My general health seems to have improved too – I certainly feel fitter, sleep better, and have more energy, and I no longer take any pain killers.

Having suffered with osteoarthritis in my knees for several years, and pain in my back attributed to a ‘worn’ joint I managed fairly well with strong pain killers and spent 3 years on Viox which was a great help until it was withdrawn. Then in July 2006 after 6 months of feeling severely fatigued the sight in my left eye suddenly deteriorated. It was recommended that I should have a course of steroids – by September the side effects were horrific – acute psychosis – and I was admitted to hospital. There was a noticeable difference in my sense of well being and the pain settled to the extent only 2-3 paracetamol were needed instead of 8 daily

I also had significant pain at the base of my left thumb, from an injury some 4 years ago. Hydrocortisone injections did not help and, each time I needed to exert pressure with my left hand, I jarred the thumb until I almost screamed with pain. Whilst the thumb is still quite sensitive, the pain is better controlled.

I have suffered with osteo-arthritis in my knees for a number of years, and have been advised by my Consultant that I could have replacements ‘whenever I was ready’. Although still reasonably mobile, I had considerable pain walking and was becoming dependent on painkillers. Stairs were a particular problem, and pottering around the house was painful.