I am experiencing a lot of arthritis symptoms especially in my hands from Arimidex. In the reading I have done on breast cancer sites and chat rooms I never have seen that anyone seeks treatment from an Orthopaedic doctor. I have an appt with mine in a few weeks and I fully expect to receive some cortisone shots. Is there some contradiction to receiving treatment for the side effects? What about arthritis drugs? Has anyone out there sought out treatment?
Just Diagnosed with Cancer? Chat with ExpertsSponsored Offer
- Resources
Q: Has anyone gone to an Orthopaedic doctor for Arimidex symptoms?
Answers (3)
7/15/10 1:02pm
Well, one reason you wouldn't get cortisone shots is that Arimidex is probably causing bone loss, and cortisone does as well. A few shots to get you over the hump wouldn't be bad, but long-term cortisone use, combined with Arimidex, would have a good chance of causing osteopenia at least, if not osteoporosis.
No harm speaking with an ortho doctor. I'd guess there's not a lot that can be done, other than exercise, stretching, and perhaps OTC painkillers. I was on Arimidex for 5 years, and made it all the way to the final month before the pain got really bothersome. Hopefully you can figure out a way to feel comfortable, as it would be a shame to have to give up on this drug that's helping you fight a recurrence. Good luck - PJH
7/15/10 1:47pm
The benefit of seeing a bone specialist would be that s/he could help sort out which of your symptoms are related to Armidex and which might be caused by something else. When I was having some bone-related problems and was concerned that my cancer might have spread to my bones, it was the orthopedist who showed me the bone scans and MRI images and helped me understand what was happening to my bones and joints.
4/ 9/11 9:44am
Yes, I did see an orthopedic dr. regarding my hands. I had severe trigger thumbs and was about to have surgery. For some reason the pain started to subside and by the time of my appt. they were not so bad. He said it may disappear by itself. I couldn't believe it but today the trigger thumbs are very mild and tolerable. I also had arthritic symptoms everywhere especially feet and knees. Read somewhere to try Glucosamine Chondrotin so I did and it really worked. I take 2 a day and it really seems to help. Now i don't feel so old and decrepid. Believe me i tried every antiinflammitory and nothing helped. So you may want to try it. good luck. Arimidex is not a nice drug but i guess necessary.
Important:
We hope you find this general health information helpful. Please note however, that this Q&A is meant to support not replace the professional medical advice you receive from your doctor. No information in the Answers above is intended to diagnose or treat any condition. The views expressed in the Answers above belong to the individuals who posted them and do not necessarily reflect the views of The HealthCentral Network. The HealthCentral Network does not review or edit content posted by our community members, but reserves the right to remove any material it deems inappropriate.
Featuring Content From:
By using this service, you accept our Terms of Use. Please read them. The consumer health information on is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions. You should promptly seek professional medical care if you have any concern about your health, and you should always consult your physician before starting a fitness regimen. Copyright © 2012 Remedy Health Media, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
Thanks for the reply. I am determined to see it through on the Arimidex. Just find it interesting that no one ever mentions seeking treatment. I am aware that long term cortisone use is not good but I didn't know it caused bone loss. I will discuss that aspect with my orthopaedic doctor. My orthopaedic doctor is friends with my oncologists so I hope he will discuss the Arimidex with the oncologist before I come in.