At the age of 18, I transformed from a self-proclaimed couch potato into someone who walked and eventually ran to alleviate the pain associated with my lupus. Fast forward to today, at 50, I’ve learned to navigate a life filled with persistent pain through a combination of exercise, nutrition, and lifestyle. Remarkably, I achieved all of this without relying on costly gym memberships, spa treatments, or special interventions. Over the years, I’ve experimented with various approaches and currently, I’ve embraced functional training, wholesome food, the healing power of nature, and, above all, patience.

One critical lesson I’ve learned on this wellness journey is the importance of adaptability. Being ready to pivot at any moment has been the key to my long-term success.

Recently, I consulted my MS doctor about a new injury. To my surprise, he looked at me and reassured me that he wasn’t worried because he knew I’d find a way to overcome it. I’ve been under his care for over a decade, and he’s witnessed how I manage my health with an unwavering determination and patience that has been my guiding light.

Three months ago, I transitioned from running half marathons to being confined to a boot for two weeks, immobilized. I was advised to take it easy until I was completely pain-free, but the challenge was that pain remained a constant companion.

Though I might feel youthful and robust, my joints, feet, knees, and shoulders bear the wear and tear of 50 years. They’ve held up remarkably well, but there’s undoubtedly some mileage on this body.

Many people advised me to give up running long ago, warning it would be detrimental to my joints. Others discouraged me from hiking, citing its dangers. Now, as I sit with an ice pack on my foot after a short walk, I reflect on my choices and have no regrets.

I am ecstatic that I never heeded the advice to take it easy. I’ve cherished every moment of this active life and am grateful for the risks I’ve taken, which have gifted me countless cherished memories.

For three months, I couldn’t bear weight or walk, but I never missed a workout, tracked every meal, and stayed committed to staying hydrated by drinking enough water

As I begin a course of steroids to reduce inflammation in my foot, I’m aware that I’ve invested time in healing my gait, so that when I resume walking, it won’t result in the same problem. I have a remarkable team of doctors aiding in my recovery, but I’m committed to putting in the effort on my end to complement modern medicine’s efforts.

This active aging plan will propel me forward. I refuse to become a couch potato again, even when my body feels fantastic, out of fear of injuring myself. I spent enough years on the couch, and there’s no going back.

So, what advice can I offer for managing aging and pain?

• Listen to Your Body: Pain is your body’s way of communicating with you. Pay attention to it and explore various methods to manage it, from bodywork to gentle movement. Avoiding activity altogether is rarely the best solution; instead, modify or avoid the activities causing pain.
• Identify the Root Cause: If there’s an underlying issue, such as a gait imbalance, address it rather than simply enduring the pain. Correcting the original problem is essential for long-term safety. 
• Keep Moving: Movement is crucial at any age. Sitting idle for extended periods, even when recovering from an injury, is not beneficial. Find exercises that facilitate healing without exacerbating pain.
• Simplify Wellness: Sometimes, the simplest actions yield the most significant results. Prioritize drinking enough water, mindful breathing, and planning balanced meals. These fundamental steps require minimal effort and can substantially improve your overall health.

Remember, an active and healthy life is within reach, even when navigating the challenges of aging and pain. Embrace adaptability, listen to your body, and keep moving forward. Your journey is unique, and with the right mindset, it can be both fulfilling and empowering.