Just wondering

[JDQuinn75]

At what point should I ask my gp about getting a handicapped parking tag for my car? With the way my arthritis has been acting with me I’m finding it hurts to walk but so far when I park my car in a parking lot. My feet seem to be getting worse from the arthritis pain I have in them. I actually push myself through a days work shift to just get through an eight hour day. I’m finding the longer I’m on my feet the more it hurts. Almost 46 and I feel like I’m twenty years older than I really am do to the arthritis pain I’m feeling on a daily basis. Maybe I should ask him when I see him in a couple of weeks about getting a handicapped parking pass for my vehicle. Just a thought.

[arthritis_action Partner]

Hi JDQuinn75 , it's always worth speaking to your doctor as they know your own medical history and situation better than we'll be able to, and can advise you on what's right for you.

In the meantime, we would advise to try and exercise the muscles around your joint as much as possible, because regular exercise helps to strengthen the muscles that protect and support the joints. Exercise has even been proven to help reduce the pain of arthritis and improve function.

However, if you find it painful to stay on your feet for long periods, it may be worth looking at exercises you can do while sitting down after the working day, such as these chair-based exercises:

arthritisaction.org.uk/livi...

[MikeG1944]

Hi JDQuinn75; sorry to hear you have OA; like the rest of us here. I assume you are in the UK? If so you don't have to ask your GP for a Blue Badge for parking. Go yo your local/regional Council site online and fill in the form. Normally, if you can't walk 40 yards or so unaided you will probably qualify although there are a lot of other questions on the survey page. They will let you know if you have been successful and send the badge in due course. I think it was a £10 fee for the first time; afterwards free.

[1961jh]

Hello JD you can apply yourself now for a Blue Badge, it is your local council that approves it. You may not need medical proof of its need. There are questions that ask how far you can walk in detail. My husband applied for one after his first hip replacement. No GP letter needed. The badge lasts for 3 years. Good luck.

[princess1931]

Hi there and welcome. Sorry to hear of your pain in the feet as I have exactly the same problem, en ough to bring tears to the eyes. However,I also have gout and I am wondering if you have the same Problem, so it might be advisable to ask you doctor to rule this out with a blood test. Regarding the blue badge, the rules are quite explicit. They will not issue a badge without medical confirmation of your disabilities.Smplyapply to your local council, fill in the necessary forms and give them all the information they require. Please be aware it is up to the local cou cil to make the decision, not the doctor.I have had a blue badge since 1986 which has to be renewed ev ery 3 years. Sometimes you have to jump through hoops even when the disability is for life, so don't give up. I soak my feet in epsom salts and hot water and this gives some relief also elevating the legs. Make sure you don't wear tight shoes and if possible buy those with padded insoles. Slternatively buythe insoles seperately and you should feel uch better Finally do not take NSAID's as thhese aggrevate the pain of OA. Once I gave up I boprofen I realised the benefit and watch what you eat. Avoid citrus frits and juices and anyting acidic, as this always aggravates OA and go easy on the red meat. Hope mthis helps and you begin to feel better xx