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Rheumatoid Arthritis
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Posted 4/14/2014 3:49 PM (GMT 0)
Hello, my name is Megan and I have had rheumatoid arthritis in all my joints since I was 2 I'm 28 now. Recently I started trying to lose weight and started going to a personal trainer. I told him I have RA and when he was evaluating me he found that my hip muscles (my hips are the most affected) are completely tightened. He has been trying to stretch the muscles to gain range of motion. I have always thought my lack of range of motion was due to the RA. Has anyone ever heard of muscle contractures with RA? I am torn bc I want to see if loosening the muscle will help but I don't want to push it if it's just a joint thing and hurt myself.
Posted 4/22/2014 4:15 AM (GMT 0)
Hi Megan---Muscles tighten with any condition that makes you limit normal range of use--tight muscle also become weaker. I would definiely go to a Physical Therapist who would have years of training in how to work safely with people with medical conditions---know when to push and set safe limits. Also, PT visits would almost always be covered by insurance for anyone with RA. PT's are also familiar with appropriate weight loss methods and goals.
I must admit the bias of not only having RA; but also being a Physical Therapist.
Good Luck, L
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