Shoes impact on arthritis question

**Kyobanim** · 08-25-2004, 05:21

I had been diagnosed as having osteoarthritis in my right hip several years ago. I've handled the pain with occasional aspirin and really haven't had any problems. Within the last several days I've noticed that the dull "ache" has returned to the hip when walking. The only thing I've done different is buy a different type of shoe. In the past I've always bought sneakers with the air pokets in the soles. This latest pair is just regular cross trainers with no air pockets.

Question is, can shoes make that much of a difference in a situation like this? And if so, would inserts of some type be just as good as the "air pocket" shoes?

swatsurgeon · 08-25-2004, 11:00

yes it can make a difference and a visit to a podiatrist may be in your future. The correct orthotic can alter, appropriately, your balance and hence your comfort.

Sacamuelas · 08-25-2004, 11:53

Kyo-

As SS stated, AND there are a LOT better anti-inflammatory meds out there compared to aspirin. Aleve is a good OTC that comes to mind.

Air.177 · 08-25-2004, 12:01

In my experience with long term use of Anti-Inflammatories, there are side effects no matter which one you take. Took Ibupfrofin for a while, started having stomach issues, same with Naproxin Sodium, same with Indomethecin (sp). Despite acceptable blood work and downing Acid reducers (Ranitidin)(sp) constantly as per doc's orders, everything I have ever taken long term for my Rheumatoid Arthritis has screwed me up elsewhere. Finally just said to hell with it and weaned myself off of everything and went on with life. Haven't taken anything in about 9 months, doing just fine. Get stiff and sore someimes, but would rather just work through it than tear my innards up any worse.

Just my .02

Sacamuelas · 08-25-2004, 12:14

Air-

Do you see a rheumatologist? There have been some truly remarkable discoveries in the pharmacology used to treat RA in the last few years.

They can literally stop the destruction/complications occurring in the joints. Very expensive, but worth it from what I am told. I have multiple close family members that are on these meds. I can't remember all the names off hand, a few are Enbrel, Remicade and Humira. My mother in law is on Remicade currently and has experienced dramatic results (positive).

Air.177 · 08-25-2004, 12:23

Saca - No thanks right now. Like I say, I weaned myself off of all meds 9 months or so ago and have been just fine since then. At the time, the side effects were better than the symptoms, but as things wore on, I decided I would rather see what happened without the meds and now, everything is OK.

And yes, I have seen a Rheumatologist and I am supposed to see him every few months, but if I have no problems/symptoms, I see no need to go to the doc.

**Kyobanim** · 08-25-2004, 12:37

Thanks for the info.

I have an ortho surgeon that diagnosed the arthritis before he fixed my knee. He just told me to ride my bike and keep up the MA since I didn't want the surgery or meds. It was working for a while. Is this something that I should see a specialist about?

I'll try the aleve. I usually only take meds before I teach so the aspirin wasn't really bothering me.

Sacamuelas · 08-25-2004, 12:46

I agree with both of you. (Although you should continue your follow-ups, Air). I hate to take meds too. I refuse to take anything that I don't absolutely need. I just wanted to make sure you knew some options available if needed.

In the case of Rheumatoid, permanent damage to the joints can be prevented. IF you start becoming symptomatic again, don't wait. My HH6's mother did that for years and ended up with severe disfigurement of her hands. According to the Rheumatologist, the new meds would have prevented most if not all of the damage.

Not that you need it now, just don't ignore it to your own detriment. As you know, RA can be a nuisance or it can cause severe handicaps ... each case is different and should be followed by MD's to ensure that you stay in the good health that you are experiencing currently.

ccrn · 08-25-2004, 22:20

Shoes can make all the difference when it comes to lower extremeity complications or lack of.

There are many types of shoes ie road shoes, trail shoes, cushion shoes, and stability (or motion control) shoes in cross trainers and running shoes. Running shoes tend to have better cushioning all around.

Some people have somewhat rigid feet and others flexible. Both require a different type of shoe. Some pronate.

Most people focus on knee pain and shin splints when addressing shoes but hips take a lot of stress also.

Socks can also help. I recommend thorlo heavy duty running socks. Whatever socks you use bring them with you when you try shoes.

Along with a podiatrist try a sports physiologist, one that specializes in lower extremety performance.

As previously stated RA should be followed.

NSAIDS (nonsteriod anti inflammatory drugs) all have consequences GI bleed being the most common.