For 33 years I have dealt with this horrible disorder.
In the beginning, they said it was growing pains, even though I was at my full height. Then, in the early eighties, my doctor said it was because I was too tense and needed to relax. It wasn't until the early nineties that I got a diagnosis of Fibromyalgia. My Family doctor referred me to a Rheumatologist who did a series of tests and gave me the news.
I was relieved and disappointed at the same time. It's always good to know what is causing your symptoms but at the time I felt like my life was over. Eventually, I came to terms with the fact that my life was, in fact, not over.
I did reach a point where I was on some pretty strong medications and walked with a cane. I found that reducing my stress and increasing my movement was the best prescription. Quitting my job as a social worker in 2004 gave me the stress relief I needed.
Tai Chai in a sitting position was all I was able to do in the beginning, but eventually I worked myself up to standing and being a full participant.
Later, I purchased a treadmill. At first I wasn't able to walk very fast or very far but I've worked myself up to 3 miles, 3 times a week and feel really good.
I think with any arthritis, movement is very important even though somedays we don't feel well. :0)
