I need a pep talk!! I love the water, though never a competitive swimmer, I do OK (on my one and only visit to the Chicago masters club, the coach gave me a few pointers on my freestyle and backstroke - but said I look good basically). Now, I'm turning into an ever-expanding mid-40's jello mold - - - and want/need to get back into the pool. But, joy of joys, Mother Nature has blessed me with a new companion - osteoarthritis.
Is anyone out there dealing with this? Do you push through aches and pains? Do you find that the pain diminishes as you work out - - or over time, as you increase the number of workouts you do each week? How's your energy level, in the pool and out?
I have really hit the slump of slumps, and could use some pointers/prodding/inspiration. And a good joke wouldn't hurt!
Parents
Former Member
Hi aprilgirl,
I had a meniscectomy on my left knee in 1976. The surgeon "promised" me I would develop osteoarthritis there and sure enough he was right. About 5 years ago the pain and swelling became severe and my ususal treatments of ibuprofin and compression became completely ineffective. I was very discouraged. In my search for help, I found out about glucosamine and chondroitin and the book, The Arthritis Cure by Jason Theodosakis. I started taking these supplements and they have been a miracle cure for me! I don't know if I could even find my knee brace now!
I recommend that you discuss them with your doctor before taking them, and I also recommend reading the book. There are about a zillion different brands offered now, and the book discusses which brands are best as well as the proper dosages.
Doctors will tell you that the best thing for OA is to stay active so keep on swimming! Good luck!
Kim
Hi aprilgirl,
I had a meniscectomy on my left knee in 1976. The surgeon "promised" me I would develop osteoarthritis there and sure enough he was right. About 5 years ago the pain and swelling became severe and my ususal treatments of ibuprofin and compression became completely ineffective. I was very discouraged. In my search for help, I found out about glucosamine and chondroitin and the book, The Arthritis Cure by Jason Theodosakis. I started taking these supplements and they have been a miracle cure for me! I don't know if I could even find my knee brace now!
I recommend that you discuss them with your doctor before taking them, and I also recommend reading the book. There are about a zillion different brands offered now, and the book discusses which brands are best as well as the proper dosages.
Doctors will tell you that the best thing for OA is to stay active so keep on swimming! Good luck!
Kim
