Rita Mehta, 65 started having joint pains and varicose veins about 20 years ago. These restricted her movement and lifestyle. And led to a diagnosis of Arthritis. She talks through the variety of solutions she tried and what eventually worked for her.
Initial Symptoms
In 1990, I was visiting the Disneyland in US with my son. I remember a lot of standing due to long queues everywhere and soon after our return, I was diagnosed with varicose veins in both my legs. For two years after that, I would wear my compression stockings everywhere, even in the humid weather of Bombay. Around 2005, I started getting knee pain when I would be standing for long. For instance, standing in the kitchen while cooking became painful. I went to my GP who diagnosed me with Osteoarthritis and prescribed painkillers to be taken when pain occurred. I barely took the painkillers at all; on some days I would apply a balm at night time.
Physiotherapy for Osteo Arthritis
About 4 years ago, I consulted my nephew who happens to run a Pain Management clinic. He told me to get some tests done and start coming to his clinic for some therapy. The tests showed that my knees had become quite arthritic. I realised that some physiotherapy was helping but not as much. At his clinic, I was started on pressure point and Trancutaneous electric nerve stimulation (TENS). I did that for about 3 times a week for nearly 6 months. It made a lot of difference, and I noticed I could stand for longer without pain. My uric acid was also found to be high, so I was started on Feburic 20 since I have a family history of Gout (my father and sister have it).
Read: How I regained my health after being diagnosed with Gout
Do I Need A Knee Replacement?
Then a year ago, my friend got her knee replacements done and suggested I go meet her doctor for the same. Dr Maniar is a reputed surgeon at Breach Candy Hospital and after checking me asked if I had any pain. I said no, so he advised me against any knee replacement surgeries and asked me to contact him if and when the pain got worse. I’m grateful that unnecessary and premature knee replacement was not prescribed for me.
Must Read: Is Knee Replacement Right For Me?
Lifestyle Changes for Osteo Arthritis and Gout
My daily routine includes yoga and functional exercises with a Trainer 6 days a week. I have been doing yoga since 1985 now, so that is part of my daily morning routine. However, because of my knees, my doctor has recommended that yoga be done while sitting or lying down, so I follow his advice. I do my pranayam and exercises on my mattress. In the evenings, I go for a quick walk in the garden for about 20 to 30 minutes.
Diet changes had to be made once my uric acid levels were detected. I now keep a check on my protein intake because if I do by mistake have extra protein, it bothers me quite a bit. For example, if I have rajma or kidney beans, I immediately start to experience bloating, gas and vomiting. So I have really cut down on protein rich foods such as pulses, beans, certain fruits like apples, nuts etc. My motto is everything in moderation!
Must Read: A Diet For Gout
Currently, I am on medication for my high Blood Pressure, a multivitamin and Calcimax for bone health. To keep my uric acid levels in check, I take Feburic and have started drinking juice of white radish leaves recently. I check my uric acid every 2 months. In addition, I have a glass of boiled drumstick pulp which is said to relieve joint pain.
There was a time when I could not stand for more than 15 minutes or get out of the car easily. I can now stand for almost 2 hours if required. At a recent Fire Drill, I had to climb down 10 stories from my flat. Climbing down is not easy for me but I did it slowly by holding on to the railings. Also, if I have to use the restroom at night, I first come to a sitting position and then slowly rise up. I avoid sudden swift movements. I have 2 grandchildren who keep me busy. I am an active homemaker and love to cook and entertain since we have a big extended family.
My Advice To People With Arthritis
My advice to other people with arthritis would be to stay active and do what suits your body. Do the recommended physiotherapy exercises and try yoga as it has helped me tremendously. Don’t get carried away by greedy doctors who suggest quick fix surgeries and do your homework before going to an unknown doctor.
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