QA Forum

Question & Answer

We are discussing The Self Management of Arthritis
With Graeme Rossiter, Elizabeth Scrivener and Sally Ranford

Question:
I have had osteoarthritis for many years,as well as scoliosis. Three years ago I was diagnosed with Paget's Disease(bone).The Paget's is widespread and I have had two bouts in the three years. I am still in remission at the present but I find it difficult to keep up with housework as well as part time work(12 hours per week). I am toying with the idea of retiring but I am worried about boredom and feeling even more pain. Do you have any suggestions

Answer:
Elizabeth - I am not sure how much information you have been given about Paget's Disease. An excellent small booklet has been produced by Associate Professor Michael Hooper and CNC Fay Lang of the Paget's Clinic, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Concord Hospital, Concord, NSW 2139. You could write to them and ask for a copy. Otherwise contact your local Arthritis Foundation which will have copies of the booklet - 1800 011 041.

As you are probably aware Paget's disease is not yet fully understood, but it appears to be the result of both a genetic predisposition and a factor from the environment, possibly a virus. The virus is thought to lay dormant for many years before symptoms begin to appear.

The common symptoms you may be experiencing and which would certainly make life difficult to cope with at times (particularly if you are still working) include pain, a sensation of heat over the affected bone, headaches if the bone of your skull is involved, deformity of the bone, compression of nerves, and possible stress fractures. In your case you then have the added disability of osteoarthritis and scoliosis. Could I suggest a couple of strategies for possibly staying at work and getting on with your life.

1. There are Paget's support groups in South Australia, Tasmania, and three areas in New South Wales, including Sydney. Speaking with others who are possibly grappling with similar problems may be beneficial. Contact details can be obtained from the booklet referred to above, or again by calling 1800 011 041.

2. Have you thought about a self management course? These courses run for 6 weeks, 2.5hrs per week (both day and evening) in most states and territories.

3. Alternatively, Arthritis NSW have just developed an excellent new on-line course called Challenge Arthritis. You can join this online program at

www.ChallengingArthritis.org

Call 1800332 131 toll free to receive information.

View answer to: prev question | next question