"Ten months ago I had a total hip replacement and am getting ready for an upcoming knee replacement. I am very grateful to be working with Mark Richardson who I hired as my Arthritis Coach to support me through the surgery and rehab process. He supports me in living well in spite of my arthritis. I highly recommend Mark to others who are living with chronic pain for any reason or who want to become healthier as they age. Mark has a holistic perspective that includes a wide range of healthy living practices. I established goals to improve my nutrition, sleep, and time management as well as my overall fitness. He is terrific at reinforcing the positive and giving feedback without judgment.
I met Mark four years ago at an Arthritis Society Pain Management course. I had been managing my arthritis pain with pain pills and cortisone Injections but they were no longer working enough to let me sleep through the night or work in my garden without considerable pain. I was skeptical when Mark told me that regular exercise could help. He developed a series of whole body exercises that he called 'Seated Motionize' that could be done in any chair, at home or at work. After a few coaching sessions I could do them on my own using a handout he provided and after about six weeks I actually found I was gaining strength, my balance was better, and I could walk longer without pain.
Last year it was clear that I needed a full hip replacement and I hired Mark as my Arthritis Coach. He developed a more active but low Impact exercise program of 'Gentle Motionize' for greater endurance, strength and flexibility. We met three times per week. I really needed the appointment time to motivate me to do the exercises and Mark could monitor and adapt or increase the exercises as needed. He was the cheerleader I needed to keep me doing the exercises when I got discouraged. He also supported me by helping me prep my questions for the surgeon, attending with me, and debriefing afterwards.
My hip replacement surgery was 10 months ago and my one regret is not working with Mark sooner before my surgery. Although I am a year older, my body feels and looks at least a year younger. I feel stronger and healthier and am confident I will be much more ready for surgery this time."
Our goal at Motionize is to help people who have restricted their lives because of pain. Our clients are able to live their lives to the fullest when we help them with:
We service the Western Toronto area including: Etobicoke, Mississauga, Oakville and Brampton
