[debrahawkins]

I have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis on my hip and spine. I have been dealing with a lot of pain for over a year. It is getting worse. What type of doctor specializes in this?

[tickle]

Orthopaedic surgeons specialize in this, but if you were diagnosed then whatever doctor you went to should be able to refer to a specialist for treatment.

[joypulv]

Osteoarthritis (commonly called arthritis) needs a good MD who understands that you are in pain and who doesn't brush you off just because so many people have it. You don't need a specialist unless you get to the stage of needing surgery, and you want to get at least a second opinion and do a lot of studying before you have surgery. The results may not be what you hope. Pain management techniques are much more helpful for the spine. Hip surgery is more successful and keeps getting better, as people live longer and have painful hips!

Before you get into serious painkillers, spend a lot of time reading. Heating pads, good chairs, feather beds or memory foam, lots of pillows that don't flatten, warm showers/baths, and gentle movement at least once an hour are what you need. Ask your doctor how much Tylenol and ibuprofin you can tolerate (kidneys and liver) and look into cannabis oils, if you live where you can get them. Don't buy hemp oil online; it's useless for pain.

I am in pain too. Many years. Some arthritis, some scarred nerves, some residuals from Lyme and cellulitis. Good luck.