There are more than 100 types of arthritis that can cause chronic pain, stiffness, swelling and decreased range of motion in people of any age, sex, and race. It can be a painful debilitating condition that affects not only the joints of the body but, in some cases, also the organs of the body. There are, however, ways that arthritis sufferers can continue to maximize their quality of life and slow the condition’s progression. The key is to find coping strategies and a lifestyle that works for the individual and their symptoms.
Whatever your age, here are 5 tips to help you manage your arthritis.
- Find out what support is available
Sometimes it can be helpful to connect with other people who are going through the same experiences and facing the same challenges. There are self-management workshops and programs for people with arthritis which help people to learn how to manage their condition so that they can still enjoy a healthy and happy lifestyle. This can include helping people to manage their pain, with their work, to spend time with friends and family, to improve their mood, to reduce anxiety and stress, and to continue pursuing the same hobbies.
- Keep talking to your doctor
Your doctor is an invaluable source of advice and support for people throughout their condition, so it is important to maintain a good line of communication with them, attend all appointments, and contact them when you need additional help. The doctor will recommend the best possible treatment for your condition and symptoms to help you minimize pain and prevent damage to the joints. They will also be able to provide advice on how you can continue to function in your daily life. You might also want to investigate natural pain relief options such as CBD from platinumcbduk.com, but be sure to check with your doctor that it will not impact other treatments.
- Try to stay active
Regular physical activity is important for many reasons. Firstly, being active is beneficial for maintaining your general health and preventing heart disease or diabetes. It can also help to relieve pain and improve a person’s mood as it causes the brain to release calming endorphins. Exercise, when done sensibly, can also help to extend a person’s range of motion. Click here for more information on staying fit when you have arthritis.
- Maintain a healthy weight
Carrying extra weight will place more strain on joints that are already under stress, so it is important to lose weight if you are overweight or maintain a healthy weight. Losing just 10 pounds of weight can significantly reduce a person’s pain and give them more mobility. To maintain control of your weight, the majority of your diet should be balanced and nutritious and you should try to be active as much as possible.
- Look after your joints
Injuring an arthritic join can cause complex and long-term problems, so it is essential that you are cautious when being active to reduce impact on them. This means avoiding twisting your joints or playing high-impact sports. Swimming, cycling, and walking are ideal activities. You might also want to take preventative measures by wearing protective clothing and equipment to prevent injury.