Arthritis is a disease that effects many people at some point in their lives, causing inflammation, and pain in the cartilage and joints in different areas of the body. Although arthritis is often associated with older adults, younger people of both sexes, including children, may suffer from this disease. You can arm yourself with knowledge to fight back with these suggestions.
Avoid cigarette smoke, and if you smoke, quit. Nicotine sometimes decreases blood flow towards your arms and legs, which possibly alleviates short term inflammation. It also causes joint damage and will result in your arthritis progressing more rapidly than in a non-smoker.
Women who have arthritis should probably not wear high heels. While high heels are a perennial favorite, they are really bad for your feet. They apply a great deal of pressure to the knees and can exacerbate arthritis problems. Your arthritis troubles will be minimized if you wear comfortable shoes whenever possible. Your body will feel less pain if you treat it well.
When you’re thinking of designing a home while living with arthritis, be sure to ask for builder modifications. Discuss how your arthritis limits you in a home setting with your contractor, so they can help make suggestions for possible modifications to help make life easier for you. Such simple modifications can greatly reduce your arthritis pain and improve your daily life.
It is crucial that you watch what you are eating. Some people who suffer from arthritis may actually have food sensitivities, but they do not realize it. Keep a running food log, and make notes on your symptoms after each meal. This could help you discover food triggers.
It is important you never let yourself or anyone else demean your confidence. Arthritis is a painful condition and sometimes there will be things you should not do. Feeling pressured or guilty can worsen things, so keep reminding yourself it’s not your fault. Inability to do certain things should not cause you to berate yourself.
If you are suffering arthritis in the knees, consider buying a knee brace. Knee braces are quite effective at reducing swelling, inflammation and pain caused by arthritis. Having knee surgery should only be considered after all other options have failed. You can even use one while your are sleeping.
Pay attention to the level of protein in your body. Protein is very important for arthritis sufferers because you need more than most people do. Vegetarians in particular need to find good sources of protein such as tofu, legumes and cheese. Eat these regularly to keep pain and inflammation at bay.
Make sure that your family and friends are aware of what you are going through with your arthritis. If the people close to you know exactly what you are experiencing, they will easier understand your situation and be able to help. Friends and family members may be able to help you research new treatments for arthritis.
Tell people about your troubles with arthritis. Tell them of your condition with arthritis and how you are affected by it! You may find that arthritis is limiting, aggravating and frustrating, and sometimes alters your personality in ways you and your loved ones do not always relish. Help yourself – by helping them – to understand what is going on, so they can be more supportive of your condition and the stress you go through!
Do not carry so much. It is quite common to suffer from arthritis in the shoulder joints, especially for women. You could cause an inflammation in your shoulders and neck if you carry a bag that is too large. If you have to carry a bag, it should be light.
With such a wide variety of arthritic conditions, it can be hard to find an approach that will help you cope with having this disease. This article is designed as a powerful resource for those that are dealing with arthritis. Following these guidelines will offer relief from the disease and its effects.