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Please help- advise for mum

3 replies

rimx · 24/06/2023 21:23

Hello,

I just need some help and guidance

My mom is a 53 year old women. She has chronic lower back pain and a couple of years ago she had an mri which showed some generative issues-(I am not too sure what the proper details are on the mri but there was some.
Mom also has severe vericous veins. Doctor said that her veins are very 'spidery' so having them removed is not really an option.
With the vericous veins does have severe swelling and is struggling severely to walk.

Another issue she does have is osteoarthritis in her knees. This is the biggest issue she is suffering currently. Mom is having severe pain in both her legs. She notices that they click all the time. She cannot walk up the road without being in severe pain. Moms legs are in a very bad way. They are very swollen, possible some water in them!

Medication wise she was on tramadol. She was on this drug for years and years when her back trouble first started. Now that GP has declined prescribing her this medication after being on the drug for 15 years.

All GP is saying is use paracetamol and over the counter medication to help.
I don't think this is fair considering her past medical history and how severe of a pain she is in. I've tried explaining to the doctor himself but taking no for an answer. From being on such a strong medicine to then have literally nothing at all is mind boggling to me!

My issue is that the doctor isn't getting or understanding our concerns. Moms in severe pain with her knees currently. He isn't prescribing her any medication or trying to help her with her pain management. What can I do to help her. What can I say to the doctor for him to help us sort moms pain out.

Thanks in advance and sorry if it's a long one!! :)

OP posts:
Trinity69 · 24/06/2023 21:25

Can you ask for a referral to rheumatology? My Mum has psoriatic arthritis and her meds are all dealt with by rheumatology.

rimx · 24/06/2023 21:26

@Trinity69

Thank you. I didn't think of this tbh. I will definitely be asking the question now!

OP posts:
Whenwillitallmakesense · 25/06/2023 00:13

I'm not sure a GP should suddenly just stop prescribing a drug as strong as Tramadol, after 15 years use, and giving paracetamol instead. She should have at least been weaned off. Tramadol is an addictive drug and so I can understand why gp might have wanted her to stop taking them.

Maybe also ask your GP if there are any pain management courses local to you. These can be very helpful.

And yes, a referral to rheumatology is a good idea. And I'd also ask for a referral to get her back and knees mri again to see if they have deteriorated to the point she may need knee replacements.

Also, has your mum looked into applying for PIP. On certain rates she might qualify for a car or mobility scooter to help her mobilise and get out and about a bit more

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