Question
I am now 60 and had spent a good part of the last 20 years (in IS/IT) using a keyboard/mouse daily for 6-8 hours a day.  The swelling and joint discomfort began to appear about 10 years ago - but I just learned to live with it.

The diagnosis was osteoarthritis of both hands and basal joint (of the thumbs) osteoarthritis.

The physician said that there was nothing he could do short of cortosine injections or surgery and since I am alergic to "aspirin" the only recommendation was Advil.  He indicated that no matter what I did, the condition would worsen with age.

The physician group also owns and operates a therapy business and yet there was no suggestion of any kind for therapy treatment or the use of wrist braces etc., or follow-up visits.

I'm not sure if a "second opinion" is worth the time and money with another Orthopaedist - since you seem to have ruled out going to a Rheumatologist.

Since the diagnosis was based upon X-rays - I don't expect a second set of X-rays to tell a different story - what do you think?

Thanks,
Chuck Leavitt


-------------------------
Followup To
Question -
If I have been diagnosed, via X-rays, as having Osteoarthritis - is there any point in going to a Rheumatologist ?
Answer -
Charles,

Unless you think that your condition is something other than osteoarthritis there is no real need to see a Rheumatologist. At the same time you need to work with your doctor and not let him or her not take you condition seriously. Do not be content if they want to put you on over the counter anti-inflammatories or their prescription equivalents such as Naproxin or ibuprofen. These are not safe drugs to take for long periods of time. There are much safe drugs available such as Vioxx or Celebrex.

Also there are three supplements that may help. Sam-E has been shown to be as effective in tests as over the counter drugs but much safer.  Also two types of fatty acids have been shown to be effective, omega 3 fatty acids and Cetyl Myristoleate. Both are natural anti-inflammatories that can help control inflammation. I take Cetyl Myristoleate myself; it has controlled my arthritis pain for 4 years now.

I wish you well,

Rusty
http:"//arthritis-symptom.com


Answer
Chuck,

There are many things you can do besides Advil. I am so tired of doctors who either work for your insurance company and not you. There are much safer and more effective treatments for your condition than Advil.

I did not know that you were seeing an orthopedic surgeon. While a Rheumatologist most likely will not give you a different diagnosis, he might offer you more treatment options. Your family doctor can offer you more treatment options. So yes I think that a second opinion could be beneficial.


Rusty
http://arthritis-symptom.com


It is doubtfull that a second set of Xrays will change the diagnosis.