Hello:

The latter part of March, I developed swelling in my feet, within 3-4 days, my hands also swelled to the point I went to immediate care. I was given a steroid which eliminated the swelling. About 3 weeks after that, my right foot and ankle began to swell up to the bottom of my calf. I was given an anti-inflammatory for that but had to stop using it due to abdominal cramps. Within a few days, the swelling began to subside. Since then, I have had pain in the heels and balls of my feet. Basically, both feet hurt. It gets worse toward evening.

The pain is difficult to deal with at night and in the mornings, pain and stiffness for about 2-3 hours until I have been walking around for a bit. I recently returned to the doctor and they took x rays. They now say this is due to arthritis. Can this develop all of a sudden? I rarely had more than a slight stiffness in my right foot before all of this started.

I am 57 and a fairly active person; i.e. hunting, fishing, gardening, mowing etc. I have now been given Celebrex.

What do you think? I appreciate your input.

Yes, arthritis can seem to creep up on us. I was reading your description and saying to myself that sounds like arthritis and then you stated that the x-rays confirmed this diagnosis. It is good that you seem to be an active individual and that will help you in the long run. Continue to participate in your activities. Did the doctor tell you what type of arthritis you are suffering from? It sounds like osteoarthritis ( degenerative ) type. If you are concerned then maybe an appointment with a rheumatologist will help you. Good luck.