About This Column
Here you'll find advice on how to take a more comprehensive approach toward managing your rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Keep in mind, this column is intended to advise you on how to complement your treatment, not replace it. Please consult your doctor to determine what advice may be right for you.
Featured Article
Exercising in the Kitchen
Mar 4, 2009
As you may have read in previous articles, staying active is an important part of living a healthy life with RA. But when the winter weather rolls in, you may be cooped up inside more than you would like. And that can make it harder for you to get your daily dose of fresh air and exercise.
I have a great idea—whip up a big pot of homemade chicken soup or your favorite cold-weather comfort food. Not only will it taste delicious, but it will also help you stay active. And while you're waiting for a pot to boil or the oven to heat up, you can try the two exercises below. Just remember to consult your rheumatologist first about the level and type of activity that's appropriate for you. It's also important to listen to your body and only do what you feel comfortable with.
Leg Exercise: Kitchen Counter Squats This exercise is an efficient way to strengthen your thighs.
Step 1: Place your feet apart, legs directly under your hips, hands holding onto the countertop.
Step 2: Bend your knees, keeping your back straight with good posture. Then, squat down as far as you are comfortable going.
Step 3: Come up back up and straighten your legs. Repeat 10 times, and breathe in and out with each squat.
Step 4: Rest and repeat steps 1-3. (Remember that these are only guidelines. You can start with fewer repetitions and work your way up if you need to.)
Arm Exercise: Kitchen Counter Push-ups These simple push-ups will help strengthen your arms.
Step 1: Place your hands apart on the edge of the kitchen counter. Walk your feet back about 3 feet away from the counter.
Step 2: Bend your elbows into a push-up position and bring your chest toward the counter.
Step 3: Push your body away from the counter and straighten your arms. Repeat 10 times.
Step 4: Rest and repeat steps 1-3 ten more times. (Again, these are helpful guidelines, but do what makes sense for you.)
As you cook and exercise, take multiple breaks by the toasty stove, smelling the delicious aromas that fill your home. What a nice way to stay active if you can't be outdoors.
Managing Pain and Stress
