I would like some information for my father | Arthritis Information

Well my father for many years has had some problems with his leg, it'd go then it'll come back etc. He's 66 and he's been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis.

I have some questions, I'm just 16 and I couldn't face losing him anytime soon, can this kill him?

Also, he told me he has it in his leg, his feet, and near the side of his neck, which he says causes his head not to be straight and it's pushing him down, something like that.

We have a stationary bike, would it help him at all. The doctor gave him some device which he pulls across his chest then it contracts, etc. The doctor said 1 minute a day.

Would it be benefecial, and how benefecial if he was to cycle on the stationary bike for 30 minutes a day?

Thanks, Chris.Relax, this will not kill him but he needs to get onto the meds so that his life is comfortable.
The Doc has prescribed meds for him I hope?

Exercise alone will not make his life management easy.
Chis, how sweet you are! I am sorry your father has RA. The key to managing it is to control it because, as of now, there is no cure. There are some great medications on the market to help his RA and his mobility. He really should consult a Rheumatoid doctor about what he can do. It is best to try and keep moving. The kind of general rule is - if it hurts, don't do it - he will know his limits. Once you know what he can do, you may keep him motivated to move by moving with him.

There can be comorbidities that go with RA, but one can live a long and happy life with RA. Control of the disease is the key.

Best to you and your dad. Come here anytime and encourage your dad to visit too. Education about the disease and the medications used in treatment is always a positive thing and this site has lots to offer.

No, Chris, rest assured, RA doesn't kill. The first thing I would do is recommend your dad sees a good rheumatologist. I would also recommend a water exercise class designed for people with arthritis. These are held in shallow warm water pools and you can get more information about a class near you by looking at the arthritis foundation website at http://www.arthritis.org and on the front page under "Get local information" key in your zip code for programs near you. It is very important for people with RA and associated diseases to get in an exercise program that doesn't stress the joints a lot, but gives them gentle movements that help keep them mobile.

You're a good daughter! Thank-you for being so concerned. Know your dad will have bad days and good days -- and let him do what he can comfortably, but pitch in to help on the harder tasks.

Bless you both.Chris,

I'm really touched -

Keep and maintain a positive attitude. If he's not taking meds, let him know that you're aware that the meds are his BFF. But the folks who've responded above are right - exercise alone isn't going to make him feel better. He needs a rheumatologist - not your family doctor - but a specialist who deals with diseases of the muscles and skeleton. The sooner he can get on meds, the faster he will get it under control.

And in case you're wondering, all the Aleve and other over-the-counter drugs aren't going to work anywhere as near as well as the good stuff from the rheumatologist.

Keep a positive attitude!

Sam12342009-12-04 19:56:07Yeah my dad's seeing a top rheumatologist, he has another appointment on the 14th December. We live literally 1 minute away from a swimming pool so maybe he should utilize that?

Thanks a lot for your help

Swimming is an excellent form of exercise for RA patients.