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[Sewnso]

I have had OA for about 10 years, it accelerated with the onset of menopause. The combination of lower back and fingers caused me to take early retirement coming up to 2 years ago. Just coming out of a really bad spell of a flare, have spent a few months thinking it was RA as had raised rheumatoid factor & plasma viscosity. Saw a rheumatologist on Monday thankfully it is 'only' oa. So onwards & upwards with tens machine, capsaicin cream, ibuprofen gel and codeine based painkillers. Trying to find an exercise regime that isn't gym based, going to get back into my exercise DVDs (30 day shred & kettlercise) & maybe swimming once a week only problem is I'm not keen on swimming though!

[alnapier Partner]

Welcome! Thanks for sharing your story and I am sorry to hear about the recent flare you had. OA can be due to inflammation which may make it seem similar to RA at times. Exercise DVDs are a great way to get that work out in at home. I am impressed with the type of programs you are going to try on DVD, those are no joke! You may also want to check out the Arthritis Foundation's website on exercises for arthritis for more ideas. Goodluck! arthritis.org/living-with-a...

[lowraind]

I have been exploring chair yoga sites online.

1. There are a lot of people on youtube doing sample lessons and you can even get some practice lessons for a low fee.

2. If there is a senior center near you they may also offer chair yoga.

3. Finally, many of the yoga places also offer chair yoga.

Find something you are comfortable with and stick with it. They tell you to only do what feels comfortable. I am finding that I do like this and it is helping me.

[celena_adams-locke Administrator OA Ambassador OA Action Member in reply to lowraind]

Great info, thanks for sharing.

[celena_adams-locke Administrator OA Ambassador OA Action Member]

Thank you for sharing Swenso, it looks like you are on the right track. Keep the momentum and check out the website that was mentioned earlier. I believe you will find some interesting and helpful tips you can use going forward. Good luck and keep us posted on your progress.