Mr Arthur Itis, is one of the most vicious afflictions to haunt us. If you haven't suffered with it, then you have no idea just how nasty it can be. Like Lee, I have it in both knees and my left hip with it spreading to my lower back. When it kicks, it's like having a jolt from a cattleprod; nasty.
A lot of people believe it's an age related complaint, but it can strike anyone at any time in your life and it's a lifelong companion, once it sets in there's no getting rid of it. There are some things that can help ease the pain, but be careful as some of the meds (such as Naproxen) can have some unpleasant side effects. For topical relief, Voltarol of Ibuprofen gel can help dull the effects, but even having that edge taken off can be a relief.