Arthritis and joint pains after quiting

[icegrill]

Is joint pain/arthritis possible after quitting smoking? I'm on week 8 since I quit, and it's been 3 weeks since I last chew nicotine gum. I've been experiencing joint pain everywhere (hands, ankle, wrist, neck). Could this be a result of my body releasing toxins?

[chiaripistol]

I agree on the joint pain.  I just quit smoking cold turkey as I just wanted to get withdrawal over with.  I had no problem quitting like I thought I would. However, the arthritis in my hands hurts so much worse than it ever has.  A couple friends said the same thing and for one of my friends, even after a year of not smoking has had her arthritis get worse.  It took me a while to even find someone on here with my problem.  All I see it how arthritis should feel better after quitting, not worse.  I've has arthritis for over 20 years and it's never hurt like this.  Just wanted you to know...I get it.  I'm not going to pick up smoking again, I'm doing great otherwise.  I hope we all feel better over time.  Crystal

[Rhonnie27]

I am having the very same thing with joint pain and incredibly in the very same spots as you have written.  You cannot imagine how surprised I was to see your post since I am wondering also!!!  It started at quit month 3 after 40 years of smoking

[tom5657]

Same here...I quit 34 days ago after 40 yrs...I'm 56. Experiencing joint pain in knees hips and shoulders. Take 1 naproxen...aleve...and it goes away for most of the day.  

[kathyjo]

First off, congratulations on your quit! You should be very proud and with good reason.

As for joint pain/arthritis.......I don't know about that. Could it be tension? Your best bet would be to go see your physician. Everyones quit is so very different and the doctor would be able to tell you whats going on.

Keep us posted and tell us how you are doing.
Kathy Jo