I could have titled this chapter “Dealing With Your Arthritis.” I want to emphasize,
however, that you can do more than just cope with the disease. You can thrive in spite
of it. Do not view yourself as the victim of a problem—you are in control. The problems
associated with arthritis do not simply disappear when you start exercising, but you no
longer have to give up your life because of your arthritis. A good exercise program
helps diminish the pain and disability associated with arthritis and allows you to enjoy
some favorite activities. My grandmother was still living independently when she died at
the age of 100. In fact, she walked several miles a day until her mid-90s, undeterred by
her arthritis.
Some of you know that even pain in your hands significantly affects the things you can do
and your outlook on life. I know of a woman whose arthritis in her hands became bad
enough that she had to stop riding horses, her favorite pastime, because she could not
hold the reins. She was caught in a vicious circle of decreasing activity and increasing
pain, until her doctor diagnosed her problems as arthritis and she started an exercise
program. She began a regular exercise program and now enjoys horseback riding and many
other activities.
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Action Plan for Arthritis
