Living with arthritis: How do you stay active?

Good morning - We just had a gathering of 6 lifelong friends last evening, and naturally talk turned to health for a while as we are all of "a certain age" - all of us have some degree of arthritis - several have both osteo- and rheumatoid types, some for 30 years or more. But you couldn't find a greater example of living well with a chronic condition - I truly believe staying active, positive and connected to others is the key.

I know it has been dreadfully difficult these last months, and the temptation to just curl up on the sofa or in bed can be overwhelming, but the key is what we CAN do, not what we cannot.

For example, one friend moved the discussion back to "positive" last night by pulling out a deck of "story" cards and to get us talking about not only memories, but also all the things we still wish to do...
And for many years, we gathered weekly in fall and winter to play wallyball, quite a strenuous sport, for 2 hours, then to socialize. Those days are long gone, but my other friend is very clever at organizing silly games that get us laughing, and until Covid we still exercised our competitive genes with monthly card games around someone's dining room table.

NOw I must get out for my (abbreviated) morning walk between thunderstorms.
Sue

Hello @suz55

I've used Tai Chi for arthritis and Parkinson's stiffness. Tai Chi (unlike Yoga) can be done sitting or standing without floor work which is great if you deal with stiffness and pain in your knees, back and hips. The movements used in Tai Chi are very gentle and smooth. One of our members posted a Youtube video which was most helpful to use first thing in the morning. It is only 9 minutes long but helps with the early morning stiffness quite nicely. Here is the link to that video,
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZxcNBejxlzs

There is another exercise that is very good for the hands. It was developed for Parkinson's patients, but could probably be used by anyone with hand difficulties. Her is the link to that video,
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ez2GeaMa4c8

I look forward to hearing how your appointment goes with a rheumatologist. Will you post again?

@hopeful3325 I always wanted to do Tai Chi, but will have to wait till my back is healed. I go tomorrow for my first post-op visit. I hope everything is ok.

@lioness Oh darn. That stupid arthritis or it could be something else. You might want to go to the doctor if it is waking you up at night. I am so worry. Take care my friend.

@lilypaws I found if I put my Amish cream on before bed it keeps it from hurting during night ,have an appt but not till August ug . I will call her and see what she says.

Glad to hear that Amish cream is working for you as I just woke up in pain and had cream and marijuana. Back to sleep! Feel good I feel better.

@donfeld I was surprised how quickly I got relief . I,m ordering another one to have in the other room . Lazy I guess lol

I will look at your suggestions. Thank you. My PA will need to refer me to a rheumatologist, but she is not in this week. So it may be at least 3-4 weeks before I see anyone. I will let you know how I turn out.

@hopeful33250 Thanks Teresa just did hand exercise resting now those are tough
Several fingers of both hands hopefully will get better

@lilypaws .
Please let me know how your first post-op appointment goes. Wishing you all the best!