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Hello and welcome to my blog! I’m Laura Lynn Morrissey, founder of SilverSavvy. As a certified aging specialist with the International Sports Science Association (ISSA), I am dedicated to helping mature adults lead active and fulfilling lives—especially those living with arthritis. My journey with arthritis has been a personal one, and I’ve learned a lot along the way. I previously owned a successful homecare agency, where I developed care plans for clients with arthritis, enabling them to live more fully and independently. Today, I want to share my story and insights to help others navigate life with arthritis.
In 1988, I suffered a significant injury that damaged five vertebrae in my back, leading to months encased in a brace and enduring extensive therapy. Fast forward to 2022, at 57 years old, I was diagnosed with osteoarthritis in my lower back. My response? I refused to let this diagnosis limit me. Instead, I have continued to maintain an active lifestyle that not only manages my condition but boosts my vitality. And there’s solid science backing this approach. Don’t let arthritis define your life. As a functional aging specialist, I use my expertise to develop routines that enhance strength, maintain mobility, and control symptoms, providing deep insights into thriving in later life—way beyond the usual approaches like chair yoga. I’m living proof that it works.
A Specialist’s Take on Staying Active with Arthritis
My professional background in functional aging equips me with the tools to create effective, personalized exercise routines that promote flexibility, strength, and mobility. Here’s how I integrate my knowledge into daily practices:
- Strength Training: Integrating strength training into your routine is crucial for supporting affected joints and reducing pain. It enhances muscle strength around the joints, which can decrease the burden on them.
- Hiking and Gardening: These activities not only keep me physically active but also ensure that I engage with the environment, which is mentally refreshing and motivating.
- Diverse Exercise Options: Contrary to popular belief, many individuals with arthritis can safely engage in a variety of exercises. Properly supervised activities like weight lifting are beneficial even for those in their 80s.
Unpacking Arthritis Myths: The Truth About Staying Active
Arthritis often comes with misconceptions that can deter individuals from pursuing an active lifestyle. It’s crucial to challenge these myths with solid facts so that those affected can understand the true benefits of exercise and activity. Let’s clear up some common misunderstandings and explore how staying active can significantly improve the quality of life for those of us with arthritis.
Myth: I Am Afraid I Will Become Sedentary
Reality: Incorporating moderate, tailored exercises can significantly enhance joint function and reduce stiffness.
Deeper Dive: Contrary to the widespread belief that arthritis inevitably leads to a sedentary lifestyle, engaging in regular physical activity is essential for managing arthritis effectively. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), maintaining an active routine not only helps in reducing pain but also in preserving joint mobility. Suitable activities include walking, swimming, and cycling, which are particularly gentle on the joints.
Myth: I can no longer do high intensity exercise
Reality: Properly adjusted high-intensity exercises, including moderate weight training, are both safe and beneficial. They can improve pain levels and functional abilities.
Deeper Dive: Research supports that people with arthritis can safely engage in high-intensity activities, especially when tailored to individual needs. Studies highlighted by the American Journal of Sports Medicine reveal that strength training can decrease pain and enhance physical function in arthritis patients. The approach involves adapting exercise intensity gradually under professional guidance.
Myth: Exercise Will Hurt Too Much And Make My Arthritis Worse
Reality: Consistent and appropriate physical activity is crucial for effectively managing arthritis symptoms.
Deeper Dive: Modern research disproves the notion that exercise worsens arthritis symptoms. In fact, the Arthritis Foundation advocates exercise as the most effective non-drug method for reducing arthritis pain and improving movement. Yoga, Pilates, and light resistance training can maintain flexibility and joint function, thus counteracting the stiffness associated with arthritis.
Myth: I Won’t Be Able To Garden With Arthritis
Reality: Gardening can be modified into a gentle yet effective activity to maintain flexibility and reduce stress.
Deeper Dive: While gardening may seem demanding, it can actually serve as a therapeutic physical activity for individuals with arthritis. Utilizing raised beds and ergonomic gardening tools can minimize strain. Engaging in gardening helps strengthen joints, maintain flexibility, and reduce stress, making it a beneficial activity for arthritis management.
Myth: Chair Yoga is the Only Safe Exercise For Me
Reality: Older adults with arthritis can safely engage in a variety of dynamic activities, tailored to their health needs and capabilities, including resistance training.
Deeper Dive: Chair yoga is excellent for mobility and joint health, yet it’s not the sole exercise option for older adults. Activities like tai chi, resistance training, and even dance can be adapted to meet the needs of those with arthritis. Research from the National Institutes of Health highlights the benefits of maintaining a diverse exercise regimen that includes strength, flexibility, and aerobic workouts to improve overall mobility and muscle strength.
My Go-To Products for Managing My Arthritis
Here are some of the tools that I use daily to manage my arthritis pain and stay active. These are not just aids; they are part of my daily ritual to ensure I live a full and pain-managed life.
- Ergonomic Gardening Tools: Gardening should not be a source of pain. With this Heavy Duty Garden Tool Set, I can enjoy my gardening without the strain.
- Microwave Safe Therapy Mittens: Post-activity or during flare-ups, these Therapy Mittens with Flax Seeds provide soothing heat that eases joint stiffness and pain, aiding in recovery and relaxation.
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To You Aging Well,
Founder | SilverSavvy