
Suggest Treatment For Low Back Pain In An Elderly Person

Question: My 79 year old wife has intense joint pain in knees, shoulder and dull low back pain . With all the pain
she would seem not to be a candidate for joint replacement. Shoulder has intense shooting at night
in bed. She can walk but it is becoming more difficult. What should we consider.
she would seem not to be a candidate for joint replacement. Shoulder has intense shooting at night
in bed. She can walk but it is becoming more difficult. What should we consider.
Brief Answer:
Needs further evaluation
Detailed Answer:
Hi there
Thanks for the query
Usually at this age the bones are weak and joints become arthritic due to degeneration.
It would be advisable to get a DEXA or BMD scan to look for the bone density.
The degenerative arthritis can be treated based on the joint functional impairment and overall comorbid situation.
Do get xrays of the affected joints. Get blood investigations like CBC, ESR, CRP, ANA.
She can be started on calcium and Vitamin D supplements.
I hope I have answered your query.
I will be available to answer your follow up queries.
Regards,
Dr. Aashish Raghu
Needs further evaluation
Detailed Answer:
Hi there
Thanks for the query
Usually at this age the bones are weak and joints become arthritic due to degeneration.
It would be advisable to get a DEXA or BMD scan to look for the bone density.
The degenerative arthritis can be treated based on the joint functional impairment and overall comorbid situation.
Do get xrays of the affected joints. Get blood investigations like CBC, ESR, CRP, ANA.
She can be started on calcium and Vitamin D supplements.
I hope I have answered your query.
I will be available to answer your follow up queries.
Regards,
Dr. Aashish Raghu
Note: For further queries, consult a joint and bone specialist, an Orthopaedic surgeon. Book a Call now.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Remy Koshy

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