Speaker: There is nothing more rewarding than having fun with your kids, and the winter months are the perfect time for all of us to reconnect with our inner child, but if you are a parent with Arthritis or joint problem, it can get in the way of the physical activity with your family. Skiing legend, Todd Brooker is living with Osteoarthritis but says he is not letting sore knees slow him down.
Todd Brooker: The years I devoted to ski racing and the Crazy Canucks paid off at the podium but they left me with Osteoarthritis in both my knees. Now, I still love winter, I love being outdoors and of course skiing and I think skiing is a greatest way to spend time with your kids. So I didn't really want to slow down yet, the key to staying active even with Arthritis is working with your doctor to help manage the pain.
Speaker: A national survey finds that among people with Arthritis over 50% in all age groups were physically inactive, a proportion higher than among individuals with either no or other chronic conditions. And parents with Arthritis can send mixed messages to kids when they avoid physical activity because of pain.
Todd Brooker: Even though I am no longer a ski racer, I am still committed to maintaining my level of physical fitness and I want to be an active and healthy role model for my three children. So what do I do? Well, I make time for a regular workout and I take anti-inflammatory for my arthritis everyday. My doctor recommended Celebrex for me. Now, I can stay fit and I manage my Arthritis pain and I still can get down and I am faster than my kids.
Speaker: According to Health Canada often Osteoarthritis sufferers avoid activity due to pain, stiffness, fatigue or fear of harming themselves but inactivity can worsen Osteoarthritis symptoms.
Todd Brooker: If you a parent or grandparent suffering from the pain of arthritis, I encourage you to talk to your health care team about ways that you can stay active. With effective pain management strategies you may not have to sit on the sidelines, you can get out there and start enjoying activities with the rest of the family.
Speaker: You can stay physically active with Arthritis. For more information about the treatment options and lifestyle changes that are right for you, speak with your doctor, Sherry reporting.
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