Things I Use Everyday for RA
Living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is challenging, but in dealing with this disease I’ve found some aids that I use (almost) every day that make a big difference in my comfort level.
Comfortable slippers for RA
Mornings are notorious among people with RA. One of the most common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, morning stiffness can make the start of the day incredibly difficult. Keeping my comfy slippers right next to my bed makes stepping out of it a little easier. I have significant swelling and some disfiguration in my feet, requiring all the shock absorption I can get. Even walking to the bathroom in my bedroom in bare feet is painful, so my slippers are indispensable. I put them on first thing in the morning and again as soon as I get home from work. A “creature comfort” for some, slippers are a prerequisite for any level of comfort when I’m at home.
Office chair upgrade with RA
I have a desk job, which might seem ideal for a person with RA. However, I’ve been surprised at how hard it is on my body to sit all day. Over the years I’ve found that a “stability disc” or “air cushion” on my office chair makes a big difference for my hips. It prevents me from sitting in the exact same position all day, and encourages subtle movements in my hips, which helps prevent them from locking up. While doing hip circles during bathroom breaks is still essential to getting through a day without a lot hip pain, my air cushion has become essential. Fabric covers are available, and at one point I had one, but over the years comfort has outweighed self-consciousness.

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