Joint pain.

[G1s2m3]

Hi 👋 this is my first time posting. I keep forgetting to check the forum and some great advice. Thank you. My question is. I,m a 58 year old nurse who was diagnosed with fibromyalgia over 10 years ago. I have a lot of joint pain and stiffness especially my back. I reduced my hours a few years ago and at present I work 3 6 hour shifts instead of 12 hrs as that's far too long for me. Do you get any benefits if your only able to work part time ? Many thanks. Dawn.

[G1s2m3]

3 x 6 hours that's meant to say lol

[SnazzyD]

Hi, yes we older nurses didn’t have the same back care in the workplace back in the day and the chickens come home to roost. I know it isn’t what you’re asking for but have you had your back pain investigated recently instead of blaming it on Fibro?

What aspect of your work is the hardest challenge?

Regarding benefits, this is a handy first step. I know it’s not a .gov website but I find them up to date and a good starter before hitting the potentially hard going .gov info.

moneysavingexpert.com/famil...

[crochetjoy]

Hi there - I am a retired nurse just about same age as you

I was feeling that my concentration levels and energy levels were just not gelling with work and I couldn't continue in any way, shape or form ... I was asked if I wanted to reduce hours etc etc but made decision just to go and I'm so glad I did

This was about 18 months ago

If this is an option for you, I would recommend

Good luck wishes

[G1s2m3 in reply to crochetjoy]

Hi thanks for reply ☺ are you working now and if so doing what?

[crochetjoy in reply to G1s2m3]

Hi, no I am not working any more I collect my granddaughter from nursery 3 times a week and look after her until parents finish work

This is my "job" now and I'm extremely happy to be doing it

I just came off the register after a period of about 6 months post retiral (Gave myself time to mull it all over)

Hope this helps

[Midori]

Another retired nurse here! Welcome!

Not sure about the possibility of benefits, Pip is all about what you can do, rather than your diagnosis.

Government were making noises about making it easier for people to claim, but I'll believe it when I see it!

Cheers, Midori

[Loobielu]

I've come across many nurses and carers who have become poorly. It is clearly a tough profession on the mind and body. It's good you have been able to reduce your hours but definitely be mindful to put your own needs first. That's not something caring people are good at, bless your beautiful souls. Sometimes we have to listen to our bodies and make some tough choices. Best of luck with it all, hope things ease soon. Gentle hugs X

[G1s2m3]

Thank you all 🥰

[dippystuff]

Another nurse here ! And I also had to reduce my hours and even after that I ended up on the redeployment list as I wasn't coping. However this ended up as a blessing in disguise !

I went from a ward based 12.5 hr shift job to a job in theatre recovery, where I was doing short shifts where I was seated as much as I was standing. This was great for my fibro as I kept 'active', but could sit whenever I needed to. (There's a lot of waiting involved when you're waiting for someone to regain consciousness and expel their airway

😆) It was also great for my professional development and a great addition to my 'skillset'.

Long story short, I ended up working in areas that could support my fibro better due to type of work and hours of work, until I applied for my current post as an immunisation nurse (For under 5yr olds). This job I should be able to continue doing until I retire, unless either the job or my fibro changes.

So maybe it would be worth considering a 'change' instead of pushing your body to do more than you can manage ?