ifranz

Health Interests

Rheumatoid Arthritis,  Exercise,  Nutrition

Drugs I am Taking

Methatrexate

About Me

I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis in May 2007, the symptoms had been developing for a few years. When I was diagnosed I had tendonitis in my wrists and fingers and the tissue around my hands and feet were constantly swollen. I had lost a lot of strength in my hands and arms and simple tasks like opening jars was a frustrating challenge. I was carrying an extra 30 pounds and found myself dealing with depression along with the RA. I started taking meds (Plaquenil and then Methatrexate) this helped some of the symptoms but swelling was still a daily problem. I began focusing on exercise and nutrition in 2008 and the results have been fantastic. My joint pain is minimal and swelling is almost non existent. I was an avid runner and triathlete in my 20s, but I’d gotten away from that lifestyle as career became more demanding. I was afraid that I would never have that part of my life back with RA. My Rheumatologist gave me the go ahead for “all the exercise I could handle”. I started very small with short walks and gradually built distance and strength. At first my runs were short and fairly painful, for me being sore runner felt a lot better that being sore because of RA. Over time my RA, body, and mind seemed to come to some sort of agreement. I’ve logged 127 miles so far this year and I completed a half marathon (my first in 10 years) in October. I understand that this disease goes in cycles and I may have to change how I exercise in the future, but for now, every mile I’m able to run is a celebration.