The doctor says my dodgy knee is arthritis - advice please!

[Cate A]

My left knee has been stiff for a while and I've been told I've been walking" funny" . I have a bit of pain and inflammation.(Nothing too bad) I went to see a physio who found a Bakers Cyst and advised going to see my GP. Today the GP said I also have arthritis and that walking a couple of miles a day would be a good idea but the camino would be likely to hasten the need for a knee replacement in a few years. I'm 53, not terribly fit but was aiming to get fit and walk the Frances in September, any thoughts? (I've been wanting to do this for years and this is the first time it's been a possibility).

 

[Tia Valeria]

That is such a shame. Elswhere there is a thread about 'walking while we can'. Maybe deciding how many days you have to walk and thinking about walking short stages will enable you to walk without wrecking your knee. If you plan on walking 10kms a day, carefully, then measure back from Santiago to find a starting place you could achieve your dream. It is possible to find accomodation at 5km stages - we met an 80 year old lady who had walked from Sarria - shortest day 2kms, longest 8kms (because of accomodation). Book a day or two ahead if necessary (private albergues/B&B etc)
So adapt your planning and live your dream - but listen to your GP's advice too and check out how to make the walking easier for yourself.
Buen Camino

 

[pbucilla]

Cate, the Camino is hard on joints. That constant grind. Uphills and downhills. Perhaps doing Sarria to Santiago at a very slow pace without a backpack? Ask your physio therapist for ideas to strengthen your other muscles to reduce stress on your joints. Your physican or health care provider can suggest an anti-inflammatory which might be helpful.

 

[JohnMcM]

My left knee has been stiff for a while and I've been told I've been walking" funny" . I have a bit of pain and inflammation.(Nothing too bad) I went to see a physio who found a Bakers Cyst and advised going to see my GP. Today the GP said I also have arthritis and that walking a couple of miles a day would be a good idea but the camino would be likely to hasten the need for a knee replacement in a few years. I'm 53, not terribly fit but was aiming to get fit and walk the Frances in September, any thoughts? (I've been wanting to do this for years and this is the first time it's been a possibility).

Hi Cate,
I would be foolish if I didn't first say......... Listen to your doctor.

There, I've met my ethical responsibility, now I can tell you what I personally would think of trying;

(1) Train over a period of multiple weeks and find the comfortable distance I could do carrying my pack on 3 consecutive days;
(2) Calculate the average of those 3 days;
(3) Reduce that average by 10% (to protect my knee) and call that my maximum daily distance for my Camino;
(4) Take that maximum daily distance, multiply by the walking days I have and plan my start and end venues accordingly.
(5) If necessary, accept that I may need to make more than 1 trip to walk the full distance I wanted to, or, tell myself it's not the distance that matters, it's where the journey takes me spiritually, religiously or otherwise that matters.

I'm sorry to hear of your health concern. Perhaps it will be a help to remind you that your dreams, hopes and wishes will remain the same, the fact you have a 'naughty' knee only changes the way you will achieve them.

Good luck and Buen Camino

 

[clwatkins]

Cate A,
I have both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. Have had surgery for a torn meniscus. Intended to walk the Camino last year, but had a herniated disc I spent this year training (walking) and working with PT and sports medicine doctors. Doing Pilates to strengthen core. I love aqua aerobics because it's gentle on joints. I get Supartz injections in my knees and take glucosamine. I am leaving in 6 days to walk from SJPP to Santiago. I will celebrate my 61st birthday somewhere on the way in Spain. Don't give up. You will find a way. All the best.

 

[Kiwi-family]

All the above plus Pacerpoles

 

[peregrina2000]

My left knee has been stiff for a while and I've been told I've been walking" funny" . I have a bit of pain and inflammation.(Nothing too bad) I went to see a physio who found a Bakers Cyst and advised going to see my GP. Today the GP said I also have arthritis and that walking a couple of miles a day would be a good idea but the camino would be likely to hasten the need for a knee replacement in a few years. I'm 53, not terribly fit but was aiming to get fit and walk the Frances in September, any thoughts? (I've been wanting to do this for years and this is the first time it's been a possibility).

Hi, Cate, I would second the recommendation of poles (Kiwi-family says pacer poles, which may be the gold standard, but I have regular old Leki poles and swear by them, too).

But I thought of you as I read today's New York Times with a little blurb on the benefits of drinking milk for arthritis. Might be worth a try. http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2014/...ay-ease-arthritis/?_php=true&_type=blogs&_r=0

 

[Mark Lee]

I'm 53 and probably have arthritis in both my knees. I'm very holistic as far as health and for me getting operated on would only occur after all other options were exhausted. For me a change of diet and lifestyle and a lot of sweat equity getting my legs stronger and my body leaner would be far preferable. The mere thought of some sawbones putting a scalpel to my flesh gives me the shivers.

 

[AshaDasi]

My left knee has been stiff for a while and I've been told I've been walking" funny" . I have a bit of pain and inflammation.(Nothing too bad) I went to see a physio who found a Bakers Cyst and advised going to see my GP. Today the GP said I also have arthritis and that walking a couple of miles a day would be a good idea but the camino would be likely to hasten the need for a knee replacement in a few years. I'm 53, not terribly fit but was aiming to get fit and walk the Frances in September, any thoughts? (I've been wanting to do this for years and this is the first time it's been a possibility).

The camino is incredibly tough on the body Cate, and we all experience different issues. If you get to fully acknowledge the challenges of the journey and prepare accordingly, you may be okay. The best indication will be how your knee responds to pre-camino training. John's advice above on training is good. And take the advice of others on this thread: use walking poles, send your baggage ahead. Take good medications that work for you (just for the record, Turmeric is amazing for conditions like yours) and walk the distances that suit you. Just also make sure that you book ahead for hostels. You can't book albergues, and if you walk slowly in the busy seasons, you might not so easily get a bed. Whatever happens, don't let your knee issues stop you dead in your tracks. Make a huge effort to live this dream of yours. It will be such a wonderful gift that you'll give yourself to attempt to overcome the obstacles. The journey begins with your effort. Your camino has begun! Buen camino!

 

[mitch237uk]

@Cate A

Just reading the i paper 16/4/2014 when I saw this full page advert on page 18 about a new treatment (private)., named APOS Therapy. The web address is AposTherapy.co.uk. They are in Manchester and I have no connection what so ever with the company. Hope this may be of use to you.

 

[Kitsambler]

Pilgrimages take many forms; each is a highly individual experience. So please don't get hooked into any "you've got to do 800 kms or it's not worthwhile at all" thinking. Do some walking, heeding your physical limitations. You can adjust by planning a shorter itinerary, or alternating rest days with walking, or alternating bus hops with walking. In that non-walking time, some mediation/prayer, journal-keeping, or reflective reading can increase the "pilgrim-ness" and transformational possibilities of your journey. You say this is a rare opportunity: be sure to make the most of it!

 

[basquelady]

My left knee has been stiff for a while and I've been told I've been walking" funny" . I have a bit of pain and inflammation.(Nothing too bad) I went to see a physio who found a Bakers Cyst and advised going to see my GP. Today the GP said I also have arthritis and that walking a couple of miles a day would be a good idea but the camino would be likely to hasten the need for a knee replacement in a few years. I'm 53, not terribly fit but was aiming to get fit and walk the Frances in September, any thoughts? (I've been wanting to do this for years and this is the first time it's been a possibility).

I've found that the advice and support from a physiotherapist who understands that a 66 year-old with "problem" knees still wants to be as fit as possible has been invaluable. I walked the Camino from Roncesvalles last autumn (43 days) and my knees improved on the way. Physios who are interested in sports medicine are best because they understand that even older people have dreams and goals!

 

[OTH86]

Hi Cate, Excellent advice above! Here is my story and it may not work for everyone, but it shows that with a lot of help from various parts of the medical profession and a lot of self discipline, one can make their own Camino work.
I have osteoarthritis in my knees and feet - bone on bone. An orthopedist recommended knee replacement four years ago. Instead, with help from my Primary Care Physician, Physical Therapists, acupuncture, anti-inflammatory supplements and working out at the YMCA (core, leg and upper body strengthening), I have - so far- avoided the surgery - and the bone on bone is not quite so severe - per comparative x-rays.
Last Sept/Oct/Nov I went from St Jean to Santiago - walking about half the time and taking bus, taxi, and accepting a couple of rides from Spaniards. All of these "options" had their own wonderful experiences! I used trekking poles - mostly for up and down terrain (and chasing flies along one section of the Meseta!) - and when I walk the Camino again in the fall, I will have my trusty "assistants"!! To help further, I took tylenol / paracetamol and used arnica every morning and evening.
We are all unique, so what worked for me one time may not work for others -- and may not work for me a second time. But I'm sure going to give it a good try - and hopefully will be able to walk all the way - even if I have to keep my distance to about 7 - 10 miles a day with rest days interspersed. I will also buy anti-imflams along the way so I have them, but won't have to carry a bunch that adds to the weight of the pack. And speaking of the pack -- I have already purchased my new one - 28 liters that will weigh about 12 lbs (with water and snacks) - less than what I carried last fall.
BTW, I will turn 70 in the fall.
Buen Camino Cate!!
Terry

 

[WycombeMan]

The knee's have ruined what was for me a great pleasure, I used to love running in the hills and peaks and would happily walk for 8 hours with no affect on me, alas now at the fairly young age of 36 I need 2 new knees(coccyx removal too), I have hydrotherapy and physiotherapy weekly and have arthritis in my left knee and shoulders and a list a long as your arm of joint and back problems, my GP thinks i'm a little mad walking over a 1000 kilometres but I say if I don't do it now I may never do it, this is why the Camino might take me 2 months and I am fully prepared to stop for a few days to gather the strength to carry on..

Buen Camino

 

[Harington]

My left knee has been stiff for a while and I've been told I've been walking" funny" . I have a bit of pain and inflammation.(Nothing too bad) I went to see a physio who found a Bakers Cyst and advised going to see my GP. Today the GP said I also have arthritis and that walking a couple of miles a day would be a good idea but the camino would be likely to hasten the need for a knee replacement in a few years. I'm 53, not terribly fit but was aiming to get fit and walk the Frances in September, any thoughts? (I've been wanting to do this for years and this is the first time it's been a possibility).

In 2009 a specialist said I needed a knee replacement. I was then 62. My response was to do the 1700k from Vézelay to Santiago. Then the Primitivo. Last year the 1000k Via de la Plata. Don't give in to it. It's only pain.

 

[OTH86]

The knee's have ruined what was for me a great pleasure, I used to love running in the hills and peaks and would happily walk for 8 hours with no affect on me, alas now at the fairly young age of 36 I need 2 new knees(coccyx removal too), I have hydrotherapy and physiotherapy weekly and have arthritis in my left knee and shoulders and a list a long as your arm of joint and back problems, my GP thinks i'm a little mad walking over a 1000 kilometres but I say if I don't do it now I may never do it, this is why the Camino might take me 2 months and I am fully prepared to stop for a few days to gather the strength to carry on..

Buen Camino

Bravo WycombeMan!! You should be able to find massage for your knee, shoulders and back along the way - ask where to find them at the albergues you stay in. Please let us know how you get on!
Buen Camino!
Terry

 

[Cate A]

Thank you everyone, I love this Forum! I'm now really clear I'll be on pilgrimage in the Autumn but with an open mind as to quite how far, when I might hop on a bus, tale a rest day etc. I think what matters for me is the time out of the everyday and the opportunity to be with myself and with God. Revised training starts now ( well after Holy Week and Easter Eggs anyway). And just because a (very young!!) GP thinks I'm now on the downward slide to sitting in a chair watching life go by doesn't make it so!

 

[Kathy F.]

FYI,
the Camino doesn't have to savage your joints!!
Take it easy. Do as much as you can and enjoy yourself. Give yourself ample time to accomplish what you set out to do. This isn't a race. Santiago will wait for you.
****Use hiking poles!!!***
My Camino mantra - "Start like an old man, finish like a young man." (I got this from this forum last year when I was preparing for my first Camino. I followed this advice and it totally worked).

 

[Kanga]

I've got crappy knees - old skiing injuries. It's horrible watching me lurch down stairs, clinging desperately to the railing. But I still manage the Camino. How:
Trekking sticks, trekking sticks and trekking sticks. Slowly to start, a bit of paracetamol. Muscles gradually build and it gets easier and easier.

 

[Cate A]

I've got crappy knees - old skiing injuries. It's horrible watching me lurch down stairs, clinging desperately to the railing. But I still manage the Camino. How:
Trekking sticks, trekking sticks and trekking sticks. Slowly to start, a bit of paracetamol. Muscles gradually build and it gets easier and easier.

That sounds like me on stairs to much mocking from children!

 

[Stefania13/14]

Hi to everyone! Many folks have problems with pain it seems. I went through a program last year to get rid of knee pain and elbow pain. It worked for me. There is a book (which is also a work book) so you don't have to go to the classes and can do it on your own. the website is www.unlearnyourpain.com and you can hear about the theories from a short set of lectures before you buy the book "Unlearn Your Pain". Also the doctor who wrote it is very approachable via internet, phone, etc.
This program is what has allowed me to do my 1st camino in May/June this year. I can not be more pleased with the results.
I have no affiliation with the program other than being a student. I never met the doctor before I began the program. The book is available on Amazon and I assume elsewhere.
Good luck to all! Buen Camino
Stefania

 

[Maggie97520]

Ditto, all of the above. I'm a former surfer and triathlete - knees and feet and hands are rifled with arthritis. Last September I started out in SJPdP like an old woman (I'm 58) and in November, I walked past the lighthouse at Finesterre, not quite a young woman, but much stronger. I loved it ... I was definitely the slowest on the route that season, but it was wonderful. So much so, I'm going back in 2 weeks. Listen to your body, rest, ice, anti inflammatory medication and trekking poles really help. Downhills remain my biggest challenge - I slow down even more, side-step, tack, experiment with ways of getting down the hill without stressing my knees too much. P.S. Industrial sections were also hard to walk - all that concrete rattles the bones. Look for softer ground or take a cab/bus.

 

[naplesdon]

The advice to use poles is excellent and consider the idea to move your bag forward on Jacotrans to lighten the load from time to time. I have peripheral neuropathy and start each day very slowly but after several hours I have my pain under control. I personally recommend a strong nightly dose of vino tinto to ease the pain even thought my doctor says it contributes to the diabetic issues causing my neuropathy. We only go around once and after doing the Camino since the age of 64, I'm ready to claim my third Compostela this July.

 

[WycombeMan]

Bravo WycombeMan!! You should be able to find massage for your knee, shoulders and back along the way - ask where to find them at the albergues you stay in. Please let us know how you get on!
Buen Camino!
Terry

Cheers Terry, careful planning with the odd massage, throw in a few prayers and an ican attitude I believe myself and everyone can achieve anything.
Buen Camino

 

[jennysa]

My left knee has been stiff for a while and I've been told I've been walking" funny" . I have a bit of pain and inflammation.(Nothing too bad) I went to see a physio who found a Bakers Cyst and advised going to see my GP. Today the GP said I also have arthritis and that walking a couple of miles a day would be a good idea but the camino would be likely to hasten the need for a knee replacement in a few years. I'm 53, not terribly fit but was aiming to get fit and walk the Frances in September, any thoughts? (I've been wanting to do this for years and this is the first time it's been a possibility).

Like most of us, I also suffered from arthritis and used to walk in pain with a knee guard. I was also told by an Orthopaedic surgeon that unless I gave up hiking, I too would need a knee replacement within a short space of time. After a recommendation from a fellow hiker, I started taking taking 1000 mg Salmon Oil capsules and within 3 weeks I was free from pain and able to throw away my knee guard forever. I hike every weekend and I have completed 3 Caminos without any knee problems whatsoever and will be doing my 4th later this year - I did get tendonitis one year and blisters another though. Salmon Oil works for me!

 

[Tia Valeria]

Thank you everyone, I love this Forum! I'm now really clear I'll be on pilgrimage in the Autumn but with an open mind as to quite how far, when I might hop on a bus, tale a rest day etc. I think what matters for me is the time out of the everyday and the opportunity to be with myself and with God. Revised training starts now ( well after Holy Week and Easter Eggs anyway). And just because a (very young!!) GP thinks I'm now on the downward slide to sitting in a chair watching life go by doesn't make it so!

Great - just remember that you must walk the last 100kms for the Compostella or certificate so make sure that any bus hopping is before Sarria.
Tubi grip knee support works well too. Terry wears his over the knee, about 2/3 of supplied length. I use that third folded in 3 to wear under my knee. Easily available in the UK and the pharmacist will sell you the correct size. Cheap, washable and light to carry a spare
Buen Camino

 

[daviddephillips]

Anything that reaches your so(u)le is a Camino. The "how far, how fast, how many days" crowd, don't get it even if they walk 50000 miles,


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[Olivares]

Cate A-- please know that this diagnosis is not an end, but a beginning. There are a TON of things you CAN DO to mitigate damage and still be able to get on the Camino. You got really good advice so far; compile it and come up with an Action Plan with a date in mind to get on the Camino. Using bagagge transfer, walking no more than 18-21 kms max/day, and scheduling rest days as needed are 3 things you can do that would make a tremendous difference. The use of treking poles, knee supports, shoe heel gel inserts, all that is prime advice. BTW, I bought anti-inflamatories somewhere in a pharmacy (Cizur Menor?) along the Camino and felt relief within 15 minutes; I am a huge believer of Spain'smedicine. So, here you go! Buen Camino!!

 

[Tia Valeria]

@Olivares - I agree that Spain has good medical facilities. If using anti-inflammatories though it is masking the condition.
Ibuprofen jel is good but folk be aware that taking the tablets can cause stomach ulcers. Believe me you don't want to be even risking the suspicion of that. Folk who have had suspected ulcers cannot take ibuprofen or aspirin without other anti-acid medication. Be warned.

 

[Olivares]

@Olivares -If using anti-inflammatories though it is masking the condition.

If the condition is arthritis (as stated) then there is not much you can do but to treat the symptoms and hence, masked the condition. If there was a cure, I am pretty sure somebody would had posted it already! . Anti-inflammatories have a clear purpose, hence the name; so it is pretty clear cut what it aims for. Hope all is well for the OP!!

 

[daviddephillips]

Tell your doctor to prescribe Prednisome 10 mg was plenty for me. It reversed for now my arhritis that knocked me back on my heals for about 2months. I'm back to 8 miles a Day. Remarkable stuff.



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[longwalker]

Since first walking on the Camino I've had both knees replaced and I have every intension of returning. I mean if I can't ski and walk the Camino what was the point anyway.

 

[Tia Valeria]

If the condition is arthritis (as stated) then there is not much you can do but to treat the symptoms and hence, masked the condition. If there was a cure, I am pretty sure somebody would had posted it already! . Anti-inflammatories have a clear purpose, hence the name; so it is pretty clear cut what it aims for. Hope all is well for the OP!!

True, but this is OK if, as I said, it is done with due caution and/or medical advice/supervision. It is the general idea of 'just take' anti-inflammatories without considering the side effects that worries me. A couple of days is OK for most people, a few weeks could bring trouble. I have a friend who takes anti-inflammatories long term and also the anti-acid tablets to avoid problems. I just wanted folks to be aware before popping to many pills.

 

[homa_bird]

I did a number on my knees with too much biking up hills in my later years, but imho walking is what brought them back. Also: OLIVE OIL. Can't say enough about olive oil for joints. As a long time seamstress, I would oil the joints of my old Singer treadle sewing machine regularly with top grade machine oil, so I figured, that's what I should do to my own creaky joints. And voila! Yes.

I live on a pretty tight food budget, but there's no skimpin when it comes to Olive Oil! I get the best I can, and the freshest: the kind that leaves a sting in the back of your throat. And my knee joints have never been better.

Luckily, Spain is covered with olives and olive oil. So no problem getting a wee bottle of the best and freshest to carry with you and add to food (keep it out of the sun and the heat).

I've always believed all we need is right in front of us: the plants take care of us, they are our allies, growing, waving, practically shouting in our faces: USE ME!

Also red grapes, red wine are anti-inflammatory: good for sleeping too. And don't get me started on the wild fennel, thistle, nettle, St. John's Wort etc etc etc. We are well taken care of. Gratitude, blessings, and a Grand Camino to all!

 

[homa_bird]

Anything that reaches your sole is a camino. The "how far, how fast, how many days" crowd, don't get it even if they walk 50000 miles,


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Ah David, I love your intentional? or accidental? double entendre: "anything that reaches your sole (soul!) is a camino". The most amazing camino can occur gazing out from a 2nd story window, or from a hospital room, or in front of a homemade altar.

 

[David]

Sorry to hear about this. All of the above - great support and advice (and a support might help you know). I didn't know about the Salmon oil - sounds great. I was going to suggest copious amounts of cod-liver oil. Absolutely agree with seriously good gel inserts to cushion the walking shock of course and remember that when doing your walking build-up to wear a filled backpack and wherever you can do descents as it is the descents that can get your knees on Camino.

Oh - and give up all coffee right now, forever!!!

 

[OTH86]

@Olivares - I agree that Spain has good medical facilities. If using anti-inflammatories though it is masking the condition.
Ibuprofen jel is good but folk be aware that taking the tablets can cause stomach ulcers. Believe me you don't want to be even risking the suspicion of that. Folk who have had suspected ulcers cannot take ibuprofen or aspirin without other anti-acid medication. Be warned.

There are natural anti-inflammatories that one can take. I have an allergy to NSAIDS (ibuprofen, aspirin, etc), so have been taking the naturals - glucosamine, turmeric, fish oil, MSM, which help me a lot. But see a professional who is knowledgeable about natural supplements before starting them yourself.
Buen Camino to all the arthritic knees and hips in the "audience"!
Terry

 

[Cate A]

Sorry to hear about this. All of the above - great support and advice (and a support might help you know). I didn't know about the Salmon oil - sounds great. I was going to suggest copious amounts of cod-liver oil. Absolutely agree with seriously good gel inserts to cushion the walking shock of course and remember that when doing your walking build-up to wear a filled backpack and wherever you can do descents as it is the descents that can get your knees on Camino.

Oh - and give up all coffee right now, forever!!!

Give up coffee?! I'll follow all the wonderful advice I've received but the coffee stays!

 

[David]

There are natural anti-inflammatories that one can take. I have an allergy to NSAIDS (ibuprofen, aspirin, etc), so have been taking the naturals - glucosamine, turmeric, fish oil, MSM, which help me a lot. But see a professional who is knowledgeable about natural supplements before starting them yourself.
Buen Camino to all the arthritic knees and hips in the "audience"!
Terry

I too have a really dodgy knee (I wear a McDavid brace, the one with the hinges either side to keep the knee tracking fore and aft) and also have problems with anti-inflammatories such as Ibuprofen - stripped the stomach lining and had real serious problems for a few weeks last time I used it. I also use cod-liver oil, swigged from the bottle and followed with milk, and I gave up coffee over a year ago (so good to be caffeine free!!!!!) - can you tell me (us) more about Turmeric and how to use it and what it does> Also, what is MSM?
Thanks.

 

[David]

"Give up coffee?! I'll follow all the wonderful advice I've received but the coffee stays!"

Kate - NNooooo - with arthritis coffee is a real irritant. I have no idea why. The thing is, if you give up coffee and also caffeine tea, your life will be changed .. no more of those highs and lows, the snarling at things, and no more "must have my fix" first thing in the morning, wonderful deep sleeps - you know it makes sense

mind you, giving up caffeine you have to go through a few days of a horrid headache and then possibly a long while of feeling tired, until your adrenal glands rebuild themselves - and then you will be calm and measured and will live forever (the last bit wasn't true).
It is a terribly strong drug but we don't realise because we have it all the time. I gave up over a year ago now. Last month I was tired but had to go on a long drive so at 2pm had one cup of tea to 'perk me up'. Came bedtime and body was tired but my mind was rolling along, chatting away to itself - absolutely wide wake until 4 am!! From one cup at 2pm the previous day. Crikey!

 

[OTH86]

I too have a really dodgy knee (I wear a McDavid brace, the one with the hinges either side to keep the knee tracking fore and aft) and also have problems with anti-inflammatories such as Ibuprofen - stripped the stomach lining and had real serious problems for a few weeks last time I used it. I also use cod-liver oil, swigged from the bottle and followed with milk, and I gave up coffee over a year ago (so good to be caffeine free!!!!!) - can you tell me (us) more about Turmeric and how to use it and what it does> Also, what is MSM?
Thanks.

MSM = Methyl-sulfonyl-methane and turmeric both were recommended to me by my acupuncturist, and approved by my medical physician as well. My naturopathic care is at a well-known naturopathic University near Seattle. So far they have worked for **me** without side-effects. But, please, please check with your health care professionals for advice and more information.

 

[pudgypilgrim]

As far as turmeric, here's an interview with one of the doctors doing research on it at Johns Hopkins. Note that she specifies the importance of using it in something both hot and oily, unlike a lot of the "turmeric tea" recipes floating around, or the suggestions to roll it up into pills:

http://www.palmbeachpost.com/news/lifestyles/the-superman-of-spices/nTzGf/

 

[OTH86]

One more thing about supplements - and the importance of working with your healthcare professionals, if you are taking other medications and /or supplements, there could be the risk of adverse interactions that you really don't want to deal with. So I just want to repeat - these work for ME, and I have been guided by healthcare professional who I trust.
Have many Buen Caminos in good health!
Terry

 

[alansykes]

For me the camino is the best physiotherapy I've ever found.

As others have emphasised, everybody's experiences are unique to them, but this worked for me:

Five years ago, aged 48, I was told that my deteriorating osteoartheritis would mean that I would need a new knee within five years. That was the main spur to doing my first camino, as I thought I might not be able to manage it later on. About two weeks north of Seville, I forgot to put my knee brace on after the morning shower, and only noticed that I wasn't wearing it 10km later, when it was much too late to go back and collect it. Three weeks later, I was barely limping by the time I walked up the steps to make my abrazo. Two caminos and a St Cuthbert's Way to Lindisfarne later and I'm still planning my next camino (and the one after that).

When I bumped into my doctor a couple of months ago, she said that somebody who could walk 40km in a day was not a National Health Service priority for a knee operation - which is just fine by me.

Thanks, St James ...

 

[annakappa]

Try Tai chi! I'm not joking! Anne

 

[rector]

FYI,
the Camino doesn't have to savage your joints!!
Take it easy. Do as much as you can and enjoy yourself. Give yourself ample time to accomplish what you set out to do. This isn't a race. Santiago will wait for you.
****Use hiking poles!!!***
My Camino mantra - "Start like an old man, finish like a young man." (I got this from this forum last year when I was preparing for my first Camino. I followed this advice and it totally worked).

My wife says she is starting with an old man but hopes she will finish with a young man and I don't quite know how to take it.

 

[Bill_R]

I am 53 with knee surgery around 2000 Doc told me arthritis as well, he also told me "training" for Camino will make muscles stronger and help with pain


Buen Camino
Bill

 

[Patrick2by4]

So Cate, how was your Camino?

 

[GreatDane]

I blew a tire on Thursday and hobbled through Leon and Astorga. Emergency clinic in Astorga claims it is "just" tendonitis in my knee. And it is my good knee. I was ready doing everything she (Doctor) suggested. I am in Madrid now, bed rest all day except the 5km I did getting here from Leon. Bummed.

 

[bunnymac]

I've walked from SJPP to Leon. I'm in my late forties and have arthritis in both hips. Should you need you knee replaced in the future, will walking the Camino put that date forward by much (6months, a year, 5 years)? I would go ahead with your plans to walk the Camino. There is a great OTC drug in Spain called Volteran 50mg x 30 tablets costs less than €5. the generic version 'diclofenico' costs even less. Works like magic. I've just had one of my hips replaced and I'm heading back to SJPP in August to start all over again.

 

[Joodle]

Thank you everyone, I love this Forum! I'm now really clear I'll be on pilgrimage in the Autumn but with an open mind as to quite how far, when I might hop on a bus, tale a rest day etc. I think what matters for me is the time out of the everyday and the opportunity to be with myself and with God. Revised training starts now ( well after Holy Week and Easter Eggs anyway). And just because a (very young!!) GP thinks I'm now on the downward slide to sitting in a chair watching life go by doesn't make it so!

I also have osteoarthritis in both knees. The first time I did a longer hike (8Miles) I went to get out of my car and walk into a store for a drink, my knees were so stiff from sitting for 45 minutes, that I could barely walk. It was'nt so much pain, just stiffness. Since then, I am slowly increasing my distances to 8-10 miles. I leave on May 10th, to start my journey. I'm a little worried about how my body will handle it, but not enough to cancel my trip. My knees have actually gotten stronger from training and I feel stronger going down long flights of stairs. I think my body just told my knees that "she is serious about this, so you better strengthen up and support her in her dream" My Doctor gave me 800 mg Ibuprofen and told me to take it three times a day. That is helping a lot also. I will deal with whatever comes on my journey. I'm an RN and have worked a lot with joint replacement pt's. I will put off knee replacements as long as I possibly can... maybe longer **Nurses make the worst patients**

 

[naplesdon]

The advice to use poles is excellent and consider the idea to move your bag forward on Jacotrans to lighten the load from time to time. I have peripheral neuropathy and start each day very slowly but after several hours I have my pain under control. I personally recommend a strong nightly dose of vino tinto to ease the pain even thought my doctor says it contributes to the diabetic issues causing my neuropathy. We only go around once and after doing the Camino since the age of 64, I'm ready to claim my third Compostela this July.

Doug, that quote was more than 2 years ago but my advice has not changed as I start Camino number 6 this May from Barcelona.

 

[gerardcarey]

There is a great OTC drug in Spain called Volteran 50mg x 30 tablets costs less than €5. the generic version 'diclofenico' costs even less. Works like magic.

I'm a Voltaren fan. One 50gm tablet first thing every morning with 500mls of water (for hydration), before breakfast. Take half an hour to crack in.
I couldn't walk for an hour without them and I've done two Camino Frances.
As to long term effects, I have been taking amflams daily since 1979. No problems, only great benefits.
Regards
Gerard

 

[GreatDane]

Don't give in to it. It's only pain.

Pain I can do, it's a knee that won't provide support even with an articulated brace that is a show stopper!

 

[peregrina2000]

I'm a Voltaren fan. One 50gm tablet first thing every morning with 500mls of water (for hydration), before breakfast. Take half an hour to crack in.
I couldn't walk for an hour without them and I've done two Camino Frances.
As to long term effects, I have been taking amflams daily since 1979. No problems, only great benefits.
Regards
Gerard

I'm not well versed in the differences between Voltaren and other pain killers like ibuprofen. But I know that if I take ibuprofen on an empty stomach, my stomach feels bad for a couple of hours. Would Voltaren have the same effect? I'm going to have to have a lot of pain killers at the ready since my knee remains a bit unhappy since last year's descent from San Juan de la Pena.

 

[Anemone del Camino]

I'm not well versed in the differences between Voltaren and other pain killers like ibuprofen. But I know that if I take ibuprofen on an empty stomach, my stomach feels bad for a couple of hours. Would Voltaren have the same effect? I'm going to have to have a lot of pain killers at the ready since my knee remains a bit unhappy since last year's descent from San Juan de la Pena.

Laurie, Voltaren also comes in a slow release form, 75mg. That helps those with more sensitive stomachs, in case the regular version doesn't suit you. I take one in the morning, one in the evening when on the Camino. I also add a a third of cyclobenzaprin, a muscle relaxant, at bedtime.

 

[Nanc]

I get nervous s when people start talking specific drugs and dosages. The body is so unique. And a stomach irritated by one NSAID, may or may not by another. But we don't know if this is gastritis or an incipient ulcer. Since there may some drugs available over there( not sure if laxer ??) it might be tempting for a peligrino to walk in looking for the hat great fix. lSurely every share on a prescription drugs that worked for a individual shows or be cleared with our own medical professional.
I know we're all adults but like I said this makes me nervous
IMHO
NANC

 

[gerardcarey]

I get nervous s when people start talking specific drugs and dosages. The body is so unique. And a stomach irritated by one NSAID, may or may not by another. But we don't know if this is gastritis or an incipient ulcer. Since there may some drugs available over there( not sure if laxer ??) it might be tempting for a peligrino to walk in looking for the hat great fix. lSurely every share on a prescription drugs that worked for a individual shows or be cleared with our own medical professional.
I know we're all adults but like I said this makes me nervous
IMHO
NANC

I agee one should always get the advice of a medical professional. My Voltaren is received by presciption from my doctor. He assures me it is doing its healing work as I walk as well as providing adequate pain relief. Taking his advice I reduced my dosage a couple of years ago from 100gms a day to 50 gms taken first thing in the morning with breakfast.
Regards
Gerard