Indysteel:

I've also got arthritis - the inflammatory kind. Two months ago my soccer-loving 13yo daughter was also diagnosed with arthritis. You can guess how that made me feel, given there's a genetic link!

But - our rheumatologist says that we both have to keep up our exercise no matter what, and that cycling, being non-weight bearing, is an excellent way to maintain our fitness. Strong muscles help protect joints. So while we get miserable sometimes, an hour's exercise helps put everything into perspective and helps the arthritis.

So hang in there, and I'm sending you good wishes across the Pacific!