I used to be really active before my symptoms started up with a vengeance about a year ago. I ran 10K's, did yoga, and even played soccer with my kids. Now, I'm completely sedentary - and I know that's a bad thing! I know that exercise can be the best medicine, but I just don't know where to start???
The majority of my RA pain is in my hands, wrists, ankles, and feet - so that rules out almost every type of exercise I can think of. It is SOOOO very painful to walk, I can't put any weight on my left wrist (I'm even typing one-handed), and I live in a rural area with no access to a pool. I keep waiting for my medications to improve things, but in the meantime I'm becoming "one" with the couch. I'm at a loss??!!!
You will have to give this MTX about twelve months to really work although at six
months you should have a noticeable improvement.
The first twelve months was the worst for me and at times... HELL.
I get the shakes but the first twelve months were really bad, things are better after three years.
During those first twelve months I walked the dog, ever so slowly and not to far.
Some days it really hurt, at times enough to make one want to weep in frustration and pain.
How much pred are you on?
I am sorry you are having such a tough time. I have to agree that before the meds started to kick in I was making myself walk every day..not far, but just to get the blood circulating. It makes such a difference, and not just physically. It helps to combat depression!
I was always active too, my whole life. Swimming was my main activity, and biking. I never ran at all. Swimming I have found to be very painful for my shoulders. This past year I have really given the running a chance and in 9 days I will be running in a 10k race. I often joke about how slow I am but it doesn't matter. My feet hurt too, but after a couple of km's they loosen up and I feel so much better.
I guess my point is that maybe when you feel a little better, you'll find an activity that feels good to you, but in the meantime, making the effort to get out and walk can be truly helpful. I wish you all the best...feel better soon!
< id="gwProxy" ="">< ="jsCall;" id="jsProxy" ="">RNMom, I agree with Halifax that as time goes by as I walk on my treadmill, the pain in my feet lessens. It's strange, it almost feels like they warm up. I also recommend a stationary bike, as it is easier on your feet. I have one where you sit back and don't have to lean over the handlebars. Start out slow and build up a little at a time.
Halifax, congrats on your upcoming race! Good for you!
I was in great pain and my hands were swollen like a baseball glove. I put up with it for about a year before seeing a RA. He tested found it positive for RA and put me on MTX and prednisone. By the grace of God in about four days, no pain, and the swelling went away. I started practicing yoga about three times a week. Now I am off the Pred (up to 7 Mtx once a week) and I feel great. I really feel the best thing I am doing is the Yoga. There are many forms of yoga, one that is even done in a chair. I think keeping the joints moving is the key to help for us
Peace and Light
Stephen
try a stationary bike, continue with modified yoga, try pilates or tai chi....use a core ball and resistance bands in place of weights, buy a Wii and try their games, use the arthritis foundations work out videos.