Tuesday, April 30, 2013

Does Osteoarthritis Spread? Facts from Dr. Edward V. A. Lim, M.D.

The Arthritis Foundation website answers frequently asked questions and I found this really informative article which highlights answers from Dr. Edward V.A. Lim, M.D.

He explained that Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition most commonly found on weight-bearing joints, but it can also affect other smaller joints, like the hand.

It does not necessarily 'spread' but it can affect more than one joint at different times in different areas of the body.

Prevention of progression of osteoarthritis includes multiple stages.
  1. Losing weight, especially on weight-bearing joints
  2. Substitute motion exercises for heavy impact loading exercises
  3. Warm water exercises
  4. Ice for inflamed joints and heat for stiff joints
You cannot stop osteoarthritis or make it disappear, however you can control its symptoms and slow its progression to still love a functional and useful life with modified activity and correct exercise. Medications are also an important part of osteoarthritis and, in severe cases, controlling symptoms might include joint replacement or other surgical options to improve the quality of life.

For more information, you can visit www.thechristhospital.com/Ortho or check out the full article on The Arthritis Foundation Website at http://www.arthritis.org/ohio/ask-the-expert.php

Thursday, April 25, 2013

SO Honored to be the 2013 HONOREE for the Arthritis Foundation's Jingle Bell Run!

It was officially announced today that I have been selected as the Honoree for the 2013 Arthritis Foundation Jingle Bell Run in Charleston, WV on December 14th! 

I am so honored and humbled to be a part of the largest fundraiser in WV for arthritis. The work I do with the Arthritis Foundation truly is to support individuals and raise awareness for the over 523,000 people in our state affected today. I know that my story is one in a million of individuals who suffer, but I hope that I can truly make a difference and help others.


I also want to take a quick moment to thank the Arthritis Foundation of West Virginia, my family and friends for always being there to help make the pain not hurt so bad. Also, to my Hubby - thank you for always dealing with my sleepless nights and always being there to grab me a bag of peas. MOST IMPORTANTLY, I want to thank my Mom and Dad. They were the saving grace when we couldn't figure out what was wrong and found me a doctor at the University of Pittsburgh that finally made a diagnosis. I know it killed them to see their little girl in pain, but they never gave up until they had an answer to make me feel better. I am one blessed girl. :)



Arthritis is a PART of our lives...It does NOT control our lives!

Here is the email sent to our Board today! Thank you so much to the amazing West Virginia Arthritis Foundation!

Hi Julie –
Thanks so much for accepting the role as Adult Honoree for the 2013 Jingle Bell 5k Run/Walk-Charleston! In your role, you will help raise awareness and support the success of this December 14, 2013 event, the largest fundraiser for the fight against arthritis in West Virginia.

Through your blog, Reigning over Arthritis, and by using your pageant competition as a stage for discussing arthritis, you have demonstrated a commitment to raising awareness for the 523,000 people in West Virginia living with arthritis. You are serving as a role model for others of how to accept the challenge of living with arthritis by being proactive in your health management choices while continuing to serve your community. In this role, as Adult Honoree, you will motivate others to do the same and challenge  others to join the fight and help raise funds for the Arthritis Foundation.

As Adult Honoree, and a WV Face of Arthritis, you will be a part of the Jingle Bell Run (JBR) Committee and help promote the success of the event. Your “story” will be featured on the JBR race webpage and in promotional materials. Also, the JBR team you build will help set the standard for a  fun and successful event.

Thanks again for accepting this role!

Shannon

Smoking Can DOUBLE The Chance of Rheumatoid Arthritis in Females!

In case you needed another reason to stop smoking!

Check out the article below...even one cigarette a day can affect your chance of getting Rheumatoid Arthritis! Kick the habit to reduce your risk of an extremely painful and possibly disabled future!

Here are the details:


Tuesday, April 23, 2013

What Were YOU Doing at 3am?

Last night, I was awakened to severe pain in my right hand and wrist. 3am isn't a time to wake up to pain, especially with a busy day the next day.

Unfortunately, this is the harsh reality of individuals with arthritis. Arthritis doesn't ask when it's convenient to have a flare, and it certainly didn't care to limit the use of my right hand this morning when I needed to blow dry my hair this morning, either.

(Pause for reaction from every female reading this...arthritis makes it hard to fix my hair sometimes...this is a serious problem)

It was a big day, too! I had a ton of work with education in West Virginia this morning and THEN I got to go read for the Read Aloud WV show Book Nook!

So, after about 30 minutes of hoping the throbbing pain would go away or at least calm down, I got up and took a trip to the freezer to grab an ice pack. 

I think it's creepy that putting ice on a joint until it freezes is a 'sleep aid' of some sort, but...it seemed to do the trick last night. I somehow fell back asleep and woke up this morning feeling slightly better. It was a tough start to the day, but I'm feeling, let's say...75% now :) (Hence my ability to type this blog)

I know it's hard...but here's a little support and encouragement for anyone who might be having a hard day with pain! <3 <3

Representative McKinley Named Co-Chair of Bicameral Congressional Arthritis Caucus!


Representative David McKinley, R-W.Va., has been named the co-chair of the Bicameral Congressional Arthritis Caucus!

This caucus has a mission to serve as a clearinghouse for information about arthritis. It will work to raise awareness and educate members on how it affects their communities.

McKinley said, “It is an honor to be named co-chair of such an important caucus. This caucus will work in a bipartisan way to educate our fellow Members on why Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in this country, impacting millions of Americans.”

50 million Americans are living with Arthritis and it is a proud day for West Virginia for our Representative to be on board to support the cause!

See the full article here: http://www.wboy.com/story/22030666/wv-rep-mckinley-named-co-chair-of-arthritis-caucus

Monday, April 22, 2013

Fact: I Believe in Being Involved!

I am a firm believer in passion and involvement.

As an individual who works in higher education, but is very involved in the primary education level, as well, I encourage students to think about what they are passionate and what they think they can do to make a difference.

Why? Because, involvement builds character, it makes a difference and most importantly, it helps others.

So, not only do I work closely with the Arthritis Foundation, I also work with some other amazing organizations, as well.



This week, I am SO lucky to announce that I will be reading for Read Aloud West Virginia's awesome TV show, Book Nook! Today, I went to the book store and purchased some of my favorite childhood books. I am So excited to be a part of this program!

I'll make sure I post when I'll be aired! :)

Sunday, April 21, 2013

I AM The Face of Arthritis!

Loving my new shirt from The Arthritis Foundation!


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Location:US 35 N,Fraziers Bottom,United States

Friday, April 19, 2013

This Week!

It's been a busy week for this girl with my Leadership WV. I've been to an Air Force base, checked out C5 Galaxy planes, a toured and had a tasting at a distillery and had a great time at the Hollywood Casino seeing my first horse race! Today, it's meetings and presentations at American Public University in Charles Town! This girl is on-the-go, learning a ton and LOVING West Virginia!









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Tuesday, April 16, 2013

April is National Volunteer Month! Thank You, Arthritis Foundation Volunteers!

Arthritis Foundation volunteers spread the word every single day that arthritis is unacceptable! While some describe this disease as 'minor aches and pains' we know that...

arthritis is the nation's leading cause of disability with one in five Americans affected...that's 50 million people!

Here's a special shout-out to all of the volunteers for the Arthritis Foundation across America. From our e-advocates to ambassadors to event volunteers, you all make a difference. Thank you for taking our message all the way to Washington, D.C. to show that arthritis is a serious public health concern.

If you are interested in joining our e-advocates or ambassadors, join them by signing up at http://www.arthritis.org/advocacy. It’s easy. It’s fast. Sending emails when prompted by the Arthritis Foundation takes just a couple of minutes!

Monday, April 15, 2013

A True Tragedy Today: The Boston Marathon


Today, I write with a heavy heart.

The Boston Marathon…

Something we’ve all known about our whole lives. A race that America is proud of, that people train their whole lives to compete in…a race that now is attached to a great tragedy.

The visions of today’s explosions are terrifying. As are the reports that the bombs were filled with additional items outside of explosives like bullets, shrapnel, etc.

My famous question remains, “What in the world is wrong with people?”

I am so saddened for those affected by this awful tragedy, but I am going to follow the act of Patton Oswalt and try to look at a positive side. Look at all of the individuals running TOWARD the explosion in the videos and the photographs that have surfaced today.

His point: There may be an individual or a group of people who attempted…and succeeded…in ruining The Boston Marathon. Lives were ruined today and individuals were hurt and even killed. But, there are more of us who ARE the good of the world and who will continue fighting to better it. 

We can make a difference – keep faith, always remember the good and send your love and prayers to Boston. I know that’s what I am doing.

Sunday, April 14, 2013

Race Day for the Hubby!

I bet his joints will be more sore than mine tomorrow after a tough race!



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Saturday, April 13, 2013

New Shoes to Get Moving :)

Spring and sunshine means we can get moving outside! Find your motivation to get moving today! Mine is new shoes!


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Managing Your Arthritis - Carrying Items

I am a shopaholic and I won't try to hide it. Whether it’s holiday time or simply out for a little ‘Retail Therapy’ I enjoy heading out to purchase new items.

However, after being diagnosed with arthritis, I noticed that shopping became more difficult for me solely because of carrying bags or packages. Whether I’m at the mall for a clothing shopping trip or even at the grocery store, I struggle when I have to carry multiple items.

The book, Tips for Good Living with Arthritis by The Arthritis Foundation gives a great list of tips and tricks to help carrying items easier on individuals with arthritis. Here are a few of the ones that I thought were really great:
·         Try not to carry too many items with you as you walk.
  •         Limit what you’re carrying to only necessities when you know you’ll be out walking and carrying things.
  • ·         If you’re carrying a bundle, hold it in your arms with your arms wrapped around it and use bend your    knees to lower the bundle into your car or trunk.
  • ·         When carrying a purse, don’t grab it by the handle and let it hang from your fingers. A bag with a   shoulder strap is a better fit for individuals with arthritis rather than a clutch or short-handled style.
  • ·         If you are out shopping for a large quantity, take someone with you who can help carry the items and always remember that you can take items to your car, take a break and go back in to finish shopping

    Here is a funny photo of the back of my car after a little shopping trip with two of my best friends :)

Thursday, April 11, 2013

Wednesday, April 10, 2013

Veteran's Hospital in WV...what a view!

Beautiful shot at the Veteran's Hospital. I had a great time visiting with my PawPaw!!


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You CAN Fight Arthritis Pain with Self-Management!

An unhealthy lifestyle and unhealthy habits can escalate your arthritis and lead to disability, but this doesn't have to happen!

About a generation ago, most people assumed that disability was inevitable, but that assumption isn't true.

You must take an active role in managing your lifestyle and daily activities!

Successful arthritis patients are ones who take control of their own care. They engage their physicians and communicate about their care, adopt good-living strategies and have a healthy diet with regular exercise and stretching. They protect their joints from damage by modifying activities or adapting their home and work surroundings, too.

Whether you have minor, moderate or severe arthritis or joint damage, taking an active role in management of your pain is the first step to battling pain, stiffness and immobility. Take control of your care!


Facts for this blog were resourced from the Arthritis Foundation book Tips for Good Living with Arthritis

Tuesday, April 9, 2013

Uncovering Arthritis Myths: Arthritis is Not a Serious Health Problem

False! The various forms of arthritis and rheumatic diseases, as a whole, comprise the most common chronic health condition in the United States. It affects about one in every six people! 

In the older population, arthritis and related diseases are even more common.

Also, arthritis is the leading cause of disability!

The impact of it on the economy is huge. By some estimates, costs associated with the disease amount to $128 billion a year. These costs are developed from direct medical costs like fees for physicians and other healthcare professionals or laboratory testing, indirect costs like individuals losing work because of the disease and intangible costs like travel expenses for medical care or costs incurred when a spouse must leave their job to care for a person with arthritis.

So, if you think arthritis isn't a serious problem, you're seriously wrong! Whether it's for patients, caretakers, or even the economy, arthritis is affecting a variety of issues and it's time for us to take a stand.



This information was resourced from the Arthritis Foundation Book Tips for Good Living with Arthritis

Monday, April 8, 2013

Uncovering Arthritis Myths: Arthritis Is Just Another Term for Aches & Pains as you Grow Older

While arthritis is more prevalent as people get older, it can develop at any age. Very young children get arthritis, called Juvenile Arthritis and some elderly never develop the disease.

Arthritis is a complex disease and it can cause serious pain and joint damage. Some forms can be stable without specific medical treatment but others, like Rheumatoid Arthritis can be debilitating.

I believed the myth that arthritis was just pain in older individuals until I had the awakening of what it truly does to joints when I was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis at 22 years old. I will admit that the process from realizing you have severe pain to finding out that you have arthritis is all very scary but the best thing to do is find a Rheumatologist who you feel comfortable with and start treatment as early as possible! Thanks to the great folks at the University of Pittsburgh and my Rheumatologist, Dr. Suzanne Gharib in Charleston, WV where I live now, I live a pretty comfortable life!

Several of the facts included in this article were resourced from a book by The Arthritis Foundation, "Tips for Good Living with Arthritis"

You Can Help! FREE Online Training Workshop for Arthritis Foundation Walk With Ease Program


You Can Help!
The Arthritis Foundation is offering a free on-line training workshop for the Arthritis Foundation Walk with Ease Program and it is free to West Virginia residents!

This program is a high-quality arthritis exercise program that can reduce pain and improve overall health. The program increases balance and strength and builds confidence in individuals with arthritis.

Thanks to the Osteoporosis / Arthritis Program and WV Bureau for Public Health, WV residents can train to become a certified instructor for this program. A current CPR is required.

For more information, call or email 513.399.8093 or mstjohn@arthritis.org

This is your chance to help individuals with arthritis in our state. Let’s get moving…and let’s help others!

Arthritis Foundation Walk With Ease Program To Begin April 29 in Mingo County!


A special thanks to the committed organizations and citizens in Mingo County for pairing with the Arthritis Foundation and the Walk With Ease program!

Six locations in Mingo County are hosting the program and will offer support, information and tools to help participants develop successful exercise routines. The groups will be led by a certified leader at the following locations:

• Victory Christian Church;
• Little Dove United Baptist Church;
• Harry L Joyce Senior Center;
• Harry White Senior Citizens Center;
• Delbarton Area Senior Citizens Center;
• Mary E. Brown Senior Citizens Center.

Individuals who choose to participate will learn proper stretching and pain management techniques. They will also build their stamina and walking pace during the program. The program can be modified to meet needs of individual participates, so each person can develop a routine to meet their personal goals!
This is such a great program and I am so thrilled to see such an active beginning in Mingo County! Here’s a chance to GET MOVING!

Here’s the full article from The Williamson Daily News: The Williamson Daily News - Walk With Ease to be offered in Mingo County


Saturday, April 6, 2013

Get Moving!

It is a beautiful, sunny day in WV. After a few weeks off from the gym, I started back on Monday with my trainer. 3 solid lifts this week and cardio on the off days has led to a very sore girl! I am planning on getting out and enjoying this beautiful day with a nice run on our trails. Hopefully, it helps loosen up these sore muscles, too!




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Thursday, April 4, 2013

Working Out With Arthritis - Choosing a Personal Trainer

Every body is different, so it is always important to remember that when you start thinking about working out with arthritis. The number one, most important tip anyone can give an individual with arthritis:
LISTEN TO YOUR BODY.

I have found that I work out better with a trainer. It is definitely motivation when you have someone pushing you, but it's also a great idea because you can do controlled lifts with the correct form. Plus, if something hurts, they can always substitute or modify the exercise for you.

My trainer Lyndsey and I have a great relationship - she has created exercise programs just for me that target different areas of my body,  but don't put too much stress on individual joints, either. 

When you are looking for a personal trainer or starting with one, here are some easy tips:
  1. Be OPEN and HONEST! Notify a potential new trainer that you have arthritis and that some exercises might be too hard on specific joints. 
  2. ASK about your workouts. Can they change them if you are having trouble with a specific joint one day? Can they create workouts for you that work best for your body and your arthritis? Do they have a good balance of exercises, cardio and nutrition planning?
  3. Find out if they have any history working with patients with arthritis. If they do, they might already have some great ideas...if not, just make sure you feel comfortable communicating with the trainer and can let them know when it's too much.
  4. Don't follow the No Pain No Gain method. Sure, you'll be sore...but make sure your sore muscles aren't aching joints. If there are specific exercises or workouts that cause you to have flares, make sure you tell your trainer immediately so they can make modifications.
  5. A modified workout doesn't mean it is a bad workout! Staying active and building your strength will get results, it just might take some time to get used to it all. Stick with it, get strong and help those joints feel better!

Monday, April 1, 2013

"Can I Make You Feel Better with a Bag of Peas?" Arthritis From a Spouse's Point of View

Tonight, I asked my husband what his first thoughts were when he found out I had arthritis.

His response: "I wondered if you were going to be able to walk when you're 80."

Spouses of individuals with arthritis see the pain their loved ones go through first-hand. I know I have kept mine up during the night on many occasions because of severe pain. It took awhile for him to understand what I was going through, but he has really come a long way. 

"When you hurt like that, I just want to know how to help or how I can make you feel better," he said. "Usually it means I'll get up to go get a bag of peas."

I'm sure this is how most spouses and family members feel when they have a loved one with arthritis. (Especially parents and kids...but that's for a whole different blog entry)

So, today I decided to list a few things that help my Hubby and I when I am in pain. Maybe it will help you, too!

  1. Communicate! I start telling LW when my joints are sore early - this way, he knows.
  2. Once I let him know that my joints hurt, I make sure I decrease my activity with the specific joint that is hurting.He handles anything that requires a lot of movement if I can't.
  3. Easing my pain - Ice is the best method for my aching joints, so I make sure I have it handy. If LW knows I am in pain, he gets up and gets it for me which always helps make me feel better.
  4. Support. The most important part of a flare is knowing your loved ones are there. Usually, there isn't much they can do, but just knowing they are there and willing to help means the world to someone when they are in pain. :)

Kudos to all of our loved ones for being the support we need to get through the pain! 
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