Motivation vs Physical Issues

shcgiebs

I have been so unmotivated. I have had many health issues including multiple surgeries. Been to several specialist and even my own family doctor said what I was experiencing was all about needing to be more active. Kind of difficult when you have no energy and seem to be the kind of person who can get hurt on a sponge! I had to fight for it, but finally got a referral to an RA doc and I went in skeptical. I let her do all the talking and gave her very little help, but it was like she was reading my mind and what she said is what I have been thinking all along. She did some blood work and I go back on Jan 3rd. I can't wait. I think if she is on the right track it will help with my health issues and maybe help me get re-motivated. Here's hoping.

concordancia

Have you tried any form of water exercise? This can be great for someone with your issues.

shcgiebs

Nearest pool is 50 miles away at the "Y". I live in a very rural area. I do pack a suit when I am in that area shopping though and you're right, it does help.

Healthydiner65

I just walk slow but as far as I can and add to the distance every month. You don’t have to do anything more. When the weather is bad I pick a store like Home Depot, Walmart or the Mall and walk. I like the Mall because there are chairs to sit and rest if needed. Good luck with the Doctor!

AnnPT77

Any activity is better than no activity.

Most of us, at a "certain age", have issues. (I'm 63: I was obese for decades, have a little OA, a torn meniscus, shoulder impingement that kicks up from time to time, hypothyroid, survived stage III breast cancer (and its treatment ) . . . stuff. Luckily, in my case, none of it is a major impediment, and I'm grateful for that. It sounds like you're facing some tougher things.)

So, the question is: What's possible? Walking? Yoga? Stretching? Tai Chi? Pilates? Strength training (body weight, stretchy fitness bands, or actual weights . . . even little ones count! ).

Are there classes in your area, at schools (adult ed), community centers, YMCA, churches? Are there trainers? Maybe YouTube videos are an option: There are good ones for every ability level, from people with sound credentials (like degreed/certified physical therapists and trainers with good credentials).

Gradual progress is progress, and very worthwhile.

Wishing you the best, and good outcomes!

lorrpb

“Sit andBe Fit” is a program on PBS of exercises you can do while sitting.

elisa123gal

the more sedentary you are the more drained you will feel. You have to start an exercise program and it looks like you have to do it at home. So, youtube is your friend. There are so many workouts where you can follow along. You may want to look up the good old Jack Lallane videos where all you need is a chair.
When you start moving, you'll get more energy. Good luck.

shcgiebs

Didn't get a lot of exercise in, but I did clean out the work out room and got the laundry off the multi-gym LOL! It's a great piece of equipment. You can add weight from 20 to 300 pounds. It works on legs, arms, stomach and back. Today I actually used it for its intended purpose. Go me!

Aalps

shcgiebs wrote: »

Didn't get a lot of exercise in, but I did clean out the work out room and got the laundry off the multi-gym LOL! It's a great piece of equipment. You can add weight from 20 to 300 pounds. It works on legs, arms, stomach and back. Today I actually used it for its intended purpose. Go me!

Fantastic! great way to get started and you can take it as slowly as you need to, good for you!!! What did your RA doc come back with in the end, something helpful?

Anniesquats100

There are lots of us! I have a lot of soreness whenever I work out, most recently in my hip when walking. Saw a Dr, got an anti inflammation pill, got better for awhile, and now I'm back where I started.
But I guess we are doing better than if we only sat on the couch. We are at least trying, so if there is progress to be made, we will get there. Don't give up, just go gentle.

shcgiebs

Aalps wrote: »

shcgiebs wrote: »

Didn't get a lot of exercise in, but I did clean out the work out room and got the laundry off the multi-gym LOL! It's a great piece of equipment. You can add weight from 20 to 300 pounds. It works on legs, arms, stomach and back. Today I actually used it for its intended purpose. Go me!

Fantastic! great way to get started and you can take it as slowly as you need to, good for you!!! What did your RA doc come back with in the end, something helpful?

Diagnosed me with Sjogren's. Causes lots of unbearable pain and debilitating fatigue. On Plaquenil and it seems to help. I just can't give in to it.

gottswald

shcgiebs wrote: »

Diagnosed me with Sjogren's. Causes lots of unbearable pain and debilitating fatigue. On Plaquenil and it seems to help. I just can't give in to it.

We don't choose what burdens we carry in life, but we take some control back by choosing how to live with them.

Nanaluvs2sweat

I’m almost 50, have arthritis and had severe fatigue from depression and I assure you that the best way to combat tiredness is to get up and move. Walking for just 30 minutes a day is better than nothing. I’m assuming since your doctor reccomended you to work out then you are in good enough shape to walk slowly for a short time (just guessing 😊). Good luck 👍

shcgiebs

stefgreen72 wrote: »

I’m almost 50, have arthritis and had severe fatigue from depression and I assure you that the best way to combat tiredness is to get up and move. Walking for just 30 minutes a day is better than nothing. I’m assuming since your doctor reccomended you to work out then you are in good enough shape to walk slowly for a short time (just guessing 😊). Good luck 👍

Yes, thankfully I am OK to workout and walk. In this heat I stick to the tread mill and the AC LOL! I still make sure to break it up so I don't over-do it. Once the endorphins kick in I'm usually good to go.