Tbe physical life after RM

[ukvoyager2004]

So after 10 years as a postie, and at the age of 63, l left RM mid October of this year.

I didnt have any employment lined up, so have in effect gone from doing a job with high physical demands to doing nothing.

The first month or so was fine, as if being on annual leave, but since late November, my legs, arms, wrists and hands have been noticably aching most days.

I accepted that the transition would result in some impacts on the body, but was posting this to ask if anyone else who had left , how long this transition period could last. I know we are not all the same, but any insight as to when aches and pains subside for others would be useful going forward..any experience and guide would be much appreciated.

[iHateD2Ds]

Hard to pin it down but I would say it’s a degenerative condition we all experience as we age ,you are doing farless activity and starting to seize up.The cold weather may explain the recent pain which plays havoc with arthritis which is known to exacerbate with less activity.

Try and Keep active, You have gone from walking 10 mile plus to ?
Maybe throw in some resistance training using bands, sit ups, press ups nothing too heavy.
Omega 3 supplements will help joints
Magnesium Citrate help muscles ache
Vitamin D will also be beneficial.
Anti inflammatory Turmeric supplements too

[Mike G]

Doing nothing is just as bad for your musculoskeletal physiology as flogging yourself walking many miles a day.

You need to find some middle ground in terms of your activity levels.

Swimming and cycling are both good for keeping you fit without the relentless impact on joints that comes with walking.

[scoobydo79]

Try some gentle yoga

[Mick100]

Try 6 bottles of Peroni an a brandy chaser you’ll feel much better

[ted_e_bear]

As above two replies, I know I stiffen up a bit even after two weeks leave, I'd try getting into the habit of a daily walk, might sound daft considering but without sounding like trying to teach you to "suck eggs" simply walking is a bit different than when you're carrying an awkward/heavy bag and constantly stopping and bending etc.

I'd also get some decent walking boots or shoes people I know recommend merrells or Adidas terrex.

Edit....just noticed the above reply whilst I was typing this, that could help as well but perhaps not every day

[rubberbond]

Try 6 bottles of Peroni an a brandy chaser you’ll feel much better

That’s only suitable for those of still working at RM.

[2chorizon]

Try 6 bottles of Peroni an a brandy chaser you’ll feel much better

This ^

[Wullie10]

I'd have thought the biggest problem is putting on weight. I've known a few blokes who have come back after a long absence and they are huge. Keep moving I'd say.

[Seymour Buts]

I'm still relatively young and still a postie, but I struggle on annual leave. I think all year about my next week or two off and how I need the break, but then my hip starts hurting if I'm off for a period of time. I think as others have said, keep doing a level of exercise. Clearly our bodies condition to it and you need to be doing so much.

[SMS1969]

You can’t do the level of activity we posties do, then just stop. Your body will almost certainly start to seize up. I would have tried to cut my hours to start with, then after retirement, keep walking and keep moving. Don’t just stop and do nothing. Gardening will also help.

[fallenworld202233]

im suprised u havent got depression doing nothing?

[2chorizon]

im suprised u havent got depression doing nothing?

It's perfectly fine if you have money.

[plymouth3]

I left end October after payment.

No aches or pains?

I’ve never looked back TBH

Should have left years ago. A lot more energy to do gardening DIY walking dogs etc

[jarhead]

I'd have thought the biggest problem is putting on weight. I've known a few blokes who have come back after a long absence and they are huge. Keep moving I'd say.

Yep, keep your hands out of the fridge