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Getting in Shape

Exercising with chronic pain?

I'd like to get in better shape, but I have a condition that causes chronic pain and every time I try I can't get very far before the pain makes me stop (walking, biking, running, yoga, etc). Just working drains me and the pain and fatigue can leave me bedridden. Trying to work out will normally last not very long and leave me useless for the rest of the day.

Does anyone else have chronic pain? How do you manage to exercise and keep in shape?
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Re: Exercising with chronic pain?

  • Have you tried swimming?

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  • I was also going to suggest swimming. Have you spoken with your doctor about your options? It's possible he or she might have a couple ideas for you.
  • I have had two back surgeries and have arithritis in hips, kness, and toes. It is a very fine balance for me between not working out enough (makes it worse) and working out too much also makes it bad. I have gone through years of physical therapy and personal trainers. Don't know what your condition is, but I can relate. Like what others said above swimming is usually a good, low impact workout. Starting in small increments (I started with just 15 minutes and worked my way up to my goal) helps too. Also working out in small increments throughout the day so it isn't too much at once. However, before any of this I would check with your doctor and see what s/he says.
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  • I'd love to try swimming, but I just don't have access to a pool right now. :(
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  • I am going to send you a PM. I have a lot of pain, and I run endurance events. No the pain is not from the exercise its from a chronic disease. 

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  • I have chronic pain and chronic fatigue. The biggest thing that has helped me was changing my diet. I know it doesn't seem like it would help but cutting out things like grains (breads, pasta, anything that has a grain in it) and dairies actually cuts down on your bodies inflammation. In a lot of cases, pain is caused by inflammation so cutting it down definitely helps. Also, add fish oil into your diet and eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. This helps with inflammation and pain too.
    Look into the Paleo diet on google. Read about it. It is absolutely amazing and has changed my life. I used to be so sick I couldn't do much without having to go back to bed for the rest of the day. Now, I work at a gym where I work out three times a week in a crossfit class. If you havne't heard of crossfit, it is pretty intense.
    Lastly, listen to your body. Exercise when you feel good. If at any point you start to feel that fatigue coming back on, take a break and when you can start out again.
    Nobody says working out in 5 minute intervals throughout the day is bad. Do what you can, when you can. Aim at getting in 30 minutes a day. Even if it's just a small brisk walk. Try and get moving. That's all you can do.

    And trust me about the diet. It works wonders.

    Mandy
  • Oh and I do have fibromyalgia. Just to be clear. I never specifically mentioned that.

    Mandy
  • edited September 2012
    I have lupus and fibro. I work out 3-5 days a week. Sometimes it leaves me so tired and so sore that just thinking about  going back to the gym exhausts me. I can 100% relate to what you are feeling. From what my dr told me cardio is your best freind weights are not.

    ME on the other hand, I started running a yr ago only to find out I have a small hole in my heart. So running is out of the question for a while. I do lift weights and it leaves me sore. But I cope. Warm epsom salt baths and warming blankets are my best friend :) i sleep with my heating pad. Dr doesnt reccomend it but I do.

    Do you take meds?

    msg me anytime
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