Hello
I'm new to this bulletin board.
In February this year I was waterfall ice climbing in the French Alps. Towards the end of the trip I noticed pain in my left knee, but of course just ignored it and took some ibruprofen. When I returned I expected it to get better on its own and continued climbing, running, gym work etc. Eventually I sort advice from a physio, and was told I had patella tendonitis as a result of Osgood-Schlatters disease altering the bio mechanics of my knee - I've had a lump on my knee since I was young (I'm know 32). My physio gave me an exercise routine, ultrasound treatment and advised icing etc. Approximately a month ago I went climbing in the alps again. My physio advised me to get some anti inflamm. from my GP, who prescribed Diclofenac sodium. I found these very helpful, but stopped taking them on my return. My problem is as follows -
1) Can anyone advise on problems with taking Diclofenac on a long term basis. I found it very useful, but do not want to become dependent on it.
2) I have now had my knee problem for 7/8 months. It doesn't really appear to be getting better. I am worried that that's it and I will have problems for the rest of my life - this is very depressing and may mean an early end of my climbing etc.
3) I used to enjoy running and circuit training, but have had to severely curtail these. I have always used these activities to help weight control. I now look at my body and feel fat and out of shape.
Any advice would be appreciated. I have been using a neoprene knee support (with a hole over the kneecap) when exercising or climbing. My physio has warned me about using it, as it may be providing me with a false sense of security. He also suggested that I wear a knee pad whilst rock climbing - I have tried this, but found it a bit impractical. I also found it quite difficult pyschologically (a lot of climbing does need a good mental attitude and belief in yourself).
Many thanks for reading this. I've tried not to whinge too much!
