Did you know that arthritis can be bad enough that it actually inhibits daily required activities of people such as taking a shower or getting dressed. This condition can range from causing minor discomfort to the extreme situation just mentioned. Read this article for some of the greatest arthritis advice.
Create a support system that includes other patients with arthritis. Friends and family members may not always be supportive of the pain you’re in, or may simply not understand the crippling nature of the condition. Having friends with arthritis can give you someone to talk to about your pain, who understands the problem and won’t judge you, while also taking the stress off of your family, when trying to deal with your issues.
Be sure to move throughout the day. Remaining in the same position for a long time puts more stress on your joints than if you shift positions. Be sure to take regular breaks to stand and stretch and make sure that your work environment is set up to allow you to protect your joints.
Don’t be afraid to change your schedule to deal with arthritis fatigue. While it can be difficult to admit that you need to slow down, letting yourself have the time you need to recharge will let you be more effective later in the day. Plan your day around when you are most flexible and energized, to avoid difficult tasks while in pain.
Take your time with major clean up tasks if arthritis is a part of your life. Major cleaning tasks, like mopping and changing bed sheets, put a strain on your body. They involve the use, and sometimes over use, of several different muscles and joints. Take a break when you can or better yet, ask for help. You don’t have to do it all in one day.
Make sure you don’t smoke. Smoking has been shown to increase your risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis. Not only that, but if you do develop it, smoking has been shown to worsen the joint damage. Patients who smoke most often have much more severe symptoms than those patients who don’t smoke.
Stopping arthritis before it starts is a good idea. For instance, learn how to type properly. Your hands should be kept level with the keyboard, and you should use a raised mouse pad. This will reduce the strain put on your hands, which will help keep you from developing any problems later on in life.
Being able to relax and avoid stress is key to properly managing arthritis. Stress can be a factor in how your arthritis develops and in how painful it can be. One way to eliminate stress is to learn new time management skills. Light exercise will also help lessen stress.
Get your vision checked regularly. People who suffer from arthritis are much more likely to have issues with their eyes as well. Make sure you take care of yourself by seeing an eye doctor at least yearly, in order to keep track of any developing issues that may occur with your condition.
For those that have arthritis in their knees, Hyaluronic acid injections are a great option. Because people who have arthritis in their knees are lacking lubrication to keep their joints in top condition, these injections are a great way to give knees lubrication. Speak with your doctor before taking these injections.
If you have recently been diagnosed with arthritis, you should start building a strong, reliable support system. You will find the support of a variety of people, including professionals and peers, to be beneficial. Your physician may also be able to recommend a support group for you to attend.
Do not be afraid to consider surgery. Many people who suffer with arthritis will initially balk at the thought of having surgery done to correct an issue. Let your doctor coach you on what may be the best method of treatment for you, and if surgery is an effective option, try not to immediately dismiss it.
Pay close attention to your medical treatment plan. Many arthritis sufferers make the mistake of simply closing their minds to what their doctors are saying to them. A good patient should take notes on what the doctor is telling them, as well as what the pharmacist says. Doing this can keep you informed on your own condition.
Add ginger to your food. Ginger is well known for relieving inflammation and stiffness, so adding a few grams a day to your foods can help you reap the benefits of this healthy plant. Ginger and honey drinks are the best method, as honey also gives some of the same benefits.
To summarize, you now know the range of just how bad arthritis can get. You also have a pretty good background on the condition now, as well. Hopefully, you can use this article to better yourself and be able to take care of those around you that you care for the most.
