Arthritis Support Group
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, inflammatory, multisystem, autoimmune disorder. It is a disabling and painful condition which can lead to substantial loss of mobility due to pain and joint destruction.
I just joined this group this evening because I thought it would be good to have a place where I can seek support and give support. I am newly diagnosed with arthritis in my ankle but I have been dealing with issues with my ankle since I broke and dislocated it when I was sixteen. I was kind of been in denial but when I looked at the X-rays with my Dr. I kind of snapped out of it. I'm guessing that my arthritis is pretty bad because I have a lot of extra bone growth and there is hardly any space in my joint between the bone. I'm going back to the Dr. next week because she suggested that I use a brace to try to slow the progression. Right now, I have tendonitis and plantar fasciitis because I also have an arch that's negative. I'm trying Mobic and Ultram for the inflammation and pain but I need to be more deligent about taking the medicine.
Since a lot of walking is out for now, I am trying to get most of my exercise by doing water aerobics at my local Y. I am also trying to be more open about the pain that I've had for awhile but did not want to bother anyone else about it by talking about it. I realize though that internalizing things is not very healthy. So here I am. I look forward to meeting fellow group members and providing support.
Since a lot of walking is out for now, I am trying to get most of my exercise by doing water aerobics at my local Y. I am also trying to be more open about the pain that I've had for awhile but did not want to bother anyone else about it by talking about it. I realize though that internalizing things is not very healthy. So here I am. I look forward to meeting fellow group members and providing support.
I also have arthritis in both my ankles. My orthopedist also refers to it as "ankle instability." My rheumatologist suggested that I wear running shoes for ankle support.
I used to love to get out and walk, but that has become impossible since I have a tendancy to sprain ankles easily. I now have a Bowflex Treadclimber for indoor exercise. I'm hoping it will increase muscle strength around ankles and knees. I used to do water aerobics years ago and that was really great. I take Tramadol for pain.
Dealing with arthritis gets to be a real challenge--especially the older you get. I was first diagnosed with it at age 32. Started in back and hands, and now it is in every joint. I'm on a quest to find alternatives to medications:)
As far as talking about your pain, that's what we're all here for. Unfortunately most of the folks in your everyday life don't have a clue what you go through, especially when they can't see the issue causing you pain. One word of warning, just don't discuss your meds with folks outside of here. A spouse, significant other is usually ok, but most people not in pain don't get the meds thing. And there's always they chance they will try to get your meds from you. Just a thought.
I usually don't talk much about the medication because I'm usually not taking it. I have a small phobia about swallowing pills because I have a tendancy to choke so it has to be "off the charts" for me to break down and take some. But, I do know that I need to be better about taking the anti-inflammatory medicine because I know I will feel tons better when the tendonitis will heal. I will try the alphabet exercise.
Once again thanks and it was nice meeting both of you.
good luck and hugs