Rheumatoid arthriis and the gym??

[Sissy29]

Hi, my name is Melissa and I am 29 years old. I was diagnosed with rheumatiod arthritis when I was 2 years but went in to remission for twenty years. I got it back 3 years ago very severe. I even had surgery to on my knees which by the way, was a waste of time! Anyways, I am taking arava now, which has made alot of my hair fall out but I guess that's one of the cons about this med. that makes me feel better.
What I wanted to know is, is there any one out there who works out at the gym w/ rhuematoid? I do 30 min. of the treadmill and after, weight training. I am alittle concerned because I don't want to be hurting my joints in the long run. I feel 90% okay right now. Please let me know if any of you can answer my question. Thanks

[Mattsmummum]

Sissy, see my post under Rheumatoid Arthritis. I forgot to mention that I am doing light weight training to help maintain bone density.

[Lynnae]

I have used a treadmill before, but just began working out at a gym last week. My arthritis kicked in 7 years ago (at age 47) and was later diagnosed as psoriatic, and recently re-diagnosed as combined psoriatic and rheumatoid. There is a fine line to the treadmill; you need to exercise, but not so much that you hurt yourself. My surgeon says take the glucosamine 500 mg, 3x/day in addition to whatever meds. I start with a trainer tonight. I'll let you know how I make out.