work thru the pain?
 

I have arthiritis in my feet and hips but my job requires me to be on my feet all day so that by the time I'm off I dread doing anything else like cooking or cleaning or even going anywhere for pleasure. I know what I need to do to strenghen and care for my body but I can't bear the thought of excersising more. I really don't want to start on any more medication then i'm on as I also suffer from IBS and depression, my stomach is constantly upset or feeling like it wants to be. How can I make myself excersise?

Hey Pixiesue,

Arthritis just means joint inflammation. Many things can contribute to it. The first thing I would suggest is that you make sure you have really good shoes that support you while you stand at work. You might want to consult a podiatrist or other foot specialist to make sure you have the right fit and that there isn't another problem present, like plantar fasciitis. But even if you can't get to a doc, make sure your shoes are athletic-type shoes with lots of support and padding.

If you're already on top of that, you can also find out from your doctor what kinds of exercises will minimize damage. Exercise bicycles work for some folks because you are not having to bear weight on your legs. Some low-impact cross-trainers also reduce the jarring. And swimming is a good all-around exercise that is easy on joints. Some places, like the YMCA or other community fitness centers and senior centers, also have heated pools especially for older people or those with arthritis issues. And, the people who use these pools are not trying to be swimsuit models, so you don't have to worry about that. Water aerobics classes are excellent for this as well.

You can also look into things like seated yoga, where you don't have to do any extreme postures or movements. These can provide more of a workout than you might expect.

Keep looking for ways around your challenges... there is always something you can do.

Jay

I would also recommend trying out yoga. I don't have the same problems as you, but it has done a great deal for my collection of tendinitises and my back. But I would not start out with any version of power yoga. Start with something gentle and go from there.

wow Pixiesue I can't believe your post. It's like you are my twin. I have arthritis in both knees and over the last 2 years have been having problems with my feet. I work in retail Part time thank goodness only PT. Since my feet got worse the past few months it's really unbearable to stand for a long period of time. Custom made orthodics are not really helping because they hurt my fee. (I've had 3 pair) I really want to try the water aerobics because my knees and feet hurt so bad I don't want to do anything else.

The other day I did walk the track 1/2 mile and every step hurt my knees and feet. Everyone just passes me by which is why I don't really want to walk with anyone.

I just started looking at this board this week and so far I like it.

Now to just get moving.