5 Arthritis Treatment Options

From signalsaz.com

Pain and joint stiffness are two nagging arthritis symptoms that millions of people—mainly seniors—experience. The debilitating disease, which affects more than 20 percent of adults in the United States, is the leading cause of disability in the nation.

While there is no cure for arthritis, family caregivers of seniors need to stay informed about the disease and learn how to minimize the pain and discomfort their loved ones experience.

What Are the Different Types of Arthritis?

More than 100 types of arthritis and related conditions exist. Arthritis is most commonly seen in adults over 65 but can develop in children or young adults. It is more common in women than in men.
Common arthritis symptoms include swelling, pain, stiffness, and decreased range of motion in the joints. Symptoms may come and go and can be mild, moderate, or severe.

The three most commonly diagnosed forms are:

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis, is a degenerative disease that occurs in the joints — or the point where two bones come together. When cartilage – which acts as a protective cushion – breaks down, bones begin to rub together and cause inflammation, pain, and stiffness.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA)

RA is an autoimmune and inflammatory disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy body cells. RA can attack many joints – usually the hands, wrists, and knees – at once. RA affects the lining of the joints and causes inflammation and damage to the joint tissue. This damage can cause chronic pain, lack of balance, and deformities.

Psoriatic arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis affects people who have psoriasis, a disease that causes red patches and silvery scales on the skin. The main symptoms that can occur before or after the skin patches appear are joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. These symptoms can range from mild to severe and can affect any part of the body, including the fingertips.

Common Arthritis Treatment Options

A doctor may recommend a variety of treatments depending on a senior’s symptoms and personal condition.

Here are five common arthritis treatment options and how professional senior care can provide support:

1. Medications

One way to treat arthritis pain is through medications prescribed by a doctor. An in-home caregiver can provide medication reminders, make sure your loved one is taking medication as recommended, and keep an eye out for side effects or worsening symptoms.

2. Physical Activity

Physical activity can reduce pain, improve mood, and reduce the chances of developing chronic diseases, such as diabetes and heart disease. An in-home caregiver can encourage your senior loved one to keep moving as much as their symptoms allow while reducing the risk of a fall or other injury.

3. Weight Management

Excess weight can put pressure on already-swelling joints from arthritis. Maintaining a healthy weight is important when managing arthritis to ensure no extra pressure is exerted on painful joints. An in-home caregiver can help your loved one follow dietary and exercise guidelines to promote a healthy weight.

4. Stretching

Gentle stretches that move joints through a full range of motion are a simple and effective way to keep joints healthy. Seek advice and recommendations from a health professional, such as a doctor or physical therapist, to achieve the best results and avoid injury. An in-home caregiver can remind your older loved one to follow their stretching program and report any concerns to you.

5. Regular Medical Care

The most important thing you can do is stay informed and up to date on your loved one’s disease and symptoms. Consult your loved one’s doctor and medical team. An in-home care professional can assist in making appointments and arranging transportation for seniors to the doctor’s office.
Living with arthritis is challenging, but seniors can continue to manage symptoms effectively — especially when professional help is available.

https://www.signalsaz.com/articles/5-arthritis-treatment-options/ 

The Link Between Arthritis and Heart Disease

From medshadow.org

Living with arthritis can make every day a challenge. This condition predominantly affects the joints, which can make certain movements extremely painful. But, this debilitating condition can also affect other parts of the body, and it’s important to be aware of these risks to give yourself the best chance of looking after your long-term health. 

In particular, inflammatory types of arthritis, such as gout and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), leave sufferers at greater risk of developing heart disease. In fact, research suggests that people living with RA are twice as likely to suffer a heart attack. But what is the reasoning behind this link, and what can you do to reduce your chances of suffering from further health complications as a result of your arthritis?

Contributing Factors of RA and Heart Disease

There are many different contributing factors explaining the link between these two conditions. Firstly, rheumatic diseases (those that cause inflammation in joints and muscles) share common risk factors with heart disease, including high cholesterol and obesity. When living with arthritis, these factors can become magnified. Not only can arthritis make it more difficult to complete regular exercise, but any excess weight can put added pressure on the joints, whilst also leaving your heart more vulnerable to disease.  

Though red flags for heart disease, RA can increase the likelihood of someone gaining weight if they cannot properly find methods of exercising. Some exercise routines, however, are designed to help those even with arthritis pain.

Like many conditions, exercise can be the best medicine. According to the CDC, those suffering with arthritic conditions can improve their quality of life with low-impact activity.

Chronic Inflammation’s Role in Heart Disease

Though other health complications or risk factors like obesity are intrinsically linked with both conditions, the most important factor at play is the role of chronic inflammation. Inflammation of the joints can unfortunately spread throughout the body, affecting other tissues and organs. 

Inflammation Increases Risks for Heart Diseases

As this inflammation damages blood vessels, it becomes easier for plaque to form which can leave you at higher risk of blood clots or blocked arteries. This, in turn, can result in any number of serious health complications including a stroke, heart attack, and pulmonary embolism.

Steroids Increase Risks for Heart Disease

Studies have shown, however, that inflammation may not be the only connection. Reducing inflammation showed improvement in heart health risk factors on those studied, but arthritic treatments, such as the use of steroids, increased the risk for heart-related illness. 

How Can You Reduce the Risks? 

Fortunately, there are several things you can do to help manage your arthritis and reduce the risk of developing heart disease, as a result. Simple changes to your lifestyle can go a long way to helping keep your body healthy. 

Firstly, regular exercise is one of the most important things you can do to keep your joints, heart and body in good shape. Whilst high-intensity exercises can cause further damage to your joints, low-impact activities such as walking, swimming, and steady rowing can simultaneously help to ease joint pain, whilst helping to improve your heart’s health, too.

Alongside a consistent exercise regime, it’s crucial that you’re putting the right food and drinks into your body. For instance, foods that are high in cholesterol, such as processed meats and cheese, will put your heart under additional strain, and should only be consumed in moderation. But when living with certain types of arthritis, there are other dietary considerations that can help to manage your condition. 

For example, gout is a form of inflammatory arthritis that’s caused by having too much uric acid in the bloodstream. Uric acid is formed when purines in the body break down. Certain foods have a higher purine content, including red meats, some seafood and organ meats. These should be avoided where possible when living with gout, and replaced with low-purine alternatives such as whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.

Following an anti-inflammatory diet can go a long way to assist in both reducing your arthritic symptoms and improve your heart health. Those with arthritis should gauge what they consume carefully. Some helpful tips on what foods improve and what foods worsen arthritis symptoms can be found here.

Keep Your Joints and Heart Happy

Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent arthritis or even heart disease altogether, but there are a lot of ways you can reduce the risk of developing them or to prevent them from increasing in severity. Make simple lifestyle changes to improve your health, and if you are concerned, seek the advice of a medical professional sooner rather than later.

Healthy lifestyle changes can help you avoid medications and their side effects. To avoid unnecessary risks, MedShadow Foundation brings you research-based, unbiased wellness content to provide you with alternatives to help you, and those you love, reduce or eliminate your need for medications. All of our work is done free from pharmaceutical influence or funding. 

https://medshadow.org/the-link-between-arthritis-and-heart-disease/

How Arthritis Can Impact Your Everyday Life

From localtalknews.com/

• Arthritis is a chronic condition that causes pain and discomfort in the joints and can result in limited mobility, fatigue, and mental health issues.
• To help manage arthritis symptoms, engaging in light exercises like bowling can reduce pain and stiffness while maintaining a healthy diet can reduce inflammation.
• Taking supplements, and using herbs or essential oils can also help manage symptoms.
• Finally, having a supportive network of family and friends is an important part of managing arthritis successfully.

Arthritis affects millions of people all over the world, and it can have a significant impact on your everyday life. This particular type of chronic pain has been linked to numerous other health issues such as heart disease, depression, and obesity.

It’s essential to understand how arthritis works and how it can affect you to manage your condition effectively. Here are four ways that arthritis can affect your life.

Arthritis and Your Life

Arthritis can affect your life in various ways. Here are ways that can happen.

Pain and Discomfort

Arthritis is a chronic condition that causes pain and discomfort in the joints. This pain can range from mild to severe, depending on the type of arthritis you have and its severity. Some people with arthritis experience periodic flare-ups where they experience more intense pain than usual. Pain management is an essential part of living with arthritis, so it’s important to talk to your doctor about what options are available to you.

Limited Mobility

The pain and discomfort associated with arthritis can make it difficult for some people to move freely. This can lead to limited mobility, which means that certain activities may become difficult or even impossible for someone with arthritis. If you’re having difficulty moving around due to arthritis, talk to your doctor about ways you can manage your condition and improve your mobility.

Fatigue

Many people with arthritis experience chronic fatigue as a result of their condition. Fatigue is caused by inflammation in the body, which can be exacerbated by physical activity or other triggers such as stress or certain foods. To help manage fatigue, it’s essential to get enough rest and eat a balanced diet rich in nutrients and vitamins that will help reduce inflammation.

Mental Health Concerns

Living with chronic pain and limited mobility can take its toll on mental health as well as physical health. Many people with arthritis struggle with depression or anxiety due to their condition, so it’s vital to seek professional help if needed. Talk therapy or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) are effective treatments for managing mental health issues associated with chronic pain conditions like arthritis.

Simple Tips to Avoid and Treat Arthritis

Arthritis can be a problematic disease. Thankfully, there are simple ways to reduce your chances of getting it or even help treat it while you have it. Here are some ways you can do that.

Go Bowling!

People with Arthritis can’t do extensive physical activities, but light exercises like bowling can help reduce the pain and stiffness of arthritis. It can also help you reduce stress and depression. However, ensure that your local bowling centre is modernised. If not, ask your community to give it an upgrade. A robust bowling center modernization can ensure that everyone can bowl safely. It can also be safer for seniors who are at higher risk of getting injured.

Eat Healthy Foods

Maintaining a healthy diet is essential for anyone, but it’s even more crucial if you have arthritis. Eating foods rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals can help reduce inflammation and improve overall health. Additionally, avoiding processed foods or sugary snacks can help keep your weight in check, as obesity can make arthritis symptoms worse.

Take Supplements

In some cases, supplementing with vitamins and minerals may be beneficial in treating arthritis. Talk to your doctor about which supplements might work best for you and follow their advice.

Additionally, research shows that certain herbs or essential oils may effectively manage arthritis-related symptoms. Talk to your doctor before trying alternative treatments, as they may interact with certain medications or be unsuitable for people with other health conditions.

Creating a Support System

Living with arthritis can be challenging, so it’s essential to have a good support system. Connecting with others who understand your struggles can help you feel less isolated and more supported. Additionally, having someone to talk to about your condition can help reduce stress and provide emotional support.

Arthritis can have a significant impact on your everyday life, but it doesn’t have to define you. With the right treatment and lifestyle changes, many people can successfully manage their condition and lead happy, healthy lives.

Take the time to learn about your specific condition and talk to your doctor about the best treatment options. With the right approach, arthritis doesn’t have to hinder your life.

https://www.localtalknews.com/arthritis-can-impact-your-everyday-life/ 

Diet, exercise and de-stressing can help ease symptoms of arthritis

From nwitimes.com

Arthritis, whatever the type, is characterized by joint pain, stiffness, reduced mobility and inflammation.

Osteoarthritis, the most common type, affects about 33 million American adults. It is often referred to as “wear and tear” arthritis, because it occurs over time and is caused by the loss of protective cartilage that cushions the ends of the bones. It mostly affects older adults; however, it can occur at any age. While there are a variety of pharmaceuticals, prescription and non-prescription, that can help treat symptoms, some lifestyle strategies also may provide relief.

Diet

The typical American diet can aggravate arthritis. Choosing a variety of foods that help lower chronic inflammation in the body and eating less of the foods that cause inflammation is one way to help minimize symptoms.

Anti-inflammatory foods such as those high in omega-3 fatty acids, include  wild-caught salmon, mackerel, sardines, oysters, grass-fed beef, walnuts, chia seeds, flaxseeds. Fresh or unsweetened frozen fruits (especially berries), fresh or frozen vegetables, beans, legumes, nuts, seeds, avocados, extra virgin olive oil and whole grains are also anti-inflammatory foods.

Foods to avoid or minimize due to their inflammatory nature include excess sugar; refined white flour products such as cookies, white bread, cakes, rolls and bagels; trans fats and hydrogenated oils found in fried foods, margarine, conventional baked goods, processed snacks; mono-sodium glutamate (MSG); artificial sweeteners; high omega-6 fatty acid oils such as corn, soybean, canola, cottonseed; processed meats such as bacon, beef jerky, cold cuts and sausage; alcohol; and foods containing high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS). These foods also contribute to a wide range of other health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, cancer and cognitive disorders.

                  Chia seeds, high in omega-3, may help ease the effects of arthritis. Karin Saltanovitz

Movement

To maintain mobility and help ease pain and stiffness, it’s vital to keep moving. Some type of regular exercise helps keep symptoms at bay. Benefit include strengthening muscles that support the joints, boosting energy, maintaining a healthy weight, strengthening bones, and improving sleep, total wellness and  social interactions. 

Exercise does not need to be intense, especially if you’re just getting started. All movement counts. Once you get clearance from your health-care provider to begin a program, experiment to determine what types of movement are best for you. Enlist friends; it's more fun and you’ll keep one another accountable. Whether it’s walking at your local Y, light stretching, swimming, tai chi, gentle yoga or working with a trainer, exercise rocks.

Sleep

The pain of arthritis disrupts or prevents sleep for about 80% of those who  have it. Poor sleep can increase inflammation, pain and even depression. It’s a vicious cycle. Same issue as “Which came first, the chicken or the egg?” A lack of sleep tonight results in a more painful tomorrow, which may disrupt sleep. Quality sleep is necessary for overall health and well-being.

Practicing good sleep hygiene is critical. Tips include avoiding caffeine in the afternoon and evening, turning off all electronic devices, sticking with a regular bedtime, keeping the room cool and comfortable, creating a relaxing bedtime routine, avoiding heavy meals and alcohol, exercising regularly, limiting or avoiding naps, destressing by writing down any worries or to-do lists, keeping the room dark and going to bed only when you’re sleepy. If you to have problems getting your rest, talk with your health-care provider.

Joint care

It’s important to protect your joints to prevent further damage and injuries. Maintain proper posture when standing, sitting, walking, lifting and carrying. Ask for help from family or friends when you need it. Maintain a healthy weight for your frame. Use devices to assist you when necessary.

Stress management

Stress aggravates everything. While we need some stress to stay sharp, too much is detrimental to our health. Stress can lead to more pain, poor sleep, depression, anxiety and a host of other problems.

Management strategies include exercising, spending time with family and friends, meditating and other relaxation techniques, enjoying hobbies, finding humor in your day, listening to music and eating foods that nourish your body and promote health.

Alternative treatments

Other therapies that may provide relief include hot or cold compresses applied to sore joints for 15-20 minutes several times a day; acupuncture; massage; physical therapy; Epsom salt baths; and meditation.

Various herbs and supplements are often touted for relieving arthritis pain. Before taking these, check with your health-care provider, especially if you’re taking any other medications. Herbs and supplements may interfere with medications' effectiveness or cause an unwanted interaction.

https://www.nwitimes.com/lifestyles/seniors/diet-exercise-and-de-stressing-can-help-ease-symptoms-of-arthritis/article_8c24de57-c017-57a1-9b37-0cc1c914c3e3.html 

Exercising good judgment about your knee arthritis

From unionleader.com 

By Dr. Michael Roizen, MD

What do Shaquille O’Neal and Jane Fonda have in common? Osteoarthritis in their knees. And they’re joined by millions of fellow Americans. Knee osteoarthritis accounts for more than 80% of the 58.5 million other cases of arthritis in the U.S., affecting at least 19% of American adults 45 and older.

That’s why it’s important for research to explore how — short of knee replacement — you can best reduce the pain and retain mobility.

A randomised, controlled study in the Annals of Internal Medicine looked at whether three weekly treatments for 12 weeks of a shorter “low-dose” or longer “high-dose” exercise routine reduced pain and increased function.

What the researchers discovered was that while a high-dose routine (each treatment lasted 80-90 minutes) did have better results in the first six months of follow-up, the advantages faded after that. In the long run, the low-dose routine of 25 to 30 minutes per session was just as beneficial. But the high-dose routine did have one big disadvantage: Far more people dropped out of it than the low-dose one.

So, if you’re struggling with chronic knee pain from osteoarthritis but don’t have the stamina or time for longer exercise therapy sessions, don’t feel guilty.

Here are two other knee-sparing tips: A study in Arthritis & Rheumatology found that among folks with knee osteoarthritis and intermittent pain, walking for exercise decreased their odds of new and frequent knee pain by 40%. And there’s a beneficial supplement routine that’s osteoarthritis-modifying; check it out in “The Great Age Reboot.”

Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. His next book is “The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow.” 

https://www.unionleader.com/news/health/exercising-good-judgment-about-your-knee-arthritis/article_7f0d50ab-272a-5f3f-a2d7-82613e33db4b.html

Hydrate to help arthritis pain

From westfaironline.com

“You can’t go through life allowing pain to dictate how you behave.” — Adam Braverman, Parenthood 

Arthritis and inflammation have been two of the biggest concerns in the health and wellness industry for some time now.  Given so much talk about these challenges, I thought it would be a good idea to break them down in an article.   

It is important for everyone, regardless of who you are, to stay hydrated. We all have heard about the importance of water, and I have written about it in past articles.  What I’d like to look at this month is hydration specific to those experiencing frequent joint pain.  Since water is vital in helping your body function at its best, a lack of it can increase joint inflammation and lessen the amount of fluids that cushion your joints, which in turn can lead to achy joints. 

One way hydration contributes to joint health is through reducing cartilage friction. Cartilage is tissue that covers the ends of your bones and allows them to glide over one another without the bones rubbing. Some studies suggest that 65 to 80% of your cartilage is made of water — which means that when you are properly hydrated, the friction between your bones is reduced.  Think of cartilage like a sponge. When a sponge is hydrated, it’s easy to manipulate since it is soft and wet. However, if a sponge is dry, it becomes stiff and difficult to use. 

Another way hydration contributes to joint health is through improving joint lubrication through synovial fluid, which is made primarily of water. Synovial fluid is important, because it lubricates your joints, reducing friction. When you become dehydrated, your body may struggle to produce this fluid. 

In addition, it is often said that winter and cold weather are culprits for arthritis pain. While cold weather is not the cause of arthritis, it can certainly exacerbate the condition, making winter a difficult time for those who suffer from it. Since our bodies are more sensitive when it gets cold, the arthritis pain you feel becomes greater. The cold temperatures slow blood circulation, which can cause muscle spasms and joint discomfort. Low temperatures can also increase the thickness of the synovial fluid, making the joints stiffer and more susceptible to pain. (Arthritis sufferers don’t necessarily do better in warmer months. A fall in barometric pressure — as before a storm like a hurricane — can cause joints to expand, resulting in immense pain.) 

With that being said, it is important to keep the discomfort at bay by knowing how to manage arthritis pain during wintery months.  Some strategies include:  

Layering up — Bundle up with hats, gloves, scarves, boots and heavy coats, even if you don’t think you will be exposed to the cold for that long, because it’s just a quick walk to the car, the parking lot or the like.   

Using a heating pad or electric blanket when sitting at home — If you have ever been to a physical therapy clinic, there is a good chance that it uses heat when you first arrive.  The use of heat aids in circulation. As with any electrical device, always follow the instructions. 

Doing any type of movement/physical activity, as it helps increase circulation and distribute oxygen throughout the body — There is a reason why a good workout starts with a warm-up. The ability of a body to warm up always make the body feel better and more prepared for the workout.  The same can be said for arthritis.  Performing activities that can get the body warmer, even if just doing some simple stretches, can be helpful.   

Adding sound nutritional choices — These help reduce inflammation, strengthen bones and boost the immune system.   

Getting your vitamin D levels checked — A deficiency in vitamin D can contribute to bone loss and has been linked to increased arthritis pain. 

As simple as it sounds, reminding yourself throughout the day to drink a glass of water can help ease the symptoms of joint pain. Furthermore, simple strategies such as keeping warm, being physically active, having a balanced diet and getting enough sunshine are great ways to relieve your pain and inflammation.  Always remember that doing something, anything, always trumps a sedentary, nonactive lifestyle.   

https://westfaironline.com/health-fitness/hydrate-to-help-arthritis-pain/

Rheumatoid Arthritis: Early detection prevents damage

From timesofindia.indiatimes.com

The immune system of the body is like the defence force of a country. It fights against bacterial and viral infections and protects us from multiple diseases. The soldiers at work here are the ‘antibodies’ produced by the immune system to protect the body against external threats. In some people, however, these antibodies attack the body’s own cells. This is the hidden ‘battle’ that begins to take place in our bodies. This is known as ‘autoimmunity’ and it gives rise to different conditions depending on which part of the body comes under attack.

Rheumatoid arthritis or RA is one of the most common autoimmune disorders in which proteins of a certain kind are wrongly recognized by the body as ‘invaders’ and a specific type of antibodies are produced against these proteins. These proteins are commonly found in the joints, and this is the reason why the part of the body worst affected by RA are the joints such as in the hands, feet, knees and ankles. The first symptoms of RA are pain, warmth, swelling, and stiffness in these joints.

During the initial stages of RA, the pain and swelling occur in one joint which can subside for 2-3 days and then the same symptoms appear in another joint. It is important to start the treatment at this stage. If this is not done, then the disease can begin to destroy the bones and can lead to permanent deformities. In later stages of RA, other parts of the body such as lungs, heart, skin, blood vessels, eyes, nerves, and kidneys can also get affected. If the inflammation in RA is not controlled by medication, it leads to permanent deformities and later makes patients prone to heart diseases and stroke. Insomnia and depression also occur because of long standing uncontrolled disease.

In RA, the one question that comes to mind and needs an answer is why does our body produce antibodies against its own proteins? Right now, we do not have a firm explanation for this. But we do know that it involves complex interactions between genetic, behavioural, and environmental factors to initiate the process of autoimmunity. People born with specific genes known as human leukocyte antigen (HLA) are more at risk to develop RA. But not everyone with this gene develops it. Overall, women are more vulnerable to this condition than men. Some studies have shown that it is 3 times more common in women than men. Research has also shown that this difference is because of the effect of the female hormone, oestrogen on the immune system. In some women, this hormone can stimulate the immune system to become overactive and produce antibodies that are not required. RA is common in the age group of 40 to 60 years, but it can occur at any age. RA sometimes develops after childbirth. In some people, infections such as E. coli, Epstein-Barr virus and cytomegalovirus have been identified as triggers for an ‘hyper-response’ of the immune system. When people with the HLA gene smoke or are obese, they are at the highest risk to develop RA.

Since we have not been able to identify a direct cause for this condition it is difficult to recommend any preventive measures. But we can say with greater assurance that it cannot be cured. Therefore, to minimise risk particularly for those people who may have a family history of RA, it is advisable to reduce weight and stop smoking. Even though most patients are females, they need to understand that they can lead normal lives, get married, become pregnant and have healthy children. There are medicines which can be safely given during pregnancy and breast feeding. For others the advice is to start treatment as soon as the first symptoms appear so that the condition can be controlled, and complications prevented.

People who suffer from frequent joint pain and stiffness need to visit their doctors even if the symptoms are not continuous. A doctor can diagnose the condition based on the symptoms, clinical examination of the joints and a few diagnostic tests. If diagnosed early, there are medicines available known as ‘disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs’ (DMARDs) which can slow down the damage to the joints and prevent deformities. We also recommend exercise and physiotherapy which can complement these medicines. Regular follow-ups with the doctor are required to monitor progress and make any required modifications in the medicines. It is best to get treated by specialists called ‘rheumatologists’ because of the challenging nature of the condition. They are specially trained to manage RA and can help patients lead a good-quality life.

https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/blogs/voices/rheumatoid-arthritis-early-detection-prevents-damage/ 

Tips for protecting your joints when you have Rheumatoid Arthritis

From dnaindia.com

Here are some tips to help protect your joints when you have RA

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and pain in the joints. It can also affect other parts of the body, including the skin, eyes, lungs, and blood vessels. The cause of RA is not well understood, but it is thought to be related to a combination of genetic and environmental factors.

Here are some tips to help protect your joints when you have RA:

Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight puts additional stress on your joints, so it is important to maintain a healthy weight to reduce the strain on your joints.

Exercise regularly: Regular exercise, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, can help maintain joint mobility and strength. However, be sure to talk to your doctor before starting any new exercise regimen.

Use assistive devices: Canes, crutches, or braces can help take pressure off of affected joints.

Practice good posture: Good posture can help reduce the stress on your joints, especially in your back, neck, and knees.

Take breaks: Avoid prolonged periods of sitting or standing and take breaks to stretch and move your joints.

Use heat or cold therapy: Heat therapy, such as using a heating pad, can help relieve joint pain and stiffness, while cold therapy, such as using an ice pack, can help reduce inflammation.

Avoid high-impact activities: High-impact activities, such as running, can put additional strain on your joints. Instead, opt for low-impact exercises like walking or cycling.

Take your medication: Follow your doctor's instructions and take your medication as prescribed to help manage RA symptoms and protect your joints.

It is important to remember that everyone is different and what works for one person may not work for another. Talk to your doctor to determine the best plan for protecting your joints and managing your RA symptoms.

https://www.dnaindia.com/health/report-rheumatoid-arthritis-pain-tips-for-protecting-your-joints-when-you-have-ra-3023098

 

Here are low-impact exercises that may ease your arthritis pain

From edition.cnn.com

Editor’s Note: Before beginning any new exercise program, consult your doctor. Stop immediately if you experience pain.

CNN — 

Feeling lucky that you don’t have arthritis? Don’t celebrate just yet. Nearly one-quarter of adults in the United States has arthritis, or about 58.5 million people, according to the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.

More than half of these folks are 18 to 64 years old and in the prime of their working years, making this disease especially devastating. The financial toll from such pervasive arthritis: more than $300 billion in lost earnings and medical care each year, the CDC says.

There are dozens of different types of arthritis and related diseases, but the most common are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, gout and lupus. All can cause joint stiffness, pain and swelling. Rheumatoid arthritis and lupus can also affect multiple organs.

Low-impact exercise is one of the most important ways to manage arthritis pain and symptoms, according to the Osteoarthritis Action Alliance, the CDC and other groups. This type of routine activity is effective and accessible, and it’s never too late to start.

Walking, biking and swimming are often listed as great low-impact exercises for people with arthritis. “I often recommend water therapy if you have access to a pool,” said Dr. Elexander Atkinson, a family medicine physician with Novant Health in Charlotte, North Carolina. “Whether you’re walking, swimming or doing water aerobics, it’s my No. 1 recommendation.”

Walking makes a great low-impact exercise to help manage your arthritis pain and symptoms

Joshua Resnick/Adobe Stock

If you’re not a fan of the water, that’s fine. The best exercise for you is the one you enjoy doing the most, Atkinson said. Luckily, you have so many choices. In addition to walking, biking and water exercises, you can dance, garden, play shuffleboard or bocce ball, cross-country ski, or use elliptical machines. Exercise programs aimed more at flexibility, balance and strength are important, too. Think yoga, tai chi and Pilates. 

Pilates is one of the most effective forms of exercise for arthritis and general injury rehabilitation, said Melissa Bentivoglio, co-founder and CEO of Frame Fitness in Miami,a platform that delivers Pilates workouts on a custom reformer machine.

“In Pilates, all movement stems from your core,” Bentivoglio said. “Even if you’re isolating your legs or arm muscles, you still use your central core muscles to initiate all movement, using the stability of these muscles to ensure the rest of the body stays in proper alignment. This helps prevent injury, protects your joints as you are executing each exercise, and improves strength, flexibility and balance.”

While Pilates can be done employing a mat or reformer, Bentivoglio said using the reformer keeps the entire body in proper alignment throughout the workout while also easing pressure on joints.

Pilates is one of the most effective forms of exercise for arthritis and general injury rehabilitation.

photology1971/Adobe Stock

Unfortunately, a lot of arthritis patients balk at exercising, as they may find doing so initially painful, Atkinson said, especially if they haven’t been in the habit of working out.

“We give patients this idea that they need to walk 30 minutes a day, but that’s not fair to them if they haven’t been regularly exercising,” he said. “They need to build up to it by starting with five minutes of walking a day, then building up to 10, then 20 and then maybe adding in the gym. You should never just go full-on.”

But sometimes it’s the habitual exercisers who struggle the most with arthritis, as they may not want to give up a favourite sport or cut back on participation. Think the lifetime runner with osteoarthritis in the knee who balks at boxing up the running shoes.

“Those are some of the most challenging patients,” Atkinson said. “I don’t know if running on an osteoarthritic knee will lead to an earlier knee replacement, but their pain will keep getting worse, and it will limit their function so they can’t walk as well the next day.”

Paying attention to how you feel during and after a particular exercise will tell you whether it’s good for your body or if you’ve overdone things, experts said. If your arthritic symptoms increase after exercise, modify or change your activity but try to stay in motion.

Yoga and tai chi are among the exercise programs aimed at increasing flexibility, balance and strength.

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Be aware, too, that if you’re starting a new physical activity, it’s normal to have some pain, stiffness and swelling afterward. It could take six to eight weeks before your body acclimates, according to the CDC. Once it does, however, you should enjoy some measure of long-term pain relief.

“In Pilates, we often quote the founder of the practice, Joseph Pilates, who said, ‘In 10 sessions you will feel better, in 20 you will look better and in 30 you will have a whole new body,’” Bentivoglio said.

It’s also important to select an exercise that fits your goals. If arthritis is hampering your flexibility, strength and balance, try yoga, Pilates or tai chi, all of which focus on those issues. If you’re having trouble tackling stairs, you may be best off doing exercises to strengthen your quadriceps. To deal with overall stiffness and pain, opt for walking, cycling or swimming.

Don’t assume you’re cleared to hang out on the couch if you’re free of arthritis or have a mild case that causes little pain or dysfunction. “Exercise will potentially prevent or delay arthritis,” Atkinson said. “If you’re not active and exercising, you should be.”

https://edition.cnn.com/2023/02/10/health/exercises-for-arthritis-pain-relief-wellness/index.html