Whether you have been diagnosed with arthritis or are acquainted with someone else who struggles with the condition, you know that it can cause significant pain and challenges. But living with arthritis is much easier once you have the proper information and advice. The below article provides some tips for treating arthritis as effectively as possible.
Water aerobics and swimming can be wonderful activities to participate in if you have been diagnosed with arthritis. Exercising underwater is a great way to stretch muscles and joints, and being in warm water also soothes aching joints. If you can’t swim, why not join a class?
An early attack on arthritis can sometimes be the best approach. One great technique to use is to practice proper typing habits. When typing on the computer, keep arms and hands level with the keyboard, and position your mouse for less strain. Reducing the strain put on your wrists and fingers at your computer, especially if you spend a lot of time there, can lessen the problems of arthritis or even act as a preventative method.
Arthritis Symptoms
Relaxing your body and eliminating stress can help to control your arthritis symptoms. Stress causes the body to release certain chemicals that cause inflammation and increased sensitivity to pain. These exacerbate arthritis symptoms. Consider some exercise and improving time management skills as a means of reducing stress in your life.
If your arthritis has been diagnosed, then you are entitled to a handicapped sticker or plate. Many of those who have arthritis don’t know they are eligible for these spots, and so they just ride out the pain.
Joint surgery might be just what you need to find relief from your arthritis symptoms. Surgery helps reverse the damage caused by arthritis, improving flexibility and mobility.
Pain Killers
Try to manage your arthritis pain without resorting to pain killers, if at all possible. Pain killers provide only temporary relief and you can quickly become seriously addicted to them. If they have been prescribed by your doctor, do make sure to follow the instructions provided quite carefully.
Eat less meat and more vegetables. Studies have shown that vegetarians afflicted with arthritis suffer less swelling, inflammation, and pain than other arthritis sufferers that include meat in their diets. If you really want to eat meat, at least increase your vegetable intake to where it comprises 50 percent of your daily diet so your still enjoy most of the benefits that vegetables provide.
A relatively unknown solution for arthritis, is fish oil. Studies have shown that omega-3 fatty acids, which are in fish oil, help minimize pain and joint inflammation. You can find fish oil in almost any drugstore, vitamin store or even the supermarket.
Consider consulting your doctor about electric stimulation if you are affected by osteoarthritis. Experts agree that this treatment can produce highly favorable results in terms of reducing the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis.
You cannot allow yourself to take on a bad mood if you have arthritis. If you sink into a funk, your condition is only going to worsen. When arthritis develops, it may be a little more difficult to get things done. If you feel pressured or guilty, the situation can be worsened, so you need to remind yourself that you’re not at fault. Find activities you can do and enjoy and have someone help you with the tasks that have become impossible.
Arthritis is a common condition that too many people suffer from. Arthritis is much easier to manage and cope with when you know the correct ways to treat it.