I'm a distance runner, specifically a marathoner, and belong to or lead a few online running communities. Today, someone asked whether running is good for RA, as a friend of his has this condition.
Of course, we always recommend that a patient confer with his/her doctor, first. However, I was pleasantly surprised at how many of us who responded to the question have been living - and running distances - with RA for years. One person even responded that one of the links I posted was to her running buddy's blog, both of them living with RA and running with a third buddy who is also an RA patient. We all have a common reason for running: it keeps our joints healthy and our immune systems in check.
Other RA runner responses were inspirational, from a story about one patient's (female) doctor who runs a half marathon (13.1 miles) in well under 2 hours, to a veteran marathoner in his 60's who suffered a setback three years ago when he was diagnosed with RA and has been doing half marathons, instead. Tina Wesson, winner of "Survivor 2," also has RA and is a marathoner and triathlete.
The American College of Rheumatology says a patient must meet at least 4 of the following 7 criteria for RA:
- morning stiffness (check)
- arthritis of 3 or more joint areas (check)
- arthritis of the hand joints (check)
- symmetric arthritis
- rheumatoid nodules
- serum rheumatoid factor (check)
- radiographic changes
Plus, I have systemic lupus erythematosus, an autoimmune disease and positive environment for RA.
Now, not all RA patients should go out and train for such a grueling event as a marathon. It's hard on the body. It's hard on the mind. Most people don't like to drive 26 miles. What we who do have in common is our resolve to not give in to an otherwise debilitating condition that can leave one mangled for life.
All user-generated information on this site is the opinion of its author only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions. Members and guests are responsible for their own posts and the potential consequences of those posts detailed in our Terms of Service.
Add a Comment15 Comments
Thanks for the info..I will definately try (a supplement) , after speaking with my Rheumatologist. I have never seen a podiatrist. I take methotrexate 20mg weekly and Orencia along with Mobic. I take pain pills occassionally but being a single mom I need to be there when my son needs me, so do not like to take them. I am in severe pain daily.
March 31, 2010 - 8:31pmThis Comment
It sounds like your RA may not be under great control and you may need some med adjusting.
Do you have orthotics in your shoes? That makes a huge difference in walking pain, especially if your feet are starting to deform. If you do not have them, ask your rheumy to write an order for some. You will be amazed at the difference even just walking around the house.
Good luck.
July 15, 2010 - 6:29amThis Comment
Alysia, what a wonderful post.
And while not everyone should head out to train for a marathon, I bet you've inspired a few people to get out and at least start with short distances to see what they can do. Just a long walk with occasional short bouts of jogging can do wonders for the body and the spirit. (Not to mention how great runners' calves look!)
September 4, 2009 - 8:14amThis Comment
Oh, yeh - the calves! I may be pushing 60, but it's nice to get a compliment from someone at work that my legs look better than most 20-somethings in the building, lol!
September 4, 2009 - 5:02pmThis Comment
I already turned 60, have been running for 40 years, and have the mighty calves to show for it:) I can't imagine aging without being active---or what I'd look like now if I hadn't been...
August 23, 2011 - 12:15pmThis Comment