Arthritis sucks! Does anybody want to 2nd my motion?
In recent months, I’ve heard chatter within my circle, about the importance of exercising and taking care of ourselves because we’re approaching the age where health concerns become real. Hearing family and friends discuss cholesterol, high blood pressure, heart disease and fatty livers, made me realize, I’m not exempt and have a responsibility to take care of myself.
Knowing my body, limitations and capabilities, I came up with a walking plan to get myself into better shape with the hopes of avoiding future problems with my general health.
The first two days were relatively easy and while I felt I’d actually made progress, I didn’t feel as though I was challenging myself physically. On the third day, I slightly bumped it up a notch (extreme emphasis on the word, slightly). Increasing my speed just a little, for a short period of time, gave me a greater sense of accomplishment and the feeling of a better workout. Stepping off of the treadmill, I felt great, as if I’d ran and won a marathon (against snails mind you, but nevertheless, I did it!). Feeling good about myself, I walked away from the treadmill, humming the Rocky theme song.
As the day went on, I began to feel a strain in my hip. Later that evening, I held my hip in order to support each step. By bedtime, I was approaching agony and slept with the help of sleep aides and ice packs. When I awoke the following morning and attempted to take my first steps, it was obvious I was under attack!
My first thought was to fight back. I told myself I was going back on the treadmill no matter what because if I worked through the pain, I’d be better off. But an hour later, I realized I was in more danger stepping on the belt and decided to play it smart. It’s been five days and I’m still not able to walk upright at a normal pace.
What makes me mad is, I expected some pain, but not the devil’s grip on my hip! Not to the point of immobility for days and elimination from a very simple exercise plan to boost my cardio.
To say arthritis interferes with every aspect of my life is an understatement! As a veteran of this disease, for the most part, I’m used to it. I can handle the daily interference and the interrupted plans. My anger rises when I feel like I’ve been blindsided by the villain. Arthur took a cheap shot and once again, I’m on the receiving end.
I do everything right, play by the rules, consider my challenges then without warning and for no apparent reason, the bully strikes and takes away from me just because it can!
I am making an effort to control health issues that have nothing to do with arthritis, but I can’t (yes, I know overall health is related, but that’s not my point). I’m not exercising because of kicks and giggles. I did it because it’s necessary to improve my health and well-being. When we have the chance to avoid future problems or reverse them, we should. But how do we go about it and stay motivated when we know the villain is lurking and waiting to attack?
Referring back to my initial question, can I get a 2nd?
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