I thought there was a collection of tips around here. I'm about at the end of my typing capability for today and haven't found it. so I thought I'd list a few things I've learned and maybe can help the newly diagnosed and give some fresh ideas to those of us who've been dealing with it awhile.

Maybe one of these suggestions will make you smile when you use it and avoid triggering a flare. Please add what you've learned to do and maybe we can concantenate it into a sticky:

-always drive with both hands at the bottom of the wheel.

-short hairstyles are a necessity if at all possible. If your long hair is your pride and joy it's worth keeping it just to keep your spirits up.

-when shopping, always use a cart, never a handbasket, and alternate pushing/ pulling the cart depending on how you feel. Even bumping it forward with your hips is a good idea.

-paper bags are preferable to plastic, don't use the handles, cradle them on your forearms to get them in the house.

-buy smaller jugs of juice, milk, etc, and store them lower in the fridge, where you don't have to reach UP for them.

-laundry detergent: If you use liquid, buy the biggest dispenser style jug you can. Hopefully you have someone who can lug it into the laundry room for you. If not, I think it's still worth it to not have to lift a traditional bottle for each load.
-also laundry: don't unload a full dryer at once, do it in thirds or piece by piece if you can.

-dishwashers: New dishwashers are immensely better than older ones. Find one with a built-in disposal and you really can go straight from table to dishwasher.

-button up shirts are preferable to pullovers, even if you're having problems with buttons.

-slip-on shoes or Birks, but remember your feet are the basis of your posture and good shoes are a must.

Some of these are pretty small, but it all adds up...please add as you can...I need a break at the moment and will try to add more later.

Marabunta
N. California