Tips and Tricks: What are the ways you have learned to work around the physical difficulties and limitations of your autoimmune condition. #RABlog
I think it is my stubborn streak (or possibly stupidity) that prevents me from buying any gadgets that are intended to make life with RA easier. It is silly I know, but by refusing to accept them into my life, I somehow feel like I have taken a stand against RA. But, if I am honest, I have learned many tricks to work around my limitations.
Scissors: Sometimes I feel like a scissor junkie because I keep them in my car, in every school bag, in the kitchen, on my desk...everywhere. My right hand hasn't fully functioned in years and I often can't open packages. There is nothing worse than trying to open a chocolate bar and your hands won't let you do it!
Family: With my kids growing up and not being around the house as often, I realize they have been one of my tricks for years. More often than not they help open jars, cans, bags, etc. If my husband is about to leave before I start cooking, I tend to have him open jars before heading out. I have had more than a few panic attacks when I realized I am home alone and there is nobody to open jars for me.
Shoes: I am on my feet a lot as a teacher. I have had nights that I stood behind my desk the entire night because I couldn't wear my shoes any longer. Over the years, I have invested in shoes that work for my feet. They aren't the most attractive, but my feet are happy with me. Brands I have had the most success with are Dansko and Keen. For shorter periods, I like Vans. Also, I try to keep my feet cool. When they overheat, they swell. I wear light socks that don't snug my feet too tightly.
I am sure there are other tips and tricks I use, but I am interested, what tips and tricks do you use?
I am sure there are other tips and tricks I use, but I am interested, what tips and tricks do you use?
Cathy, I also dislike gadgets. Except I use a grip pad to remove jar lids. I think I keep it around because I had it pre RA. Oh and I guess bicycle pedal extenders are useful as well. With the semi clubfoot I need those to be able to ride my bicycle. Hmm it looks like I have more of these than I every thought.
ReplyDeleteGreat tips, Cathy. Your section about scissors made me think about how, when I was a girl of about 9 or 10, we all carried around a pocket knife. Nobody killed anyone with it and I never knew of anyone who got injured. But boy, would that be handy now...
ReplyDeleteYou - a penknife. Me - a dime for the phone - yes, that's telling!
DeleteNow, I have a little box cutter in my purse.
All the men in my family had pocket knives growing up. When you went to open a box, they all came out. The only one that got hurt was me. I was five years old and tried to open it in the back seat of the car.
DeleteI wasn't into gadgets for a while either. However, my electric can opener and t-shaped peeler help me tremendously in the kitchen. I also keep lightweight gloves in my car year round. My compression gloves and wrist wraps allow me to continue my yoga practice, so they're always in my yoga bag.
ReplyDeleteOooh...I do use compression gloves. They are so nice.
DeleteI used to teach too. Shoes are definitely the most important part of surviving life. I used to keep pairs of different types in my closet so I could switch whenever my feet needed a break. I also got permission to teach in my socks.
ReplyDeleteTeaching in your socks sounds perfect. I've thought about wearing slippers a few times. ☺️
DeleteI used to wear runners when I taught. It sure tops up an outfit, or should I say bottoms out an outfit!
ReplyDeleteI'm so thankful that today's footwear is more forgiving (and attractive).
Dansko shoes have given me the support I need. I haven't tried the Keen brand, but appreciate the suggestion. I'm always looking for a comfortable, supportive shoe. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteI have three pairs of Danskos now. The ones I wear the most are over 10 years old. Pricey to buy, but worth it!
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