What can I do about my aching/swollen joints?

[mumblechum1]

I'm 49, not sure if that's relevant. Recently my knees are really stiff and sore as are my hips. Pilates this morning was bloody torture.

Also my hands are incredibly stiff in the mornings or when I've been resting; I can't make a fist until I've done some clenching exercises.

What's wrong with me and how can I fix it?

Thanks

Have you been to see your GP? Swimming is good for aching joints. If you're struggling with pilates then you need to have a chat to the teacher so that he/she can change your exercises.

Haven't been to GP yet, it's sooo hard to get an appointment. I think I'll have a chat to Mrs Pilates.

Pop and see your GP, you could do with a blood test and an xray on those knees. Is the swelling and aching worse on one side then another?

Yes, it's worse on the left hand side.

It may be helpful to see a chiropractor. There could be a problem with your right side so you're leaning on the left to compensate. This will cause pain in your knees and hips.

Oh, right, thanks LadySybil!

Not a problem. See your GP as well,

Cod liver oil and Litozin
Oesteopath
And conventional route GP etc for bloods to rule out arthritis

Go to the doctor?

Im the same mumble and im 44. Hips hurt,shoulders hurt and so does my knee now. I seem to always have some pain or the other,its sometimes painfull to walk for long and hellish if i sleep in a strange bed.
Ive not bothered with the Drs either cos its seems a trivial and b I cant imagine what they will do about it.