Lifestyle Habits That Support Psoriatic Arthritis and Osteoporosis
I was officially diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis over 25 years ago, though my painful joints can agree, the PsA present long before that. A bone density test recently revealed a new diagnosis, a new condition, osteoporosis. Here we go again!
Osteoporosis is a bone disease that develops when bone mineral density and bone mass decreases, or when the structure and strength of bone changes. This can lead to a decrease in bone strength that can increase the risk of fractures or broken bones.
Life with psoriatic arthritis & osteoporosis
Where did this new diagnosis come from? After a long conversation, my doctor shared that my long term use of medications could have attributed to my bone loss. I got my 1st diagnosis and treatment beginning in 1963 - all that time, my bone density was regressing.
Throughout my life, I've battled many different chronic conditions including psoriasis, endometriosis and fibromyalgia, among others. Because of this, I've learned how to pay attention to my body, arising symptoms, and assess my habits. Now with my diagnosis of osteoporosis, I'm committing to conducting another audit on all of it.
Lifestyle changes, habits and decisions can help.
During that long conversation with my doctor about bone density, we talked about lifestyle changes. So many doctors love to bring up lifestyle changes. I've made efforts over the year to change up my lifestyle decision, and they've almost always turned out for the good.
I will be sharing those habits with you today, maybe it works for you too, or even give you a slight motivation to bring some changes.
Healthy food, healthy body, right?
Eating habits - an first and important habit to take a look at it. You have to start somewhere. Swap a meal for a salad once a week and notice your energy changing. Add vegetables to your plate, fish, dried nuts, juices. Consider this when snacking too.
Movement is medicine!
I am 65 and take daily walks. No one is asking you to run a marathon or take a spin class, this is really about honoring your body and moving it. Do not put extra pressure on your joints if you can help it. Avoid stairs and stay on the same floor if that is what your body is calling for.
Stress management isn't so easy, but it is possible.
Stress makes our muscles stiffer and our lives feel haywire. Meditation helps me. A nice walk alone. Build your own stress management tool kit as one thing won't work all the time. Take care of your mental health.
Sleeping comfortably is not a luxury, it’s a necessity.
Make sure you create a space that relaxes your mind and helps you get a sound sleep. Keep the room dark and cozy, no mobile phones before sleeping. Doing an audit of your sleep routine. Consider your mattress comfort level. I use a medicated mattress specially designed for people with arthritis.
Make your home PsA friendly
I try to keep minimal furniture in my walking area to avoid any bumps with the corners of tables or chairs, especially with osteoporosis and PsA. I prefer to keep furniture with round corners just to protect my knees, legs, and toes.
Have anything to add?
This or That
Do you also find it painful to sit for extended periods of time?
Join the conversation