Do you fall as a result of your RA? I hate the falling part.

I tend to in phases, usually over the colder months. Yesterday though we went to Southwold on the Suffolk coast for our anniversary, and I managed to fall down some big concrete steps that lead down to the beach. I just have bruises and scrapes, but my right ankle is now huge and my right shoulder/ neck, elbow and hip are swollen and very painful.

I was on my own when I fell as my partner had gone back to the car and some kind people came to help me. A lady kept saying 'I don't understand how you fell, you just suddenly went flying!' and I was thinking, 'yes, I know....'

I suppose at least I didn't fall and lock myself in the bathroom this time, or when my child was around. Ho hum.

Hi

I had a spate of falling too. I fell down stairs, fell over in the bedroom and fell in the dining room, all for apparently no reason. I think I tripped over my feet, or my feet got in the way. My doctor said that once I had fallen it was very likely that I would fall again. Not sure if it is due to the RA or not.

Any one else have any ideas???

Louise

Yes Paul
Thank goodness for keyboards. My Mother at 97 has as good a hand as ever.
I just thought it was me!! Anne

I fell in the garden the other night ( even though we've got lighting) I just lost my balance and landed in the flower bed, completely squashing some plants. As I landed awkwardly I couldn't get up and even my husband struggled to get me up. I was very shaken but no broken bones- just a few grazes and bruises. It's undermined my confidence somewhat and for the rest of the week I haven't ventured anywhere without my walking stick.

Also- when I was first diagnosed a few yrs ago I fell in the classroom in front of a class of pupils! I didn't trip- just went with no warning. The kids were great and I remember one who was supposedly a 'troublemaker' being the most caring of all. I had to see the funny side of it though, especially when the deputy head had to try and pick me up- nothing else you can do but laugh in front of a class of 13 yr olds. After that, rumours were flying that I fell on a pupil and squashed him!!!!

On a serious note, though, it worries me that due to the stiffness my joints, I'm unable to break my fall and minimise injury.

I must admit that I take my stick everywhere outside the home. A triangle is the most stable natural form so two feet and one stick on the ground feels a lot safer. Only use it around the home when I am lots of pain. Thank heavens for carpets too - so much softer than wood block floor. Damn these minimalists!