When it comes to arthritis, it seems that nobody is safe. Men and women of all ages and fitness levels are potential targets of this painful and degenerative disease. These tips and tricks offer some basic insight into the different options that are available for anyone who is struggling to cope with the symptoms of this condition.
When you have arthritis and you plan to exercise, make sure you keep your footwear in good condition. Beat up, old shoes affect the way you walk and by extension, put unnecessary stress on your legs. Additionally, they can hurt your legs and joints. It is important to regularly replace your shoes, especially if you discover uneven patterns of wear on the soles.
Make time in your day to do the things you love. Increased stress levels can lead to more arthritis flare-ups. If you find time to do the activities you enjoy, you’ll improve your mood and your energy levels. This kind of effect will lead to lasting improvement in your symptoms.
Vary the applications of hot and cold methods of treatment. When joints are particularly painful, going back and forth between heat packs and cold compresses can reduce swelling and ease pain, as well. This is the perfect treatment to use before going to bed. Refrain from using this alternative more than two times in the course of a day.
Take the time to have your family educated about your rheumatoid arthritis and the different challenges that will occur while you live with this condition. There are classes available through The Arthritis Foundation, and there are many books available that can be used to teach your family about the condition.
Physical therapy is recommended for anyone suffering from arthritis. If your daily routine is constantly interrupted by arthritis, you can get your time and flexibility back with a workout program customized for you personally by your physical therapist. Adhere to the plan provided and get your life back on course.
Get a professional massage. Having a massage done by someone who specializes in arthritis pain can be a delightful treat to any sufferer. These experienced professionals know how to target painful spots and work out tension and pressure that may be hindering your flexibility. If you cannot afford this, have a family member look up techniques and try them out.
Consume plenty of protein. Arthritis patients need plenty of protein, as their bodies use more of this important nutrient than people without arthritis. Vegetarians need to work a little harder to get enough protein in their diet.
Find a health care professional that you trust and are comfortable speaking with. Arthritis sufferers need to make frequent visits to the doctor to treat painful issues and get regular checkups. If you are not comfortable with your physician, you may not be entirely truthful or trusting of them, so find one that you enjoy working with.
Know knee injury. Pushing yourself too hard can be detrimental to your health and safety. If you want to attempt something that may be a reach, try to have someone nearby in case you need assistance. You do not want to cause undue stress on your mind or your joints, so give yourself boundaries.
Don’t be afraid to let those around you know that you suffer from arthritis. Let them know about your arthritis symptoms and the effects it has on you. It’s possible that arthritis can change who you once were by affecting your mood or character, which can confuse those who care about you. Help them to understand your condition and they will be much more compassionate and supportive.
Stay active by taking a walk every evening for 20 minutes. You aren’t trying to speed walk or run a marathon, you just need to keep your body in the habit of moving regularly and working out any stiffness in your joints. Regular walks will go a long way toward tempering your arthritis symptoms.
Today, there are a variety of treatments and options offered for all types of arthritis and all types of patients. If you or someone you know is affected by the disease, remember the advice from this article, as you seek ways to minimize the pain and the limitations that accompany a diagnosis of arthritis.