Arthritis Foundation Forum / Let's Move Together / Ways To Move

Stationary Bike

Darlene Henderson — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 20:30:35 GMT

I need recommendations for a Recumbent Exercise bike. One that runs on electrity, is quiet, has good reviews, and in the $200 to $300 price range. I have RA and it's hard for me to walk so I thought that an exercise bike would be the answ

Moving daily to stay Agile

Rebecca — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 21:14:13 GMT

[size=10][font=Arial][/font][/size]I have been suffering with severe RA for the past 3.5 years. I will be turning 70 this month. How time flies when you’re having so much fun. ;)I would have never expected this to happen at this time when I thought that I would be traveling and enjoying family and friends. Who would have ever thought that I would come down with such a severe horrible disease as Rheumatoid Arthritis, as well as Osteoarthritis? It wasn't just this, that has affected my body, but the RA has caused me to develop COPD, Sjogren’s syndrome of both eyes, Gerds Acid Reflux, Peripheral Neuropathy, Ankylosing Spondylitis, and Bone on Bone in both knees, with constant pain 24/7. The operation I went through in November of 2007, a double spinal fusion was not really necessary, but because I suffered so severely with my lower spine it had to be done since I was unable to lie down, stand up, walk, sit, bend, get into bed, get up from a chair, and drive a car. But I always knew that there would be some relief over the horizon. Although I have not passed through that black tunnel into the light, I am getting closer day by day. After taking all kinds of medications from my RA, Cardiologist, GI, Eye, Orthopedic Doctors from using Methotrexate, Prednisone, Embrel, Orencia, Rituxan, Humira, Cimzia and now Actemra, plus dealing with several lung infections and putting on about 60 pounds of weight from the prednisone. I did not need to deal with at this time with the draining of my both knees of Synovial fluid buildup and the destruction of knee meniscus and having to deal with two arthroscopic knee surgeries, I must say I have really been through the mill, but now I am starting to feel a bit better and that's because I am going on my 5th infusion of Actemra and the inflammation in my knees are starting to subside. I am starting to see progress in the swelling going down. As far as the severe pain in my knees I am still dealing with that daily, but last September 2010 I decided to join weight watchers because I needed to lose about 50 pounds. It's now March 2011 and I have lost 25 of those pounds and I have another 25-30 to go, so by the end of this year I should be back to my goal weight of 110 pounds. I also started 6 months ago to get involved with Pilates. So I do every single day, in the morning and at night before I go to bed about 45 minutes to one hour of really moving my legs. I know that if I don't want to use a walker or even think about getting into a wheel chair that this is what I need to do for me. I went down from a size 16 to a size 12. My goal is to reach a size 8 and to be thin. I know that exercise is the only way to go right now for me, so that I can keep my body moving. I refuse to be seen in a wheel chair or using a walker or cane. I remain positive. I live with my two dogs and I take them walking 3 times a day. I am also a certified Hospice Volunteer and Advocate/Ambassador to the Arthritis Foundation. I keep very busy doing research on the Internet. I have other various hobbies as knitting and I love to garden, and bike ride, but I have not done that yet. I go into a pool at least 3-4 times per week and do aerobic water exercises and now I am gearing up to do Tai Chi. I do Yoga at home as well. All I can say to many of you, who are suffering from this dreadful disease, just hang in there. What I am dealing with now is a comprised low white blood count, because the RA has really taken a toll on my body. It has affected my white count and has lowered my system to fight infection. So I just have to be extra cautious when I go out shopping or with friends. I really can’t be next to anyone that has a cold or any other viruses they may have.I always say that yesterday was history, tomorrow is a mystery, and today is a gift. That’s why I call it my present.

Relief

Drema — Wed, 04 May 2011 01:29:11 GMT

Hello- I have RA (since I was a kid, I’m 45 now). I am feeling beaten back because of the fatigue, run-down, achy, and flu-ish symptoms. I am depressed also because my hands, wrists, feet feel like they have little needles in them or they are burning, throbbing and stiff. When I exercise the pain does not go away and I leak more synovial fluid/ cysts in my joints ( knuckles, wrist, and hands) which plays havoc on the hand nerves and which is very painful. I get so depress because if I work my hands I pay for it later. Thanks for any suggestions as this is getting worse and doctors are getting lousier. Haha.

Stationary bike

Carl49 — Thu, 07 Apr 2011 11:31:50 GMT

I was recently diagnosed with osteoarthritis in my right knee. I had not been active recently due to the problem with my knee, vertigo, ankle and lower back issues (over the last few years). I recently started PT for my knee. I was thrilled yesterday when the PT suggested that I ride the stationary bike for 10 minutes. I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to do it, but I DID! It's not alot, but it's a beginning!:)

swimming membership

betsy mulder — Sat, 26 Dec 2009 20:53:05 GMT

I have have suffered with RA for 25 years. I love aquatic therapy ! It's about the only thing I find helpful for my aching joints. Does anyone know, if there is financial help to pay for swimming membership? I have medicare, it only pays toward physical therapy not gym or pool membership. Maintaining a pool membership near my home is expensive. But, I find it's the best treatment for me. Are there some types of grants I could try to get? Thanks:)

exercise

Diane B — Tue, 30 Dec 2008 10:30:38 GMT

I realize this is not a very popular forum, but I was wanting to start seriously exercising in the new year. I have resisted exercise since I first had RA symptoms in Jan 07. I was always strong, athletic. I reallywant to make a decision to live strong within my limits. I was wanting an accountability partner. any interest?

Exercises for the hands and fingers

Alix — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 09:27:19 GMT

I have psoriatic arthritis, but unfortunately, I was not diagnosed until this last flare caused massive inflamation and serious shortening of the tendons in my fingers.I cannot close my hands or open them entirely. The doctor who finally bothered to look at me and diagnose me want me to go to a physical therapist three times a week for the hands and fingers. I cannot do this, but I can certainly take the time out at home to do any of the exercises. Does anyone know which ones I should do? Like I said, the worst shortening is in my fingers/hands. I have managed to get much more length in the wrists, but my fingers are still a mess. :unsure:

MOVEMENT THERAPIES MAY REDUCE CHRONIC PAIN

Joy125 — Sun, 11 Jul 2010 10:49:19 GMT

[size=2]MOVEMENT THERAPIES MAY REDUCE CHRONIC PAIN By Jeannine Stein, Los Angeles TimesJuly 5, 2010. . . Movement-based therapies such as yoga, tai chi, qigong and more mainstream forms of exercise are gaining acceptance in the world of chronic pain management. Many pain clinics and integrative medicine centers now offer movement-based therapy for pain caused by cancer and cancer treatments, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis, and other diseases and conditions. And Loyola Marymount University in Los Angeles offers a three-year yoga therapy course as part of the school's yoga studies program.Several small studies in peer-reviewed journals attest to the effectiveness of these therapies. . . . When pain gets chronic, people do less," says Kathleen Sluka, professor of physical therapy and rehabilitation science at the University of Iowa. "Their muscles get weaker and their bodies get tighter, and they think about pain a lot more. Movement techniques help them relax, make them stronger and reduce stress levels, so maybe they can think about something other than pain for a bit."Further, common elements of yoga and tai chi include slow, rhythmic movement and diaphragm-focused breathing. Those elements alone may trigger a relaxation response."There is some evidence that as you do regular breathing and slow the heart rate, you can calm or quiet the autonomic nervous system," says Dr. Vernon Williams, director of sports neurology and pain management at the Kerlan-Jobe Orthopaedic Clinic in L.A.When that happens, Williams adds, there may be reduced levels of cortisol and epinephrine, or adrenaline, in the body. Those hormones are released when the body is under stress. Small amounts can improve memory and energy levels, but too much over long periods of time can increase inflammation, as well as joint and muscle pain.Read complete article:[url]http://www.latimes.com/la-he-pain-exercise-20100705,0,1517406.story[/url][/size]

Yoga for People with Arthritis

Joy125 — Tue, 08 Jun 2010 21:52:40 GMT

[font=Verdana][size=2]I learned about this website and article from a RA blog here on AF and am posting excerpts here fyi.From the JOHN HOPKINS ARTHRITIS CENTER[b]Yoga for People with Arthritis[/b]by Steffany Haaz, MFA, RYTJune 23, 2009. . . for many people, yoga, in particular may bring to mind pretzel-like poses requiring considerable strength and balance. In reality, beginner yoga classes provide simple, gentle movements that gradually build strength, balance, and flexibility - all elements that may be especially beneficial for people with arthritis.. . . . . . studies have shown that yoga is a safe and effective way to increase physical activity that also has important psychological benefits . . . that may be especially helpful for persons living with a chronic illness.. . . physical activity is an essential part of the effective treatment of osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), according to treatment guidelines published by the American College of Rheumatology . . . exercise may play a key role in promoting joint health . . . regular physical activity is especially important for people with arthritis, who often have decreased muscle strength, physical energy, and endurance, in part due to their arthritis and the tendency to be sedentary. Being sedentary can began a downward spiral where pain increases, leading to more inactivity which leads to greater pain and disability. The psychological benefits of exercise such as stress reduction, fewer depressive symptoms, improved coping and well-being and enhanced immune functioning also contribute to greater overall health.. . . yoga can be a meaningful and enjoyable alternative to traditional forms of exercise . . . Yoga can play an important role in reducing stress and frustration that results from pain and disability, and increasing positive feelings and wellbeing. Drug treatments for OA and RA have improved markedly in the last few years. Despite this, arthritis cannot be cured, and even the best medications and medical care can only help so much. There is a great need for additional activities patients can do to reduce pain, disability, and take control of the overall impact arthritis may have on their lives. Thus, [b]the evidence suggests that, when combined with a program of good medical care, yoga may provide important additional physical and psychological health benefits for arthritis patients.[/b]If you are interested in learning more about yoga, read more:[url]http://www.hopkins-arthritis.org/patient-corner/disease-management/yoga.html#practice[/url][/size][/font]

Tai Chi Video/DVD?

Pinkie — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 20:46:12 GMT

[font=Comic Sans MS][size=3]I've heard that tai chi is supposed to be a good exercise for RA. I thought it might be easiest to get started with a video/DVD. Does anyone use this method and have suggestion for which one to get?

Thanks.
Lisa[/size][/font]

Beth's Movement Journal

Beth Axtell — Fri, 23 Jan 2009 13:50:15 GMT

So along with the Let's Move Together movement tracker, I thought it would be fun to journal my movement. This way other people can see what I'm doing, chastize me when I miss a training session, encourage me when I'm ready to bail on my workout, etc.

Join in! Start your own journal. I'll visit your journal and poke and prod you too!

A little about me: I work at the national office of the Arthritis Foundation. I'm 42 years old. I've been physically active for many years. What's different now is that I've recently been diagnosed with osteoarthritis in my right knee (probably is in my left knee as well, but the doc only MRIed my right). I've had to change my training and workouts to accommodate the pain and stiffness and to minimize any further damage. I know, however, how important it is that I keep those knees moving and keep my quadriceps strong!

My general training schedule is to do 3 days/week of cardio and 3 days/week of weight training. One rest day per week.

Today was a weight training day. The office has a small fitness center that I go use during my lunch hour. It doesn't have all the equipment of a big commercial gym, but I make it work. :) Here's what I did:

Chin-ups: 8; 5; 5

Bulgarian squats, unweighted: 3 sets of 15 each leg

Rows: 60 lbs x 3 sets x 15 reps

Straight leg deadlifts: 25-lb DBs x 3 sets x 15 reps

Incline DB presses: 25-lb DBs x 3 sets x 15 reps

8-count body builders: 10

mountain climbers: 50

burpees: 15

crunches: 45

Pain after exercising

starshine — Sat, 08 Aug 2009 01:46:42 GMT

I have been exercising regularily for a few months now and recently I have been having more pain. I usually do floor exercises to a DVD or My Fitness Coach game for the Wii. My knees and right shoulder have started to hurt for a few weeks now. I went for a walk the other day and my shoulder is much worse and I got shin splints on both legs! I don't get why if I have been exercising for a while, a walk would give me so much trouble! I haven't given up though. :cool: starshine

jogging

jean pierre — Fri, 08 May 2009 12:05:49 GMT

Bonjour. First of all let me apologize for my poor english because I am a french speaking runner. I am looking for some one who can share his experience of having arthritis and keeping running . Actually, for years I have ran 3 times 1 hour a week, but 6 months ago I had to stop because of problems with my feet. Last month, I got a very clear diagnostic from my doctor: psoriasis arthritis, so no way to re start the jogging, at short/medium term.

Can some one give me some advises?

1) make it sense to run when there is no pain or it will influence the desease negatively

2) I take mtx and I feel already a huge improvement. It seems that with this desease we need to take at least 6 months the mtx to have a remission. Is it better to wait the remission to re start the jogging ?

3) any other advice on how to train to reduce the risk of having an injury ?

Many thanks.

San Diego Support Group for Fibromyalgia

Sharon Female — Thu, 18 Jun 2009 13:31:56 GMT

San Diego, CA (Mission Hills)
New Support Group in San Diego for Fibromyalgia:
www.meetup.com/San-Diego-Fibromyalgia-Support

Watsu/Aquatic Bodywork Sessions,
Water Therapy Classes for Pain Relief and Gentle Exercise/Movement.
www.AqOasis.com
www.WaterChiTherapy.com
www.SharonPlache.com

Private Warm Salt Water Pool.

Come join us.
Blessings,
Sharon

Strength

Wayne Hauber — Tue, 27 Jan 2009 22:25:06 GMT

In November of 2007, my physician recommended strengthening some of my leg muscles. I had finished a large weight loss program (115 pounds) and need to rebuild some muscle mass in my quadriceps and gluteal muscles.

I was referred to a physical therapist who gave me some great isometric exercises for my quads and some good all around strengthening exercises for my legs.

The exercises helped me a lot. I am still doing the exercises over a year later. During that year some sort of inflammatory OA flared up. I was extremely glad that I had successfully strengthened my legs.

I was able to run in the 5K run for the roses arthritis run in Ames, Iowa and the Susan Kommen run for the cure.

I've talked to a number of people about arthritis. Most acknowledge that they *should* strengthen the muscles that support their joints...but they hurt too much just now or don't have time.

So, I thought that a discussion of strength, motivation and arthritis might be relevant.

What do you think?

Women with Arthritis Needed for an Online Survey

Karen Glazebrook — Tue, 28 Apr 2009 19:48:16 GMT

Researchers in the College of Kinesiology at the University of Saskatchewan are doing an online study to better understand what may or may not keep women with arthritis from doing physical activity.

If you are a woman over 21 years of age who has been diagnosed with any type of arthritis, we invite you to participate in an online survey at the following site:

https://survey.usask.ca/survey.php?sid=14109

Just type or copy and paste the link into your browser window.

The survey will ask about your thoughts on physical activity and your arthritis and will take approximately 25 minutes. A 5-minute follow-up survey will be emailed to you in 2 weeks.

All of your responses will be anonymous. (The University of Saskatchewan Research Ethics Board has approved this study: Beh # 05-230.)

Arthritis is one of the most common chronic diseases in North America. Women have higher rates of arthritis than men. There is no cure for arthritis - but we do know that regular physical activity will help people with arthritis feel better. We are trying to figure out what keeps or doesn’t keep women from doing activity. Once we know this, we can then better help women do activity more regularly and feel better in the long-term.

Thank you very much for your time and support of this important research!