Hi All
Repeatedly refused appointment to go on waiting list for a possible knee replacement, despite unbearable pain and investigative evidence;(keeping in mind that 1800 people where refused during previous year who would benefit from surgery) whilst wondering if CLL diagnosis approximately 10 years previous has anything to do with repeatedly being turned down.
Hi Carl G
I am glad that you got in touch and welcome to the Macmillan Online community. I hope that you find it supportive. I am Debbie, one of the Macmillan information nurses. I am so sorry to read that you have unbearable pain due to needing a knee replacement. I can understand that this must make life very difficult and uncomfortable for you. I hope that some of the suggestions here are helpful
It is not possible for us to know whether your CLL diagnosis has anything to do with not being referred for an appointment, as we are not directly involved in your care. There can be many causes of knee pain and your GP should explain to you what the possible causes might be and refer you to a specialist for assessment and treatment. Usually for knee problems you would see an orthopaedic surgeon or a rheumatologist. These doctors can organise scans or x-rays to find out what the problem is and then advise on the most appropriate treatment for you.
The GP can also refer you for physiotherapy if you haven’t already had that and a physiotherapist can sometimes diagnose the cause of the pain and advise the GP to refer you to an appropriate specialist.
You can ask your GP to refer you to a local pain clinic where the staff can help you to manage the pain. The NHS website has information about getting NHS help for pain and also details of other helpful organisations.
If your pain is caused by arthritis you can see the Guidance and information for people with arthritis on the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) website. Arthritis Care can also advise you on the process of getting a referral for an appointment and treatment for arthritis. Their number is 0808 800 4050.
We understand how difficult it can be to have chronic pain and I hope that this information helps you to get the treatment that you need as soon as possible
Another source of support for you is the Macmillan CLL online forum where you can contact other people who have CLL.
With best wishes
Debbie C
Cancer Information Nurse Specialist
You can also speak with the Macmillan Support Line team of experts. Phone free on 0808 808 0000 (7 days a week, 8am-8pm) or email us.
Ref/ JL
