I received my arthritis from my mother, who also has osteoarthritis. I was diagnosed in my early 20's with arthritis in my feet, so I have had this condition for over 20 years. My mother had one surgery per foot when she was middle aged, and she sometimes has knuckle pain as well. I am trying to avoid surgery so I don't wear high heels often, I eat as well as I can (but not perfectly), and I take a daily dose of gloucosamine sulfate.
My pain is controlled pretty much, but I get some pain occasionally on damp or cold days in the balls of my feet and sometimes in my knuckles, especially if I have been using my hands a lot, like when pulling tough weeds in the garden. I am in much better shape than my mother was at my age, but I want to continue to keep the progression of the disease down.
I don't think I could do all that Cayce has suggested. I like massages, but I am too private a person to feel comfortable going to a stranger for this service. I'd prefer a partner to help with that, but right now I live alone, so massages will have to wait. I could do a little better with my diet, but I know I won't totally give up sugar, fats, beef, or an occasional alcoholic beverage. I am not excessive with any of these, but I like my indulgences now and then. I try to exercise by walking briskly on a treadmill most of the week for at least 30 minutes if I am not walking outdoors.
If there are tips for keeping symptoms at bay through other means, I'd love to hear them.
