getting worse in the last year, and my hips and pelvis are already giving me fits (add CPPS and the compression fracture in there and it gets downright terrible.) It's tough to say what's what at this point.
What should my next course of action be?
Is it worth being pre-emptive and self-advocating about in case GP is just overlooking?
Hi there, keep in mind osteoarthritis affects millions of people. People in their early 20's can get it if they have had some type of an injury. Yes, it's often called the aging type or wear & tear arthritis.
I don't know what you mean by the dr sugar coating things, it would be unethical for a dr to write something in a patient's chart that does not exist. You can always ask for a copy of the x-ray report for your own record.
For starters talk to your pharmacist about what he/she would recommend for OTC treatment. There are many different things available OTC. We have to remain as active as possible with OA, gotta keep those joints moving. Try taking some Arthritis Strength Tylenol, this seems to be a popular one that helps.
If none of this appeals to you, make another appt with your dr & make a short list of questions for a more in depth conversation. I would also ask that labs be done to check my vitamin D level & a bone density test.
Take care.
Susie
Moderator in Chronic Pain & Psoriasis Forums
I don't know what you mean by the dr sugar coating things, it would be unethical for a dr to write something in a patient's chart that does not exist. You can always ask for a copy of the x-ray report for your own record.
For starters talk to your pharmacist about what he/she would recommend for OTC treatment. There are many different things available OTC. We have to remain as active as possible with OA, gotta keep those joints moving. Try taking some Arthritis Strength Tylenol, this seems to be a popular one that helps.
If none of this appeals to you, make another appt with your dr & make a short list of questions for a more in depth conversation. I would also ask that labs be done to check my vitamin D level & a bone density test.
Take care.
Susie
Moderator in Chronic Pain & Psoriasis Forums