I am a 38 year old male residing in Columbus, OH with Psoriatic Arthritis.
In my mid twenties I developed severe psoriasis and gradually began experiencing arthritic conditions and pitting nails, sore joints and overall inflammation.
Presently, I take Methotrexate on a weekly basis and get Remicade infusion treatments every six to eight weeks. I also see a physical therapist and pain management doctor.
I try to fight being sedentary by walking and doing stretches throughout the day, though this winter has made it very difficult, opting for walking in circles at times within my home. Have trouble sitting for long periods of time anyways so hopefully spring warm weather returns sooner than later so that I can begin taking longer strolls.
When I lived in Portland, Oregon before coming to Columbus in 2008, I participated in biologic drug trials.
Anyhow, joined this site to obtain more awareness, help others and make connections with those in the same or similar boat, if possible.
Welcome to the group Stretch! It sounds like you have things under reasonably good control at this point. The cold weather and snow have made it really challenging to stay active and keep on moving. Part of my job involves walking dogs, so it forces me to spend time walking and outdoors.
You've also built up your own team, which is great.
Welcome Stretch! Sounds like you are in a good place right now. This group is great! You'll enjoy it. I find that when I'm feeling better, I can help those who need it, and when I'm not doing well, I can get support and advice for myself.
Hi, stretch. I am Hal Walker, a 48 year old male in kent, ohio. PsA came on suddenly this year after 10 years of Ps… Just thought I’d say hello to fellow Ohioan.
Welcome, Stretch! I haven't been here too long myself. I live in southern Ohio and am curious if you have found a good rheumatologist?
Thank you for the warm welcome.
Yes, I found a great Rheumatologist here in Columbus at the Grant Hospital Rheumatology department headed by Doctor Kantor, who is nationally and internationally renowned for his research efforts. Prior to Grant Hospital he ran Ohio State Universities Rheumatology program.
Very professional. When I go to my infusion treatments, many of the patients are from around Central Ohio, coming to Dr. Kantor because of his expertise. Now, he seems to be primarily focused on on Rheumatoid arthritis but does appear to be knowledgeable and is attentive regarding Psoriatic Arthritis.
He's also a big advocate of vitamin D and pushes it aggressively. All of his artwork/ photographs on the walls in the clinic are from his travels around the world.
His staff are excellent and provide a warm atmosphere.
Welcome Stretch! Sounds like you are in a good place right now. This group is great! You'll enjoy it. I find that when I'm feeling better, I can help those who need it, and when I'm not doing well, I can get support and advice for myself.
Thank you for this insight. I have been dealing with this in isolation and finally decided to become more conscious of what I am dealing with and be proactive.
Welcome to the group Stretch! It sounds like you have things under reasonably good control at this point. The cold weather and snow have made it really challenging to stay active and keep on moving. Part of my job involves walking dogs, so it forces me to spend time walking and outdoors.
You've also built up your own team, which is great.
Thank you!
Yes, I do have a team and it took a few years to piece together, mainly out of trying to get ahead of the symptoms. Walking dogs is a great way to remain active and get paid. It's tough (for myself) to get into an active state and maintain the momentum, yet I fear becoming dormant and buried, or worse a hermit creature.
Hi, stretch. I am Hal Walker, a 48 year old male in kent, ohio. PsA came on suddenly this year after 10 years of Ps... Just thought I'd say hello to fellow Ohioan.
Hello Hal, nice to meet you. My name is Nate Edwards. Nice to see another Ohioan as well. It's eye opening to see a community with the same disease. I have always hidden my psoriasis as much as possible, long sleeved clothing/pants year round for years and the PsA found itself shrouded as well, a sort of private zone.
It's almost odd to see so many openly sharing their issues. Looking forward to communicating further.
Welcome, Stretch! I haven't been here too long myself. I live in southern Ohio and am curious if you have found a good rheumatologist?
Thank you for the warm welcome.
Yes, I found a great Rheumatologist here in Columbus at the Grant Hospital Rheumatology department headed by Doctor Kantor, who is nationally and internationally renowned for his research efforts. Prior to Grant Hospital he ran Ohio State Universities Rheumatology program.
Very professional. When I go to my infusion treatments, many of the patients are from around Central Ohio, coming to Dr. Kantor because of his expertise. Now, he seems to be primarily focused on on Rheumatoid arthritis but does appear to be knowledgeable and is attentive regarding Psoriatic Arthritis.
He's also a big advocate of vitamin D and pushes it aggressively. All of his artwork/ photographs on the walls in the clinic are from his travels around the world.
His staff are excellent and provide a warm atmosphere.