Rheumatoid 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. The disease is also systemic in that it often also affects many extra-articular tissues throughout the body including the skin, blood vessels, heart, lungs, and...

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Walkers

biglon
biglon
After getting out of bed this morning with lower back and leg stiffness I found walking normally very difficult for 15 minutes. I just now have returned from my usual 1 mile morning walk and had no difficulty or discomfort. I went online and ordered via Amazon, a Walker with seat and back rest that will be delivered tomorrow. I did this in anticipation of morning stiffness lasting longer than a few minutes.
I was diagnosed by my PC who referred me to a Rheumatologist that I will see for the first time in July. I am new to this disease as well as this Support Group and welcome any comments from those that have been there and done that. BTW I have taken Tylenol Extra Strength in the afternoon which seems to help with discomfort.
californialynn
californialynn
Rheumatology is such a specialized field, with so many different forms of arthritis [over a hundred?], so it's good that you're seeing a board certified rheumatologist.

I hope when you see the rheumatologist that you're up front about your pain level. Men tend to be stoic, and it doesn't help to say "I'm doing ok" because your rheumatologist will usually take that to mean that the patient has no pain.

Your rheumatologist will be better able to assess your condition and provide appropriate treatment. Very, very few of us find that OTC meds help at all.

Glad to see that you're out walking, with whatever means to assist you. Walking is the best thing you can do, although you do need to learn how to pace yourself.

Let us know if you have any questions. We have a great group of experienced people here.
altoclef
altoclef
Those walkers with the built-in chair look like the cat's pajamas. Perfect for long lines at the post office, going to a parade, anything where the walking is followed by standing. Did you go for bright red? Get streamers for the handlebars, put a horn on it, and have fun with it. As much as you walk (best thing you can do, in my opinion) you probably won't use the walker much, but it can help keep you moving on a bad day, or make it easier to do certain things. like that parade!