Let the Reboot Begin

Happy weekend everyone! I am down a pound ... 191. At least it's something.

I plan to try some swimming this week. I actually love to swim but the pool at the Y here is FREEZING COLD. I have avoided it for years because I am a wimp about the cold and I like my pool water to be more like bath water. I am going to give it another try, though.

Went to the ortho for my knee. X-ray showed no arthritis. he gave me some steroids and anti-inflams and sent me on my way. If it doesn't show improvement in 5 weeks they will do a scan. It does seem to be feeling better, but I am awfully limited as far as what I can do physically. No stairs or downhill. I doubt weight training for legs is possible. I am just hoping it's a little strain and will heal up with rest over time.
 
Swimming in a cold pool would probably do wonders for your knee. After a minute or two in there, you'll feel invigorated. Go for it.
 
:grouphug: Abby! I hear ya!
My podiatrist is always asking about my "icing" routine bc he knows I hate COLD and want heat!! Which is the worst thing you can do for Plantar Fasciitis.. lol ... I have arthritis as well so COLD is not my friend! lol

Wish we lived in same state/city...We could suck it up together and just go get in that COLD Pool! :smilielol5:
 
Hello everyone, I'm back. Going to give this another whirl.

My knee is still messed up. My ankle kinda gave out a few weeks ago but feels better now. However, my toes (on the same leg) hurt! UGH!!! Now my other knee is feeling iffy. This weight has got to come off!!!! I'm falling apart from the knees down!

My 15 year old daughter tried on a pair of my shorts from 5 years ago and was amazed that they fit her, and were even a little tight. She was like, "God Mom, you were skinny!"

For me, at this point it's not all about vanity (no doubt some of it is) . But it's more about my health. I'm 41 years old. I don't want to end up a diabetic. I don't want to have knee surgery before my time. And I don't want to have to limit myself because I'm constantly injured.

Weight this morning: 194.

That's all for now.
 
Saw the ortho yesterday about my knee-- it's a strain. Gave me a shot of cortisone.

I'm down to 188. Super motivated to get this weight off and let my body return to normal.
 
Good morning!

Just wanted to update. I had my regular dr do bloodwork on me end of June and she ended up referring me to a rheumatologist. More bloodwork at the rheumatologist and other tests. Finally, a diagnosis: I have rheumatoid arthritis. I guess it doesn't always show up on x-rays. My bloodwork and symptoms are proof enough.

I'm starting on meds after my next eye exam, which is the 28th. She is putting me on a DMARD called Plaquenil. Fortunately, it's not a shot.

Currently trying to stick to something like the Mediterranean diet. No gluten (it causes inflammation). I have been working out a few times a week and doing some water aerobic classes.

It's a bit of a relief to finally know what's wrong, but also a little scary because of what it is. I have learned in my life that when it comes to obstacles or tragedies, that there are two ways I can go - I can either let it drag me down or I can use it to empower me. It's my choice. So, I can use this to empower me into a better lifestyle, eating more healthy, taking care of myself, and not taking for granted the physical things I can do.

Have a sunshiny day! It's been hot as hell here.
 
Hi Abby, thanks for the visit to my diary :)
I just looked up rheumatoid arthritis as I don't know a lot about it. I have Osteo & I know it has been a lot better since I cut out wheat. I remember that you like tuna & fish oil is meant to be good for it. I don't know if you smoke or not, but apparently, that's particularly bad for RA. From what I remember of you I think you will do some homework. Tai Chi is meant to be beneficial. I love TC & find it very restful. Once you do a few classes you can do it on your own. It's great stress relief & easy on your joints. There's a knee exercise we used to do to warm up the Synovial fluid in your knees. That has reminded me to do it again! Altering your diet can really help with inflammation. I restrict citrus, especially oranges, only eat Roma tomatoes (less acidic) & restrict gluten & have no wheat at all.
Thanks for sending me some sunshine, btw. It's a beautiful day here in Tasmania. Spring is peeking out from just around the corner :D
 
Hi Abby, thanks for the visit to my diary :)
I just looked up rheumatoid arthritis as I don't know a lot about it. I have Osteo & I know it has been a lot better since I cut out wheat. I remember that you like tuna & fish oil is meant to be good for it. I don't know if you smoke or not, but apparently, that's particularly bad for RA. From what I remember of you I think you will do some homework. Tai Chi is meant to be beneficial. I love TC & find it very restful. Once you do a few classes you can do it on your own. It's great stress relief & easy on your joints. There's a knee exercise we used to do to warm up the Synovial fluid in your knees. That has reminded me to do it again! Altering your diet can really help with inflammation. I restrict citrus, especially oranges, only eat Roma tomatoes (less acidic) & restrict gluten & have no wheat at all.
Thanks for sending me some sunshine, btw. It's a beautiful day here in Tasmania. Spring is peeking out from just around the corner :D

Good morning, Cate! Yes, wheat is really bad for RA. I used to be a smoker, but quit 5 years ago. I will look into TC! That sounds right up my alley. I am definitely trying to stick to a gluten free diet with little dairy and lots of fresh veggies, fruits, olive oil, and good fats. It can take several weeks, but hopefully it will help. Thanks so much for your suggestions and support. I appreciate it and hope you have an awesome day! :)
 
Yesterday, I went swimming for 30 min. I did 13 laps. My plan is to swim 3 times a week for 30 min.

Here is some further info on rheumatoid arthritis ...

RA is an autoimmune disease. It is basically an immune system gone haywire. The immune system begins to attack your own tissues. This causes inflammation and damage to those tissues. It often attacks the joints, but it can also attack internal organs. Severe RA can cause permanent joint damage that can lead to disability and surgery. People with RA often experience "flares" in which a joint swells and becomes painful and stiff. This is what has been happening to me. My left knee , then my right knee, then my ankle, then my feet and toes.

RA is a chronic disease that is treated with medication that helps slow down the process. There are a few types of meds. The first is a DMARD (disease modifying antirheumatic drug) and another is a biologic, like HUMIRA. Both work to suppress the immune system.
 
Not a nice thing to hear by any stretch of the imagination but it IS very good to know what's happening so you (and your doctors) can start making a difference. Sounds like you're doing just that!
 
Well, here I am again. I had lost about 10 lbs but managed to gain it all back. :(

Tomorrow, I have an appt with rheumatologist to start meds. I am hoping some of my energy comes back. Feel exhausted all the time.

I signed up for Weight Watchers online. My plan today is to meditate, exercise, track food, and get some work done.

Happy Monday (groan) :)
 
Welcome back, DR. I´m sorry you´ve been having a rough time but I hope the meds will make a proper difference.
 
Hi DR. You have had a battle for sure. I hope the meds will make a difference. I feel for you, honey. Fingers & toes crossed that life will pick up for you xoxo Cate
 
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