Polymyositis & Dermatomyositis Support Group
Polymyositis (PM) is a type of chronic inflammation of the muscles (inflammatory myopathy) related to dermatomyositis and inclusion body myositis. The inflammation is predominantly of the endomysium in polymyositis, whereas dermatomyositis is characterized by primarily perimysial inflammation.
Do you have any ideas you have come up with to cope with the physical limitations we have. I do my own housework so I use extenders a lot now so I can clean the tub and shower (can't bend down well). I try to do a little each day to keep active - I consider this part of my exercise. I got some of those magnetic jewelry fasteners so I can wear necklaces again - it was hard to reach up behind my neck. Babyoil gel has been a help to my skin - did anyone else dry up like a prune with this stuff? Any ideas would be appreciated - I am trying to maintain as "normal" a lifestyle as possible by adjusting.
You know...I don't do anything special...just what I feel like doing on any given day. Saturday, I do two hours of cardio and strength training and usually go for a run on Sunday or lift with my hubby and then walk home. Well, I did my usual Saturday thing...but, yesterday, I just felt like chillin. We took my daughter to get a new catcher's mitt and then went to the pool for some much needed R&R. Grilled out last night and had a few beers. Tonight, i'm going to do another two hours of cardio and strength.
I keep active for my mental health as well as my physical health. I used to work for an orthopedist who taught me that arthritis and joint pain actually get worse and excelerate the disease process in sedentary folks. Activity stimulates the joints and reduces inflammation...when done in moderation and done properly.
I've always been pretty active, so, that's how I "cope". It was hard at first, because my doc told me not to do anything more than my daily living activities....that was horrible. I only about half listened. I stayed out of the gym...but, I was trying to sell my house at the time and my husband was gone a lot with his new job...so, i did all of the painting and repairs by myself. It was wonderful therapy though. I had all this time to myself and was working with my hands and body. I think the 60mg of prednisone helped with that!!
Definitely stay active...and positive!!
Blessings,
Kim
Here are some coping techniques that I use:
When going shopping, etc., I try to park far enough away so that I can get some exercise, but keeping in mind my endurance at the time.
I try to park where there's no car by my door, as I must open the door wide enough to get in/out.
If I'm going some place unfamiliar or with large crowds, I take my cane along just in case (it folds up). If I need more stability, I use it. Plus sometimes people are a little more courteous in a crowd.
I always wear a sturdy shoe when I go outside.
I use a fanny pack, so I don't have to deal with a regular purse.
Regarding cleaning, Black & Decker makes a small scrubber which can be helpful.
I purchased thick plastic hangars to replace my thin metal ones. The plastic ones are easier to grip.
Hope others here provide lots of good ideas.
deb g