SparkPeople Challenged by Arthritis Team Messageboard

Anyone try joint supplement

Mon, 17 Jun 2013 15:51:22 EST

I've started using Ostro Bio Flex. I've been seeing a difference. Anyone else try this?

New here

Sat, 8 Jun 2013 13:05:45 EST

39 Hi. I am new to the team. I was diagnosed with Arthritis in both my elbows. I take pain medication but need to learn how to cope and exercise with this.....I am finding it hard.

Musclle cramps/ charlie horses

Fri, 7 Jun 2013 02:10:13 EST

Hi, I don't post here often but do "lurk" but I have a question.

I may have brought this subject up before, but feel the need to readdress it. Lately I have been getting muscle cramps, I don't mean mild ones but ones that bring you to your knees, bring tears to your eyes or make you want to amputate the appendage. Most of the severe ones happen at night while I'm in bed, These are usually in my calves, (they sometimes will happen when I stretch.) my thighs, and ankles, that one was...

Just took my first short walk :(

Sun, 2 Jun 2013 09:04:04 EST

Hi all,

My name is Debbie and I have arthritis in my hips and knees. I live in the Louisville KY metro area, work as a secretary at IU in New Albany, IN. I'm 62, married (42 years today!) and have one adult daughter still at home. I also have my 88 yr old mom in an assisted living facility nearby. I'm interested in a variety of things, but slowly getting to the point where I avoid things because I hurt.

I just took my first 10 min walk with my dog and I am surprised ou...

Need Tips for Dealing with Arthritis Pain

Sat, 1 Jun 2013 16:46:36 EST

I took the anti-inflammatory Meloxicam for a few months a couple of years ago without incident. However after not taking it for a year or so I took it again when arthritis in my knee flared up again. This time I experienced periodic erratic heart rate. It only occurred 2-3 times a day and lasted only a few seconds. I tried taking them again and the same thing happened. This worried me so I quit taking them. I should mention that I don't have any heart problems. I am wondering if anyone...

Hello from San Diego

Wed, 29 May 2013 21:56:13 EST

As they say "misery loves company" which is why I joined this team. I am only half joking as I I injured myself around 14 years ago and ended up having a lateral menisectomy in my left knee. I am told I need a TKR but trying to hold off to see if "stem cell" or other less intrusive procedures might become available. I would appreciate hearing from anyone who might know more about new procedures coming down the pike.

Thanks Everyone!

joined all of you- hoping to be more regular on SP

Tue, 21 May 2013 10:10:55 EST

My name is Catherine. I am 56 years young and have arthritis in my right knee...probably both knees and my feet. I lost 25 lbs and the pain in my knee seemed to dissipate with doing yoga, meditation and spiritual mind treatments. but shortly after the pain in my feet came raging forward and I have gained 8lbs back because I have significantly slowed down and I know I am eating for comfort again. I have tried cortisone and hyalgen. They worked for 4 months and I have not even been able to pay...

New Poster to teams

Fri, 17 May 2013 14:04:27 EST

rnmaryann, age 56, live in Minnesota. 2 knee replacements, allergic to the world, but my brain is pretty sure I am 34.

Hello

Wed, 8 May 2013 18:13:16 EST

Hi - I'm somewhat sporadic about using the web for my weight loss. I know that having a community to help is supposed to make this easier, but to be honest, checking in every day always seemed like a chore to me. So I guess that's why I haven't been on the Spark website in about 5 years. I figured I was getting the emails and that was enough. But it clearly wasn't. It's not that I haven't lost weight in that time - I've actually gained weight. So much that my doctor said I had to lose about 4...

Do you use glucosamine?

Tue, 7 May 2013 06:57:53 EST

.... And do you feel it helps you? How?

hip replacement

Tue, 7 May 2013 06:51:54 EST

Hi everyone,
I'm back, I've been neglecting my diet and for a year have been in extreme pain with old Arthur, but now the end is in sight, I am going for a hip replacement in about three weeks.
Any advice or tips about this would be appreciated.
Regards Thelma

Coming back

Mon, 6 May 2013 12:52:22 EST

Hi everyone. I am glad to be back here at SP. I have missed everyone. It has been almost a year. My name is Roslyn, but my username is Carrie. I live in Baltimore, MD. I have been with SP for some years, starting and stopping. However, I am praying that this time, I will accomplish the new goals I am setting for myself.

Just joined team!

Sat, 4 May 2013 11:07:11 EST

I have been a Sparker for years but dropped off the radar for 6 months when I started a new job. I came back a few days ago and checked off the box to get information on arthritis - that generated an email that lead me to this team. I'm so happy to have found you all. 41

I have not had an "official" diagnosis of arthritis but my Internal Medicine doc said she was sure that's what I have. I also have a neighbor who does therapeutic massage and she swears I have Fibromya...

Having a rough morning

Wed, 1 May 2013 07:40:42 EST

I am a returning Spark member. I am 48 and my knees are both bone-on-bone. Had euflexxa injections in December 2012. Really helped my left knee, but the right one has always been the bigger problem. Suffered some setbacks in my weight loss journey due to some medication and becoming really discouraged after my youngest child moved out last summer. Trying to get back on track. Have lost 3 lbs. (I need to enter that on my page) Going to have some lab work done to check my thyroid a...

A Great Garden Tool

Wed, 17 Apr 2013 08:18:47 EST

With signs of spring starting to show we're fining ourselves finally able to be outside and starting to do springtime gardening. I found this a few years ago and ordered one, it's a weed puller that works great and I don't have to get down on my arthritic knees to use it. I bought one for my daughter in law in New Mexico to use on the goat head plants that were overtaking their yard and I use it to pull out dandelions. It works great on anything with a tap root. Here's a link:

...

Exercise and stretches for arthritis!

Fri, 5 Apr 2013 11:39:26 EST

I would like some suggestions for exercise and stretches for arthritis! Please help me!

Inspiring blog entry about arthritis and exercise

Fri, 5 Apr 2013 07:33:01 EST

www.sparkpeople.com/mypage_public_jo
urnal_individual.asp?blog_id=5312178#c
omments

Hello, Just joining the team

Fri, 5 Apr 2013 01:38:37 EST

I am Roger, age 59. I am to have both knees replaced and possibly one hip. I began tearing up my knees in athletics when I was 14 and finally fell badly enough about a year ago that I have had to quit working ( Construction Contractor). Picked up a lot of weight over the years which has not helped and have had 4 additional injuries that required surgeries. Walking to compensate for the knees has one of my hips jacked up. I have lost 42 lbs since Christmas 2012. I need about 10 more to satisfy...

haven't been on here for such a long time 24
Thu, 4 Apr 2013 18:59:01 EST
Having so many ailments just gets me down but I am trying to get motivated again. I have had several surgeries to my rt elbow ended up removing one bone, arm doesn't straighten, then my knee has gotten bad had a cortisone shot several days ago and it is helping some. still need surgery though. Anyway sorry for the complaining, I have finally been able to get 20 minutes in on the gazelle today, feel like that was a BIG start. Hoping to increase it everyday and start walking the trails now tha...

Happy to have found this site

Tue, 2 Apr 2013 21:58:58 EST
Hi, my name is Dennis and I started with sparkpeople on 1/8/2013 because I liked this sites goals of helping people lose weight and in the process change peoples lives for the better. My goal it to lose 60 pounds over this year which would put me under 200 pounds for the first time in 20 years. I started playing tennis which has been a great aid to my weight loss to date. In the first three months I've lost 22 pounds which puts me a third of the way to my present goal. I hope to meet ma...

hello all

Sun, 31 Mar 2013 12:16:54 EST
I am joined spark people to lose weight,I learned I have diabets my goal is to lose 150 lb so i can fell better

What do you do when you have overdone?

Sun, 31 Mar 2013 02:42:33 EST
I really overdid it at the gym the other day and am really suffering. The hot tub, the shower, and analgesic balm is not helping. Any ideas?

New to Team

Thu, 28 Mar 2013 11:12:15 EST
Hi, I am PrairieMimi from the Land of Oz. New to team. Joined Sparkpeople in early March. Overall, in good condition at 56. Retired last year after 25 years in state government. Have arthritis in my spine. Had spinal fusion about 6 years, ago. My health has improved since retiring. I am no longer sitting at a desk for hours at a time, or driving across the state for meetings 2-3 times a month. I enjoy water exercises, hiking, gardening and my numerous pets. Grandchildren are a joy, but they l...

Asking prayers for DD

Sun, 24 Mar 2013 12:20:06 EST
Hi everyone,
My daughter Johanna has lupus and fibro and is quite ill, always a lot of pain and has a hard time doing anything. She has filed for disability and keeps getting denied, but tomorrow (after 2 years) she finally has a hearing. Please keep her in your thoughts and prayers that it goes through. I'm sure the stress of all this as well as the financial burden of her not being able to work has exacerbated a lot of what she's going through.
Thank you all...and I will update af...

A Yummy Breakfast Idea

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 14:09:54 EST
I don’t usually do things like this but this morning I found a SparkPeople Recipe I want to share. I’m not much of a fruit eater so when I buy bananas I always end up with some over-ripe ones I have to figure out what to do with. I’ve also been looking for ways to get more protein in my diet. I bought some protein powder and now am on the look out for other things to do with it besides just drink it. This is a recipe for Banana Blueberry Protein Muffins. Besides the fruit they’re made wi...

Probiotics and Digestive Enzymes

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 11:26:58 EST
Someone emailed me a couple of days ago asking my opinion of Digestive Enzyme Supplements and/or Probiotics to aid digestion. I thought the answer might be of interest to others so decided to share my reply with my teams. The information I’m providing is educational only, I’m a retired biology teacher, NOT a doctor. I’m not attempting to offer medical advice. Also, SparkPeople has an excellent Diet and Nutrition forum. This is a great place to ask questions related to nutrition, fitness...

I'm a newbie!

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 15:27:22 EST
I've lost 55 pound on Jenny Craig and over Christmas to date have gained back 10. I am really struggling with these 10 pounds. It is hard to exercise when you are full of arthritis!
I really could use some motivation.

I'm 72 years young, divorced, one son, daughter-in-law and 3 grandchildren.

I'm still working because the weekend is boring and that's when I graze!!!!

Help!!!!!

Exercise

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 10:02:14 EST
Hiyas I have arthritis in both hips and knees i am 47 married and have two kids a teenager and a 9 yr old with autism i can do over 30 minutes a day on my exercise bike wud love to loose 2 pound a week how much would i need to burn of to loose this? thanks.

Exercising Ideas? Working around limitations.

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 09:47:58 EST
Ever since I joined on Feb. 4th I've been really careful with what I eat and dutifully recording every bite. I know I'm not eating too much but I'm not loosing either. I lost 3 pounds somewhere around week 3 but now seem to have gained all but 6 ounces back, a 6 ounce loss in 6 weeks really isn't what I was hoping for! I have tried to do at least SOME exercise every day, even on bad days. I'm now starting to think I need to find some more vigorous exercises I can do to burn more calories ...

Frustrated? Grumpy? Try this!

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 12:27:54 EST
OK everyone,
I started out the day in a real diet (excuse me, “lifestyle change”), exercise funk. I feel like I’m going nowhere fast and am getting frustrated! Daylight Savings Time is making me grumpy! I even wrote my blog today about it. Since I prefer to be a positive person all this negativity was only making me grumpier – can you see the beginnings of a cycle here? So I decided to look online for some weight loss jokes, hoping I could cheer myself up a little. I’m not sure my...

Swelling Ankles? The Sodium/P otassium relationshi

Sun, 10 Mar 2013 10:57:30 EST
I recently had a problem with my ankles swelling, some of you followed the posts and I thank you for your input and suggestions. What finally solved the problem for me was simply recalling a concept I used to teach, the relationship between sodium and potassium in your cells. I’m a retired Biology teacher, NOT a doctor so this information is from an educational standpoint, not medical advice but I thought it might be helpful to understand a little more about how this part of your body works...

Climbing the Mountain

Thu, 7 Mar 2013 12:55:27 EST
This was my blog today. I wanted to share it with other people on this team. So here goes:

A month or so ago I found myself standing at the base of a very large mountain looking up. I was trying to decide if I wanted to start climbing or just give up and go home. It looked like a really hard climb, and the mountain was SO BIG! I decided to start climbing. How could I ever move forward if I continued to return home? For the first 3 weeks I did pretty good, I made some progress and...

Hi

Mon, 4 Mar 2013 18:32:37 EST
I am new to this forum and feel you will be a big help ....Have osteo and am having a few challenges coming up in my life, use to be active but definately slowin down alot.....You will problaly see me on this site alot and lookng forward to meeting and chatting with alot of you, Have a beautiful day ...

Dietary helps

Mon, 4 Mar 2013 09:52:13 EST
There's a lot of hype out there that drinking more/special water, taking this or that nutrient or following different diets will help with arthritis pain. What have you tried? Check out this slide show from a medical perspective on various possibilities and see if you want to do your own personal test on any. I'm going to try the green tea one:

www.everydayhealth.com/arthritis-pic
tures/the-oddest-arthritis-food-cures.
aspx#/slide-1

I'll let you...

Exercising with BenGay

Sun, 3 Mar 2013 12:26:05 EST
OK, I guess I just have to vent a little here. I have extra strength BenGay rubbed into both arthritic knees, something called Salonpas patches stuck to all the sore areas on my feet and I just took 800 mg of Ibuprofen (prescription) just so I could try to do what has become my daily exercise routine. The Salonpas were recommended by my aunt who has the same foot condition I do. She also suggested Gold Bond Pain Relieving Foot Rub which evidently is different than regular Gold Bond. What's ...

Swollen Ankles - Suggestions????

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 11:23:50 EST
Hi everyone, I'm at my wits end and am really hoping I can get some suggestions that will help me with this. Ever since I started having problems with my feet and can't go on the long walks I used to take daily I've had a big problem with my ankles swelling and general water retention. Does anyone have any suggestions of "natural" ways to deal with this? I'm reluctant to see my doctor about it yet because I feel like once my feet are better and I can start walking more the problem will reso...

How to Access SparkPeople Links that Don't Work

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 08:47:00 EST
Since I began posting on SparkPeople I've noticed that sometimes the links don't work. I’ve had people reply to me, “I’d like to read that but the link doesn’t work”. If that's the case all you need to do is this:

Highlight everything between the on both sides (put your cursor on the right side just before you see
Hold down the left mouse button and drag to the left until everything you want to highlight is blue – make sure you stop before highlighting the ...

EOA Erosive Osteoarthritis (aka Inflammatory Osteo

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 01:16:32 EST
I was just diagnosed with EOA. Kind of scary. Any one else have it? What are you taking for it? She gave me plaqenil and mobic. Please share your experience. THanks!

The Guilt of Cheating

Sun, 24 Feb 2013 09:02:54 EST
Yesterday was a good day – and a bad day. I “cheated” on my diet and treated myself to a BIG bowl of popcorn. A lot of people’s self control challenge has to do with sugar but not me, for me it’s popcorn. I could eat it 3 times a day and not miss anything else (at least for awhile). Popcorn is OK by itself but somehow it’s not the same if it’s the microwave variety and definitely not the same without butter – lots of butter. So yesterday I cheated. My calorie count for the day stayed re...

Hi

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 07:46:46 EST
I'm new to this team. My worst moments with joints come usually when I'm walking. I have one knee that just goes out from under me for no apparent reason...i have joints that tell me when the weather changes too...but I am working hard to ensure I am there for my kids!!!

Hi Everyone!

Wed, 20 Feb 2013 16:48:10 EST
My name is Kaylamarie. I am 20 years old and was diagnosed with RA in 2002 (9 years old) I have been dealing with frequent pain ever since. At first I was able to exercise through competitive swimming but my lungs collapsed from the chemicals and I was not able to do that anymore. Since I have discovered spark people I have decided to workout more on an appropriate level to which my body can handle. Any exercise suggestions are greatly appreciated. :) Good luck to you all in your goal to get ...

Warning - Don't boil water in the microwave!

Tue, 19 Feb 2013 08:39:17 EST
I just read this post on the "Seniors 60+ - Fit For Life" team page and thought it was worth passing along. Something that makes sense to me once I read it but that I hadn't thought of before - very dangerous:

A 26-year old man decided to have a cup of coffee. He took a cup of water and put it in the microwave to heat it up (something that he had done numerous times before). I am not sure how long he set the timer for, but he wanted to bring the water to a boil. When the timer shu...

High Protein, Low Fat Snacks

Sun, 17 Feb 2013 12:31:02 EST
Suggestions???????

Housework Fitness Tracking

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 13:16:52 EST
I use the Sparkpeople Exercise Tracker daily to track my fitness. The one thing I don’t like about it is that it doesn’t include any type of housework as an activity. At my age, weight and health problems I feel I definitely am using calories to do such things as mop the floor, vacuum, shampoo the carpet, etc. There are other online sites you can go to that will calculate the calories burned during different housekeeping activities and I’ve been going to one of those, calculating the calor...

Depressed - It's moved to my feet :(

Tue, 12 Feb 2013 10:01:00 EST
I guess I'm complaining now, now sure if this is appropriate for a group post or not. I've had arthritis in my knees and pretty badly in my neck for several years now. When my knees flare up I can't do much in the way of exercise and mainly take pain relievers and anti-inflammatory pills until it gets better but for the last couple of weeks I've started to suspect it's now moved to my feet. I've discovered a whole new level of pain and immobility. How do you do anything when it hurts so m...

SAMe - Report shows cartilage repair and less pain

Mon, 11 Feb 2013 13:52:19 EST
For quite a while now I’ve been doing research and trial-and-error experimenting on myself in the hopes of finding something that will ease the flair up’s of my knee arthritis (I also have it in a lot of other joints, my neck I think is the worst, but my knee arthritis affects my weight loss efforts the most). I’m sure a lot of you have heard of or tried Glucosimine with Chondroitin supplements but for me I found them to be ineffective. What did work however was Schiff brand Glucosimine wit...

Your Personal Experience with Sodas

Sun, 10 Feb 2013 15:16:16 EST
I have a question for you to consider. When you drink sodas, does it increase your cravings for food? In addition, what soda do you drink?

I drink caffeine free, diet sodas. I do think I have more cravings for food after I drink one.

Thanks!

Phil

Slow Metabolism - HELP!

Sun, 10 Feb 2013 12:38:15 EST
Hi everyone, this will be my first post since introducing myself. I’m new at this so be gentle, OK? Please, can anyone tell me if they have the same problem I am having? I started menopause in 1999 after the death of my first husband and then had my thyroid removed in 2001. I had a slow metabolism before those things happened but now feel like my body is responding to everything at a snail’s pace. One reason I get so discouraged and end up giving up is because I already feel like I’m doi...

Third Time's The Charm????

Fri, 8 Feb 2013 14:16:15 EST
Hi everyone. This will be my third time returning to Sparkpeople since I discovered it in 2008. I guess there's a reason I keep coming back, maybe there's still a little hope of success left in me. I would like to lose at least 60 pounds and it really seems impossible sometimes. I think I’m mostly tired, tired of counting calories, of watching EVERYTHING I eat, of trying to figure out an exercise program I can stick to and mainly I’m tired of hating my reflection – especially when I’m not...

Achilles Tendons

Thu, 7 Feb 2013 16:21:11 EST
Hi! I'm new. Having increasing aches and pains challenges in past few months. Especially hurting more and more just to bend over.

Had 2 torn achilles tendons simultaneously a few years back. Podiatrist didn't seem to know why. I had no sustained injuries. Now, a couple years later, I have a big lump around the heel of my right foot. Very painful to the touch and can't wear shoes with backs any longer (great luck that I live in Florida!).

Have been paying my own me...

Hello!

Tue, 5 Feb 2013 13:13:14 EST
I'm new to sparkpeople. I lost 60 pounds 3 years ago with WeightWatchers however, I have slowly gained it all back. I am trying sparkpeople because I enjoyed WW and the support it provided but not the cost! Looking forward to making friends and being successful!

Hello another newbe to this team

Mon, 4 Feb 2013 22:40:43 EST
I am not new to Sparkpeople. tried it a few years ago but didn't stick with it. I also am arthritic everywhere even the bones in my inner ear. Makes life interesting. I still work, garden, paint and care for my husband and his dogs and kitten. I'm not a social butterfly but need more knowledge in order to cope as I age. Now 55 and a grandma and not so shy anymore,lol

Hi there!!

Mon, 4 Feb 2013 17:38:25 EST
Hi!! I'm not new on SP but I am new on this team. I'm 31 (32 in 12 days) and recently married and diagnosed with RA 7 years ago in ALL my joints =( I take Enbrel and the weather in the great state of Ohio has not been all that great lately on my joints.

I was wondering if anyone has ever heard of the RA diet. A friend told me of it and I can't find much on it. If anyone has any info on it it would be greatly appreciated!

Hello

Tue, 29 Jan 2013 06:26:14 EST
I am new to this site and not sure how this works.....have arthritis will have a surgery in
March.....on my thumb area. Hoping to get some good tips on how to help prevent a surgery on my left hand by keeping it more limber...Also have the rheumatoid arthritis in knees and other areas....am 59 and want to learn to stretch and exercise for these areas especially.... hope to get tips and suggestions on this site and group...hugs.... 213

Exercise

Sun, 27 Jan 2013 17:52:47 EST
I'm new to having OA. Diagnosed this past Oct. I have pre arthritis. Some days my outer knee (where the OA is) feels really good I can exercise for 30-45 minutes. Then for a few days (2-4) I can't seem to do much. What has been your experience with exercise. I really miss exercise. Believe it or not! I seen many of you do large amount of exercise. Could you tell me your experience with this.

Thanks!

New Need Advice

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 13:44:53 EST
Hi!

I am new to spark as of Jan 2013. I originally joined in 2012 but never followed through. Now after coming back am off to a great start. Also new to me is arthritis. Last summer was diagnosed with degenerative arthritis of both knees. I am only 54 an plan to be hanging around for a long time. I can walk without distress so this has been my activity of choice so what I would like to know from all of you long time sparklers who also have a Hx of arthritis what else do you do to s...

New Here How do you handle painful exercise??

Thu, 24 Jan 2013 12:10:28 EST
Hi ,

Just joined. Was surfing the web site and didn't realize that there was a team for arthritics. Seems there is a team for everything. I shouldn't be surprised. I just rejoined Spark after joining one year ago, but didn't really become active until know I am totally amazing at all the advice and support this site has to offer. Anyway, I want to become more physically active. As of know I mostly walk for my fitness. This activity does not hurt my joints at all. Most of my discomf...

Great report yesterday and today i feel like crap!

Tue, 22 Jan 2013 06:45:09 EST
just wondering.....yesterday I saw my RA dr and I felt great!! my blood work was great!! I've lost 13 pounds since end of Sept....He congratulated me on that, doing it in the winter/holiday months. I worked my way off Methotrxtat (?) since 09 and only am on onlyy one plaqunil (which works good for me and I tolerate well) he told me to go to one every odd day and in 6 mth we will see if I can wean me off it....I was SOOOO excited and now i get up and I feel like I have been run over by a Mack ...

Supartz

Mon, 21 Jan 2013 12:41:53 EST
For those of you who gotten the Supartz injections - How long did it take to feel improvement? or did it not help ?

Zumba 2

Sun, 20 Jan 2013 20:32:01 EST
I rented Zumba 2 and really like the slow start.. very slow start.. but even with it being so slow, my ankles screamed at me. How am I supposed to get this weight off if my ankles wont let me DO anything?? Has anyone else had this problem? Does anyone have any good aerobic wii games that work with bad ankles and back?

Supartz injection today

Fri, 18 Jan 2013 20:06:19 EST
Had my first of three supartz injections today. Also have an appointment next month with the surgeon. I need both knees replaced. Any advice? I'm more than a little concerned.

saying hi

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 12:47:12 EST
just saying hi and to say i also have arthritis. my poor knees kill me daily and the later it is in the day the more they hurt. any suggestions on getting rid of the pain? would love to get off the meds.
would love to stay away from another surgery as well. have had an orthroscope done 2 years ago and though it has helped some, my other knee suffers due to helping the other.

New here and riddled with arthritis

Tue, 15 Jan 2013 23:50:26 EST
Hi there, I'm new to this site and have been searching it the past couple days for a workout dvd that is very low impact. I am 39, but have severe osteoarthritis. I had a total left hip replacement in Feb. 2010 due to severe arthritis mainly caused from a previous injury. I also have svere arthritis in my right knee due to the many years of favoring my left hip. I need a full knee replacement, but my doctor, who replaced my hip, will not do the surgery because of my age. I guess fake kn...

Hello from someone with ankylosing spondylitis

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 15:19:28 EST
Hello,

I joined SparkPeople years ago, but I haven't been around for a long time. Hit the reset button yesterday, and here I am.

I mainly control my arthritis by going to the pool for an hour a day/5 days a week. Currently I am not driving because of another condition, so no pool. I feel like I am seizing up. So I am trying to do some other forms of exercise here at home, even if it is painful.

So far I have just been playing a few Wii games. Not a great exerc...

New and Determined

Fri, 4 Jan 2013 03:28:13 EST
Hello everyone! I too have just joined up here, so getting used to all the site has to offer. I have osteoarthritis, have just been confirmed as having fibromylasia, carpel tunnel in both hands/wrists, and who knows what they'll come up with next! It isn't going to matter anyways, because I have decided to keep moving as fast as I can, throughout my life. I am a caregiver, i take care of others in need, and the personal satisfaction I get from doing this seems to help with the pain and strugg...

Hi, just joined

Sat, 29 Dec 2012 12:52:33 EST
Hi I have only been on SP about a week. First weekly weigh-in will be Monday.
Went to the Orthopedic MD yesterday after being referred by primary doc. Was told both knees worn out and need replacement. ( Still deciding about that) Did get Kenalog injections tho.
Challenge for me is exercising and losing weight with limited and painful mobility.

Just joined

Mon, 24 Dec 2012 22:05:04 EST
Really new to this but here it goes. I have severe osteoarthritis all over. I am totally fused from mid-neck to L5/S1 (tailbone) and then had MRSA-all in Nov/Dec 2006. June 2012 had left knee replaced then in Sept. fell and broke my femur. I am just getting back to where i was in Sept. after surgery. Will be having another disc in my neck done as soon as I am better and then will have my right knee done. Am sure glad I had all of the work done-with the exception of the MRSA and getting t...

Hi I'm new here too

Thu, 20 Dec 2012 10:50:56 EST
Hi, I'm Thomasina and have osteo in various joints and xray just confirmed I have it in both wrists and fingers. I knew about the fingers, but was not sure about the wrists.. I was hoping the pain was just a form of tendonitis.. I had a hip replacement 2 years ago and it was a huge success and gave me back my mobility.

I joined Sparkpeople in early October of this year and was so surprised to drop the weight I wanted to in such a short time period. I've never had to diet in ...

Bed time

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 23:29:08 EST
What time do you all go to bed ? It is 11:28 PM and I am going nitey nite........................

Supartz Shots/in jections

Fri, 14 Dec 2012 17:28:49 EST
I had my 2nd injection on Weds. This time hurt more then last week. I said, OUCH!! The Ortho doc says, it's not that bad. I said, easy for you to say! since then my side of knee and calf is hurting again. It hasn't hurt like this for a couple of months! anyone else have this or the shots???

Deb

Winter is most assuredly coming

Mon, 10 Dec 2012 11:32:46 EST
I can feel it in all of my joints, that terrible achy pain that sets in during the months of Dec - the end of February. I'm only 33 and already in the mornings, it's so cold that I'm nearly crippled for the first 30 to 45 minutes in the morning. I know turning on the heating in the house would help ease the chill but frankly this year we just can't afford it. I may need to find a way to work in a warm bath today or something.

Energize63

Sat, 8 Dec 2012 08:26:07 EST
Hi everyone I don't know where to begin except I need help. A year ago I had a total knee replacement with complications of not healing properly. Thru various Drs. they concluded it was a pinched nerve in my back. So 16 days ago I had back surgery. So far the leg is still shaking.( I know give it time).
Meanwhile I gained 20# from the knee surgery and another 20# overnight in the hospital. How can that happen?

I need to get my eating habit under control. At least that...

OA and exercise

Tue, 4 Dec 2012 13:24:37 EST
I am in the throes of my knee joints breaking down. I have been a runner all my life, and about one month ago, the pain was getting worse and worse, and so I contacted my doctor about what could possibly be wrong. An MRI showed that I have large bone spurs on the back of my knee cap and that there is little to no cartilege on the joints anymore.
Sad news - they told me not to run anymore. Sadder news - not to do anymore stairs if possible, and not to bike until I get my knee(s) replaced...

Hi there!

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 20:35:48 EST
Hi my name is Cara - I've had a problem with my weight and arthritis for many years now. I do find that the arthritis keeps me from pushing myself into more strenuous exercise because I'm scared to death of a flare up. I was on Enbrel, and was switched to Humira but because I was working in the health care environment I was exposed to a lot of germs and with my lowered immune system a common cold turned into full blown disasters and hospital stays. Needless to say I requested to stop the H...

Another newbie!

Fri, 16 Nov 2012 18:48:49 EST
Hello! 213 7 My name is Jennifer. I am 37 and I live in SC with my husband of 14 years and 2 kids who are 15 and 9. I have RA and am trying to get it under control. My Mom has severe RA and is crippled because of it. She's permanently in a wheelchair. My brother got married in April 09. I looked at the wedding photos and decided that I needed to do something. I was the biggest person in the wedding party at 220 lbs. I got down to about 155 lbs (my goal was 150 lbs) and my RA reall...

Hating the Weather Change

Mon, 12 Nov 2012 13:49:26 EST
For some reason, the weather changes this year seem to be having a much more painful onpact on my arthritis this year than they have in the past. I wish I had some other means to cope. I need regular access to a hot tub. I need that to help me. I have to figure this out!

I feel like I'm falling apart

Thu, 25 Oct 2012 11:21:09 EST
Today my knee isn't too bad. AND it's raining! As you know, I was diagnose with OA on Monday. My foot on the same side of the bad knee has been bothering me for a while. Went to foot doc today and he said I've developed flat feet. Now I'll have to wear a special support on my foot. Right now he has it wrapped and feels strange. What happens???? We hit 50 and everything falls by the wayside! I'm in my middle 50's and I don't think I should have this happening already. I'm feeling lik...

I'm new and just found out Monday I have OA

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 15:29:32 EST
I just found out I have pre OA. Very mild. On Monday. For being mild it sure aches at night. During the day on and off. Does exercise help or make things worse. It seems when I go for a short walk I can feel the pain come on lately. I got this OA, from a meniscus tear. I had surgery for it in July. He remove only the tear leaving the rest. I'm searching and trying to find out about this. It's a shocker for me.

Debbie

Just joined and just diagnosed!

Tue, 23 Oct 2012 17:30:55 EST
Hi everyone!

I was just diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis. I am 24 years old. I am determined to not let this condition control the rest of my life and am excited for this group to help me reach my goals!!

Just Joined

Mon, 22 Oct 2012 21:35:03 EST
Hi All, I'm Debbie.

I just joined this team. Today I found out I have pre arthritis. I've been having a lot of pain on the side of my knee and calf. I had to go through 4 or 5 doctors to finally get a "correct" diagnosis. Now I'm going to have to get the fluid therapy shots. Supartz shots. A round of 5 shots. anyone here have that done?? From researching it online I've heard some say it was very painful. I've had cortisone shots which were extremely painful.

I ...

Hi! I'm new to the team

Thu, 18 Oct 2012 22:27:38 EST
Hi! I was diagnosed with Lupus 6 years ago and arthritis at the same time. While I was in the Army, I had a knee injury, which I have just reinjured whie exercising. The arthritis is really acting up since I have had to stop exercising. Any suggestions on keeping the joints moving, pain-free and without risk of knees or hips giving out while walking or standing? 24
Thanks!!!

Ouch!

Fri, 12 Oct 2012 16:17:53 EST
The weather is getting cooler and wetter. I am getting creakier by the second. Warm showers help some. I am really trying not to take more pain meds than I am now. Really just want to go back to bed. Help?

Hi i am not new to using this site

Mon, 8 Oct 2012 15:45:23 EST
Hello everyone,

I am not new to the site but i am new to using it. I have played with losing weight and getting healthy for a long time now. I am finaly to the point that i know that i have to do something or i am going to die. I have a family that loves me and the most adorable 2 year old garnddaughter to live for. I will get healthy. I have quite drugs and smoking in my life. Now if i could only quite overeating.

hi I'm new here

Tue, 25 Sep 2012 17:57:26 EST
I suffer from degenerative disk disease, torn miniscius in both knees, and oa of a 60 year old. I know I need to lose weight by dieting and excercising, but what I don't know is how to find an excercise plan that takes the conditions into account. I have been trying to be on my feet more and I am going to try walking everyday. I would love some feed back from anyone who suffers through this constant pain and is doing good.

kness stiff in morning

Sun, 23 Sep 2012 19:35:44 EST
Hi, new to this SparkTeam, have bad knees, and I know once I lose my weight it will be a big help

Exercising with Arthritis

Thu, 13 Sep 2012 12:34:28 EST
I have RA and just started swimming and doing yoga. I have to be super careful in yoga not to put too much (well, really any) pressure on my wrists, so there are a lot of poses I skip or modify. Does anyone know of any other potential "lurking dangers" associated with these activities?

When you can't Ignore the Pain!!!

Tue, 4 Sep 2012 12:30:28 EST
Hi everyone.
I hope this finds you all doing well.. It's been a while since I posted -- so I'm a little out of touch in following events of our team members. Right now, I need some advice, from this wonderful group who knows the pain I'm living with.

I've known I had arthritis for years......but I started exhibiting some strange symptoms.... long story short ..... after months & months of testing, scanning, watching etc - I was finally diagnosed with:

Seronega...

Hi everyone!

Tue, 4 Sep 2012 09:29:50 EST
Hey everyone! I just joined this group this morning. I'm 36 (OK, and a half) and I've had osteoarthritis in my back for nine years. I try hard to be active every day and not rely on meds but some days are better than others - I'm sure you know what I mean! I'm looking forward to meeting you.

Tommie Copper TV

Thu, 30 Aug 2012 19:58:50 EST
Hey I just saw a TV infermmercial about these Products that are suppose to help those who have Arthritis and other muscular pain and stiffness. As a Runner, walker and Cyclist I have been plagues with these issues of mild to Moderate Arthritis... Yea, yea, my Doctor's have told me, my Family have told me to quit running... Not on my Life am I going to give up the things I love doing. Until I saw this product. It was indorsed by Montel Williams who himself is plauged by muscle issues due to ...

Exercise for people with Arthritis

Sun, 19 Aug 2012 11:07:14 EST
These are mostly for RA but they well work for other problems also.
www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/s
s/slideshow-ra-exercises?ecd=wnl_rhu_0
81712&ctr=wnl-rhu-081712_ld-stry

Thursday I got steroid shot for my knee and....

Sat, 18 Aug 2012 13:27:50 EST
It has been so wonderful! I has so much less pain in my knee, I sleep better and when I get up I can stand up on my own without horrible pain in my left knee!!!! With the shot and new brace I have not wasted a moment. I have been able to get up and at the track at 7:30 every morning and walk 10 Laps!!!! 2 and 1/2 miles!!!! I know the hot will only last a short time but right now I feel like I have a second chance nd I am using it all. I lost 5 lbs this last 2weeks so my goal is another 4...

newbie 2

Tue, 14 Aug 2012 13:49:12 EST
hi my name is debbie, i started the program with sparkpeople this week, and it's good to see a forum for others like me who suffering with arthritis like me plus i have fibromylgia..hopefully i can get the encouragement, motivation, and suggestions i need to continue with diet and exercises..i have more energy in the morning where i must do my exercises otherwise im sluggish in late afternoon and evening...

Dropping in. What is your goal today?

Sat, 11 Aug 2012 11:49:41 EST
Hello have not been here foe a few day hope everyone is doing well. Last week I posted that I was havi g a hard time doing my workouts be ause of knee pain. I had to slow way down on my aerobics and my mile walk has gotten really painful. But last week my hubby got mr a excersice bike at a yard sale for 25$ the price was so low just because the lady didn't know how to work the digital panel but it works great and I can go at my own pace. Not se to being on a bike so really not ure to my bo...

new to this group

Fri, 10 Aug 2012 08:04:02 EST
Hello, I have arthritis in my hands,hips, legs and feet. I have neuropathy. So I have alot of pain. I am really struggeling with this weight. Any help will be appreciated. I work from 3pm to 11 pm as a CNA at a nursing home, so I do alot of lifting of patients. By morning I am so sore it is hard to get motivated. It takes me all morning to get soreness out so I can go back to work .

Not new but starting again

Wed, 8 Aug 2012 17:47:32 EST
Hello all,

I am not new, i just haven't been here since 2007, In that tiime i have not lost weight. In fact, i have gained. I must lose weight. I have over 100 pound to lose. I know that i will get know where just wishing it away, so here goes. I am a married 49 year old man with three grown children and one fantastic granddaughter. I love to camp, fish and be outside.

Pain Free

Wed, 8 Aug 2012 09:06:00 EST
Hi everyone! I'm Ann. I joined the gym and began regular training with a personal trainer a year ago after being told that I needed a hip and knee replacement but because of my age, would not yet be eligible. In the meantime, all they could do was offer narcotics to manage the pain. I was to the point of limping, with pain in each step. My life had become so sedentary because it hurt to move. Driving was awful. My knee just wouldn't allow me to handle the movements from gas to brake. ...

Celebrex

Tue, 7 Aug 2012 14:01:16 EST
My ortho urges me to stay on Celebrex, but I worry about the cardiovascular risk. I can be more active when I'm taking it, but what if the trade off is a heart attack? Why don't Dr's seem concerned about serious side effects of drugs they prescribe?

My next question is, does anyone order generic celecoxib from Canada, by mail?

Can Anyone Relate To This?

Mon, 6 Aug 2012 18:08:08 EST
Last week I was laid up where every joint and bone was so painful
and not even my perscription pain meds for my back would touch
it. I know I have arthritis, but it has never hit me like that before. Of
course I was thinking the worst which is normal for me by thinking
bone cancer! Sheesh, I scare myself to death because this never
happened to me before.

Art slowing me down

Wed, 1 Aug 2012 17:41:35 EST
I have been doing all my workouts and walks for the last few months but now the last several days I have had to miss several. My knee and back have been causeing so much pain. I have tryed differant braces for my knee but the more I walk the more I limb the more it causes spasms in my back. Saw the doc yesterday and he is sending me back to my knee doc but I already know there is not much he can do since all the cartilage is gone from my knee already and i have not been able to loose the w...

Hello good morning everyone.

Tue, 31 Jul 2012 13:31:34 EST
Good morning how is everyone today? I am good but irritated Last night I was doing my walk and on my 6th lap my knee gave out. I couldnt finsh my 8 laps I do on my non aerobic day. But Old ART has other ideas. Had a doc appt. this am and I lost 2lbs and am disappointed it was only 2 in the 2 weeks since my last appt. I get toradol shots every other week. It does help with Art, If you dont know what toradol is, it is a very strong anti-inflammatory. My doc is having me do a set of x-rays b...

Wanting to re-start

Fri, 27 Jul 2012 23:46:12 EST
I have been gone for some time now and really want to start back-up but not sure if this will work for me. I know that Sparkpeople works that isn't the issue, the issue is that I am allergic to vitamin C and citric acid, so this has cut most everything from my diet. I can't have any fruit, some veggies, and a lot of sauces, most peanut butter, and all cereals except for oat meal. Believe me this isn't fun I get a lot of cravings mostly for fruit. I can't have any condiments except for mustar...

New path

Fri, 27 Jul 2012 13:10:58 EST
The other day when I had my hubby pick me up at the end of my walking trail, it started at the park and went along a very nice but short path through the woods. MY dogs love it though. The trail stops at a parking lot when I had my hubby pick me up at. while we were driving back up the hill that leads back to the front of the park I thought by the end of next month I will walk the trail through the park and instead of being picked up at the end I would up the hill and back around to the park...

A New Start

Fri, 27 Jul 2012 10:01:28 EST
Hello everyone. I am a 59 year old Christian women. I have been a member for a long time and have gained weight every year. I know I must get started. I love my family more than anything, My grandchildren are my life. I want to be able to enjoy them all of the time. I want to go to their ballgames and be able to climb the bleachers. I want to be able to make it around the entire Zoo. I also want to be able to do the things with my husband that we used to do. I really need a good supp...

KEEP ON TRYING

Thu, 26 Jul 2012 11:24:20 EST
HELLO.. I AM NEW AND IN NEED TO LOOSE WEIGHT LIKE EVERYONE ELSE.. SAME PROBLEMS.. JUST NEED PRAYER AND FRIENDS.. tAKE CARE IN CHRIST JANE

Meds for Arthritis.... ..IMPORTANT!!

Thu, 26 Jul 2012 11:06:30 EST
HELLO.....

I've been diagosed with an inflammatory type (auto-immune) form of arthritis - as well as osteo-arthritis in my knees. It's a form of Lupus......

This is whole body involvement - with painful inflammation and joint flare-ups....disabling.
It took a long time for the doctors to come to these conclusions...

I've been put on a cocktail of Plaquenil (400mg) + Cymbalta (30mg) + Prednisone (40mg tapering to 10mg) + a morphine based pill to control t...

What i learned today...

Wed, 25 Jul 2012 23:34:02 EST
I was walking with my dogs today along a path through the park, at one point the path twisted around to one side to connect to another, while we were walking it struck me. I could just cut across the grass instead of following when the path twisted off. But then i though i am out to get my mile done and my steps and it hit me

Always stay on the path, even if it is much eadyer to cross the grass.

I followed the path and got a quater of a mile more and after i was done i ...

Hi, I am re- sparking --- I am Navy Veteran

Sun, 22 Jul 2012 01:55:27 EST

A Native New Yorker, currently retired with 26 years of faithful service from the U.S. Navy, Patrica is the Visionary of Cover-Up Ministry where total health management is her business…first natural then spiritual. Patrica stresses that God wants us whole in every area of our life. Patrica is also a licensed Evangelist through Visionaries In Covenant, Inc. She is a mentor, an author, coach, friend, and mother to two adult sons, and pre-teen son. She can be found actively serving at Pen...

Does anyone complain, whine, cry, roll self pity?

Wed, 18 Jul 2012 21:23:16 EST
I have been a member of this team for a short while...reading from the side lines.

I'm miserable, cranky, whiny, feeling sorry for myself! Along with going through menopause I'm just flipping peachy? Lol, I know not to take myself to seriously, but I do sway away from sane thinking.?

I got on Spark, and did the 8 week diabetic week challenge right away! It was awesome, lost 12 pounds and 13 1/2 inches!! I went from walking 13 minutes to being able to walk 2-5 miles a da...

osteoarthritis in hands...had surgery for it

Tue, 17 Jul 2012 17:03:06 EST
Hmm, my pain is in my hands. I had 'thumb base surgery' in Dec. to fix the osteoarthritis. The surgeon said I would be 100% in 3 months. Now at 7 months, I am hurting more than ever. I had my hand re-xrayed and the pins/screws haven't shifted and there is no more arthritits showing up. The doc doesn't know why I have pain. Go figure. I personally would not recommend this surgery....or maybe I should have gotten a second opinion first. But I did lots of research and thought it would al...

Apple Cider Vinegar - Are the benefits for real?

Mon, 9 Jul 2012 18:20:40 EST
Hi, I'm MaryJane and I'm fairly new to this team. I've been told by many people over the years that drinking apple cider vinegar in water every day has tons of healthy benefits. Not being one who enjoys vinegary tasting foods, I've pretty much ignored this advice.

I started drinking it today because I read that it not only aids in weight loss, but it aids in joint pain relief and stiffness as well. After doing the research, I bought Bragg's organic apple cider vinegar with the "mot...

New to team!

Sat, 7 Jul 2012 12:30:30 EST
Hi, I'm Kelly. I am dangerously close to 35 (in a week). I have step-kids, ages 7,13, and18; 2 dogs; a cat; full-time job; and psoriatic arthritis in my hands and feet.

As far as the arthritis goes, I have been on everything with little success. About a year ago I decided to go holistic and my quality of life is getting better and better daily. I joined spark because I've gained so much weight and I am absolutely thrilled to find a group that I might connect with! Exercise has been...

Hi I am new here...

Thu, 5 Jul 2012 15:27:31 EST
Hi all,

I am Deanna. I am new to Spark People. I am very glad to find a team for this topic. I am 36 years old, and 2 years ago I was diagnosed with early-onset osteoarthritis, in both of my knees. Some days the pain and swelling are so bad I can barley stand...let alone exercise.

I am hoping to find exercises I can do that won't hurt my legs. I was told by my last doctor that if I lost 10 lbs it would really good. I weighed 160 lbs at the time, and this was told to me ...

Nutrition to help ease symptoms

Mon, 2 Jul 2012 11:42:05 EST
Has anyone used food as a way of helping with osteoarthritis symptoms?

I have oa in both shoulders, hips and right knee. As my pain meds aren't working, I'm thinking about consulting a nutritionist to see if there are changes to my diet that may help.

Any suggestions/advice are much appreciated.

Getting back on the treadmill

Mon, 2 Jul 2012 09:23:47 EST
I was working out regularly but health issues had me take a break, now with cortizone in the back and rooster cone in the knees I am back. Have walked 6 miles in two days.

Hello to everyone I am new to the team...

Sat, 30 Jun 2012 11:21:13 EST
Hello my name is Staci and I was just resentley diegnosed with degeneritive arthritis in my c-spine and in my mid back, I have always wondered why I hurt so much in my back and now I know...I am a full time mom and wife and I was working full time as a Pharmacy Tech with Walgreens but now I am out on medical leave becuase of my back and my knee I am also waiting to have surgery on the 17th and so I am in a world of hurt...

I have alot of Challenges to my weight loss prosses because...

Ready to give up

Sun, 24 Jun 2012 11:45:39 EST
I have been a member of sparkpeople for a very long time but haven't done much of anything on here for a very long time but I am now in need of encouragement please because I am ready to give up on everything.
I had a hip replacement a year ago today because of severe arthritis, I had put this off for almost 5 years because I wanted to find a doctor I felt comfortable with and I trusted. Actually I was afraid had the surgery and it was a breeze and I had excellent results. Exactly 5 we...

New to Team

Sat, 16 Jun 2012 09:51:18 EST
Hi! I am new to the team. I have been on and off of Sparks since 2009. This time I have been on consistently since Feb.
I was doing pretty good on losing weight and getting healthy. I was using the biggest loser videos to achieve this. I went to my doc with some concerns about pain in my knee when exercising. My knees have given me trouble since I was about 13 so I don't really feel everyday pain any more. She took an X-ray and then told me - not to do the videos, get in the wat...

heat bothers me

Thu, 31 May 2012 13:45:48 EST
Hi, I have never posted here before. I have a question that you have probably answered before but, I have arthritis and I thought the heat was suppose to help. I never do well when it gets hot. Does anyone else have this problem? Also my weight goes up when it heats up. Thanks Jackie

Arthritis in the ankle.

Thu, 24 May 2012 07:54:11 EST
Hi Everyone,
I haven't been on this spark team for a long while now, sorry about that, I have arthritis in my hips and knees and I have been coping quite well with this, without medication too, now I have it in my left ankle and this is affecting my walking and also irritating my knee. Has anyone any advice on this? I would love to hear from anyone.
Thanks, Thelma

New Member

Tue, 22 May 2012 21:50:47 EST
Hi! I'm new here to the program. I've been married for almost 13 years now and have 4 sons from a previous marriage. I married a gem this time around!! I live in Weslaco, TX which is about 7 miles from Progresso, MX. We moved here from N. Dakota and it was a great move for us. The heat does us much better than the cold weather; however, we do get humid down here as we are only 50 miles away from the Gulf of MX.

I have artheritis throughout my body. I have newly reconstruct...

New to the group

Fri, 11 May 2012 21:00:07 EST
Hi everyone. I'm Kim, 42, single mom. I just found out in the last yr that I have arthritis in my lower back along with other major back issues. It prevents me from being able to exercise the way I'd like. I quit smoking two yrs ago in June and gained all my weight back that I had lost three yrs prior to quitting. I struggle daily with back pain and the struggle of keeping motivated to lose this weight.
Just wanted to introduce myself...
Happy mothers day to all
247...

Breagan's Oma

Wed, 9 May 2012 14:31:30 EST
Due to very bad knees I do not feel that I can do the cardio, but I take Tai Chi classes 2 x a week and cannot find a way to enter that on the fitness page. Does anybody have any suggestions. The help tab was useless.

Lunge alternatives

Thu, 3 May 2012 20:40:55 EST
I'm doing the Spark People 28 Day Bootcamp, but...there are a lot of lunges and my knees simply cannot handle the pain from my osteoarthritis. Any suggestions of alternative moves? Thanks.

Osteoarthritis of Neck - Botox?

Sun, 29 Apr 2012 23:05:32 EST
Just recently diagnosed with OA of the neck between C-4 and C-5. I have had pain for so many years. He gave me a muscle relaxer and pain medication, Tramadol, to help with it. I have also had to have trigger injections a few times because of extreme tightness in my muscles. He mentioned that some have used Botox to alleviate pain and relax the muscles. Was curious to know if anyone has tried this or would recommend any other treatments. I am pretty active with exercise, I take warm salt...

Introducing myself

Fri, 27 Apr 2012 12:40:39 EST
Hi, I am fairly new to Sparkpeople and new to this Team Page. I have osteoarthritis in my knees and I think in my ankles now too. I love to exercise but exercise doesn't always love me. I am looking forward to increasing my mobility and doing more fun things.

I need friends for encouragement and support!!

Thu, 26 Apr 2012 10:03:31 EST
I have had a sparks page for a long time but never really got into it. I have been a full time student for the last 3 years and never really had to time to be devoted to my personal self:) I want to go full force at improving my health and fitness and I have see a lot of people have great success with sparks people and I need help. I need friends, I need help navigating around on my home page and using the tools available. If anyone has any helpful hits please feel free to share:) Thank...

Do you find that

Sun, 15 Apr 2012 09:44:26 EST
You can carry a suppily bag on your SHOULDER but the moment someone TOUCHES it you become NASTY in how you speak? Well that is automatic with me someone TOUCHES my SHOLDER (EIRTHER 1) I will SNAP because of the PAIN but carring anything on them it won't HURT but TOUCH it & I go " MENTAL" because of how much PAIN I get from it

Chronic Pain from Osteoarthritis

Tue, 3 Apr 2012 22:09:38 EST
I have chronic pain from Osteoarthritis. I need knee replacement in both knees, but keep putting it off.

Exercises for limited mobility

Tue, 27 Mar 2012 10:44:08 EST
Coach Jen Compiled all the exercises for people with limited mobility into one place. This is very helpful.
www.sparkpeople.com/resource/lifesty
le_center_detail.asp?id=19

Teri Davis

Mon, 19 Mar 2012 12:14:11 EST
Looking for help losing some weight, I have been a member for two years, just not done anything about it yet!! Need to know if someone out there is in the same boat as I am? I know I NEED to do this, just not sure how to get started! I do have two others in the house that could benefit from eating healthy and losing some weight as well. How do ya'll get this party started?

New to the Team- Need Encouragement

Wed, 14 Mar 2012 21:52:11 EST
Hi My Name is Sonya:

Need some encouragement. I've been with Sparkpeople for over 2 years. I've tried then stopped but I have gotten back on program with a health concern to defeat. I am 42 with severe OA. Of course I am over weight by 30 pounds. This makes it very difficult to stay active with any type of exercise. I did however, start a swimming exercise class but have not been in awhile. I just really need to stick with a program because I know I can do it. The pain and ...

Just signed in I'm new also

Thu, 8 Mar 2012 15:30:24 EST
not really for sure what suppose to do on some of this.

Trying to get back in control

Thu, 16 Feb 2012 15:13:04 EST
In July of 2010 I started a healthy lifestyle change. Was a walking mess, with bone-on-bone in both knees, calf tear in the left calf and plantar fascitis in my left foot. I was nearly in need of a wheelchair. I was reading a book called, "Codependent No More" and it was helpig me feel strong and motivated me to make necessary life changes. Over the next year and a half I lost nearly 75 lbs, was feeling really good. Knees felt better, calf tear healed, plantar fascitis all but gone....

Exercise in general

Sun, 5 Feb 2012 15:29:52 EST
I have had four surgeries for osteoarthritis; 2 knee replacements, a toe fusion and miniscus repair. I hurt everywhere and am actually afraid to exercise. I start out slow but then get so sore I quit. I feel really down about myself and after reading a few of your stories thought I would try to reach out to someone. I'm 73, in fairly good health and have recently lost 20 lbs. I'm still working on that. I'm slated for cataract surgery tomorrow and again in 2 weeks. Anyone out there in t...

Finding my inspiration

Sat, 4 Feb 2012 17:03:58 EST
Hello, my name is debbie and I am 57yo. I lost over 100lbs with Sparkepople in 2007 kept if off for a couple years maybe 3 I cant remember nopw but then I decided to go back to college. Between fulltime school and fulltime work I have put most of it back on. I now have arthritis in my hip and need to have hip replacement surgery.

I am pretty limited and can't do much walking with being in extreme pain but I can swim. I got hooked on farmville while working night shift and would spe...

Newbie with New Knee

Fri, 27 Jan 2012 10:58:03 EST
Recovering from total knee replacement Jan. 9th. Am so happy to be on this side of it; recovery is going very well. Completed in-home PT; starting 8 weeks of PT at the clinic on Monday. Went into the procedure with extra lbs. which I am determined to lose as I become more active. Spending today setting up my eating plan and tracking on Spark. So glad I found the site last week. Being able to take my dog for a 2 mile walk is something I missed so much.

Is this a glitch?

Sat, 21 Jan 2012 16:56:48 EST
I have just been having a look at our team page and looking at the members. I was stunned when I went through the first ELEVEN pages and there would be lucky to be more than 4 members per page with a profile. Is this just a glitch and just me seeing (or in this case NOT seeing) the members, or is it normally like this. With such a big team it seems really strange to me.

Kris

new year, new goals

Fri, 20 Jan 2012 20:54:26 EST
I want to make 2012 a year of healthy choices in all areas of my life -- food, exercise, work, family, and friends. My goals are to have less stress, push away from my desk and leave work at a reasonable time, make healthy eating a priority, start moving more, and perhaps hit my 62nd birthday next december 20th 25 lbs lighter. I know i can make changes in the year ahead with the support and suggestions of others trying to make changes too. I want to lose weight but i dont want to do it ea...

Knee surgery and arthritis

Thu, 19 Jan 2012 17:58:34 EST
New to this forum so any help appreciated. Sitting here with knee elevated after having knee surgery last Friday. Torn muniscus and lots of bone shavings cleaned out of right knee. Have to lose weight. For every 1 lb of weight I lose, takes 3 lbs of pressure off my knee. Trying to do exercises after surgery but really hurts yet. Any help/guidance to lose some weight would be greatly appreciated.

Hello, new

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 15:10:49 EST
Hello everyone. I''m Donna and glad to be here. I had gastric bypass about 3 years ago and it was very successful 9 . I''m up about 10lbs with holiday eating but wouldn''t mind taking off 20. Looking forward to the community spirit of SparkPeople to help with that. I have old fashioned arthritis all thru my body. Been upping meds, taking shots for bersitis and being referred to pain management. I will not let this stop my new wonderful life I am making. 249

new

Thu, 12 Jan 2012 15:00:10 EST
Hi I'm new to group.

New

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 10:07:43 EST
Hi! My name is JaNell. I have severe osteoarthritis in my joints. I am only 36 years old and I have had both of my knees replaced. I just recently had surgery on my big toes and shoulder because of the arthritis. I am getting really frustrated right now because the medications I take for the arthritis make me gain weight and I am not able to do a lot of exercise right now because of recent surgery, so I have been gaining weight. I really need some motivation to get things going so I can loose...

Hi there, newbie here

Mon, 9 Jan 2012 20:24:29 EST
Hi everyone ! New to this team. Trying to rehabilitate after knee surgery (bone spur removal under knee cap due to overuse, injury & arthritis). Trying to get back into the swing of things, but finding it hard since I'm stiff @ times w/ limited range of motion in my knee (but working to get it back!) Looking forward to renewed movement w/out as much pain. & looking forward to tips and fellowship with other arthritis sufferers out there!

Newbie

Sun, 8 Jan 2012 19:55:01 EST
Hi,

I am new to this group and new to RA. Any other RA sufferers out there?

New to Spark, not to the weight loss journey

Fri, 6 Jan 2012 16:38:51 EST
Hi. I'm a 43 year old single mom. I have severe arthritis in both hips, so bad that I can barely walk some days. I am terrified of having hip replacement surgery and looking for any options of exercises/supplements that will help me lose weight and make the pain more livable. Thanks in advance!

Trying to meet challenges & stay active

Mon, 2 Jan 2012 12:40:58 EST
I am 48 years old, and really trying to be active, despite chronic nagging shoulder pain. My 84-year-old grandmother can barely move her arms, and my mom moves as little as possible. If I'm already feeling shoulder pain, I can't imagine myself 35 years from now! I refuse to succumb to inactivity! And I'm tired of whining! I'm planning a big bike ride this summer, and need to get my body strong enough to manage the giant hill climbs! Shoulder injuries will stop me in my bike tracks, so I...

Missing in action

Thu, 29 Dec 2011 22:01:40 EST
Well, it has been since 2009 that I posted anything. I checked out Biggest Losers, but thought I would come back to where I started several years ago. I am almost 300 pounds and I truly need to replace unhealthy eating with a more healthy type of hobby. I have a jewerly kit I never started and plan to start that one plus try to learn how to knit. I really need a support system, and hope to hear from those of you out there who remember what it was like to get started on a healthy hopeful begin...

Hello, It's Me!

Wed, 28 Dec 2011 10:08:21 EST
Even though my start date shows sometime in the past, I am officially starting my SparkLife this month. If you look at my SparkPage you will read why I am finally getting on board. Right now I am taking baby steps by lurking on the board and weeding through all of the many options and activities there are in SparkPeople. That's what I love - something for everyone! And it keeps me busy rather than eating. But as I get more active in managing my life, I will also get more active in the bo...

TRIGGER FINGER........

Wed, 7 Dec 2011 10:21:21 EST
I think that's what it's called. My middle finger on my right hand 'sticks' in the bent position....and I have to release it with my other hand. It's been doing that for years....and until now, it's been a minor annoyance.
Lately, tho', it's been 'sticking' harder and I have some pain associated with it. If I make a fist, I simply cannot straighten that finger without help.

Is this something that had to do with osteo=arthritis?? My hands are riddled with it and are ext...

Rough Week

Sun, 4 Dec 2011 10:04:03 EST
My birthday was this week. My teacher buddies brought in a cake for lunch and then I went out to eat and they brought me a birthday dessert (which I couldn't resist). I did manage to control the dinner part - only ate half of everything. But I just seem to be in a "munchie" stage and having problems controlling portions. I've just got to get back to weighing, measuring, and tracking what I eat (that is most helpful). I woke up with my back hurting and I've got so much to do today - it never s...

We can always use a smile....

Sat, 3 Dec 2011 11:38:08 EST
www.youtube.com/watch?v=VF9-sEbqDvU&
feature=related

Really Painful Hands

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 11:39:50 EST
Hi, I am also new here. This is my first time posting and quite anxious about doing this. Well, here goes! I am 62 years old and have had osteoarthritis since I was 35. I also have Carpal Tunnel Syndrome in both wrists, plus a Trigger Thumb. I had successful surgery to correct the CTS and TT. Recently, my hands have become extremely painful and stiff 24/7. Since I have a number of allergies, I don't take pain medication, except for a small amount of Extra Strength Acetaminophen. Any suggestio...

Newbie

Sat, 19 Nov 2011 12:53:33 EST
Hi there everyone!
I am new here and looking forward to reading other peoples challenges and of course successes whilst dealing with osteoarthritis and trying to lose weight. It is so nice to know there is support out there.

durn knee

Tue, 15 Nov 2011 19:46:17 EST
the knee, i was 19 when i dislocated it for the first time it went back in place on its own. Got a bunch of therapy and it got better and i didn't have too bad of a time for quite some time. shortly after i turned 30 i dislocated it a second time in 1992 ish Remembers the doc pulling the leg and putting it back in place. did not recover from that as fast or as well. must have had something to do with being 10-12 years older than the first time around. 1998 the knee got strained again not a f...

Coming out of my shell

Thu, 10 Nov 2011 05:28:17 EST
Hi Everyone,

I'm here to make new connections and find some support. Also willing to give support and motivation in any way I can. I was told I have RA about 6 months ago. Currently, I am experiencing palindromic rheumatism which is very painful also. Have been going through the range of scared, sad, challenged, etc. I'm sure you all know how it is.

I'm trying to stay off meds as long as possible. Hoping to keep it under control with diet, and exercise. Currently...

Information Needed

Sun, 6 Nov 2011 09:19:09 EST
I have been a "side sleeper" all my life, but now with rheumatoid, I wake up with my hips hurting. I bought a wedge to put under my knees when sleeping on my back to keep my back from hurting, but the foam is too soft and after continued use, it squishes down too much and I still wake up with my back hurting. I have done some more research on the web for knee pillows, but I am hesitant to order something as it is becoming an expensive "experiment." Does anyone have something that works well a...

Anyone use biologics?

Thu, 3 Nov 2011 12:33:37 EST
My rheumatologist wants me to start on remicade...does anyone else use this or any of the other ones like humira or embrel? Let me know what you think please. I'm sort of nervous about it.

Tired and had the Munchies

Wed, 2 Nov 2011 21:23:56 EST
It was a rough day today. I was tired and just couldn't stop munching on junk food. 39 Well, at least tomorrow is a new day and a fresh start. 41

Water aerobics

Tue, 1 Nov 2011 06:57:55 EST
Hiy everyone i would love to join water aerobics but the only thing is i cant swim now i dont mind going into the water but thats it. Do you have to swim to be able to do this? and would it be good for someone with arthritis in their knee and hip? would they have classes especailly for people with arthritis?

Sorry for all the questions x.

Does anyone drink eight glasses of water a day i'm gonna give it a go!

Cod Liver Oil?

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 06:38:00 EST
I have started taking cod liver oil for osteoarthritis which i have in my knee and hip. Has anyone tried it and what do you think??

Anti-Inf ammatory Diet

Thu, 27 Oct 2011 15:29:06 EST
I was diagnosed in August with a disorder which gives me many of the same symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Naturally I've been obsessively googling the condition and there seems to be a lot of people and quite a few doctors that think an anti-inflammatory diet can really help with the arthritis. Has anyone here tried an AI diet? What were your experiences? It doesn't look like it would hurt for me to just try it out for a bit, but learning a different way of eating always takes time and effo...

HELP

Fri, 21 Oct 2011 08:20:08 EST
HELP, I am sick and tired but now I see that I cannot do this alone I need Help is there anyone out there who can understand what I am going thru and possibly help a sista out.

Heracles999: Hello All

Thu, 20 Oct 2011 15:13:26 EST
Getting my health in control and loving the tools available here!

Need exercise help.

Mon, 17 Oct 2011 10:06:14 EST
I cannot find any good exercise DVDs for low impact exercise. I need chair exercise that works. I need knee replacements, but cannot afford them yet. But I need to loose weight in order to have the surgery. Walking and bicycling hurt way to much to endure the pain for more the 5 minutes. Water exercise is out because i cannot go up and down the steps of the pool. Any advice? 303

newbee

Sun, 16 Oct 2011 11:31:34 EST
Hi. Just a few facts for the intro. 61 and living in North Texas. Have both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid. Being overweight not helping. Exercise limited due to pain.

new here, i have been in denial for a long time

Mon, 10 Oct 2011 22:17:37 EST
okay knows i have arthritis in my left knee since 1998 when i had acl replacement in left knee. there is no meniscus in that knee so it is bone on bone. never really thought about pain in the knee as arthritis but as of late it is making me miserable more often. like today. is it good to exercise when a joint is swollen to almost twice its size? just curious.

What Happened ?

Sun, 9 Oct 2011 21:36:59 EST
I am really not sure what is going on with me. I have Fibromyalgia and Arthritis and for the past month I seem to be getting progressively worse. I went in to the Orthopedic doctor and he took xrays of my knees and said that my arthritis is now severe and my right knee is bone on bone. I am having muscle spasms too. I can barely get up. I have to break this pain but because of stomach issues I am limited to what pain killers I can use. Anyone have a good exercise for my knees to strengthen th...

Suggestions? Help?

Tue, 4 Oct 2011 18:52:14 EST
Hello everyone,

I just recently found this page and my issue may have been asked and answered a million times, but here goes...I have medicinal allergies and cannot take anti-inflammatories, aspirin, or any NSAIDs at all. I am afraid to try herbal or alternative treatments for fear of an allergic reaction or a negative reaction to the meds I take for fibromyalgia. If anyone has advice or has similar issues would you please give me suggestions.

Thank you so much,
...

I Need Some Advice re: Safe Stretches

Tue, 4 Oct 2011 17:51:13 EST
Hi everyone,
I've got arthritis everywhere...my knees are beyond repair and most of my other joints are affected.

I'm told I need to stretch regularly to keep flexible and to lessen the pain. I'm not very sure what stretches to do that are safe for me. I do neck rolls, calf stretches, bend from the waist touching the floor and arm stretches. I'd love to do more. It's very hard for me to get on the floor (or I'd do Yoga)...I have a very hard time getting up. So I need sta...

Frustrated and scared

Thu, 29 Sep 2011 13:57:07 EST
Hi, My name is Jennifer. I am 37, almost 38 years old, and have recently been smacked in the face with a huge reality check. I have had arthritis in my knees since I was a teenager. I was told at 25 that if I was older they would be looking at knee replacement. I told them, when I can't walk anymore we'll discuss it. My knees have good days and bad days. About two months ago, I started having sharp pain in my right foot. It took me about a month to go get x-rays. The x-rays showed an old frac...

Started physical therapy today

Wed, 28 Sep 2011 18:51:31 EST
My Ortho doctor has started me on physical therapy for the osteoarthritis in both my knees. The lady working with me did a lot of bending of my legs, poking areas twisting my hips, etc. I tend not to think about a lot of the pains I have. I just figure I stand too long or walk to much. According to her my hips are in a state needing therapy. I do get a pain in my lower back when I stand a while, like when doing the dishes. She said that is because I have an issue with my hips and that ef...

punched in the spine

Thu, 22 Sep 2011 19:05:32 EST
well that hurt,some people dont get its NOT A JOKE 198

Hi, there! New, here!

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 22:59:18 EST
Because of an accident to my left knee back on 29 March 2011 which resulted in a near-full-thickness tear in my ACL and a tear in my meniscus, and the subsequent surgery on 24 June which removed a third of the meniscus, I was just diagnosed with extensive arthritis in the same knee. There was no indication of the arthritis prior to the surgery.

The dr. suspects the arthritis runs along the entire end of the femur and was exposed when the portion of the meniscus was removed. Unfortu...

Signs of Arthritis Flares?

Mon, 19 Sep 2011 11:00:10 EST
My arthritis is a symptom of a chronic, rare disease I just got diagnosed with called Adult Onset Still's Disease. I just started taking Enbrel a couple weeks ago and I think it's working. I still have some pain, but I was able to work a full forty hour work week last week for the first time since this all spun out of control in February!

So I am new to this whole world of arthritis. I remember my second doctor's visit in March the doctor was talking about referring me to a rheumat...

Glucosamine Chondroitin

Tue, 13 Sep 2011 14:42:01 EST
I have recently started taking this dietary supplement because it is supposed to help my joints. Does anyone else use it and have you had any luck with it 38

Newbie

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 16:56:28 EST
Helloooo!
New here, arthritis sufferer since my early 20's. Now in my 40's and I feel like it is a real barrier to weight loss and daily activities. But, I will not lose hope and I keep at it, one day at a time.

So here I am.

Button

Hi - I just joined!

Sun, 11 Sep 2011 09:17:49 EST
I have been on and off this site for a few years now.

Most recently I noticed an increase in my weight due to my most recent stress fracture of my pelvis. I have also fractured my knee, back in 2010. This has all been done in the military, and I have found out that I have osterpenia, osterartritis, and the bone density of a 58 year old. I am currently in the military waiting to be medically released some time in 2012

I am struggling with nutrition, as I have to get 4 s...

Hi I'm new!

Wed, 7 Sep 2011 17:02:28 EST
I'm 46, from springfield mo. I had a total knee replacement 3 1/2 months ago. I've done amazing though! I've been walking 5+ miles on many days since 5 weeks post surgery. I still here the doctors voice in my head after the surgery......the arthritis is gone in that knee and it will never come back. Oh praise God!

Hello everyone

Wed, 7 Sep 2011 12:50:47 EST
Hi everyone. I am 27 years old and I was recently diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. I have problems with my knees and elbows and have been finding it difficult to get in my workouts lately because of the pain. Does anyone have any suggestions?

Hi All,

Tue, 30 Aug 2011 21:59:56 EST
I'm new to this team, but definitely not to Spark. My husband was just diagnosed with Spondyloarthropathy. They don't think his will lead to Chrones and he doesn't seem to have any back issues, but, of course, they can not assure us of anything. I have been doing spark for 2 years and working on losing my weight. I have ulcerative colitis. My husband is a member of spark and won't sign in. I also can't get him to do any real exercise. He doesn't need to as far as weight loss. He lost a...

Hello , new to the team here

Mon, 29 Aug 2011 12:07:10 EST
Hi , I am 48 yrs old and have Osteo in my hips ,, but I have noticed lately that all my joints hurt at one time or another through out the day. I have trouble sleeping at night because my joints hurt, I am not on any prescription meds at this time. I do take arthritis strength tylenol when the pain gets bad, I soak in a hot tub of water for comfort and use ice packs at times.

Trouble is when I exercise the pain can get so bad I have to stop then I procrastinate cause I don't wan...

Due to the unpredic tability of my chronic pains..

Wed, 24 Aug 2011 10:19:53 EST
........I'm fairly unreliable to keep commitments.

Hi all.
Some of us with advanced pain due to arthritis and other painful ailments, know that we don't know how our day is going to be, until we wake up and start to move around. There are mornings when I know the day will be torture.....and the best thing I can do is to rest.

And then there are mornings when I feel pretty good and am ready to tackle the day with some gusto. But this uncertainty has bad consequen...

stopping by to introduce myself!

Sat, 13 Aug 2011 19:51:46 EST
Hi! My name is Sandy and I'm from Springfield MO. I'm 46 years of age and 12 weeks ago became the recipient of a total knee replacement in my left knee. Now my right knee is beginning to give me trouble and I'm concerned I'm heading down the same path. I have arthritis in my wrists, elbows, ankles and spine as well. I am doing really well with my exercise for being only 12 weeks post surgery. I'm doing Leslie Sansones walk at home dvd's. This morning I did her 4 really big miles dvd. I look f...

Hi. New & having difficulty navigating the site

Sat, 13 Aug 2011 19:40:48 EST
I am 59 and have osteo in every joint in my body. I am trying to keep working til retirement at age 65. I haven't found a med that works without serious side effects. I may also bave a spondylitis, but that diagnosis is not confirmed. My husband is disabled, which puts a lot of the work around the home on me. Life is hard. I guess I was hoping to find some help/support in this team.

Hi all, new to the whole sparks, now oa.

Fri, 12 Aug 2011 04:03:19 EST
I was diagnosed with OA and Fibromyalgia in 2008, after a serious car wreck. I have been in 17 wrecks in my 54 yrs, some my fault, some not. I know, I don't understand it either! but they have done serious damage to my neck, and the very first wreck, I was only 15 and a passenger. I broke my lower lumbar, (back), clean in two, the Doc's say --- without severing the spinal cord. I had to learn to walk again. they said I could not have children , I had 2, but the later nearly killed me and ...

New arthritis

Mon, 8 Aug 2011 20:14:12 EST
I found out at the beginning of March that what I thought was a rotator cuff injury was actually arthritis as well as no cartiledge left in the shoulder.

Today I found out that I have the beginnings of arthritis in both my hips and left knee. Has anyone got some good advice on how to handle this news? I don't mean to complain about this, as I know things could be a lot worse, but any advice is definitely appreciated.

Thanks!

Hello !

Tue, 2 Aug 2011 21:31:41 EST
Alright, this is it...ya'll are my last hope! I'm a 32 year old mother of one, wife, writer, student, support group organizer, etc, etc. lol. Needless to say, I keep rather busy. I have psoriatic arthritis, which started at age 17. I currently take shots of Humira every other week and daily Celebrex for pain. Just this past winter my PA was so bad that I spent almost 3 months bedridden. My poor husband took over the running of the household and the running after our then 2 year old (he ...

Some Relief

Tue, 2 Aug 2011 10:58:55 EST
I have found some relief from pain and wanted to share - My doctor 'prescribed' 4,000 units of vitamin D (2,000 in the morning, 2,000 at night) and I have less pain!

Anyone else have experience with vitamin D?

If this helps someone else I'll be thrilled!

Still figuring "me" out!

Tue, 2 Aug 2011 00:03:01 EST
I guess I joined this team for a little sympathy. I find myself with achey joints so often, I have a hard time committing to the exercise I need to make this better. I have a diagnosis of OA in my right knee, but that is old news to me, as I have had pains there since at least 30 years ago. The fish oil supplements seem to take care of that mostly, for now.

But, the achey joints all over, the inflammation feeling that I get all over some times, and the "flare ups", particularl...

arthritis

Thu, 28 Jul 2011 01:22:25 EST
Hi everyone, I havent been on this site for a long time, just want to tell that that I had really bad Arthritis in both hips and in the last 12 months I have had both total hip replacements, I am just recovering from my second one which I had done on the 11th july this year, I have no pain which is wonderful but my operation wound is very sore at the moment and am still trying to build my leg muscle up so that I can walk without sticks again. but if anyone out there is about to have this surg...

Hello everyone

Tue, 26 Jul 2011 09:05:39 EST
I just joined about 5 minutes ago, but wanted to say hello and have a great day 213

Arthritic Hands.......

Thu, 21 Jul 2011 18:05:46 EST
Hello everyone!

Hope you're finding a way to keep cool in this heat!!

I need some help/advice.....Among several muscular=skeletal problems that I have, is, osteo arthritis just about everywhere. Knees are worst, spine and neck a close second.....and now I have developed intense pain in my thumbs....and in my fingers. I just had an epidural in my neck.....and not long ago, finished 2 sets of Stuparz injections in my knees. I'm not up to injections in my hands (Yuck!!!!...

Happy

Mon, 18 Jul 2011 00:48:03 EST
I am happy I found this team. I am here to learn and lose weight. Oh yeah, I'm here to share my successes too.

Anne

new meds. advice

Fri, 8 Jul 2011 13:28:09 EST
Hey team buddies!TGIF
Sam: the kitty is way cute
Daisylady: I tried joint juice it was good but I really didnt see an improvement but I haven't had any success with any glucosamine type supplement.
As per my meniscal tear, Today I had a cortisone shot and doc has me on celebrex and upped the meloxicam. I have to stay off of it for 2 days and ice 15 minutes 3 x a day.
MD also gave me tramadol if it really gets bad and a script for a cream that is supposed to help alot vltar...

FELL INTO MEDICARE 'DONUT HOLE'. I'M PANICKED!!!

Fri, 8 Jul 2011 10:58:19 EST
Hi all.
Some of us over 65 and on Medicare, use very expensive pain meds. I am enrolled in Medicare Part D prescription coverage.....and so far my co-pays have been modest. I never realized that the pain patches I use to control my runaway pain, are so expensive....as are some of my other non-pain meds.

So when I found out that I used up all my $ under the plan....and as of next month, I will be in the 'hole'....I inquired as to the retail costs of my prescription meds. I a...

Arthritis and some stenosis in back

Thu, 7 Jul 2011 23:35:59 EST
This is a long story that I won't go into here. But I had a lumbar puncture done and had quite a bit of back pain from it. So the Dr that did the puncture did an MRI of my low back. I have arthritis and some stenosis. 2 spots on Lumbar Spine mostly and on Thorocic. I have actually talked at length to a dr about this.

My chiro said stregthen my core and to not arch my back! Does anyone have any suggestions? Exercise, ways to stretch? Anything as I have other joint issues suc...

Excercise ideas and recommendations

Wed, 6 Jul 2011 21:18:39 EST
Hey there
I pulled out an old skool vhs tape I found at a second hand shop:
Denise Austin anti aging cardio dance workout.
My arthritis has been getting worse and right now my knee really shot so I found I could do this.
I recommend it because there is 20 min of cardio and then toning and stretching all for about 45 min.
Granted it was a bit dated and reminds me of Richard Simmons with the baby boomer music and live band BUT it is a great complete total body workout!

Does anyone fall a lot????

Sat, 2 Jul 2011 20:39:52 EST
I fall. A lot. I don't know why exactly.....but these falls are usually outside, on the hard sidewalk. I'm very lucky I haven't broken anything yet....VERY lucky. (maybe my layers of fat have an upside afterall.. 18 )

But seriously, I can't explain why I do this. Sometimes I trip over a crack or a bump in the cement'; sometimes I lose my balance. I've had more bruised body parts than is fair for any one human to endure.

I was out for a walk with Lucy yest...

First appointment with Rheumatologist - Any tips?

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 11:22:31 EST
I have my first appointment with a rheumatologist July 7th. Any tips?

My PCP wants me to explore all of my joint pain with a rheumatologist plus fatigue and chronic hives. My hands and feet have started having problems along with shoulders and elbows.

Neck has been awful for 2 years and just had an MRI this week. Saw a doc 2 years ago but all he did was xrays, gave me a traction machine and told me I did not need to see him again. Found a new spine doc I like.
...

Trigger Finger Steroid Injections

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 11:13:40 EST
As if hips, knees, neck and back were not enough, now my hands and feet have decided to join the arthritis pain team...

I have developed trigger finger in 6 fingers all at once. Started steroid injections this week in 3 of the joints and WOW painful!!! I had injections in the lower back last year and the doc said I might have increased pain but I didn't experience any...so when the hand doc said I might have increased pain I just nodded thinking yeah...

I was not prepa...

I've had a Stretching Epiphany!!!!!

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 10:23:21 EST
Hi all.
I've been having a bad time sticking to my 15 minutes of stretching commitment each day. When I hurt all over, as I do almost all the time, it's hard to want to stretch. So many days go by between stretching sessions.

What I DO do religiously, is walk my beloved Lucy every morning around this little park across the street. There are benches and it's quiet. I can stop at any time, while I'm walking, and do a stretch, walk some more, do a stretch etc. etc. There ar...

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO VALI!!!! OOhOOOOO

Mon, 27 Jun 2011 10:18:00 EST
hI My dear friend...Happy birthday to yooUUUUUUUUUU!!!!

Retired - Bored - and have too much Pain to work!!

Sun, 26 Jun 2011 10:43:25 EST
Good morning all.
I wrote a blog this morning.....a painful blog....but I had to get it out!!! I've become quite comfortable with all you great people......who share in the problems associated with arthritis and related diseases.

My pain levels have gone through the roof these past few years. I am being treated with all sorts of pain meds, and treatments which make me tired, weak and lethargic. I'm also 67 with good years ahead. I'd love to find a part time job to bring ...

Preparing Meals with Arthritic Hands

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 17:16:38 EST
Hi and good evening.

I'm so sick of eating prepared (albeit healthy) meals. I'm lucky to live where I can order from an online supermarket who has a large assortment of whole grain, low carb etc etc meals that just have to be nuked a few minutes. They are delicious.....but also, expensive.

I'm not a natural cook, but I could whip up a dish or two and freeze them. I just need ideas. It's very painful to chop (don't have a processor), or slice & dice -- altho' I probab...

What was for dinner last night?

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 16:28:41 EST
My dinner last night was a tuna and pasta bake: tuna, cooked pasta, tomatoes, onions, garlic, courgette baked in an egg/milk mix, with some cheese melted over the top (Red Leicester) - served with some garlic bread.
The garlic bread was bought, the rest I made from scratch.

ABC Sentences

Thu, 23 Jun 2011 12:07:47 EST
ABC sentences Must contain a color and food,I will go first.

Alice had an Apple tree in her yard.

Clothes getting bigger/no weight loss???

Sun, 19 Jun 2011 09:07:13 EST
Good morning & Happy Father's Day to all you dads!!!

I'm in a bit of a dilemma. After having lost 27 lbs., I've reached a plateau. I've tweaked my already healthy diet by staying (more or less) within 1200 calories a day; I'm counting calories and keeping a journal; I'm much more mindful about carbs; I've upped my level of exercise = only a little due to chronic pain and constantly swollen joints and sore muscles. I'm trying to drink more water..........

My clothes ke...

Here I am!

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 20:33:03 EST
So this is me: I turned 47 on Sunday, I have a 14 year old teenage boy with mild autism, a pretty intractable case of RA that bothers me more in a lack of energy than in terms of pain, and I'm a single mom for the last 10 months, after my husband of 15 years (heretofore Wasband) decided he wanted to undergo gender reassignment surgery. I'm a freelance writer and work part time from home. I also have an 80 pound really smart dog (getting a dumb small one next time) who likes to play all the ti...

Reached a Plateau + New Pain

Wed, 15 Jun 2011 10:15:14 EST
Good morning all:
Frustrated.....haven't lost an ounce in over a week. I'm eating about 1200 calories a day..... (some days a bit more some days a bit less)...and I'm walking more. Any suggestions on how to kick-start more weight loss?

I have now had 10 Stupartz injections in my knees and am feeling some relief. But now I'm having pain in my neck and shoulders. My pain management doc said my neck is full of arthritis and my shoulders are so tight that he's going to have to...

HELP..... Arthritis Flareup/Mindless Eating

Tue, 14 Jun 2011 11:00:22 EST
Good morning all.
Just after my last knee injection....I'm having a serious, painful arthritis flareup all over my body. I know it will pass......but I'm falling back into my old habit of mindless nighttime eating. This will certainly sabotage my weight loss efforts.

Can someone give me a REAL kick in the pants, please??

I've always used food to soothe in times of stress.....and pain is stress!! I thought I'd beaten this horrible habit.....but as I lay in bed, ...

knee pain

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 21:52:36 EST
My knee pain is only in the back of my knee. Trying the injections for relief and have had 2 shots. So far no change. Anyone having pain only in the back of the knee, I'd love to hear fromyou.

My Knees and I say Hi

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 15:48:48 EST
Yes, some days I feel like my knees are alien beings. Today is one of them. This makes the journey to the exercise bike seem way too long.

But I am determined to get this done. I just finished the series of Supartz shots and my knees are at least talking to me now...ableit complaining.

I must say hello, I'm Pam from Northern NJ. I hope to make this journey a succssful one.

Take care,everyone,

Pam

I'm between flare-up ........

Thu, 9 Jun 2011 10:47:19 EST
Good morning all,

My osteo is just one of several painful muscle, joint and spinal problems I have. When I have a flare-up.....all my 'circuits' fire at once leaving me in agonizing pain and depressed. It can last a few hours, or a few days. I'm on pretty powerful meds, and they help, but not completely.

Just now, however, I'm in 'flare-down' mode, and the relief is wonderful. My energy level rises, my depression lifts and I'm far more active.

Have any of y...

Water Aerobics DO hurt

Tue, 7 Jun 2011 22:30:45 EST
My rheumatologist suggested I get back in to water aerobics. I was doing it 3x wk. up until last year. RA has really been kicking my butt. I know that as I lose weight, it will get better. I had a total left knee replacement in 2006, and now, my right knee needs done. OS wants me to take as much weight off as I possibly can before we do this. It will be much better for me and him. I'm on methotrexate ( 8 tabs once a week ), Enbrel, and will be starting Remicade IV in July. The only thing that...

New Here

Sun, 5 Jun 2011 08:46:17 EST
Hi, I'm Thelma and have just been diagnosed with arthritis of both knees and hips after four years of being messed around. I am from the UK and I believe things are a little different here regarding getting treatment etc., I cannot take anti arthritis meds as I have an ulcer and taking paracetamol on a regular basis does not appeal as I take other drugs for blood pressure, cholesterol and thyroid.
However, I have this week been persuaded to use a magnetic bracelet, I was a bit sceptical ...

What doc to see?

Fri, 3 Jun 2011 15:16:18 EST
Asking for advice. Started seeing an ortho for my joint pain last year. My frustration is he wants to focus on one area at a time. My problem is everything hurts. Am I seeing the wrong kind of doctor?

First he focused on my back but my neck pain makes life miserable. Physical therapy for my back sent my hip pain through the roof. Now my hands are hurting.

Any advice?

Feels like finger joints near palm dislocating?

Fri, 3 Jun 2011 15:11:15 EST
Anyone have popping sensation at the proximal interphalangeal joints? I looked up that term...smile. The joints on both my pinkies near my palm won't bend when I wake up then they feel like they are dislocating when I bend them. Goes on for about 15 minutes until they feel semi normal. Annoying pain the rest of the day. Started last week. Can't get into the ortho for 2 weeks so will see my PCP Tuesday. Anyone know what this is? First problem I have had with my hands.

Upper Leg Cramps

Mon, 30 May 2011 13:09:44 EST
I have been working alot in the garden and heavy house cleaning and each night I wake up stretch and this horrible pain locks into my upper thigh, I have had many lower leg cramps but nothing like this before, I am unable to straighten my leg and want to scream in pain, once after what seems an eternity it subsides but a dull pain remains now I am afraid to move, does anyone know what causes this?

Glad to be here!

Sat, 28 May 2011 19:21:21 EST
Thank you for such a warm welcome! I just found out about SparkPeople yesterday and I think I'm getting the hang of where everything is on the site. I look forward to getting to know everyone!

stomach upsets

Thu, 26 May 2011 17:51:33 EST
I need to keep my stomach full because of the motrim I take for my arthritus. If I don't my stomach hurts--so how can I lose weight? I'll eat fruit but that doesn't help. I would appreciate any suggestions anyone has. Thanks.

I'm new and glad to see a team like this

Thu, 26 May 2011 16:07:03 EST
Suffering from OA is something only another with OA can understand.

I had DDD surgery and a long recuperation. Didn't realize I had tendonitis, but thanks to a wonderful PT in San Diego who used his hands on me to rub out the tendonitis, it finally went away, and I had a lot of strengthing of my quads which finally let me walk with a cane without pain...but it took over eight months.

We'll probably all wind up bionic, but hey, look at Jane Fonda. Two hip and a knee, an...

Another newbie!

Thu, 26 May 2011 09:23:09 EST
Hi!
I only found out a week ago that I have arthritis of the left hip. I'd been experiencing pain in that area for about 12-18 months but didn't get around to seeing my doctor about it until last week, Until last week I just chalked it up to ' getting older' (I'm 47 y.o.)
I just wanted to share something with anyone in this team who has a similar situation to mine:
3 days ago I bought a pair 'exersteps" runners. They're a much cheaper (but just as good) version of 'shape Ups", ...

arthritis of the big toe

Wed, 25 May 2011 11:12:18 EST
does anyone have this problem? I will get the joint replaced in the fall, when I can have enough time to stay off my foot. I had both knees replaced in 2008. I have been doing the ellipitical and that has really bothered it. I am a teacher and this summer I will have more time to swim and bike, so it can rest.
Just curious how others handle this condition.

new here

Mon, 23 May 2011 22:29:49 EST
I am new and trying to figure out how to post. I have OA, have had both knees replaced, trying to make it until fall to have a big toe joint replacement.

slowlybutsurely

Wed, 18 May 2011 16:08:04 EST
I have just started using the spark page and message boards. I have been going to school so I had little time to post right now I am resting a few months. I need to loose 50+ and I am hope by talking and posting will motivate me more. I need friends and a buddy to help me. I am looking forward to meeting you thank you.

new to group

Tue, 17 May 2011 23:08:57 EST
Hello everyone, I'm new to the group (not to spark though) I am a stay at home mommy with two incredible kiddos and a wonderful hubby. I have arthritis in my left knee (ost) my fav workout is walking with my doggies (and sometimes kids) but there are some days I have to take a break because of the knee pain. I live in Colorado so there are lots of trails for me to walk and the family and I go camping yearly I hate having to do the limp up a steep trail but I hate to quit so I just keep pushin...

New Here

Mon, 16 May 2011 18:20:36 EST
Hello there ,
I have been fighting fibromyalgia for three years, now it seems i have RA.
They want to put me on a drug called plaquenil which is scarry for me. the side efffects look bad anyone taken it? I have also started a strick paleo diet today and will start physical theropy thurs in hopes to help this.

Daily Chats

Wed, 4 May 2011 10:19:05 EST
67 Good Morning everyone. Beautiful sunny day and temps going up to the 60's. Still having some back issues, but getting better. Was going to arrange my patio furniture and planters, but guess that might have to wait for another time. Going to go grocery shopping today and get double coupons. Every little bit helps especially saving some money to go towards buying gas. We are at $3.99 now. Don't know who is making the profit , but it must be going somewhere. Will check bac...

Osteoarthritis

Thu, 28 Apr 2011 10:09:58 EST
I'm a 58 year old women and I was diagnosed with Osteoarthritis in my right knee in September of 2010. I wanted to join so I could get feedback from other members and maybe some tips to improve my quality of life. I will be seeing my doctor for the first time in a couple of weeks for medication and therapy options. 304 As my mother use to say "Gee my knee"!!

Decided to Join Your Team Today

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 13:10:17 EST
Good Morning to You,

I'm so excited to have gone on my first cruise last month that I wanted to share it with you. Please read my blog and you'll find out why.

Cyndi

TYLENOL RECALL

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 10:45:48 EST

www.ArthritisToday.org

Tylenol 8-Hour Caplets Recalled
Another batch is pulled from the market due to a musty odor.

By Jennifer Davis

3/31/11 Johnson & Johnson is recalling another batch of Tylenol pain reliever. This time itâ€™s 34,000 bottles of Tylenol 8-Hour Extended Release Caplets that are being voluntarily pulled from the market because of a musty odor that could cause stomach issues.

The company released a statement saying, "This ...

Neck surgery is going to happen

Tue, 12 Apr 2011 10:22:59 EST
Hi all I know it's been awhile since I've responded or added any comments it's just been really chaotic here I'm just waiting and counting down the days before the date of my neck surgery everything was done before the decision was finnally made foir doing the surgery my 1 disc area is almost nonexistant so that's it hope everyone is ok

Hello!

Sun, 10 Apr 2011 09:47:37 EST
Just found out about this group and can't wait to learn from you. I have osteoarthritis in both knees and hips. I've had the Synvisc one shot in my one knee and it has helped tremendously, and arthroscopic surgery helped on the other, but the hips are not great. I'll be looking for ways to lessen my discomfort.

Saying hello

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 19:48:30 EST
Hi there. I recently had surgery on my shoulder for what we thought was a rotator cuff injury. Afterward, my surgeon told me that I have arthritis and that it was totally unexpected.

Now I'm adjusting to this news and what I can do to get back my fitness and move forward with this.

Does anyone else have arthritis in their shoulder(s)? I've been doing some reading on this, but most of the articles and books are geared toward knees and hips.

New here

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 18:44:03 EST
Hi everyone,

I've been lurking for a couple of weeks, getting used to the program

I'm a 47-year-old mom living in Ontario, Canada. Like many of you, I've done every diet imaginable. I also had lap-band surgery in 2002, which helped me take off and keep off 90 pounds. However, I haven't been able to get any lower and still have about 65 pounds to lose to reach a healthy BMI.

But what's really driving me this time is the fact that I have developed osteoarthritis...

How to deal w/ the loss of a parent & weightloss

Thu, 24 Mar 2011 20:45:01 EST
I started this diet 4 weeks ago. I was doing pretty well too. However last Monday on
March 14th My Mother passed away suddenly. She had been sick for a long time and we knew it was going to happen some day just not that quick. I'm trying very hard to stick with my diet but I don't have the energy to exercise any more. All I want to do is sleep. How do I stick to my diet when I'm an emotional mess. Have any of you gone through this? How did you cope? 46

Diets and pain

Tue, 22 Mar 2011 19:19:21 EST
Hi everybody,
Well the weekend went by, I am fighting pneumonia again, it is a regular thing with me, when I see my Dr. tomorrow I will go the abx and I will be good as new. I started the Atkins diet again on Monday and this time I feel just fine. So I am figuring it isn't going to work as well for me. We shall see. My DH eats along with me and then he has boston cream pie for desert.:) I have Diabetes 2, thyroid, hypertension, I really can't list them all. My pain has been my center of ...

Started a New Project today!

Fri, 18 Mar 2011 21:27:07 EST
Do any of you gals watch Fons and Porter?

Well, because of watching their show....I just had to go out today and buy some new material (and sewing tools) as I want to make a few things.I get very creative watching their show, It inspires me! So I got these idea from Fons and Porter as I watched her show all all the time and this week I learned a few new things; one for weaving and one for using 1/2 squared blocks. I want to make a bag from some squares and try my hand at her wea...

Chat Thread

Wed, 9 Mar 2011 15:42:04 EST
Yesterday was a day that I don't want to relive. I had shared with you about my friend's 12 year old grandson death, then got an e-mail later in the day about the death of the husband of one of my book club friends. He had been diagnosed in January with pancreatic cancer. Then last night another friend called about the shooting in St. Louis, MO. The officer that was killed was her sister-in-law's son. We need to love those around us and be thankful for every moment we have with them.

Searching for young adults

Tue, 8 Mar 2011 22:08:47 EST
Hi Everyone,

I'm searching for other young adults on Sparkpeople with arthritis!

Hi!

Mon, 7 Mar 2011 17:16:59 EST
I am a 50 yo mom who REALLY wants to get in shape and stay healthy! My husband and I started doing Power 90 last week so we are on day 7......83 to go!!! Anyone out there doing P90?

How do you feel so blessed?

Sun, 6 Mar 2011 17:37:25 EST
My son blessed me and surprised me today..... he fixed my disk drive CD player. It has not worked since day one. (It would get stuck every time we tried to put a disk in it. )

Plus he also surprised me with a New keyboard for my computer. Not that I needed it, but I already wore the keys off two keyboards since i bought this computer ; so he said I will be prepared for when I wear this one out. I have had almost this one for almost a year, this summer, whcih I bought at a ...

What Commercials do you like? Or can relate to?

Sat, 5 Mar 2011 15:19:46 EST
I love that GEICO commercial where these ...Homosapiens cave men are living under rocks and they alway say, "DO YOU LIVE UNDER A ROCK?" and I alway answer and say...
YES, I LIVE UNDER a ROCK.., THE ROCK CHRIST JESUS! I love it when I can add my own references to a commercial for the LRD it gives me a chance to start a conversation abotu the LRD! Lik a slip of the tongue for your spirit! Love it when GD can use a commercial for his Glory! Try it sometimes! Or ...I like it when ...

what do you think about Librarys as Coffee Shops ?

Sat, 5 Mar 2011 12:59:35 EST
Our Library is starting something new. They are allowing cell phones and coffee being serve or made and I guess sold at the Library now. They are copying the... Starbucks and other coffee house and meeting places so as to bring young people into the Library.

Many people bring their books to Coffee houses and so the Library wants to bring more young people back to Libraries. It sounds nice but what about... coffee spills? I am wondering how this will be, especilly if kids are ...

Update- Help- herniated disc in back

Sat, 5 Mar 2011 00:27:25 EST
I went back to the chiropractor to discuss x-rays and get another adjustment. Bad news, My last disc in my lower spine is buldging and herniated and pressing on nerves. The cartilage is torn inside the disc. It will take many chiropractic visits and ice and pain meds- ibuprofen to fix it- about a 6 week recovery period- very expensive- over $800 or more that insurance does not cover, OUCH!! Just what I do not need. No lifting, bending or twisting or I could rupture the disc and have to have e...

Help- lower back pain

Sat, 5 Mar 2011 00:25:55 EST
I thru my back out last night and my hubby is still gone. thought I would have to call an ambulance the pain was excruciating- lower back and into legs and tingling in feet. put ice on it and took Vicodin, barely slept.

Called my chiropractor and drove myself there- no one else to drive me. He did a thorough exam and took x rays and did a light adjustment. I go back tomorrow to find out results but he thinks I may have a herniated, buldging disc in my lower back. I am still in allo...

When I say NO to (Blank) I say YES TO ME

Wed, 2 Mar 2011 09:57:22 EST
One of my guilty pleasures is watching weight loss reality shows. Yes, the journeys and people are inspiring. AND I get the opportunity to remind myself where I DON'T want MY journey to take me (ever again!).

And every once in a while a gem of wisdom hits me. Well, that happened last night.

I don't know if I was watching "Biggest Loser" or a taped "Heavy" episode. One of the participants made a food decision and said afterwards that s/he realized that "BY SAYING NO TO [...

HI!!!

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 10:47:17 EST
I AM PURRFECT1 AND I WOULD LIKE TO SAY HELLO TO EVERYONE..CURRENTLY I AM RECOUPERAITING FROM SURGERY (GALLSTONE) AN I HAVENT HAD MUCH TIME TO GO ON LINE.. FOR NOW I JUST WANTED TO SAY HI AND HOPE I CAN GET BACK TO LIVING MY LIFE AND GETTING BACK TO SPARK PEOPLE.

Hi, New Here

Thu, 24 Feb 2011 12:40:26 EST
Hi, I'm a 20 year old with arthritis in my left knee, left shoulder/neck/arm, back, and right hip. Talk about feeling old! j/k.

After suffering a major neck/shoulder/arm injury (I have no idea what happened to cause it o,O), the doctor diagnosed me with fibromyalgia. Now, I'm having to learn to live with pain and having to learn when to stop doing something before the pain starts.

Over the last 7 months, my social life has gone down the drain. Stress, hugs, laughing,...

Young and hobbling

Tue, 22 Feb 2011 08:27:34 EST
Hi all--I am new to this board and new to SparkPeople. I am 38, and have severe osteoarthritis in my right knee, with my left knee not far behind. My doctor has told me I need a knee replacement, but that I am too young. I take Celebrex and have had one cortisone shot so far, and see more in my future.

I am trying to exercise, but it is really hard. Any tips people have for exercising would be great. I know losing weight will only help me buy the time by doctor needs.

Who Here Has Arthritis In Their Ankles?

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 12:18:34 EST
It can be very painful. I just wanted to know who else has it,how do you deal with it,do you take any meds,ect. Sometimes it feels like a pinched nerve on the side of my ankle. On top of that I have plantar facitis. WW.

what do you do for yourself?

Sun, 20 Feb 2011 19:47:32 EST
I try to create ART...I quilt or write or take pictures on those days I feel good. Have not sewn in awhile due to cataracts, but I am hoping once the other eye is completed I will be able to see to sew. Right now its still difficult, but hope to get back at it! Its hard being a Quilt Artist when you cant see the needle to thread it! lol ITs been on hold for over a year!
But I love creating art in fabric and using material!

I used to draw and paint also, but it became s...

Sciatica

Sat, 19 Feb 2011 16:07:36 EST
What do you do to relieve the pain/tingling/numbness from Sciatica?

Kris

MIRAJOY1 just getting started again.

Sat, 19 Feb 2011 11:51:13 EST
Hi! I'm just getting started again after a few years of being lazy. I'm 73 soon to be 74 and needing to lose 40 lbs. My
husband is a diabetic and I have finally got him to realize that he needed to stay on his diet, so I am measuring both
of our foods. Easier than I thought it would be, but when I have his cooperation it is a lot easier to stay on my diet.
I went on the HCG diet and after losing 30 lbs. I don't want to regain it. So, I am now keeping track of everything I e...

Hi! New to this.

Fri, 18 Feb 2011 22:14:00 EST
Hi all, I am new to this and not sure how to go about it.

cervical discetomy and fusion???

Thu, 17 Feb 2011 00:06:10 EST
HELP
Has anyone had this type of surgery??? If so, what was your experience??? Did surgery help??? What symptoms did you have before surgery??

I have been suffering from bad osteoarthritis in my back and neck for years. The disc in my lower neck has significantly degenerated or shrunk and I have a bone spur that is pressing on my spinal canal . I have been seeing a chiropractor for years but it isn't helping as much. It is hard to say whether the neck pain, etc.. is from my ne...

Back Again

Sun, 13 Feb 2011 10:55:36 EST
Hi my name is Joanie and I restarted my SPARKPEOPLE program this morning.
I am really at my bottom with my weight and joint pain.
I need to be here. I know people without arthritis - chronic pain don't really understand and sometimes think I am exaggerating etc.
I am open to any suggestions.
I need to lose at the very least 80 pounds and have arthritis - a hip replacement and sciatica.
I am committing to staying on my plan today - drinking water - no diet soda !

The Secret to You..A Gift From The Secret Scrolls.

Tue, 8 Feb 2011 13:19:31 EST
www.youtube.com/watch?v=phL0RLKL8bc

This was posted on one of my other teams, and had to pass it along.

TOTAL HIP REPLACEMENT

Tue, 8 Feb 2011 11:12:37 EST
Next month (March), I will be going n the hosp. to have a total hip replacement on my left side. I'm very nervous about the outcome of it at the end. Can anyone tell me anything the after part of surgery? Like will I be able to cross my leg again and walk better without pain going down the side of my leg? What are the PRO'S & CON'S?

newbie once again

Thu, 3 Feb 2011 13:47:20 EST
Hi, I've recently returned to sparkpeople once again. I can't even remember when I originally joined. It was definitely before I was married and had kids. Now it's a whole new world for me and I'm looking to reconnect to the site. I've been on the site consistently for about 4 weeks now and am doing great, I've already reached one of my weight loss goals! Now the journey continues as I try to make healthy eating and fitness a significant part of my life. I want to set a great example f...

Dr. Oz

Mon, 31 Jan 2011 21:48:07 EST
The big day is here! My debue on nationaal TV is Feb. 1st on the Dr. Oz show. I'll be introduced as Dr. Patricia Kaine.

What "flavor" of arthritis are you challenged by?

Mon, 31 Jan 2011 18:22:40 EST
In addition to osteoarthritis (which I've had since my teens), and fibromyalgia (which is a Central Nervous System Disorder, not rheumatic or arthritic, by the way) I have also in the last 18 months developed a non-specific arthritis in my feet, from my arches to include the balls of my feet and all my toes (so it's not gout).

I'd been taking Lyrica for the fibro since 1999 (was in 1st clinical trials), & added Savella when pain got worse, as well as hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil)...

IDITAWALK

Thu, 27 Jan 2011 08:34:53 EST
The IDITAWALK starts Feb 1! This is loosely based on the Iditarod, the 1049 mile dog sled race, but you needn't travel to Alaska to participate! You can walk ANYWHERE, and the challenge is to walk 1049 minutes between Feb 1 and March 31. That averages out to 17 minutes a day. They will let you register for FREE, then send you an email to pay, but you really only need to pay if you want the pin. When I registered yesterday, I saw several Sparkers on the roster. This will be my third year ...

new from New Jersey

Sun, 23 Jan 2011 21:57:20 EST
I joined Spark People many years ago, but like most things keep starting and stopping. I have a lot of health issues, but my arthritis has been one of my longest lasting. I developed osteo-arthritis in my late 20's and since I am 54 it has been almost 30 years. I also have degenerative disc disease and right now almost half my spine is full of herniated discs and 3 of them in my neck are pinching a nerve. Add to that Fibromyalgia and I am in bad pain. I barely move now and am working on addin...

Don't know where to jump in

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 10:17:54 EST
Hello. I'm new to this group. I've been told in the past by my doctor that I have arthritis in my knees and hands. She didn't tell me what kind of arthritis. At that time, it didn't matter much because I was not in much pain. But for the last two weeks, both knees and hand have been giving me much pain. I'm taking Advil, it helps some. Do you have any suggestions? Thank you.

NEw arthritis challage

Thu, 20 Jan 2011 10:09:28 EST
I have hypermobile Ehlers Danlos Syndrome HEDS, which has caused severe osteo and sero-negative inflammatory arthritis. After 5 large joint replacements, I still have one more to go. My newest problem is the swelling of my hands and wrists. Although my ANA is positive, all the subtests are negative including the RA although my joints act like RA joints.
I've been depressed lately because of my hands. I used to do lots of needlework, but can no longer knit or do needlepoint because of han...

Old member but a new start!

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 18:33:05 EST
Hello everyone! I joined this a few years ago, but didn't have the motivation back then. Now I am determined to do this. I'm a 30 year old single mom and full time student with rheumatoid arthritis. I lost 30 pounds years ago on Weight Watchers but have gained 10 back. I am having a hard time juggling my son, homework, housework, and weight loss with a lot of chronic pain added it! I hope everyone is having success in their weight loss goals!

Arthritis of the knee cap

Sun, 16 Jan 2011 10:29:27 EST
I have this and am dealing with it with exercise, chiropractic adjustment, ice, etc.

On Thursday I went to a very low impact class at the gym (all ladies much older than me). The instructor told us that to help our knees we need to tighten them. She had us point our toes forward and tighten, to side and tighten and back and tighten.

Well I did not feel so great during or after class, but when I went to bed I had what I would describe as muscle spasms like I have ne...

What hurts today?

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 21:27:38 EST
Hi all,

My name is Arlene and I’m challenged by arthritis (OA). I'm new to the group. I don't know how it is with most of you, but I find my pain tends to travel around from day-to-day ... perhaps my knees and wrists are extremely painful one day ... then the following day it might be my hips and my back. Other days, everything hurts, etc.

Just thought I'd start a topic called, "What hurts today?"
24 38
This morning my knees were aching h...

New Year, New Start

Mon, 3 Jan 2011 18:45:32 EST
Turning 60 this year. Feeling 90. Arthritis of both knees, rt. worst. Use a cane with cold weather. Determined to loose 40 lbs to improve my joints and health. Also have "mandible resorbtion" meaning my lower jaw is slowly dissolving and sliding back. Can't bit or chew raw veggies, but I can steam 'em. Still working half-time, staying busy. Mother of 6, in-law to 4; Nana to 8 with 2 more due this year. Need to be healthy! "JUST DO IT" one choice at a time; one step at a time.

Just for today (from Redefined: the beauty project

Mon, 3 Jan 2011 11:27:33 EST
JUST FOR TODAY: I will live through this day only. I will not brood about yesterday or obsess about tomorrow. I will not set far-reaching goals or try to overcome all of my problems at once.

I know that I can do something for 24 hours that would overwhelm me if I had to keep it up for a lifetime.

JUST FOR TODAY: I will be happy. I will not dwell on thoughts that depress me. If my mind fills with clouds, I will chase them away and fill it with sunshine.
...

New and not so new

Sat, 1 Jan 2011 11:55:23 EST
Hello,

About 10 years ago, in my early 50s, I developed severe arthritis in both hips due to a vascular problem. Being fit and trim delayed the diagnosis since I was so strong. Four years ago I had both hips replaced 1 month apart. It has taken that length of time to return to my earlier fitness level, especially cycling.

My GP and rheumatologist, both very compassionate and caring people, attempted to delay the inevitable. It also led to awful weight gain since I could...

New HCG diet person - starting drops tomorrow

Thu, 30 Dec 2010 12:02:58 EST
I am 56, yoyo dieter over the years. I have weighed as little as 115 and as much as 200 over the past 30 years. I am currently at 162 today. I am starting the HCG drops tomorrow with the increased calorie diet for 2 days. Starting on Fri rather than Thurs because I am off on Monday so I can "gorge" Fri and Sat and have Sun and Mon to get over the side effects of the first couple of days. I would appreciate any helpful comments or suggestions in keeping with my current goal.

New Me

Wed, 29 Dec 2010 13:46:29 EST
Here I am. Totally new to this Spark site but not new to Arthritis. Being overweight doesn't make it easier on the joints. So, I am very eager to change my attitude towards myself and food. Funny enough, I am not eating a lot, but all I am eating is probably really bad for me. Not exercising is not helping either. I need a lot of motivation so I am hoping to find that here.
I already read a few introductions and some of the people lost a lot of weight. I really want to lose a lot of weig...

Hi

Wed, 29 Dec 2010 12:23:15 EST
Hi everyone. My name is Marion & I'm from Sask. Canada. I joined Sparkpeople in Sept., & so far have been able to lose 27.5 lbs.- all thanks to this website & all the wonderful people on it. I have arthritis in my lower back which I had surgery on in 2008. I have also had both my hips replaced in 2009. I think the most impotatant thing for me is the food tracking. I need to know my limits - & I have been able track everyday. I'm also writing it down in a journal. Happy to have found this team...

me

Mon, 27 Dec 2010 16:35:54 EST
So on 12/17/10 I had a lateral release done on my right knee. They found stage four arthritis in my knee. I am bone on bone at 26. No wonder my knees have been hurting. I hope all is well.

Exercise Suggestion

Tue, 21 Dec 2010 15:49:03 EST
I wanting to give an exercise suggestion for all of you with Arthritis that are looking for a good and safe way to get in strength without joint pain.

Pilates Reformer Classes.

I know how beneficial water classes are, but I tried a reformer class this morning for the first time and I am in love! Every muscle in my body felt this workout and no joint pain, cracking, popping, or swelling!

Just an idea in case some of you have access to these classes somewhere...

I'm Back

Sat, 18 Dec 2010 02:44:04 EST
I everyone it has been a very long time since I have been here. I lost track of my goals and was in a very bad place when my osteoarthritis in my spine got so bad that I can't even walk 25 feet without it causing my spine to just burn. But i have decided that some how some way I was going to get this weight off. I will need massive help but I know that this is where I need to be to get that help. I now have it in my hips, my shoulders and it is now half way up my spine instead of just in the ...

Any runners/joggers with knee arthritis?

Wed, 15 Dec 2010 17:21:00 EST
Hi Everyone! I'm new to the group. I discovered I had arthritis in my right knee after I completed my first half-marathon (I walked). I really would like to jog/run but I hesitate because I do not want the arthritis in my knee to become worse. I'm wondering if there are any of you out there who actually run/jog and what sorts of things/gear/equipment you utilize to prepare yourself for that activity.

Thanks in advance to all and anyone who replies.

starting again

Fri, 10 Dec 2010 11:09:53 EST
Today is a new day. Over Thanksgiving I gained 10 pounds. Not happy about this . But today is a new day and I will get back on track with healthy eating and walking everyday. Hope every one else is doing good. Barbara

Good for a Smile!

Tue, 7 Dec 2010 19:31:35 EST
I posted this a while back in a blog, but thought the new people might get a chuckle.
What A Life
I thought I should tell you that I have become quite a frivolous old gal. I am seeing 4 gentlemen most everyday as soon as I get up in the morning. "Will Power" helps me out of bed. Then "Charley Horse" comes by and when he's here he takes a lot of my time and attention. When he leaves "Arthur Ritus" shows up and stays the rest of the day. He doesn't like to stay in one place too...

Christmas Cards

Sat, 4 Dec 2010 14:10:24 EST

When filling out your Christmas cards this year, take ONE CARD & send it to this address:

A Recovering American Soldier,
c/o Walter Reed Army Medical Center
6900 Georgia Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20307-5001.

If we pass this on & everyone sends just one card, think of how many cards these
soldiers could get....& need to get.........to help bring up their spirits!!

PLEASE SHARE

23 days candy free!

Thu, 2 Dec 2010 11:09:33 EST
People have been asking how I've made it 23 days now without any candy.

Read on!
www.sparkpeople.com/resource/nutriti
on_articles.asp?id=134

306
Blessings,
Tara

Just beginning and needing encouragement

Thu, 2 Dec 2010 10:16:24 EST
Hi everyone!
I'm 52 years old and overweight and have (finally) decided to begin my journey back to health.
I have 40 pounds to lose and I'm not feeling like I can really do that. I know I should take it a day at a time and not focus on the number, but I also feel like I'm losing a companion and comfort by surrendering my current eating habits. Is that crazy?
I signed up for Spark People many months ago and receive the inspiring emails on a regular basis.
Now I'm ready...

Pain in the neck or back?

Thu, 2 Dec 2010 01:44:29 EST
Hi all.

Really interesting I'm bringing with me to my appt w/ my Spine Dr this week. Thought I'd share it with my SP teams. Maybe it could help one of you as well?

www.spine-health.com/blog/conservati
ve-care/interview-judith-c-stern-ma-pt

Be well!
Tara

Christmas Stories and Free Fun Stuff

Wed, 1 Dec 2010 20:47:05 EST

I put this on my blog today and thought maybe to pass it on. So I am putting on a few team pages. If you on the same teams you may already know. Please excuse it then.

Christmas Stories starting Dec 1st until Dec. 2th.

http://mysite.verizon.net/vze7ve4l/c
hristmasstories/

Please feel free to pass on to others. I would so like this to snowball so to speak.

Also some other free fun stuff:
...

Hi everybody have found spark again and need help.

Mon, 29 Nov 2010 06:33:19 EST
does anybody know of any good strengthening exercises for my knee. I have been off work for 2 weeks waiting for physio appointment. I have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis and need a knee replacement as soon as but desperately want to get back to work but when i drive it really hurts and my job is an hour away by car. If anyone has any ideas I would welcome them.

Cheers

Jules

Having Arthritis Hurts

Mon, 22 Nov 2010 13:02:27 EST
Hi, I just joined the Team. I have arthritis in my back, knees, in fact just about everywhere. Looking for suggestions and help from Team members. My arthritis doctor said the best thing I could do for my pain is to lose weight--which has been very slow going for me. I'm lazy about exercising and can only do sit down exercises. Wow, I have around 100#s to lose that I've gained in the last 10 years. Thank you. 33

new to the team

Wed, 17 Nov 2010 10:23:34 EST
Hello! My husband was just diagnosed with arthritis in his knee. I want to help him be at his best so I joined the team to find out what I can do.

An affirmation for our bodies

Tue, 16 Nov 2010 10:39:08 EST
This is from the Daily Word.

Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Healing
I embody radiant health and vitality.

The human body is complex and beautiful. Every cell, tissue and organ is a masterpiece of divine engineering.

During my daily activities, my body protects, repairs, regenerates and revitalizes. It is a gift, worthy of my love and care. I stem any negative thoughts about my physical self and embrace a deep sense of gratitude for my body. I see that my...

EGGS RECALL

Tue, 9 Nov 2010 17:49:48 EST
Salmonella outbreak again. Just posted on WEBMD and Yahoo.

Arkansas, California, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas.

Brands: Pippin, Sunny Meadow, Springfield Grocer, Sun Valley, James Farm.

It has dates, plant nos., etc.

Arthritis pain after exercising?

Mon, 8 Nov 2010 21:34:16 EST
Does anyone get stiff/sore after working out, but not realize you've overdone it when you're working out?

I did too much yesterday (and am only finding out today because I am very sore and stiff.)

Any advice on how to tell when you've hit your maximum per workout?

Thanks :)

Just started

Thu, 4 Nov 2010 14:34:02 EST
I'VE started cardio 5 days a weekand weight 3 times a week. Interested in seeing how this works out.

The perfect warmup when you are stiff and hurting

Wed, 3 Nov 2010 12:31:04 EST
Hi, yesterday I posted a question to the message fitness board looking for suggestions on how to begin to work out and warmup in the morning, when my body is really stiff and really hurts. (I have RA)
One person said that stretching gently helps him get moving and warm...and the team member said it;s okay to stretch cold, if you do it gently.

So today I tried a video which a friend just gave me: Richard Simmons, STretching to the Classics. Even if you are not a Simmons fan.....

This time I will succeed...

Tue, 2 Nov 2010 04:47:50 EST
Hello my name is Donna. I was a very underweight child until puberty! Then I became obese. I stayed that way until around 19 and when I moved out on my own, I was able to go from a size 16 to a 6. Then I had a child and hormones got the best of me again. I did great during pregnancy but then my endocrine system started shutting down during last trimester and really messed me up. I ballooned up to a size 22! I had a very hard time getting loosing even a few pounds, but after starting Tae Kwon ...

Hello, I'm a newbie :0)

Mon, 1 Nov 2010 14:53:11 EST
I have been all over this site trying to connect with someone in my similar situation and just keep getting overwhelmed. I am 46, a single mom, 100 plus lbs overweight and have severe degenerative arthritis in my right knee.

Have lost 36 lbs since July 8 on my own and hit a plateau. That is how I came to this site. Someone on my Codependency Recovery site recommended it. I need support, encouragement and ideas. Trying to eat as little processed food as possible, mostly fru...

Arthritis Internet Registry

Mon, 1 Nov 2010 14:06:36 EST
This came from the Arthritis Foundation mail (from the site):

The Arthritis Internet Registry (AIR) is a new research project where scientists learn about your experience with arthritis through questionnaires over the internet â€“ how it affects your daily activities, the treatments you use, and all medical events that may happen to you, even if not apparently related to your arthritis.

Enroll in the Arthritis Internet Registry

You will be taken to NDB's secur...

Halloween Treats Stats

Fri, 29 Oct 2010 11:21:28 EST
It's our 2010 Halloween Candy Guide... Read on to check out the calorie and fat counts on your favorite bite-sized treats BEFORE you chew. Happy Halloween!!!

Guilt-Free Classics!

Tootsie Caramel Apple Pop - 60 calories, 0.5g fat (POINTS® value 1*)

Charms Blow Pop - 60 calories, 0g fat (POINTS® value 1*)

Dum Dum Pop - 25 calories, 0g fat (POINTS® value 1*)

Lik-m-aid Fun Dip 0.5-oz. Pouch - 50 calories, 0g fat (POINTS® value 1*)
<...

What was the last vegetable(s) you ate

Tue, 26 Oct 2010 16:04:59 EST
We have the last piece of fruit going, and I sometimes find it difficult.
But vegetable -
So today I'll go for cauliflower