Arthritis and DCS

[Ocean One]

Dr. D.

A student in my OW Class asked if she would be more susceptable to DCS (The Bends)because of the mild arthritis she has in her hands. We were talking about how it can exhibit itself as pain in joints. As her medically challenged instructor, I said "I don't know the answer to that excellent question, but I'll ask." The depth of my physiological knowledge is contained in the Encyclodeia of Recreational Diving
Your thoughts!

Ocean One

 

[S_SIMON]

I have often wonderd about that as well....or just the confusion of the two. I usually take note if I am having joint pain issues prior to diving....just to make sure I know that going in the water...i feel that way. I'll be curious what the Doc has to say......

 

[J.B.Good]

For an interesting discussion pertaining to this subject you may wish to visit:

http://www.diversalertnetwork.org/medical/articles/index.asp

Then go to :

Fitness to Dive
- Fitness Issues for Divers With Musculoskeletal Problems - Part I
- Fitness Issues for Divers With Musculoskeletal Problems - Part II

 

[Ocean One]

Thanks for the info!

 

[erparamedic]

I too would be interested in that info. I have moderate artheritis in my knees due to a genetic defect... thus my knees are almost always sore after diving, but none of my other joints ache or hurt so I don't worry about DCS. I am also not privy to pushing any limits either.