Try to find a support group to help you handle your arthritis. Get advice and information from fellow sufferers to find the best ways to treat arthritis. This article can help you understand exactly how to deal with arthritis.
Cigarettes can irritate your body and may cause pain, as you should avoid smoking with arthritis. Nicotine reduces the blood flow to the extremities which can reduce inflammation short term. Reduced blood flow could ruin your joints, meaning the arthritis is going to be worse and come quicker, than it would if you didn’t smoke.
If you find yourself battling rheumatoid arthritis on a daily basis, try keeping a journal. It may help to keep a notebook to record your diet and symptoms to see if certain foods may be responsible for your flare ups. It helps for you to know which methods to use to treat your condition. It can really help your doctor or rheumatologist in determining what treatment options will work best for you. A daily diary is an extremely valuable tool to use.
Be sure to get the proper type and amount of exercise every day. Exercise keeps you healthy, flexible and fit. You can prevent joint inflammation with low-impact exercise, but don’t overdo it. The moment you begin to experience pain, you should stop.
You should only use pain medication when truly necessary. The relief that these medications provides is just temporary, and you could get addicted to these medications very easily. If, however, you feel the need to take prescribed pain killers, stick closely to the directions supplied.
Employ the services of an experienced physical therapist. They can help you find an appropriate workout routine that can help your flexibility, diminish your swelling, and take control of your disruptive arthritis. Make sure to follow the plan in order to get the best results.
A cane can greatly improve your mobility. Unfortunately, cane’s come with a disability stigma that many people don’t want to be associated with. If you have less pain when you use a cane you should do it. Look for a cane with some personality to feel better about carrying one.
Set up a timer. If you have chores that need to be done, set the timer for five to ten minutes and then take a break. Do not ignore the pain so you can finish what you are doing or you will make things worse.
Take the time to laugh often. Whether you’re cracking wise with your friends, watching romantic comedies with your family or even recalling a funny happenstance from your memory bank, laughter truly is a potent medicine. Laughter is a strong assistant when it comes to people with arthritis, so be sure to use it well and often for the most benefits.
Avoid carrying too much weight. Women are especially prone to having arthritis develop in the shoulder joints. Consider decreasing the weight of your handbag to lessen the amount of pressure you are placing on your neck and shoulders. If you absolutely have to carry a bag, select one that is small and lightweight. Place only the necessities in it, and take it with you only when required.
The most important thing is being informed about arthritis. If you can learn to reduce your arthritis symptoms, day to day life will become much easier. The tips laid out here can act as stepping stones to even more education and resources so that coping with arthritis is easier.
