OOps..(cringe)..I will never see ANY of those ages again..ho hum..I still (have to) climb up and into the "tracked thing"..and the gamma goat is, well, a serious agility exercise. I was (15 years ago) diagnosed with 'chronic degenerative osteoarthritis...doc said "you just need replacement hip and knee joints!",..."BUT after that procedure you will NOT be able to do what you do now" (in your hobby). I was on a wlking stick,At the war and peace show the pain was crippling. I was going to give up the hobby.
Now..the hard to believe bit.
I was in my yard, attempting to work on the kraz..the unbelievable pa grew worse and worse..until I was very nearly in tears..Honestly thought I wouldn't make it back to the house. Something REALLY welled up in me and I was in a "proper" rage, And something drove me to start doing SQUATS! Yep, I HURT beyond all reason, But I was even more determined..and after the first 25 or so..less pain..50! not much pain..75, to 100..NO pain!..Great pulse though. I have done exercises about 3 time a week most of my life..and did know the correct way to perform this action. I just had not done so for over two years.
I DO NOT recommend this action for ANYONE young or old-ish..I relaxed a long while went on the internet and as a result of searching for a remedy..came up with and started taking (and still do) Glucosamin sulfate, MSN 1000, Chrondroitin, Bromalane, Cod liver oil. Omega3 fish oil. Ginko baloba. Ginseng. Stopped Taking aspirin. Ibuprofen, and Naproxin.
After about 6 months I was back to doing AND completing ALL my previous exercise routines. (of many years)
My doctor and the orthopedic specialist was, quite frankly amazed..But pleased for me. I have not had any joint replacements, No walking stick since then. Using the joints gently and working them as FAR within rage as possible (and a little bit more) Regularly DOES keep things working and functioning longer.
I really enjoy my hobby, and my actions have enabled me to (at least) Keep doing the things I like most. (being well past retirement age,) Lately I quit the the squats, and changed to "self aware" instinctively driven Stretching and very gradual leg compression's to keep the articulation and full range movement of the knee joints.
Important (as) climbing up into the m54 large wheeled camper, the M62 Decks, and the tank necessitates almost full range action of the hip and knee joints. I am so thankful and fortunate that things turned out like this.
I post this lengthy diatribe in the hope (and offering) for the older "buddies" in our hobby who are starting to struggle with these sorts of problems, in that they just Might get some benefit or improvement in (some of) these ever so frustrating and limiting ailments. IF any member like to try the 'potions' that have most certainly helped me, Remember..they ain't a "quick fix". It (they) Usually take up to and sometimes over 6 months to start taking effect. And as a result most folks give up forget, or can't be bothered to carry on taking them. Google any or all of the above and act as deemed appropriate. .>Warning< (though)..I found one serious Side Effect! My MEMORY has GREATLY improved over about 5 years. Yes, not a quick fix, but most noticeable and MOST welcomed. If it helps someone..That would be great. My 'whole' penne'th.