Arthritis is that painful swelling and stiffness in the joints and is also, an irritating reminder of the inevitable aging process. It strikes many and is often unavoidable. “Unavoidable” is hardly the same thing as “untreatable,” though. There are plenty of ways to make arthritis easier to live with. This article has some tips to help any arthritis sufferer.
Be sure to get enough exercise and that you are doing the right kinds of exercise. People with arthritis should choose exercises that support and strengthen the joints, such as swimming, instead of exercises that damage them, such as running. Failing to exercise can also increase joint stiffness and 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.
Managing stress will help you manage your arthritis. Stress can be a factor in how your arthritis develops and in how painful it can be. You may want to consider brushing up on your time management skills or adding light exercise to help you cope with stress.
Treat yourself to a massage to help your arthritis pain. Seeing a trained massage therapist can help soothe your sore muscles, reduce your swelling and inflammation. You can also see these same benefits at home by massaging the affected areas for just a few minutes a day. Make sure to use oils or creams to make it as gentle as possible.
Learn ways to adapt to your child’s need to play without injuring yourself or making your rheumatoid arthritis worse. If your child wants to play on the floor, try sitting on the bed or on the stairs to give yourself a break from trying to get up and down from the floor.
If you suffer from arthritis, it is very important that you do not get too stressed out. Stress makes the body tense, which in turn, makes your arthritis worse. It is important that you keep your body relaxed at all times to prevent your joints from getting too stiff and cramped.
Plan your day to accommodate possible interruptions. You have no idea when it could flare up. Because of this, you should always have a plan set up so that you can reduce problems. Break up the jobs into tiny pieces so you can have a proper amount of rest between them. You should also have a method of ending any particular activity immediately once a need comes up.
Try to wear a knee brace. Surgery should be the last thing you look at doing, since a knee brace is known to decrease inflammation and discomfort that is caused by arthritis. You can wear the brace to bed with you at night as well.
Learn the information that is out there about your condition. When you get the diagnosis of your specific type of arthritis, hit the internet and all the sources that are offered, even pamphlets and brochures from the doctor’s office, all about arthritis and your specific type, so you know what you are dealing with and how to fight back.
Celebrate the small stuff! Arthritis can slow you down! If you were unable to get to your mailbox six months ago, and now you can, throw yourself a little celebration! Keeping yourself happy and positive can help you and others see that you are not a helpless creature, and that you are working hard to reach your goals! Don’t stop!
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.
Ask your doctor for copies of their notes. Having a copy of what they have written about you will allow you to point out any flaws or mistakes, as well as clarify what the doctor may believe to be aggravating symptoms. Most doctors will readily hand these to you, so that you can examine them as well.
Find a hobby that you can easily perform. Many people who suffer from arthritis spend their days wishing they had something they could actually do, and you can prevent this boredom by searching out your own new hobby. Whether it is painting or dancing, having something to get you moving will keep you healthy.
While it may not be possible to dodge arthritis, it is almost always possible to deal with it. Simple steps, like the ones in this article, can ease arthritis pains and make it easier to put the affliction out of mind. The sufferer bears no responsibility for the onset of arthritis, but he or she can do a lot to minimize its impact.
