Spring cleaning can be a huge undertaking for most of us, but can especially be a challenge when you’re living with arthritis or chronic pain. A stiff or painful neck, back, shoulder, wrists, knees, or hands can make even the simplest daily activities difficult for people with various forms of arthritis. It may be a … Continue reading
Tag Archives: Spoonie
The Big Debate: Medical Marijuana for Arthritis and Chronic Pain – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
The medical use of marijuana has been a hotly debated and highly politicized topic in recent years. In many circles, it is touted for naturally alleviating symptoms of a variety of medical conditions including, but not limited to, arthritis and chronic pain. In other circles, it is frowned upon as a gateway drug that is … Continue reading
Holiday Gift Ideas for Arthritis Patients – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
The holiday season is here, and it is the time for giving gifts, and letting loved ones around us know how much they mean to us. So, if someone special in your life is affected by arthritis or chronic pain, what are some good gift ideas to give them? Here are some tips and suggestions: … Continue reading
Setting Goals while Living with Chronic Illness – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
As the new year approaches, many of us will make resolutions, but, it is important to always have goals in mind all year ’round. Goal setting may seem like an insurmountable task when faced with chronic illness, but, having goals is a great way to cope with your illness. Remember that it is never too … Continue reading
All About Inflammation – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
Inflammation plays a huge role in rheumatic ailments such as arthritis…but what, exactly, is inflammation? According to Medical News today, “Inflammation is part of the body’s immune response. Inflammation is the body’s attempt at self-protection; the aim being to remove harmful stimuli, including damaged cells, irritants, or pathogens – and begin the healing process. When something … Continue reading
Ways to Make Life Easier While Living with Arthritis – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
Living with arthritis or any other chronic illness or disability isn’t easy, but here are some tips to make life just a little bit easier! Ask for help – in any way, shape, or form, when necessary. Make meal prep a family affair – you’ll get quality bonding time and have extra assistance in the … Continue reading
Yoga for Arthritis: You Can Do It! – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
Yoga can be a great way for arthritis patients to get exercise and to increase joint strength and flexibility. It seems intimidating to many, but the truth is, there are many options and adaptations that can be made for yoga-doers with any type of physical limitation. One option is chair yoga, which some fitness centers … Continue reading
Positive vs. Negative: The Image of Arthritis – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
Undoubtedly, when one thinks of arthritis or rheumatic illness, not many “good” images come to mind. Chronic illness, disabilities, pain – these aren’t “positive” things. So, there becomes a real frustration – and a real disconnect – for many patients who see commercials for arthritis drugs that feature smiling, seemingly healthy and pain-free individuals who … Continue reading
Health and Wellness Coaches for Arthritis – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
Wellness counselors and health coaches are one of the most popular and fastest-growing segments of the healthcare culture. As a patient with chronic illness who has tried everything, they may seem like just another hopeless box to check off of your seemingly never-ending list. As long as your doctor doesn’t object, though, working with a … Continue reading
Are You the Face of Arthritis? – by Ashley Boynes-Shuck
What does arthritis “look like?” Check out this new initiative from the Arthritis Foundation, “Faces of Arthritis.” Go blue for World Arthritis Day by purchasing this shirt to show that arthritis has MANY looks, and then share your photo and your story to show the world what “arthritis looks like!” I’ll be posting more … Continue reading