When Arthritis Strikes, Keep Moving

From usnews.com

Your achy joints may suggest that you take it easy. Don’t listen to them, experts say.

If it hurts when you get up from a chair or climb stairs, you might have osteoarthritis. If so, it’s best to keep moving.

“While the pain from osteoarthritis worsens with activity and improves with rest, exercise is still the most cost-effective treatment for it,” said Dr. Kathryn Dao, an associate professor of internal medicine at UT Southwestern Medical Centre in Dallas.

“Studies have shown exercise can build cartilage, strengthen muscles, and improve joint function and bone mass. Patients who exercise also have better balance and a lower risk of falling,” Dao, a rheumatology specialist, said in a medical centre news release.

This type of arthritis is caused by degenerative changes in the cartilage that connects joints and cushions the ends of bones. Symptoms can include pain, stiffness and limited mobility. You may have tenderness at the joint, along with swelling or popping sounds.

The condition affects about 1 in 7 American adults, most commonly affecting hands, knees, hips and spine.

Arthritis is common with age, but can also develop because of past injuries or surgeries, Dao said.

It’s more likely to occur when a joint has endured repetitive stress, such as with a particular sport or job. Obesity is another risk factor.

People with inflammatory arthritis, such as gout, rheumatoid arthritis or psoriatic arthritis, are also more prone to getting osteoarthritis, Dao said.

UT Southwestern and the U.S. Centres for Disease Control and Prevention recommend exercising regularly and maintaining a healthy weight to prevent or control arthritis symptoms.

A good goal is to get 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise each week. Start with less intensity and less time and work your way up, Dao suggested.

You could also break down your 30 daily minutes into two 15-minute sessions a day.

High-impact activities such as jumping, long-distance running, stair climbing or lifting heavy weights may cause more pain.

“Low-impact exercises such as swimming, bicycling, Pilates, yoga, and walking on level ground are better tolerated and effective in patients with moderate to severe osteoarthritis,” Dao said. “Stretching before and after a workout also helps to loosen the muscles and lubricates the joints to prevent injury.”

If you’re experiencing significant pain or weakness, Dao recommends seeing a doctor for possible referral to a physical therapist or a trainer to help you create an exercise program.

https://www.usnews.com/news/health-news/articles/2023-05-29/when-arthritis-strikes-keep-moving

7 Ways to get relief from arthritis pain

From mirchi.in

Arthritis, a chronic condition that impacts numerous individuals globally, often leads to unbearable pain that can disrupt daily activities. However, amidst these challenges, there is hope, as several techniques and treatments can provide relief. If you're seeking to alleviate the pain associated with arthritis, consider trying out these effective strategies and regain the ability to live a more pain-free life. Here, we delve into seven approaches that can help ease arthritis pain, empowering individuals to regain control and embrace a life with reduced discomfort.

1.Exercising
Incorporating regular low-impact exercises into your routine, such as swimming, yoga, and tai chi, can have a positive impact on arthritis management. These activities promote joint flexibility, strengthen muscles, and effectively alleviate discomfort associated with arthritis. By gently improving the range of motion and reducing stiffness, these exercises help mitigate pain and enhance overall well-being. Embracing these low-impact exercises not only provides physical benefits but also empowers individuals to take an active role in managing their arthritis and improving their quality of life.

2. Doing hot and cold therapy
Taking advantage of the power of temperature, utilizing alternating hot and cold therapy can provide significant relief from arthritis pain. Applying a heating pad or warm compress helps relax muscles and alleviate joint stiffness, while cold packs or ice help numb pain and reduce inflammation. By combining these temperature treatments, you can effectively soothe arthritic joints and experience increased comfort. Whether it's the warmth that eases tension or the cooling effect that reduces swelling, this harmonious blend of temperatures offers a valuable strategy for managing arthritis discomfort and promoting overall well-being.

3. Managing weight
Maintaining a healthy weight plays a crucial role in effectively managing arthritis pain. Excess weight puts undue stress on joints, intensifying discomfort and limiting mobility. By embracing a balanced diet that includes nutrient-rich foods and engaging in regular physical activity, individuals can shed extra pounds, thereby alleviating the burden on their joints and significantly reducing pain. By focusing on a healthy lifestyle, including mindful eating and regular exercise, individuals can actively contribute to the management of their arthritis and experience improved overall well-being.

4. Medications
Seeking guidance from a healthcare professional is essential in finding appropriate medications to alleviate arthritis pain. Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) can be prescribed, targeting specific types of arthritis pain. These medications effectively work to reduce inflammation, manage symptoms, and provide much-needed relief. By consulting with a healthcare professional, individuals can explore the medication options available to them and find the right treatment approach that suits their specific condition, ultimately enhancing their quality of life by alleviating arthritis pain.

5. Acupuncture

Acupuncture, an ancient practice, has emerged as a holistic approach to pain management, including arthritis. This therapy involves targeting specific points along the body's energy pathways, stimulating the release of endorphins, which are natural pain-relieving chemicals. The soothing and therapeutic effects of acupuncture have garnered recognition for providing remarkable relief from arthritis pain. By embracing this ancient practice, individuals can explore an alternative and complementary treatment option that aims to alleviate arthritis discomfort and promote overall well-being.


6. Incorporating assistive devices
Incorporating assistive devices into daily life can have a significant impact on mobility and joint stress reduction for individuals with arthritis. Braces, splints, canes, or walkers offer valuable support and stability, alleviating discomfort during movement. Additionally, ergonomic adaptations to everyday tools, such as jar openers or long-handled reachers, enable independent living by making daily tasks more manageable. By utilizing these assistive devices, individuals with arthritis can enhance their mobility, improve their quality of life, and regain confidence in performing everyday activities with ease.

7. Embracing mind-body techniques
Embracing mind-body techniques, including meditation, deep breathing exercises, and guided imagery, can be highly effective in reducing arthritis pain. These practices promote relaxation, calming both the mind and body and diminishing the stress and anxiety often associated with chronic pain. By adopting this holistic approach, individuals with arthritis can enhance their overall well-being, finding solace and a sense of inner peace on their journey. These mind-body techniques offer valuable tools to manage pain, improve mental health, and cultivate a positive outlook, empowering individuals to navigate their arthritis journey with greater ease and resilience.

https://mirchi.in/stories/lifestyle/7-ways-to-get-relief-from-arthritis-pain/100574078 

This Is the #1 Worst Habit for Arthritis Pain, According to a Rheumatologist

From parade.com

Doctors say avoiding certain habits can be good for your joints 

Arthritis is an extremely common—and often quite painful—health condition. According to the Arthritis Foundation, it is the leading cause of disability in the United States. While there are a variety of treatment methods, it’s also smart to be proactive and try to avoid anything that might aggravate your arthritis symptoms or cause increased joint pain.

The Worst Habit for Arthritis Pain

Besides being linked to a wide range of other health issues, living a sedentary lifestyle can be bad for your joints. “One of the biggest misconceptions that we deal with as rheumatologists is the belief that if you exercise, you’re going to make your arthritis worse,” says Dr. Elaine Husni, MD, MPH, an Arthritis Foundation Expert Source and Vice Chair of the Cleveland Clinic’s Department of Rheumatic and Immunologic Diseases. “That's a common myth that we want to dispel because we think sensible and regular exercise can actually help your arthritis.”

Husni emphasizes the potential benefits of exercise to those with arthritis and joint pain, as long as you tailor your exercise regimen to your ability and fitness level. “We want people to understand that exercise is good for arthritis in your joints. However, everybody must exercise at levels that are appropriate for them. If your fitness level is lower, you might want to start with aquatic exercises and work your way up to land-based exercise. If you're like me and just sort of a weekend warrior, then we might have to do a gradual program to get up to a regular exercise regimen. And if you're a very high-performing elite athlete, you might need to work with a trainer to make sure you're not overdoing your exercise.”

Other Not-So-Great Habits for People With Arthritis 

Maintaining an unhealthy diet

Diet and exercise tend to go hand-in-hand, so it makes sense that eating a lot of unhealthy foods is also not good for arthritis pain. “Foods high in sodium, processed sugars and fats have been associated with weight gain, cardiovascular disease and diabetes,” says Dr. Kathryn Dao, MD, an Associate Professor in the Department of Internal Medicine’s Division of Rheumatology at UT Southwestern Medical Centre. “With weight gain, the joints have to work harder. For those who have arthritis and are overweight or obese, losing 10 percent of the body weight will reduce pressure to the weight-bearing joints by 40-50 percent.”

Dr. Dao notes that doctors commonly recommend the Mediterranean diet—which emphasizes healthy oils, plant-based foods, and limiting red meat—for those with arthritis. “This diet also has been found to reduce weight, heart disease, strokes and diabetes. Additionally, certain types of arthritis may flare with a poor diet. For example, gout flares have been associated with red meats, shellfish, high fructose corn syrup and alcohol.”

Wearing bad shoes

If you have arthritis or experience any kind of joint pain, consider what you put on your feet. “Ill-fitting shoes and high heels may impair the way a person walks and offset the centre of gravity, making arthritis pain worse,” says Dr. Dao. “Foot discomfort can translate vertically to pain in the knees, hips and low back. The best shoes for arthritis are ones that provide stability, good arch support and shock absorption.”

Carrying heavy purses or backpacks 

Lugging around heavy bags or routinely wearing hefty backpacks can strain your back, but it is also bad for arthritis pain. “Carrying heavy items will cause more stress to the joints, particularly when the weight of the object is not distributed,” says Dr. Dao. “Large purses, bags and backpacks carried on one side of the body may affect the gait and a person’s centre of gravity. The uneven distribution of forces will put more pressure on the joints, causing hip bursitis, knee osteoarthritis, neck and low back pain.”

Can Cracking Your Knuckles Cause Arthritis? 

It’s a common belief that cracking your knuckles can cause (or worsen) arthritis. Dr. Husni says there’s no official consensus on that because there haven’t been any major research studies comparing the arthritis diagnosis rates of people who crack their knuckles versus those who don’t. “However, we do not recommend cracking your knuckles, because you're stretching your joints out of physiologic range to make that noise, and we just don't like people to do things to their joints that are not normal motion. I don't know if we can say it causes arthritis, but it can cause some joint discomfort and damage over time. We can't imagine doing that repetitively would be good for your joint overall joint health overall.”

https://parade.com/health/worst-habit-for-arthritis-pain

Dear Doctor: Could I have rheumatoid arthritis even if it doesn’t show up in blood tests?

From oregonlive.com

By Dr. Keith Roach

Dr. Keith Roach is a physician at Weill Cornell Medical College and New York Presbyterian Hospital. He writes an educational column on infectious diseases, public health and sports medicine.

DEAR DR. ROACH: Is there a possibility of having some type of rheumatoid arthritis (RA), even though it doesn’t show up clearly in the blood work? (My CRP level was 0.3, rheumatoid factor was 10, anti-CCP result was 15 u/mL, and ANA test came out negative.) I have symptoms that I feel I am not getting treated for because of this. I have other autoimmune symptoms such as Raynaud’s and extreme foot inflammation that makes it difficult to walk, along with joint pain and stiffness pretty much all over.

My concern is that I’ll have continued joint damage if I don’t get treated. It seems like something else begins to ache every week, making movement difficult and causing low energy levels. I want to get more active again. I love to garden, but it is a fight to push myself through.

I convinced my doctors at the beginning to try a Medrol Dosepak, which helped calm all the inflammation, but they will not prescribe it again because they say I don’t have RA.

As a woman, I feel that I don’t get treated as aggressively as my husband does. He receives answers right away, whereas I have to call and wait days. My pain is ignored with “Just take Tylenol.” I’m not asking for narcotics, just a way to get the pain under control so I can function day-to-day. Am I just getting “old” (I’m 63), and should I “just bear it,” as I was told?

It seems doctors don’t spend enough time getting to know their patients or explaining things. Physicals are not thorough anymore. -- C.T.

ANSWER: Not every patient with RA will have diagnostic blood tests. Blood tests may not be positive early on in the course of the disease, and a minority of people will have RA diagnosed, even though they never have positive blood test results. The diagnosis can be made by an expert when other conditions are met.

A careful exam should show a large number of swollen small joints, symmetrically distributed (i.e., both the left and right side have the same joints affected). Your concern about joint damage is very important. X-rays of the affected joints (usually hands, but feet, too, if symptomatic) may show joint erosions or rheumatoid nodules, both of which will make the diagnosis much more likely.

It always makes me angry to hear a patient’s concerns about getting ignored because of older age (and 63 isn’t even old!), being female or a person of color, or being overweight (all of which are well-described in medical literature). I cannot tell whether you have RA, but I do think you deserve a careful evaluation.

Making a diagnosis (if not RA, then whatever else is causing your symptoms) is critical before getting treatment with drugs that can cause long-term complications, like the Medrol (a brand of methylprednisolone -- a corticosteroid).

I recommend consultation with a rheumatologist, and I suspect a careful exam and X-rays are in your future.

https://www.oregonlive.com/health/2023/05/dear-doctor-could-i-have-rheumatoid-arthritis-even-if-it-doesnt-show-up-in-blood-tests.html

Exercising With Psoriatic Arthritis? No Sweat!

From healthcentral.com

Get your achy joints safely moving and protect your skin as summer heats up with these pro fitness tips for PsA

After months of frigid temps, a warm sunny day could be just the enticement you need to get off the couch and back into your fitness routine. But if you have psoriatic arthritis (PsA), an inflammatory autoimmune disorder that attacks your joints and skin, you might worry as you lace up your sneakers: “Could exercising outside in the heat bring on a flare?”

Everybody with PsA responds differently to changes in the weather, but in general, people with PsA actually tend to do better when it’s warm out, says Eric Ruderman, M.D., professor of medicine and associate chief of Rheumatology at the Northwestern Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago, IL.

Psoriasis-affected skin is especially agreeable to summer weather. “Typically, skin psoriasis is worse in the winter,” Dr. Ruderman says. “The dryness makes the skin more irritated and itchy. In the summer, the sun actually makes it better.” In fact, phototherapy—a common treatment for psoriasis—uses the same ultraviolet (UV) rays that emanate from the sun to slow the overgrowth of skin cells. The trick is to get just enough sun exposure, but not so much that you get burned.

And there’s no need to fear that exercise might set off a flare of sore joints and irritated skin, either. In reality, the opposite is true. A review of studies on exercise with PsA published in the journal Clinical Rheumatology found that people with PsA who exercise have stronger muscles and less pain and fatigue—not to mention a better quality of life.

Wai-Kwong Hui, P.T., D.P.T., a physical therapist at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City, says his patients often prefer to exercise in warm weather. “It loosens them up a little bit and makes things flow better,” he says.

Here, our experts explain why warming up to the idea of exercising during the summer months (and all year round) will likely improve your PsA symptoms.

Exercise Is Good Medicine for PsA

There’s no overstating the benefits of movement for PsA. “Exercise is one of the most important things people with psoriatic arthritis can do,” says Rebecca Haberman, M.D., associate director of the Psoriatic Arthritis Center at NYU Langone Health in New York City. “It keeps all the muscles around the joints strong so that they can be very supportive.”

Exercise also protects your cardiovascular health, she adds. People with PsA have nearly double the risk of heart disease compared to those without it, per the Arthritis Foundation (AF). One reason is shared risk factors, like obesity. Up to 45% of people with PsA are obese, also according to the AF. And carrying around a lot of extra weight can make this disease harder to control.

A regular workout routine might even contribute to clearer skin, finds a study on lifestyle interventions for psoriasis published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews. The authors suggest that fitness helps with psoriasis by promoting weight loss and reducing the inflammation that contributes to skin symptoms.

The Best PsA Exercises, Indoors and Out

The foundation of any PsA workout program is cardiovascular exercises like walking and swimming to get your heart pumping, plus strength training and range-of-motion or flexibility exercises to keep your muscles strong and your joints limber, says Hui. In the real world, he says the best exercise is whatever will motivate you to get moving.

Guidelines from the American College of Rheumatology and the National Psoriasis Foundation published in Arthritis & Rheumatology recommend low-impact exercises such as tai chi, yoga, and swimming over high-impact ones like running for people with PsA. But if you don’t have any injuries or a lot of painfully inflamed joints, these organizations are fine with you doing high-impact activities like running if that’s your exercise of choice.

GettyImages/Uwe Krejci

Swimming for PsA has added benefits. The warmth and buoyancy of the water soothes and supports achy joints, while the resistance of moving through water strengthens muscles, according to the Psoriatic and Psoriatic Arthritis Alliance in the UK. Just remember, when you get into an unheated pool, it might take your joints five or 10 minutes to warm up enough for exercise, Hui warns. And keep in mind that both chlorinated and salt water can dry out and irritate psoriasis-sensitive skin. That’s why the National Psoriasis Foundation recommends rinsing off and moisturizing after you swim.

Resistance training has its own merits. Strengthening the muscles that support your joints can lead to less active disease, better function, and improved quality of life, according to a study in Clinical Rheumatology. You can use light weights or resistance bands, but make sure to gradually increase the resistance over time to keep challenging your muscles so they get stronger, advises Hui.

How to Get Moving When Your Joints Hurt

If you’ve had an exercise routine since pre-PsA, stick with it, says Dr. Ruderman. But if you’re starting a new program or getting back into a routine after a long break, ease into it slowly.

“You can’t go from zero to sixty,” he cautions. “If you’re going to start a new program, build into it gradually to give your body time to adjust and make sure you stretch before you do it.”

Hui recommends starting with a gentle form of exercise to get you going. If you’re not sure where to begin, a physical therapist can help you design a workout program that’s achievable and safe on your joints.

Protect Your Joints and Skin During Summer Workouts

Before you head outdoors for a summer run or bike ride, a few special PsA precautions are worth noting.

First, working out in the heat will inevitably make you sweat. That could be a problem if your workout clothes rub against psoriasis-affected areas of skin. “Psoriasis can flare if there is any trauma to the skin,” says Dr. Haberman. She suggests checking your workout wear to make sure nothing is rubbing. Also, consider loose-fitting cuts and sweat-wicking fabrics to avoid shirts from sticking to sensitive skin.

An injury like a fall or a muscle pull also can set off a flare, which is why Dr. Haberman urges her patients with PsA to be careful during exercise. “Don’t lift a weight that’s heavier than you can actually lift or go running on a surface that’s very uneven and easy to trip on,” she says.

While some sun should improve psoriasis plaques, too much UV exposure could damage your skin enough to set off a flare. That’s why the National Psoriasis Foundation suggests wearing a broad-spectrum, UVA/UVB-protecting sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher when you do go outside.

Proper hydration is a must for anyone who works out, but especially so for those with arthritis. Water lubricates the joints and flushes out toxins that contribute to inflammation, according to the Arthritis Foundation. Drink water throughout the day and frequently during your workout, Hui suggests.

He also advises checking with a doctor before you start any new routine. And keep a diary if you’re just starting a new workout program, “to keep track of what might trigger your symptoms.”

Finally, while an intense workout has its benefits, never exercise to the point of discomfort or pain. “I always think of pain as the body’s way of saying, ‘Stop doing that,’” Dr. Haberman says. If anything hurts, listen to your body. Stop what you’re doing and check with your doctor or physical therapist for next steps.

So, when you look out your window and the sun is shining, don’t let PsA stop you! A beautiful day with you being active in the world awaits.

https://www.healthcentral.com/condition/psoriatic-arthritis/exercising-with-psoriatic-arthritis-during-summer

7 Ways To Get Relief From Arthritis Pain, Here Is All That You Need To Know

From samacharcentral.com

Arthritis, a chronic condition affecting millions worldwide, can cause debilitating pain that hampers daily life. However, amidst the challenges, hope prevails as various techniques and treatments offer respite. Here, we explore seven remarkable approaches to ease arthritis pain, empowering individuals to regain control and embrace a pain-free life. Here are some things you can definitely try out if you want to alleviate the pain.

1. Exercise:
   Engaging in regular low-impact exercises, such as swimming, yoga, and tai chi, promotes joint flexibility, strengthens muscles, and alleviates arthritis discomfort. These activities gently improve the range of motion while reducing stiffness, effectively mitigating pain and enhancing overall well-being.
2. Hot and Cold Therapy:
   Harnessing the power of temperature, alternating between hot and cold therapy can work wonders for arthritis pain relief. Applying a heating pad or warm compress relaxes muscles and eases joint stiffness, while cold packs or ice numbs pain and reduces inflammation. This harmonious blend of temperatures effectively soothes arthritic joints.
3. Weight Management:
   Maintaining a healthy weight is vital for managing arthritis pain. Excess weight places unnecessary strain on joints, exacerbating discomfort. By adopting a balanced diet, filled with nutrient-rich foods, and engaging in regular physical activity, individuals can shed excess pounds, easing the burden on their joints and significantly reducing pain.
4. Medications:
   Consulting with a healthcare professional can lead to the prescription of appropriate medications to alleviate arthritis pain. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are among the options available, each targeting specific types of arthritis pain. These medications effectively reduce inflammation, manage symptoms, and provide much-needed relief.
5. Acupuncture:
   The ancient practice of acupuncture has gained recognition as a holistic approach to pain management, including arthritis. By targeting specific points along the body’s energy pathways, acupuncture stimulates the release of endorphins, natural pain-relieving chemicals. This therapy, known for its soothing and therapeutic effects, offers remarkable relief from arthritis pain.
6. Assistive Devices:
   Employing assistive devices can significantly improve mobility and reduce joint stress for individuals with arthritis. Braces, splints, canes, or walkers provide support and stability, easing discomfort during movement. Ergonomic adaptations to everyday tools, such as jar openers or long-handled reachers, enable independent living, empowering individuals to navigate daily tasks with ease.
7. Mind-Body Techniques:
   Adopting mind-body techniques, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and guided imagery, can effectively reduce arthritis pain. By promoting relaxation, these practices calm the mind and body, diminishing stress and anxiety associated with chronic pain. This holistic approach enhances overall well-being, allowing individuals to find solace amidst their arthritis journey.

Even though these methods have been popularised as extremely effective, it is always good if you consult with your doctor first before trying out anything.

https://samacharcentral.com/7-ways-to-get-relief-from-arthritis-pain-here-is-all-that-you-need-to-know/ 

Running with arthritis: Do’s and don’ts to manage pain

From healthshots.com

Running with arthritis may strain your joints and cause more discomfort, if not done right. Here are some tips from an orthopaedic!

Running is good for health! But when it comes to certain bone and joint-related conditions such as arthritis, it is best to exercise caution. You may not want to either run too fast or too long or you will end up exacerbating your joint pains. If your daily workout includes running with arthritis, an orthopaedic wants you to know the do’s and don’ts for safety.

What is arthritis?

Experiencing joint pain, stiffness and inflammation is a common complaint among individuals, often indicating the presence of arthritis. Arthritis encompasses various disorders such as gout, rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia, and the most prevalent type, osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease, can affect people of all ages, but is more commonly observed in older individuals due to joint wear and tear and inadequate care. The condition primarily affects the elbows, hips, and knees, progressively worsening over time and hindering everyday activities.

Given the circumstances, it is understandable for individuals to question what activities they can or cannot engage in with arthritis. One frequently asked question is whether it is okay to run with arthritis or workout with arthritis at all! 

Dr Rajesh Kumar Verma, Consultant – Orthopaedics, Manipal Hospital, Ghaziabad, says the answer is YES! “It is generally acceptable to be running with arthritis. However, certain guidelines should be followed,” adds the expert.

Running with arthritis should be a safe activity. Image courtesy: Adobe Stock

Tips for running with arthritis

Dr Verma has outlined key do’s and don’ts people should follow when they want to run with a pre-existing arthritis condition.

Do’s to run with arthritis

* Consult a doctor: Each individual has different levels of damage to the joints, and because of this, their range of symptoms may vary. Before starting a running routine, taking advice from a doctor who knows the patient’s condition well can help with a plan to prevent risks and injuries.

* Start slowly: Begin with a proper warm-up and gradually start with walking, then increase the duration and intensity of the runs. Allow the body some time to adapt to the impact and stress on the joints.

* Choose suitable footwear: Invest in well-cushioned running shoes that provide adequate support and shock absorption, and shock absorption knee pads for support.

* Stay attentive to any pain: Pay attention to any pain or discomfort during and after running. If the joint pain, swelling, or stiffness increases, take a break and modify the activity to lower-impact exercises.

* Take adequate rest and do flexibility exercises: Rest is important for muscles to recover and gain strength. It is a good idea to do flexibility stretches to relieve joint stiffness after running.

Don’ts of running with arthritis

* Overdo it: Avoid overexerting and pushing through pain. Running or exercising with pain can make the inflammation even worse and more lasting.

* Neglect recovery: Allow your body ample time to rest and recover between running sessions. This helps prevent overuse injuries and gives joints the opportunity to heal and recover.

* Run on uneven or hard surfaces: Run on softer surfaces like grass, tracks, or muddy ground with proper cushioning. Avoid running on concrete or other hard surfaces that can increase the impact on your joints.

* Ignore joint pain or swelling: If running consistently causes significant pain, swelling, or joint instability, then one must switch to milder forms of exercise such as swimming and yoga. This will help them stay active without causing damage to their joints.

Pro tip for runners

Keep in mind that each person’s experience with running and arthritis is unique and depends on a variety of circumstances, including the severity of the condition and specific symptoms. Always seek personalised advice and direction from a doctor before starting any exercise regimen.

https://www.healthshots.com/preventive-care/self-care/running-with-arthritis-dos-and-donts-to-manage-pain/

Health expert debunks myths about arthritis, reveals reality

From hindustantimes.com

Since arthritis is so common, it is prone to many myths and misinformation. Health expert dispels its most frequent fallacies and reveals the reality

Arthritis is a well-known condition that affects the health of our bones and joints where arthritis in our bones and joints can cause persistent pain and stiffness and can be caused by an inflammatory illness called rheumatoid arthritis or by normal wear and tear termed osteoarthritis. Since it is so common, this well-known disease may be prone to many myths and misinformation.

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Anup Khatri, Senior Consultant- Orthopaedics at Global Hospital in Mumbai, dispelled the most frequent fallacies about arthritis and revealed the reality.

Health expert debunks myths about arthritis, reveals reality (Pixabay)

Myth 1: Joint pain intensifies in wet weather

Fact: No scientific evidence supports this assertion and the reason you may have a flare-up of your arthritis symptoms during the rains is that your body has been fed this idea for so long that it has become to believe it. Arthritis discomfort is consistent all year and will only worsen if you do not follow through on your joint exercises and medicines.

Myth 2: Arthritis exclusively affects the elderly.

Fact: Arthritis is not limited to the elderly. While the risk of arthritis rises with age, it can strike anyone, including children. Juvenile arthritis is a kind of autoimmune illness that affects children aged 16 and under. Rheumatoid arthritis may strike anyone at any age.

Myth 3: All joint discomfort is caused by arthritis.

Fact: While arthritis is a common cause of joint pain, other conditions such as lupus, bursitis, and tendonitis can also cause pain. Joint discomfort can also be caused by injuries or infections. A correct diagnosis is required to establish the best course of treatment.

Myth 4: If arthritis runs in my family, I'll get it too

Fact: While genetics do raise your chances of getting arthritis, there's no assurance you'll get it. If you have blood relatives with arthritis, such as your mother, father, brothers, and so on, you should start taking safeguards.

Myth 5: Arthritis is caused by cracking your knuckles.

Fact: You've probably heard that cracking your knuckles can lead to arthritis. This, however, is a myth. While cracking your knuckles may irritate those around you, it does not cause arthritis.

Myth 6: Arthritis is a disease of the elderly and cannot afflict youngsters.

Fact: Although arthritis is more frequent in older people, it may afflict children and young adults as well. The most prevalent kind of arthritis in children is juvenile idiopathic arthritis (also known as childhood arthritis or juvenile rheumatoid arthritis), which can cause irreversible physical damage to joints.

Dr Anup Khatri concluded, “Despite the ubiquity of arthritis, there is still much to learn about it. We do know, however, that by maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes exercise and a nutritious, balanced diet, we can lower our chance of developing some kinds of arthritis and halt their progression.”

https://www.hindustantimes.com/lifestyle/health/health-expert-debunks-myths-about-arthritis-reveals-reality-101683963985317.html