Knee giving me trouble - what expectations should I have from NHS

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  • [Deleted User][Deleted User] Posts: 21,093
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    Dirtyhippy wrote: »
    thanks for all your replies and experiences, will definitely insist on a second opinion to get an xray at least. I don't see why I should have to just put up with it as my initial GP seemed to want me to do.

    Sorry for highjacking your thread :)
  • teresagreenteresagreen Posts: 16,444
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    I would see a different doctor in the practice, if there is one. I had the same trouble and was in agony sometimes, but my doctor sent me for an x-ray and on discovering it was arthritis, which we both suspected, he gave me a cortisone injection in my knee. I only get twinges now.
  • BeccyJayne2247BeccyJayne2247 Posts: 589
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    Did you get anywhere with your doctor?

    I've had problems with my right knee for the last 9 months or so. Problem is the poison can happen at anytime, when I'm walking round my office, walking to work, in the gym or even just up and down stairs. The pain is not excruitiating but does hurt and is uncomfortable.

    Went to doctors a few weeks ago - he said I should stop doing whatever causes it to hurt (helpful advice that....I'll stop walking round work should I!) He also said it may get better or worse over the next few years!!!

    It has been getting more frequent recently and can hurt in different places around the knee.

    I can't stop walking completely and I don't want to have to stop the gym but does anyone have any suggestions. I'm thinking maybe I need to go back and see a different doctor.
  • nowahallanowahalla Posts: 10,799
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    Definitely go back to your GP and seek a referral to physio or an orthopaedic specialist, you shouldn't have to just put up with it.
    I've had knee pain on and off for years, finally getting around to doing something about it but the specialist here is recommending a high tibial osteotomy, which, having googled it, I am reluctant to go for without seeking a second opinion..pretty fed up at the mo' to be honest...and also learning more about knees than I ever thought I would!
    Good luck with it:)
  • DirtyhippyDirtyhippy Posts: 2,059
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    I've got a an appointment next week, not going to be fobbed off this time, the very least I want is an xray and diagnosis but I'm not expecting a magic bullet.

    I wrenched it on the weekend getting in the car - bloody agony it was but its a little better now.

    Just a small 2 step raise is very painful to negotiate.
  • fredsterfredster Posts: 31,802
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    Dirtyhippy wrote: »
    I've got a an appointment next week, not going to be fobbed off this time, the very least I want is an xray and diagnosis but I'm not expecting a magic bullet.

    I wrenched it on the weekend getting in the car - bloody agony it was but its a little better now.

    Just a small 2 step raise is very painful to negotiate.

    I have had knee trouble for the past 30 years. I had an arthroscopy, but still get relapses. A knee support is quite good,but, the best thing is "A cryo cuff" you can buy them on line but, they are pricey.
    It is basically ice kept at the right temperature. I suggest you look it up. I have had one for my knee and my shoulder. It really does help.
  • JulesandSandJulesandSand Posts: 6,012
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    Dirtyhippy wrote: »
    thanks for all your replies and experiences, will definitely insist on a second opinion to get an xray at least. I don't see why I should have to just put up with it as my initial GP seemed to want me to do.

    I would be visiting a different GP if you can, your first one sounds poor to me.
  • [Deleted User][Deleted User] Posts: 139
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    I'm not sure I'd advise that.

    The way ibuprofen & diclofenic work - whether tablet or gel - is to inhibit the production of prostaglandins. While this is good where their is pain caused by swelling, prostaglandins also prevent the stomach lining from being burnt by stomach acid. Not so good if you already have stomach problems.

    I would certainly check with a pharmacist or another doctor before using anything like that.

    But to the OP

    I have similar issues with my knee and the first GP tried Tramadol which I hate but the next GP sent me for a MRI without any fuss. I'd suggest returning to your GP - perhaps try to see a different one - and flat out ask for a referral.

    That said, its been a month and I haven't had my MRI results back yet:rolleyes:

    Whilst this is true, the affect on the stomach from ibuprofen gel is minute. I have the same problem (cannot take NSAIDs due to ulcers, but suffer horrendous joint problems) and have never had a problem with using gel.
  • shmiskshmisk Posts: 7,963
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    Thanks shmisk, my G.P was more than willing to refer me to one of the clinics in London, but I can't sit for long, so couldn't make the journey. Its beyond me why general orthopaedic surgeons and rheumatologists know hardly anything about it or its effects or in most cases aren't even able to spot it.

    How is your son doing?

    he gets a lot of pain in his wrists and fingers, and finds writing really difficult, school are having to implement a scribe for exams and stuff.

    cause hes 10 I also have to stop him doing party tricks and grossing his mates out with what his joints can do......
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