Green Thumbs Without Sore Joints Monday, March 1, 2004 Green ThumbsWithout Sore Joints (NAPSA)—Manypeople relish a muddy workout among the marigolds and hyacinths. Some turn to gardening as a form of exercise and emotional peace. However, for many of the two million Americans who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis (RA), bending, stretching and gripping gardening tools can be painful. RA is a progressive autoimmune disease that causes swelling and stiffening in the joints of the hands, feet and wrists. It strikes mostly women between the ages of 40 and 70 and can destroy the joints, gradually disabling sufferers. People with RA do not have to give up gardening; they simply need to adapt their pastime to meet the challengesof their condition. According to the Arthritis Foundation, gardening can be therapeutic, helping to combat the symptoms of RA by improving bone strength and density and helping to maintain joint flexibility and range of motion. With a few simple modifications, RA patients can continue to enjoy their gardens. Begin with the right tools Some movements made while gardening can aggravate symptoms of RA or even make them worse. Before you begin gardening, consult your doctor or physical therapist about any precautions you should take. An occupational therapist can help advise you soil, mulch or fertilizer. Mapping out your garden The Arthritis Foundation recommends the following tips for gardeners who suffer from RA: * Plant shrubs or perennial flowers that require little care to minimize planting and pruning. * Position your garden ina way that makes your tasks easier and conserves your energy. about special aids or adaptive tools, such as devices to keep your arm straight and protect your joints while you weed and hoe. “If arthritis affects your knees, use tools with extensions so you avoid bending,” says Dr. Joan Rogers, professor of occupational therapy at the University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pa. “If you’re trying to reduce wear and tear on your wrists and arms, use tools with slight extensions and soft, enlarged, non-slip handle grips to protect joints from excessive pressure.” Gardening & Arthritis, a brochure developed by the Arthritis Foundation with support from Abbott Immunology, suggests avoiding lifting by carrying tools, bulbs or plants in a wagon or cart and using a dolly to move bagsof * Arrange your garden near a water source so you do not have to carry watering cans or hoses. * If you enjoy flower gardening but cannot sit on the ground, try planting flowers in window-box containers or clay pots that sit outside your house. * Garden at a level that is comfortable and will not cause additional stress on yourjoints. Movein theright direction Knowing when to rest and when to exercise is critical for RA patients. “Pacing is really important,” Rogers says. “And when you are out in the garden, avoid repetitive activity. Vary your tasks so your hands and feet are not repeating the same motion for long periodsof time,” she adds. By following these basic tips, people with RA can continue to enjoy gardening and also other everyday activities. For a free copy of the brochure Gardening & Arthritis, contact the Arthritis Foundation at 800-2837800 or www.arthritis.org. --- PHOTOS --- File: 20190801-003659-20190801-003657-60378.pdf.jpg --- FILES --- File: 20190801-003657-60378.pdf