Need some input please. Turned 56 over 10 days ago and the next morning woke up with miserable pain in my left knee. I had done a 15.6 mile run the day before (it was my Birthday) and figured I had stressed it some, it got worse went to the MD, Xrayed etc. diagnosed as early onset of arthritis. Handed me a box of Vioxx and said take it easy.
Anyway it still hurts (not as bad at least) did not race today. I read up on side effects of Vioxx and am a little concerned about long term effects.
My question is anyone else putting up with is and how long does the medicine take to really work? Lastly any other medicines to recommend.
… An alternative medicinal therapy is Gluocosamine Sulfate (not HCL version of GS). It seems to have anti-inflamatory properties simular to NSAID’s. Typical dosage of 1500mg per day (3x500 mg) for an extented period of time (…can takes weeks to months to take effect) has shown positive anti-inflamatory characteritics without significant side effects for most.
OTC and prescription NSAID’s (such as Vioxx) have a more immediate effect on inflamation but when combined with endurance sports, NSAID’s can produce severe problems regarding kidney function. Useage of NSAID’s and endurance sports needs to be taken with caution and with a good knowledge of it’s potential harmful side effects and toxicity. There are some good posts regarding this NSAID problem/issue on this sight… do a search - keywords: NAIDS kidney
Well, there are several different types of arthritis I am told. I have had a shopping list of injuries, a few catastrophic (paralyzed once for a while, had to learn to walk again) and have the resultant arthritis from numerous surgeries, hardware, ligament grafts, etc.
I have found that non-drug therapies such as R.I.C.E. and massage therapy have helped me. Another thing is stretching, which I don’t do too well on my own, but I have my massage therapist do. That has been helpful.
Strengthing the musculature surrounding the affected area has the effect of stabilizing it. For my back, which is very bad, a rowing machine helps a great deal- low resistance and high reps.
Those are just my experiences, and everyone seems to be different. Happy birthday to you my friend.
Wholeheartedly agree with the 2 previous responses.
I have suffered from Reiters syndrome(rheumatoid arthritis) and for years let the disease keep me immobile. I have since decided to not let the disease control my life.
Glucosamine has been a tremendous asset in that fight. I also stretch extensively before and after workouts.
Additional suggestions. Yoga has been a godsend for me. 2 sessions a t a minimum a week. Works the body and the mind.
Omega 3(fish oil) also helps. I also try to eat as much fresh fish(especially salmon and tuna) as it contains natural omega 3. Omega 3 has been proven to help fight the effects of arthritis.
Main thing though is to listen to your body. There is a fine line between pushing oneself and injury especially those suffering with arthritis.
Don’t let it stop you from training. Just make sure you train smart.
I’m 43 and have been living with the limitations of arthritis in one hip, now both, for nearly 10 years. I’m sure my freestyle skiing contributed to it but even with the pain in the mornings (in particular) freestyle skiing was worth it. What a blast.
Anyway, I’m not a big fan of pills in general, but I do take them when necessary. I’ve found prophylactic use of ibuprofen helps with my running in tris. I don’t use it in training, just on race day. and then I limit it to 12 caplets maximum over an IM. 3 at a time.
I’m currently looking inot using vioxx instead but can’t comment as I haven’t even tried it once yet.
The arthritis in my hands is what really pisses me off however.
Funny, (or not) I was just diagnosed with some arthritis a few days ago in my ankle. I’ve been taking Glucoasmine for a few years now with MSM and have find it very helpful. I veer away from vitamin I (ibupro) as it may eat away at the lining of your stomach.
Another helpful vitamin is calmium. Make sure it is calcium citrate as is easier on the stomach – so are capsules as opposed to tablets.
also, the golden remedy after exercies – ice soaks in trash cans or buckets that submerge your leg up to the knee for 10 minutes.