Arthritis Central

Hi everyone---I have osteoarthritis of the knees, and am trying physical therapy and holistic supplements. I know I also need to lose weight, but it's really hard!

My question is that I am an independent contractor who works at various sites. I have to carry a lot during my day, but I know that carrying all that stuff is not good for my knees. Can you suggest a handbag that doesn't weigh much, but holds a lot?

Part of my problem is that I think I need so much stuff. I can never tell what I will need at any given time. I also think I need to rethink my approach to stuff.

Has anyone found a solution that works?

Thanks.
Penny

Hi Penny and welcome to the board!  I'm not sure exactly how much you need to carry in your bag, but from your description it sounds like quite a lot.  Rethinking how much you need (as you suggested) would be one option.  Maybe there is a way to consolidate a number of necessities into something more compact.  Another suggestion would be what Nightangel noted -- a cart or some type of bag that rolls on wheels, kind of like you see at airports.  I did some searching and found one that I think might work for you and it's very reasonably priced too.  If you'd like to check it out, here's the link:  http://www.activeforever.com/p-1094-shop-n-go-portable-folding-shopping-cart.aspx.

Have you ever considered some sort of procedure, such as arthroscopic surgery or injections of Synvisc?  Is the physical therapy helping you?  Yes, shedding some pounds would be helpful but I know from experience that it can be very difficult.

I hope this has helped a little and please feel free to stop by anytime with questions or comments.  The ladies and men on this board are very supportive and helpful.

Molly
co-CL Arthritis Central

Thanks, everyone! I will definitely look into a cart. What sort of bag or backpack do most of you use just for everyday errands, etc.? I also need to carry supplies for other medical conditions, so just a small wallet won't work.

The physical therapy is helping somewhat, but it's discouraging. I know I should be walking more, but it's difficult to motivate myself to walk. Most of my friends work full time, and my hours are so irregular that it's difficult to find a walking partner.

Do any of you follow a particular diet or eating plan? Does this seem to help?

As far as further treatment, my doctor recommended against any surgery---he said I was too young. I have been reading about the injection, Synvisc, and I'll ask about it.

Again, many thanks. I'm just starting to reach out to get help, after being in denial for over a year, so any and all suggestions are most welcome.

Warmly,
Penny

Hi Penny!  It's great to see you again.  :)

I don't work outside the home, so I'm not out and about much but I carry a quite large handbag called The Sak.  It's squishy and has enough pockets to hold everything I need (which happens to include a tape measure and screwdriver LOL).  I think you'd probably classify it as a "messenger" bag.  Thinking about it, a backpack might be food for you as it distributes the weight of the bag more evenly, instead of one shoulder or the other.

I understand about motivation (or lack thereof) in getting in that exercise time.  I don't walk much as my feet and ankles are pretty bad, but I do have a recumbent bike that I use 3 times a week.  I'm telling you -- some days it's all I can do to get myself on it and pedal for a half hour or so.  One thing that jazzes me up is wearing my mp3 player that I have filled with songs that have a great beat and really get me going.  Have you maybe thought about joining a gym or the Y (if you have one nearby).  You might be able to find a partner that shares your schedule.

http://www.neversaydiet.com/  This link is to iVillage's site called Never Say Diet.  It's a very comprehensive site that covers just about anything you might want to know about healthful eating, exercise, body image, motivation.  I love this site and I think if you check it out, you'll find a tremendous amount of help there.

I am so glad you're reaching out now.  I believe we all go through a period of denial when confronted with a life-changing situation.  It takes time to come to terms with the changes that you need to make to keep functioning at your best level.  Now is that time.  Take good care and I hope to see you again soon here.  :)

Molly
co-CL Arthritis Central