RA plus OA

[Deb-Tum]

Hi all, went to hosp today, I’ve had RA 11 years (from 31yrs old) and now have secondary OA in feet, knees and hips. Am I right in thinking continuing with joint injections plus usual RA meds is only treatment until joints need replacing? Looking for some positive news....

[helixhelix]

Sorry to hear that. Sounds like your RA is pretty aggressive if you have all that damage in 11 years. I have RA and OA, but the OA is largely age related rather than secondary from the RA.

Anyway, I manage the OA with exercise, particularly my knees and back. It makes a huge difference to me as keeping muscles strong takes pressure off the joints. If I miss it for a few days I feel It! For my feet I have custom made insoles that help a bit too. Other people swear by supplements, but they've done nothing for me except cost a lot.

[BoneyC]

Hi, I've had RA for 47 years, since age 6 and unfortunately it does predispose to OA. The DMARDS and MTX only slow down the destruction, depending upon where your disease lies on the RA spectrum.

[oldtimer]

It is very important to keep up your exercise to keep your damaged joints moving and keep the muscles as strong as possible. Even wiggling helps! There are some helpful exercises on the NRAS website. You are correct that there isn't much else you can do apart from what you are doing already, but it isn't a given that your joints will need replacing, so don't cross that bridge until you need to!

[popsmith1874]

Hi Deb-Turn I feel that exercise helps me no end with my joints, I have RA and OA and I go to body conditioning 2a week plus the gym and go swimming when I can xxx

[Deb-Tum in reply to popsmith1874]

Thx yes I agree, but my fatigue is bad now and gym too big a feat....I increased walking instead but now that plan is scuppered too! I’ll try swimming tomorrow....the weight is piling on as I was so active. Getting frustrated! Thx for all your replies, onwards and upwards!