How Does Psoriatic Arthritis Affect My Mobility?

Do you have days where your joints feel like they are ranging at war with you? This is how I feel some mornings when I am just trying to get out of bed.

For some reason, this is happening more frequently with me now. 

Every step is a challenge

On most days, I feel like I have to ask my body for permission to move. I feel like my joints are saying we are not letting you get out of bed today, and you better not try to reach for anything today. You only get one warning.

I remember many years ago having the energy to jump out of bed and face the day with a smile on my face. Not anymore. I now have to negotiate with myself first. 

Have you ever had to sweet-talk certain joints to cooperate with you? If I’m in a hurry, I better allow more time to get moving. Back in the day, I took walking for granted, and I didn’t realize how important each step I took was. At 65, I realize how important every step is and that it can be an adventure.

The sad thing is that the cracks in the sidewalk seem to be my own personal obstacle course, and going up hills is such a big struggle that leaves me sore and panting. Let’s not even talk about stairs. I would have never thought that climbing a set of steps would disagree with me, my mind is saying yes, but my knees disagree with me repeatedly.

I would have never thought in a million years that my closest friend would be a handrail to grip. But don’t get it twisted; I’m not out by a long shot. There is no way that I will ever give up this fight.

This is not in my DNA, not today. PsA is hard to deal with, as we all know.

Learning to listen to your body

I have learned to pay very close attention to my body. If I need a break, I take one. 

Over the years, I have enjoyed all my accomplishments, big or small. I’ve grown and understood when people talk about the power of self-pacing. You have to learn not to go too fast but not too sluggish, either.

There are days I have to slow down and give my aching joints a break. But, on other days, I will try to push myself. Trust me, your body will let you know if you overdo it.

Strength in community

I am a big advocate of support and feel our voices need to be heard. We are warriors. Most of us share our experiences, journeys, life tips, and triumphs.

I don’t know where I would be without my tribe. You are always there to cheer us on, no matter how many steps you take or how long it takes you to do it.

Recently, I have been having more bad days than good days. PsA has altered my mobility. There are days that I feel like I’m fighting just to get through the day.

It’s not always easy sailing. But guess what, my friends? Each step we take is a success.

Every time we can do any type of motion is a reason to rejoice. We are all in this together.