Living With Osteoarthritis
In 2014, I loved Hot Yoga and working with weights. I was at the prime of my fitness journey at 50 years old! But by 2018, I found myself frequently making appointments for massage therapy when I was "maybe" going twice a month as I was feeling achy around my hips and lower back.
I wanted a deeper massage around my lower back and hips because it felt like muscle soreness. It would feel good for a few days, and the dull pain reoccurs after a few yoga sessions. It went on like that for 3 months!
The Doctor Visit
I explained to the doctor my symptoms. She ordered an X-ray and an MRI to rule out a few things. Well, the results came back that I had the beginning stages of osteoarthritis in my left hip but, SHOCKINGLY, also in my right knee!! OF COURSE, I worried and thought, "What will happen when I get older!"! YES, my brain was a mess with overthinking, especially after witnessing my mom not being able to walk up the stairs or even a short curb without help.
One thing at a time, One step at a time, Adds up over time."
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative joint disease that can be quite painful. I was diagnosed with OA in 2018, and it has been a rollercoaster of ups and downs ever since. But I've learned to laugh through the pain and find joy in the little things. In this post, I'm sharing my experiences and tips for living with OA and hopefully inspiring those who can relate.
Activities....Keep Moving!
Speaking of activities, it's important not to let OA dictate your life. It messed with my brain when I was diagnosed. Just because you have limitations doesn't mean you can't still do the things you love. You might have to modify your activities or pace yourself differently, but there's almost always a way to make it work. For example, I used to love going for walks/runs, but now I find that "shorter step" walks with some breaks are more manageable. I still enjoy the outdoors, and my joints don't hate me as much.
One of the most frustrating things about living with OA is the unpredictability of flares. Some days, I wake up feeling great, while on other days, I can barely get out of bed. It can be hard not to get discouraged, especially when others don't understand the complexity of the disease. That's where having a support system comes in. Whether it's a friend, family member, or support group, having someone who understands can make all the difference.
My husband has been VERY patient and an incredible support.
It's also important to be your own advocate. Don't be afraid to speak up and ask for what you need. If your job requires you to sit or stand for long periods, ask if you can take breaks or have accommodations like a standing desk. If you struggle to find a medication that works, speak with your doctor about other options. You know your body best, so don't be afraid to advocate for your needs. I have the BEST doctor who has looked after me for over 20 years and can instinctively tell something is not right because she knows how well I've been taking care of myself. Right away, she makes sure I'm on top of my meds and physical activities.
Lastly, finding humour in the situation can be a game-changer. There's something about laughing through the pain that can make it seem less daunting. Whether it's cracking a joke about creaky knees or hips in yoga as I have or watching a funny movie to distract from the discomfort, finding ways to laugh can boost your mood and help you get through the day.
CONCLUSION
Living with osteoarthritis can be challenging, but it doesn't have to mean giving up on the things you love. By finding the right pain management plan, staying active, seeking support, being your own advocate, and finding humour in the situation, you can still live a fulfilling life with OA. So, the next time you feel like throwing in the towel, try to find humour and laugh through the pain.
