Question to GP Maarten: Pain in my knee due to osteoarthritis, should I consider an artificial knee?
For about a year now I have been experiencing problems with my right knee, so severe that walking has become almost impossible, while cycling is almost without any problems. In the Netherlands I visited an orthopedist through my GP. An x-ray revealed little. An injection I received worked well for three months, and I was able to function normally again during my stay in Thailand. However, back in the Netherlands the complaint returned.
Question to GP Maarten: Serious back problems with a lot of pain
I had previously contacted you regarding back problems, I had an MRI done because I suspected that I had a hernia. But it turned out, according to the doctor at Bangkok Hospital, that the cartilage was gone and he said there was nothing that could be done. It comes from heavy construction work, the doctor suspects after consulting with me.
I have been suffering from osteoarthritis (form of rheumatism) for a while and I have heard that the heat in Thailand can help to reduce the pain. But before I plan my trip to Thailand, I would like to learn more about how heat can help relieve symptoms. Is there scientific evidence that heat can help reduce pain in osteoarthritis?
I suffer from stiff sore fingers upon waking and sometimes longer daily rest periods. Fingers are stiff, sometimes it feels like the little finger jumps when stretching. After a short period of time, approx. 5 – 10 minutes, there are no more complaints.
I suffer from osteoarthritis in my hand, knee and hip. Especially in the winter and during certain (humid) days a lot of trouble. What about people who spend the winter in Thailand? Does the climate offer some relief?
I am 63 years old, I do not smoke or drink alcohol and I weigh 82 kg. Now I have osteoarthritis in my right knee 2nd degree they said in RAM hospital in Khon Kaen. I also had an MRI made there and the doctor said that I will have to have a new knee put in 5 to 6 years.
General practitioner Maarten: Interesting news about Chondroitin sulphate in knee osteoarthritis
Maarten would like to point out an interesting article about Chondroitin sulphate in pure form. That drug seems to work in knee osteoarthritis.
A friend of mine is staying in Pattaya. He has osteoarthritis and has already been treated in four different hospitals for it. Maybe someone knows a solution, because my friend doesn't know what else to do to get better.