Recreation or Leisure Time in Arthritis
Just because you are arthritic does not mean that you have to give up all the sports, recreation and hobbies that you have enjoyed for years. Always remember that your being arthritic need not stop you from taking part in physical activities.
The best form of physical activity is swimming, since the buoyancy of the water helps to support the joints. In addition, much of your normal exercise routine can be performed while in the water.
An embroidery frame that can be attached to a table or chair will allow you to do needle work and sewing without using your hands to stabilize the article.
If you like to play cards, try using a card holder — either you can buy them or easily have them made by sawing a slit in a piece of wood.
When gardening, try sitting on a small stool instead of kneeling to weed and plant.
Health Professionals Can Help You
In addition to your doctor, who will continue to make suggestions to make your daily life easier while you progress with your treatment, other trained health professionals may be helpful. Probably the most important individuals will be the physical and occupational therapists. The physical therapist is trained to help you preserve your mobility and regain physical function that has been lost. Often your physical therapist and physician will work together in planning your treatment program. Occupational therapists are trained to help you regain skills or learn additional skills necessary for your daily activities. While these skills are productive, they also exercise many joints and muscles, such as fingers, wrists, elbows, and shoulders. Social workers may be available to help you resolve personal concerns, counsel you on family or marital matters, and advise you of avenues for locating various forms of assistance and of resources available in your local community.
Your physician may refer you to one health professional or several who can help you.
You will want to become acquainted with them early in the course of your treatment and let them know about your lifestyle so that they may provide assistance to you in as many ways as possible.