This is very disturbing.

Doc

I have developed severe arthritis in both shoulders. Started in the left a few years ago and recently the right side has caught up.

I realized yesterday that I cannot hold up a full sized handgun for sighting. I can barely hold a small, lightweight pistol but not something of any weight. I also can't use a two handed hold because I can't bring my hands together without excruciating pain in my upper arms.

Haven't been able to shoot long guns "offhand" for some time. Can't raise them to shoulder level. Can only shoot with the gun supported on a bench. I guess the same is now true with pistols. Sold my pump action rifle because I couldn't work the action. My two pump shotguns sit there and I can't use them either.

When I was young I thought about dying from time to time. I knew that someday I would die. Everybody does. But I didn't think about growing old and infirm and becoming physically incapable of doing simple things. I never thought about getting to a point where I can't do the things I love.

Before you ask, yes I've been doing doctor recommended physical therapy. Maybe slowed the process a bit but hasn't stopped the progression of the ailment.

Sometimes life sucks.

danielgage

sorry your suffering Doc

Bubba Jr.

Welcome to Geezerdom. A lot of us are there also. The rest of you will be someday. [:0]

GuvamintCheese

My mother had surgery on her neck for the very same thing. Get an MRI.

NOAH

Hey Doc sorry to hear about your condition[:(] you and i are the same age , i just /am recovering from a heart attack .
life caught up to us or say reality[:0] some of the perks of old age-ism

it take a tough human to get old and still have your witts about you
but when you lose the ability to hold an object THAT REALLY SUCKS

HOPE THE BEST FOR YOU [:)]go get checked up from good Doc's Doc

jltrent

I am getting there.......I dread it. I don't know a lot about severe arthritis, but isn't there a newer drug that was originally used for cancer treatment suppose to help severe arthritis by helping keep your autoimmune system from attacking your joints? I have read that somewhere and wondered if it would help.

Rocklobster

Companies like Smith and Wesson and Glock make some very good lightweight handguns. I have a S&W Scandium .45 ACP revolver that feels like a kid's cap gun.

Marc1301

quote:Originally posted by jltrent
I am getting there.......I dread it. I don't know a lot about severe arthritis, but isn't there a newer drug that was originally used for cancer treatment suppose to help severe arthritis by helping keep your autoimmune system from attacking your joints? I have read that somewhere and wondered if it would help.

That is for rheumatoid arthritis, not osteo unfortunately.

dreher

Doc, how old are you and how long ago did these symptoms start to show themselves??

Marc1301

"Prolotherapy uses a dextrose (sugar water) solution, which is injected into the ligament or tendon where it attaches to the bone. This causes a localized inflammation in these weak areas which then increases the blood supply and flow of nutrients and stimulates the tissue to repair itself."

Doc

Can't do much karate any longer. I only teach a rank beginner class so I can handle that but it's impossible for me do anything more advanced than what is taught in a 4 month class.