To go to the gp because of my random aches and pains?

[Trewser]

I can't twist properly because my back is so sore. My wrists really hurt. Every time I try to exercise, one joint or another twinges and aches. It's just one thing after another! I'm 53, on HRT. Will I sound like a moaning time waster?

it sounds a bit general though, you might get fobbed off if you’re not specific. I’m guessing you’ve looked at reasons why those things might be problem eg do you need to support your back better when you’re driving or sitting? A wrist rest when you’re typing? Supplements for your joints?

I know, its totally general. I just can't believe they aren't related somehow. I just dropped a pan because my wrist twinged so badly. My feet hurt, my neck hurts. So cheery arent I

You aren't a time waster, but you might get fobbed off. It sounds arthritic in which case you'll probably be told to take anti inflammatory painkillers. If it's really affecting your quality of life you should go. You might get a physio referral.

Do you have a healthy diet? Are you a smoker/drinker? Are you generally in good health? What steps have you taken to try to improve things?

Those are the questions your doctor will ask.

Do i have a healthy diet? yes

Don' smoke, drink occasionally.

Generally good health only been to the docs for HRT

I guess it could be menopausal and I need stronger HRT

I've been to an osteopath twice, a physio once, did 3 months of yoga, keep trying to run but feel as though I've been knocked over by a bus after.

Basically a whinging old woman

Go to your GP. This is what they are there for.

I say go although be prepared to go more than once.

I agree it sounds arthritic but there are many types of arthritis and you may benefit from a rheumatological consult if you can get referred. Different types of pain/causes respond better to different types of medication or physio. If you know what you’re dealing with you can manage it in the best way possible.

I’ve suffered with back pains for years, constant with occasional debilitating episodes. The last time I went to the GP my DP was with me (purely by chance, I needed support to get in there!) and for the first time I was taken seriously and left with more than a shrug and advice to rest (I’ve already done physio and continue to do the exercises alongside Pilates) so I would advise taking someone to support you if you can.

As an aside, acupuncture can be really helpful for muscular/nerve pain. It Wouldn’t hurt to give it a go.