I'm only 44

[OsteoTookMyJob]

Hi, I wanted to introduce myself and seek advice or share stories with others.🤕 At 42, I discovered I had a condition that drastically changed my life. I worked as a massage therapist for 12 years, but over time, I noticed swelling and redness in my hands. After a serious illness in 2021, I learned my dominant hand had severe damage, leaving me with limited mobility and strength.

Now, my left hand is also swelling and painful. I'm struggling both financially and emotionally, as I can't work and I’ve lost my hard-earned clientele. I’ve been trying to get disability support for four years, but my lawyer hasn’t been helpful. I need to start over with my case, and I’d appreciate any recommendations for a good disability lawyer. Additionally, if anyone knows of books or websites on coping with anger and depression, I’d be grateful for the information. Thank you for your time!

[Met00]

Do you know what caused all the swelling and damage? It sounds like it might be an inflammatory form of arthritis rather than osteoporosis. Osteoporosis, often called the "silent disease", only causes problems if you fracture, otherwise you wouldn't know you have it.

[OsteoTookMyJob in reply to Met00]

EXACTLY!!!! I'm so frustrated at the drs I've struggled to find, and i live a cpl hrs from Dallas, so id like to think there's a dr somewhere that can help me understand. Every dr i have talked to has said the same thing u have.

Over the past 12 years of working as a massage therapist, I noticed changes in my hands, including redness that extended from just under my knuckles all the way to the tips of my fingers. My knuckles also appeared larger compared to my fingers.

However, everything escalated during a year-long battle with severe gallbladder issues. This led to complications that caused my liver to react, resulting in extreme swelling—I was so swollen that I struggled to move independently. After having my gallbladder removed and stabilizing my health, the swelling finally went down.

Unfortunately, during that time, I discovered that the cartilage in my dominant hand had completely deteriorated, and the bones had fused together, severely limiting my mobility and strength. I was diagnosed with erosive osteoarthritis, but I'm puzzled because my rheumatoid factor (RF) labs consistently come back negative.

I appreciate any insights or experiences from others who might have faced similar challenges. It’s been quite a journey, and I’m eager to understand more about my condition and how best to manage it.💞❣️❤️💗

[Met00 in reply to OsteoTookMyJob]

Although many of us with osteoporosis have arthritis as well (most commonly osteoarthritis), you might get more responses from an arthritis group. Maybe worth checking whether there's such a group on Health unlocked?

[OsteoTookMyJob in reply to Met00]

ty, i wasnt aware of that group but i def will check it out. i, being so unsure of whats going on, am happy to get feedback from everyone . i appreciate the suggestion. good luck on your journey.❤️

[Southerngirl2787]

I'm down in southeast Texas, but see an excellent Rheumy in Houston, Dr Holly Jones at Fondren Ortho Clinic. She diagnosed me with history, labs, and CT Spect in about two months. I was in healthcare 30+ years and find her to be the type of doctor we all want, takes her time with you, answers questions, explores all options, and no BS. I have Lupus, AS, Stevens Johnson Syndrome, and numerous odd allergies to medications, so I'm a pain. I also used a local attorney here in southeast Texas for disability, start to finish 9 months time I was approved. His name is Travis McCall, in Beaumont TX.

[PoohBear72]

I wonder if a patient advocacy group could give you any suggestions. Anything is wrth a try, no? Patient Advocate Foundation and National Patient Advocacy Foundation. Good luck.