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Try using assistive devices to help with physical activities.
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It was devastating because my pain got so bad that I had to stop running altogether for a while.
It was a way to cope with the stress of work and life.
Along with medication, Jenny credits a variety of assistive devices and tools with getting her back to running.
Im confident I would not be able to run without them, she says.
Shes a nurse, and she found her compression socks at a nursing convention.
(These Physix Gear Sport Compression Socks have great reviews and are available onAmazon, $16.)
Through trial and error, Jenny foundshoes that allow her to runand stand comfortably at work.
(The Hoka One One Clifton won a SELF Certified Sneaker Award and is available atZapposfor $130.)
Experiment with new types of exercise.
My joints made it really hard for me to get my heart rate up, she says.
Eventually, Jennys fiance suggestedshe try biking.
When running is too painful, Jenny turns to riding her bike.
Know that everyday habits can be a form of activity.
She recently bought asmall under-desk bike pedal unit.
I can use it when Im sitting at a desk, so I can still keep my joints moving.
After she started tracking her psoriatic arthritis triggers, Julie discovered that she experienced flares after eating certain foods.
In altering my diet, I found new ways to cook.
I find it therapeutic and fun to use new ingredients and try new recipes, she tells SELF.
Cooking gets her moving around the kitchen but is gentle on her body, Julie explains.
If I sit and do nothing, that actually can make me feel worse.
Track and manage your triggers.
It hit her that her diagnosis didnt need to change what she did or who she was.
She may have bad days, but that doesnt mean she has a bad life.
After this realization, she became committed to figuring out her triggers and learning how to manage them.
Knowing my triggers and limitations allows me to live a full and amazing life and doesnt hold me back!
Give yourself more time to get things done.
This allowed her to take breaks in between rides and go at her own pace.
She also builds in extra time to get ready before leaving the house.
I hate to be late, but it takes me longer to get ready now.
So I know I have to start getting ready earlier than I used to.
Additionally, Jennifer says its helpful to communicate your needs with others.
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