How to Exercise with Rheumatoid Arthritis: Randi's Story

<p>Randi and Cheryl dive deep into Randi’s diagnosis journey, her career as a track and field athlete at the University of Alabama, her best advice for newly diagnosed patients, her tips for exercise with RA, and even some dating and relationship advice. </p><p>Randi was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis at the age of 16 after 6 years of trying to find an answer. Randi says: “My journey with RA has not always been easy, but it has been rewarding. I have had to learn what works best for me in controlling my RA because of course not everyone’s RA is the same. I manage my RA with exercise, a moderation diet, a medication, chiropractic care, and plenty of rest. Oddly, I am thankful to have been diagnosed with RA at 16 because I have become the best version of myself as a result of it.”</p><p>Cheryl Crow is an occupational therapist who has lived with rheumatoid arthritis for seventeen years. Her life passion is helping others with rheumatoid arthritis figure out how to live a full life despite arthritis, by developing tools to navigate physical, emotional and social challenges. She formed the educational company Arthritis Life in 2019 after seeing a huge need for more engaging, accessible, and (dare she say) FUN patient education and self-management resources. </p><p>Links to things discussed in the podcast episode:</p><ul><li><a href="https://www.instagram.com/rawarrior_randi/">Randi’s Instagram</a></li><li><a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCMd1Gn4IQvIUW8x0l-l35fQ?view_as=subscriber">Randi’s Youtube Channel</a></li><li><a href="https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a33339513/randi-blackmon-rheumatoid-arthritis-personal-story/">Women’s Health Magazine article about Randi’s story</a></li><li><a href="https://arthritis.theenthusiasticlife.com/2020/06/15/racial-and-ethnic-disparities-in-rheumatoid-arthritis/">Statistics about racial disparities in healthcare, chronic pain and rheumatology</a></li><li>Free Handout: <a href="https://thoughtful-experimenter-636.ck.page/d7fceeea9a">Cheryl’s Master Checklist for M