Arthritis Life

Dr. Ma advises people with rheumatoid arthritis to start small, listen to their body, and use her "START" guide to gradually build an active routine that feels right for you. She also explains how the START guide is a useful tool for clinicians like physiotherapists and occupational therapists to support patients in developing sustainable strength training routines.Dr. Ma  also shares her favorite mantra, "control the controllables and enjoy the enjoyables," which is a great reminder to focus on what you can manage and find joy in the little things. Plus, Cheryl and Dr. Ma dive into how having a supportive community—whether it’s big or just a few people—can make a huge difference in thriving with RA! Episode Themes:Physical Activity with RA: Dr. Ma shares how you should listen to your body’s needs and pace yourself to avoid overexertion. Physical activity is more than exercise; it’s about reducing sedentary time and increasing daily activity.Kinesiologist’s Approach to Movement: Using the 24-Hour Movement Guidelines, Dr. Ma talks about the balance of physical activity, sleep, and reducing sedentary behavior, all while accounting for the challenges posed by RA.The Importance of Community: Cheryl and Dr. Ma discuss how community is key for thriving with RA, but it looks different for everyone. Whether it’s a large group, one-on-one support, or reaching out to a healthcare professional, connection makes a difference.Inspirational Mantra: Dr. Ma shares her favorite saying: "Control the controllables and enjoy the enjoyables." Focus on what you can manage and find joy in the present moment.Empowering Mindset: Cheryl and Dr. Ma discuss how RA management is about becoming your own scientist and finding what works best for you.Mental Shift on Exercise: Cheryl and Dr. Ma explore the idea of reframing exercise as something empowering, rather than just a necessity, and how staying active can contribute to feeling more in control of your health.Medical disclaimer: All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.For full episode details include a transcript and video:Go to the episode page on the Arthritis Life Website. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Through his experiences, Dr. Kaleb offers practical advice on navigating life with rheumatoid arthritis, focusing on self-management strategies like getting enough rest and using ergonomic tools.He and Cheryl also dive into pain management, discussing evolving research on the potential benefits of cannabis. Dr. Kaleb’s personal insights into balancing work and life offer hope for finding purpose and joy despite the challenges of living with arthritis. Together, they emphasize the importance of living meaningfully through activities like board games, time with family, and staying connected to a supportive community.Episode Themes:Personal Experiences and Resilience: Dr. Kaleb’s shares his personal journey with juvenile idiopathic arthritis, from diagnosis at age 3 to today.  Self-Management & Lifestyle: Cheryl & Dr. Kaleb discuss strategies for managing physical pain through ergonomic tools, proper footwear, and weight management.Importance of Sleep: The critical role of good sleep in managing chronic illness, including the impact of sleep apnea and the benefits of CPAP therapy.Managing a dual role of patient and researcher: Dr. Kaleb reflects on his decision to “go public” with his diagnosis of JIA after being known as an arthritis researcher, and discusses the pros and cons of sharing your story publiclyCannabis and Pain Management: The evolving research and patient experiences with cannabis as a tool for managing chronic pain, despite its legal and research limitations.Misinformation and Evidence-Based Care: The challenge of navigating biased or incomplete information about treatments and the importance of relying on evidence-based medicine.Arthritis Research and the Role of Learning from the Patient’s lived experience: Dr Kaleb explains the importance of the FORWARD databank.com for ongoing research to improve patient outcomes. Entertainment and Personal Interests: The role of hobbies, such as board games and movies, in providing enjoyment and coping with chronic illness.Medical disclaimer: All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.For full episode details include a transcript and video:Go to the episode page on the Arthritis Life Website. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Sonia talks about how daily gratitude, yoga, medications, and the support of groups like Rheum to THRIVE have helped her pursue joy amidst the challenges of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), Graves’ disease and other chronic conditions. Sonia shares how the Rheum to THRIVE support group provided her with the courage to be vulnerable and set boundaries. Cheryl and Sonia reflect on how these groups become sacred spaces where individuals can fully engage with their emotions, be witnessed without judgment, and sometimes find unexpected moments of humor and joy amidst the challenges.The discussion offers valuable tips and relatable moments for anyone living with RA, with gentle reminders to take things one day at a time. Overall, Cheryl and Sonia encourage you to embrace acceptance and community so you can live a more empowered and fulfilling life with chronic illness.Themes of the EpisodeSelf-Acceptance and Grace: Sonia emphasizes the importance of self-compassion, practicing grace, and ease with oneself, especially in dealing with the uncertainties and challenges of life with RA.The Power of Social Media and Community Support: Cheryl talks about using social media as a tool for patient education and support, while Sonia highlights the significance of connecting with others, particularly through the Rheum to THRIVE support group, to share experiences and support one another.Yoga, Mindfulness and Embracing the Present: Sonia shares the pivotal role yoga had in transforming her relationship to her body and helping her embrace th represent moment.Coping with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Through Humor: Both Cheryl and Sonia discuss the role of humor in coping with the challenges of RA, acknowledging that while it may not resonate with everyone, it provides them with a sense of normalcy and relief.Daily Tools and Adaptations for Living with RA: The conversation touches on practical tools like ring splints, compression gloves, and supportive pillows that help manage the physical challenges of RA.Sharing Personal Mantras and Wisdom: Both Cheryl and Sonia share how gratitude practices and self-forgiveness help them live more peacefully with rheumatoid arthritis.The Impact of RA on Daily Life and Relationships: The conversation also explores how RA affects daily activities, relationships, and the emotional aspects of living with a chronic illness.Medical disclaimer: All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.For full episode details include a transcript and video:Go to the episode page on the Arthritis Life Website. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Cheryl Crow and Dr. Liana Fraenkel dive into the crucial concept of "Shared Decision Making" (SDM) in rheumatoid arthritis care. SDM is a collaborative approach where patients and doctors work together to develop a treatment plan. It empowers patients to express their preferences and values, while doctors listen actively and consider these when recommending treatments.The discussion also touches on the role of education in SDM, especially when it comes to understanding the pros and cons of different medications. Cheryl and Dr. Fraenkel address medication hesitancy, highlighting research that shows how patients benefit from hearing not only from their doctors but also from others who have firsthand experience with rheumatic disease medications.Finally, Dr. Fraenkel and Cheryl emphasize the importance of ongoing research in rheumatology and the need to strengthen the rheumatology workforce, given the current shortage. They explore the efforts of the Rheumatology Research Foundation and discuss ways for patients to get involved in supporting these vital initiatives.Medical disclaimer:All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.Episode SponsorsRheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now! For full episode details including a video and transcript:Go to the episode page on the Arthritis Life Website. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Maggie shares valuable insights from life with axial spondyloarthritis, sjogren’s, osteoarthritis, hypermobility, migraine, and POTS. She also shares her treatment journey which she divides into a “discovery phase, treatment phase, and tinkering phase.”Maggie and Cheryl discuss practical advice for managing multiple chronic illnesses, including the importance of social support and finding joy in daily experiences. They also discuss their best coping skills for times when managing your health feels like “orchestrating a circus.” Ultimately, Maggie and Cheryl discuss the importance of savoring life's moments and adapting to new ways of living, rather than trying solely to return to a pre-illness lifestyle.Medical disclaimer:All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.Episode SponsorsRheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now! For full episode details including a video and transcript:Go to the episode page on the Arthritis Life Website.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Back in January 2021, I shared the eight most important things that loved ones should know, so they can best support people with autoimmune arthritis. This episode includes messages and insights from twenty-eight other patients!Today, I’m re-releasing this episode with some additional insights I’ve gained after leading patient support and self-management groups over the last 4 years.  Did I miss anything? Let me know in the comments!Episode at a glance:One –  We want you to learn what the disease is and isn’t.Two – The fatigue can be just as bad as the pain.Three – It doesn’t just affect the body – it also affects the mind and emotions.Four – It affects EACH person differently.Five – Daily symptoms are often unpredictable.Six – We want credit for how hard we’re fighting, even when we seem “normal.”Seven – Sometimes we need problem solving, other times we need empathy.Eight – Managing the disease itself is a job that takes time and energy.Bonus point: Take care of YOUR needs as the caregiver/friendConcluding thoughtsMedical disclaimer: All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.Episode SponsorsRheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now! For full episode details:For a full transcript of this episode and detailed show notes, go to the episode page on the Arthritis Life website.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Cheryl and Jen share exciting trends in rheumatology research that will help improve quality of life and develop better targeted treatments for rheumatic disease. They also discuss the importance of involving patients at all levels of research, and shared simple ways that listeners can get involved. Additionally, Cheryl and Jen reflected on the importance of social support in their personal journeys living with rheumatoid arthritis, and the importance of support groups in navigating life with chronic conditions.Medical disclaimer:All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.Episode SponsorsRheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now! For full episode details including a video and transcript:Go to the episode page on the Arthritis Life Website.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this episode, Stasha shares her diagnosis journey for rheumatoid arthritis and reflects on what it was like being a parent to small children while learning how to adapt to rheumatoid arthritis. Stasha also shares how her quest to merge science-based and natural methods led her to starting a blog. Cheryl and Stasha reflect on the role “obstinance” or stubbornness has played, and reflect on the therapeutic benefits of humor.They also discuss how they view assistive devices in a positive light, and discuss how their identities have been affected by chronic illness.Medical disclaimer:All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.Episode SponsorsRheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now! For full episode details including a video and transcript:Go to the episode page on the Arthritis Life Website.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Have you ever read a love story that features someone with chronic illness? In this episode, author Marissa Eller shares how living with RA led her to write her debut young adult (YA) romantic comedy book "Joined at the Joints."  She and Cheryl discuss the importance of authentic representation in books and media, particularly for those with invisible disabilities.Marissa also shares what it’s like to be an author with RA, including strategies to accommodate her needs and how writing can be a therapeutic form of expression. The conversation concludes with a discussion about the best advice for the newly diagnosed.Medical disclaimer:All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.Episode SponsorsRheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now! For full episode details including a video and transcript:Go to the episode page on the Arthritis Life website. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What’s it like to suddenly go bald at age 22? In this episode, Cheryl interviews Colleen Kydd, who speaks candidly about living with autoimmune alopecia.  She shares how she went from covering her baldness with wigs to confidently, unapologetically embracing her identity as a “bald girl in a big world!” Colleen shares how she managed her alopecia in the corporate world, dating life, world travels and new role as an entrepreneur.Throughout the episode, Cheryl and Colleen discuss acceptance, self compassion, and the crucial importance of connecting with others when we’re struggling.  Cheryl and Colleen reflect on the transformative power of  storytelling, and the importance of pursuing a meaningful life amidst the challenges of chronic illness.Medical disclaimer: All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.Episode SponsorsRheum to THRIVE, an online course and support program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease go from overwhelmed, confused and alone to confident, supported and connected. See all the details and join the program or waitlist now!For full episode details:Go to the episode page on the Arthritis Life website for full show notes plus a full transcript, video and more! Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.