One year in...

[sensibleshoes]

Hi all just thought I would share some insights from my first year of living with RA. I’ve been lucky and tolerate mtx well, so currently on 22.5ml by injection and now added sulafalazine. A few things that have help me are regular gentle swimming, compression socks, a clever app that helps me keep track of my medicines, resting when I can and being kind to myself. So with all that I’m pretty mobile can walk to the village and back (about a mile) I’m still working but keeping out of the stresses more. I do struggle with my hands and feet and finding shoes is a problem, but looking forward to the summer and wearing flip flops again ☀️☀️☀️. This site is a godsend and a great support and resource of information. Keep strong. Xx

[JFlay]

Hi, I'm just over a year in myself 😕

I couldn't tolerate mtx so trying hydroxy 🤞 my feet and ankles are the worst thing for me. The rheumy nurse referred me to orthotics, had the appointment last week, it was very informative and I get my custom made inserts in three weeks time. He also made me a pair of gel type inserts whilst I was there 👍

I can't walk in flip flops anymore 😟 I have to stick to 'sensible' sandals and Crocs 😂 all the best!

[sensibleshoes in reply to JFlay]

I love my Birkenstock’s in the summer, great moulded footbed and super comfortable. My podiatrist gave me the details of a website for shoes. Widerfitshoes haven’t tried them myself but they have a good range and some nice styles. Also found wearing compression socks has reduced the swelling in my feet and ankles so increasing mobility and making shoes more comfortable.

[Hidden]

Lovely update. So glad things are going well for you. It’s looks like you’ve cracked the management of the disease well

[RosieA]

Thank you for your post, a gentle inspiration. I am now 4 and half months down the meds line and about 10 days ago I seemed to turn a corner. I picked up my classical guiar for the first time in about 8 months ( I seemed to be too tired to concentrate on anything but the remote control before). Finger tips are now seriously sore from all the playing. MTX appears to be doing it's job. Now just need for my ribs to stop hurting and will be back to ballet and piroetting (well, attempting to). Lovely to hear your positivity. All the best and here's to the flip flops.

[sensibleshoes in reply to RosieA]

Great well done for getting your guitar singing again. Mtx doesn’t work for everyone but is a lifesaver for many. It has certainly helped me get my life back. X

[JulezH]

I can help you on the shoe front - on amazon type in 'sketchers mules' I have about 4 different pairs and they all have memory foam insoles and are backless so are a dream to wear.

[oldtimer]

Good to hear that you are coping so well and keeping positive. It cheers people up to hear that - so often we only post when we have problems.

[GranAmie]

I have found 'Pavers' a good source, but tend to stick to ankle boots as far as poss, as v flat feet, weak ankles etc etc. Rheumy and orthoptist told me never to wear flat or backless styles, always abt 2" / 5cm heel but never high heels. Seems to work 4me, tho' wd love some punched hole style boots for summer... had those in the 70s... sigh.

[stbernhard]

Hi sensibleshoes, thank you for your positive post and all the very best for another good year. Let's hope we get some sort of a summer!