Joint pain with unknown cause

[MarbleHornets]

Hi,

In early 2021 I started to experience mild joint pain in my knees. I didn't think much of it at first, but it began to worsen and now also affects my wrists, hips and back (and ankles on a particularly bad day).

I am currently managing it with painkillers (ibuprofen mostly) and knee/wrist braces. I have considered using a cane.

I am not sure what I should do as I am afraid of going to a doctor (to keep a long story short, I have a phobia which prevents me from being able to book an appointment). Does anyone have any idea as to what this might be?

I am 18 years old and this began when I was 15, I don't know what to do.

Thank you so much,

-V

[Happyrosie]

Hello MarbleHornets. I've just a few thoughts for you.

Firstly, this particular part of Health Unlocked was set up for a specific research project which has now ended, so not many people will see this. There are other better sites within Health Unlocked. Have a browse through HU and see which one seems most suitable to you.

You might well have arthritis and if you don't want to make an appointment with a doctor I suggest you have a chat with your local pharmacist. Nearly all pharmacists are happy to help.

A third source of information is one or more of the specialist charities. Have a look at the website of Versus Arthritis and Arthritis Action. I am not saying you do have arthritis as I cannot diagnose, but you might get some insights there.