ARTHRITIS sufferer Lynda Edwards’ condition got so bad she was housebound for over a year.

She went on to have two knee replacements and operations on both her hands.

However, regular exercise has helped her mobility and given her a new lease of life.

Lynda, 68, who comes from Southend, joined Energie Fitness in the town three years ago.

Now she goes three times a week and enjoys the gym’s friendly atmosphere.

Lynda says: “I have had arthritis since I was 19 and it predominantly affected my hands and knees.

“It only really impeded on my life from 45. I was a machinist, brought up three girls; worked in catering and was a home care helper. I used to cycle everywhere and was always active.”

When Lynda was 45 her back suddenly went and it was so severe she was housebound for a year. She says: “I had all types of treatments, including injections in my spine but the arthritis grew and my mobility became very poor and I didn’t leave the house.”

Lynda had extensive surgery in 2009, both hands have had metal joints inserted, she has had two knee replacements, one in April 2009 and one in Oct 2009.

The isolation of being housebound coupled with her lack of mobility led to Lynda getting panic attacks and suffering from nerves.

She says: “I had suffered with panic attacks for many years but being isolated made it worse.

“I saw a counsellor and that helped build up my confidence and I joined the gym with my daughter. “I was nervous about going the first time but they put me at ease straight away. “They are fantastic at tailoring the exercises to suit your abilities.”

Lynda was clear what she wanted to get out of the exercise regime.

“My main objective after surgery was to get mobility back. “I knew I couldn’t get rid of arthritis but can keep going and stay active.

“When I went back to surgeon he said I had a 50 per cent improvement in my mobility due to regular exercise.

“I still use the mobility scooter to get around but I can walk short distances and my overall health has improved.”

Lynda is enjoying her new found love of exercise.

She says: “Now I go regularly on my own and it had given me a new lease of life. “I also enjoy the social side of it and often have a coffee with friends there.”

For details, visit www.effw.co.uk/southend