| If you can remember how to spell "Mickey" as in | | | | advantage of seeing the doctor and the physical |
| Mickey Mouse, you are probably just the right age | | | | therapist, you will have a plan tailored just for |
| to recognize "Arthritis". That little voice that has | | | | your specific needs. |
| been whispering to you lately, or even shouting at | | | | Physical therapy can map this gradual re-training |
| you, is your notice that it's time to take action | | | | of the over-used or misused joint. (PT can stand |
| before that nagging pain gets out of hand. | | | | for 'progressive training' instead of 'pain and |
| A trip to an orthopedic physician can be the first | | | | torture'. This depends on your outlook which is |
| step in your plan to reclaim an active life-style | | | | every bit as important as your rehab plan. |
| that you have no intention of giving up. You | | | | Aerobic activity can be incorporated, too, but in a |
| already know that dealing with stiff and sore | | | | gentle way. The most common, simple forms are |
| knees, an aching shoulder, a painful wrist from | | | | walking, swimming, or biking. Doctors are great |
| repetitive work motions, or some crippling back | | | | proponents of walking since they believe it not |
| pain, is a sure sign that you need more than | | | | only helps pain, but also triggers the endorphin |
| over-the-counter pain remedies have to offer | | | | effect and helps bones to maintain essential |
| you. | | | | calcium levels. Swimming or bicycling is often |
| You may have an idea that physical therapy is on | | | | suggested as a more gentle form of aerobics. |
| the horizon. Your friends who have been | | | | Remember to enlist a friend in your exercise |
| experiencing these same pains have warned you | | | | program because it really works better as a |
| that you may have to 'bite the bullet'. You may | | | | 'buddy' program. Keeping each other company |
| need to see the doctor. What an unpleasant | | | | builds camaraderie and commiseration, and |
| thought! | | | | reinforces your commitment to your plan. More |
| Before you take that step to see the Doc, you | | | | endorphins to spread around, too! |
| could try some very gentle exercise and | | | | Good luck with your new plan. You've listened to |
| stretching. But don't over do it! For ladies, Curves | | | | the little voice and taken positive action to have |
| seems to be a great program. By the way, I | | | | the life you want to live. You have tackled |
| think we need a Curves for gents. | | | | arthritis not a moment too soon. Congratulations, |
| However, after going to the doctor, you can gain | | | | and welcome to Boomer Rehab, you've earned |
| some ground by following an exercise program | | | | your 'Mouse ears'! |
| customized to your specific diagnosis. That is the | | | | |