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Is anybody still able to do manual physical work?

Posted , 3 users are following.

1_hand_works
1_hand_works

Hi, is anyone on this forum still able to do a relatively hard manual job within the limits of their lupus? Or does anyone know someone with lupus who is? My job is VERY dependent on my hands and is quite a physical job. I haven't been able to source any information about people with lupus who are able to manage unpredictable manual, physical effort at work. I know I am lucky to still be working but need some pointers as I am not sure whether I am making my joints worse and don't know how long I can continue this for, as am struggling now. Thanks if anyone has any advice

0 likes, 3 replies

3 Replies

  • marion64534
    marion64534 1_hand_works

    Posted

    Hi I work in a hospice and do struggle with my hands at times, iv been told not to put a strain on my joints but preserve them for as long as possible,it's very hard to know what's best,try and find a balance, have you seen the O.T at the hospital she's been really helpful with me, mYbe worth a try, hope things work out for you,how long have you had lupus? Minds 4neatly 5 years iv had to reduce my hours at work.good luck.
  • smudge1100
    smudge1100 1_hand_works

    Posted

    Hi, I'm also in a bit of a piccle with regards to work. I was diagnosed when I was around 10 and I'm now 23. Ive struggled with balancing work with my Lupus. I've changed jobs several times due to taking on too much and ending up with big set backs in return. I currently work with Autistic Young Adults as a support worker but its becomming clear that its really not the right line of work.

    I'm considering a complete career change so that I hopefully never return to the cycle I've been stuck in. I personally get a lot worse when there is stress, emotionally hard days at work and also physical. For the sake of me having a good quality of life I'm now looking to change careers to something as basic as possible, with as little emotional and physical energy needed.

    I think you need to consider the long term impacts of your job as if your anything like me, my body just caves after so much.

    Hope that helps a little smile

    • 1_hand_works
      1_hand_works smudge1100

      Posted

      Hi smudge1100. Thanks for that, good to know other people feeling the same as me. I have been feeling down lately and cannot keep up with the "chin up" /"look on the bright side" all the time. Sorry to hear about your problems with work, bet it was really rewarding as well. I started just doing volunteer work in the NHS in 1989. Qualified in 1994 and been working hard for the last 20 years, loads of obstacles in my way but got through them all. This has been the hardest hurdle I have ever tried to overcome, and like you, I am conceding that career change is now imminent and only for the best, as yes, some days I can do 4 hours, some days 2, some days I can't get out of of bed. Trouble is finances, as usual, mortgage etc etc etc. Fingers crossed for a lottery win eh. Cheers though, all the best and good luck
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