Winter Joint Care: Doctor Tips On Managing Arthritis Symptoms And Mobility Challenges During Colder Months

From english.jagran.com

Dr Himanshu Tyagi, Additional Director of Orthopaedics at Fortis Greater Noida, shares his expert advice on managing arthritis symptoms and mobility challenges during colder months 

The onset of winter triggers arthritis in patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis to some extent; both of them deteriorate in the winter season. If a patient has knee pain because of osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, which is generalised body pain or joint pain because of inflammation in the body, then special care is required during the winter season.

Avoid Sleeping In An Excessively Cold Atmosphere

Normally a person with rheumatoid or osteoarthritis should avoid sleeping in an excessively cold atmosphere or in a room where there is no heater. So, one important thing is the body should be adequately warmed; otherwise, in the morning the patient might feel excessive stiffness. Always use a blanket or a heater in the room during the winter season.

Warm Massage To Avoid Stiffness

Oil massage or warm massage should be done before sleeping. If the patient has supposing knee pain or hand stiffness, then a massage with hot oil will definitely help.

                                                                                              (Image Credits: Canva)

Take Right Anti-Inflammatory Medicines

The dose of anti-inflammatory medicines, in the case of rheumatoid patients, might require an increase during the winter season. Before the commencement of winter, the patient should always consult his or her physician or rheumatologist so that the medicine dose can be adjusted accordingly. Also, sometimes what happens is the requirement of medicine or the SOS painkiller also goes up during the winter season. The patient might feel more than normal pain during the winter season. So not only the dose of DMARDs, basically the rheumatoid medicines, needs to be adjusted, but sometimes an occasional painkiller might also be required to be added.

Regular Exercise

One more important thing that patients should always do is regular exercise. In the morning, 10 minutes of all joint mobilization exercises should be done. All joint mobilization exercises mean the exercises that involve all the joints: hand, wrist, shoulder, knee and back. Additionally, wear comfortable and flexible clothes to allow the movement of all joints, and make sure you are doing these exercises in warm weather.
 
There are a few other general instructions, such as not wearing excessively loose clothes; such clothes cause falls due to their flowy nature, and the elderly are more vulnerable because a fracture might happen because of the fall. Use anti-skid mattresses and carpets for the elderly so the chances of falling off the bed due to pain can be reduced, which can lead to fractures. Following these tips and precautions, arthritis patients can manage mobility challenges and extra pain during the cold weather.

https://english.jagran.com/lifestyle/winter-joint-care-doctor-tips-on-managing-arthritis-symptoms-and-mobility-challenges-during-colder-months-10203988

Fruits And Cereal Can Reduce Arthritis: Study

From etvbharat.com

Eating higher amounts of foods like oily fish, cereals, vegetables and the nutrient vitamin D can lower the chances of developing Arthritis

Moderate alcohol intake and eating more fruit, oily fish and cereals are linked to lower risk of rheumatoid arthritis, while tea and coffee may be linked to increased risk, new research shows. A systematic review has looked at 30 different studies – between them involving nearly 10,000 people with rheumatoid arthritis – carried out between 2000 and 2024. The work sheds fresh light on the relationship between 32 different food groups, drinks and nutrients and the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis, with strong evidence that some food groups could help stave off the symptoms.

The findings show that some dietary factors – including oily fish and Vitamin D - could have a protective role and help stop people developing the disease. Eating more cereals including whole grains and breakfast cereals and fruit seems to be linked to a lower risk of rheumatoid arthritis, while drinking more tea could be linked to a higher risk. But the results are not straightforward, according to research author Yuanyuan Dong, a PhD researcher in the university’s School of Food Science and Nutrition. For example drinking two units of alcohol a week – the equivalent to a pint of lower-strength lager or beer or a standard glass of wine a week - may have a protective effect, but excessive consumption increases the risk of developing the condition.

"My research investigates whether dietary factors contribute to the risk of rheumatoid arthritis by increasing inflammation and affecting the immune system," said Yuanyuan Dong. The protective effect of alcohol diminished with higher intake, disappearing entirely at approximately 7.5 units of alcohol per week - about four pints of lower-strength beer/lager/cider per week or 3.5 standard glasses of wine. “Rheumatoid arthritis is a typical multifactorial disease, driven by both genetic and environmental factors. My research investigates whether dietary factors contribute to the risk of rheumatoid arthritis by increasing inflammation and affecting the immune system. “These findings offer a deeper understanding of how diet can impact rheumatoid arthritis risk and suggest potential dietary modifications for disease prevention and management," Dong said.

And while every cup of tea drunk per day increased the risk by four per cent, the baseline risk from drinking tea was low, meaning that even with the 4% increase the overall risk remained low. Tea has many health benefits, the researchers stressed, and people should consider their overall diet and lifestyle when making choices about what to eat and drink. The results are promising, showing that by eating higher amounts of foods like oily fish, cereals, vegetables and the nutrient vitamin D, people may be able to lower their chances of developing this painful and debilitating condition. "More research could even pinpoint how different types of tea might influence autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis," Dong added. The researchers are arguing that “one-size-fits-all” advice to follow a general “healthy diet” is not helpful for people who have autoimmune diseases, instead urging a more tailored approach that fits their specific needs.

                                                                                                                           (Freepik)

Fruits you must include if you are struggling with Arthritis

Some of the anti-inflammatory fruits are best to manage arthritis. The natural sweeteners, fruits have substantial dose of antioxidants, fibre, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. Some fruits have components that lower inflammation in body that is associated with arthritis.

Althouth all fruits have health benefits but some have more disease-fighting properties. Here is the list of fruits that can help in managing or curing arthritis.

Tart cherries

The dark red colour of cherries and their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits are from the flavonoid anthocyanin. Studies have found that tart cherries may relieve join pain in people with osteoarthritis and lower the risk of flares in those with gout.

Strawberries

Naturally low in sugar, strawberries have more vitamin C than an orange. It can lower the risk for gout, high blood pressure and cholesterol issues. Strawberries are also anti-inflammatory and have antioxidant properties. They are also a good source of folic acid.

Avocado

With its high concentration on anti-inflammatory monounsaturated fat, avocados are also rich in the carotenoid lutein. It is a good source of vitamin E which help reduce the risk of joint damage seen in early osteoarthritis.

Watermelon
Studies show that eating watermelon reduces the inflammatory marker CRP. High in the carotenoid beta-cryptoxanthin, watermelon can reduce the risk of rheumatoid arthritis. It is full of lycopene, an antioxidant that may help protect against certain cancers and lower heart attack risk, notes a study.

https://www.etvbharat.com/en/!health/foods-to-treat-and-reduce-arthritis-enn24112901486

How to manage your arthritis in the cold weather

From independent.co.uk

Take steps to stay well and ease your arthritis pain this winter

If the cold weather is something you ‘feel in your bones’ this time of year, you’re not alone.

Some of us feel our joints getting crankier during winter, and people living with arthritis feel the effects of this more than most.

But why do arthritis symptoms often intensify during a period of chilly weather? And is there anything we can do to manage the impacts of this?

"Arthritis is a degenerative joint condition, which is essentially wear and tear to the joints in the body that causes inflammation, stiffness and pain,” says Tamsin Joyce, physiotherapist and integrated clinical services manager at Nuffield Health Bournemouth Hospital. “It can affect people of all ages, particularly if congenital, but typically worsens with age after the fourth or fifth decade.”

The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

“Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and affects the smooth cartilage lining of the joint,” explains Joyce. “This lining over time can become worn and inflamed and can leave areas of exposed bone, which leads to increased pain and changes to the joint position and loading of a joint.

“Rheumatoid arthritis is different in that the body’s immune system attacks the lining of joints, causing the bone and cartilage to break down.”

                                                                                                          (alamy/pa)

What warning signs should we look out for?

The most common signs of arthritis are joint pain, tenderness and stiffness; inflammation in and around the joints; restricted movement of the joints; warm red skin over the affected joint and weakness and muscle wasting, according to the NHS website.

Many people find that these symptoms are exacerbated when the weather turns cold.

“Arthritis can be worse in cold and damp weather, for some, a reduction in barometric pressure can cause muscle tendons to expand, thereby creating more pressure on an already crowded joint,” explains Joyce. “Some people experience an increase in pain sensitivity, reduced blood circulation, muscle spasms and increased joint stiffness.”

Which factors increase the likelihood of developing arthritis?

“Family history, obesity, excessive sport or loading of joints at work, worsening over time, specific metabolic diseases such as diabetes, pre-existing conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout, can all be factors that can increase a person’s chances of developing arthritis,” highlights Joyce.

What are the treatment options for arthritis?

While there is no definitive cure for arthritis, there are many treatments that can help manage pain and inflammation and preserve joint function.

“This includes physiotherapy which might involve exercise prescription, promoting healthy lifestyles and weight loss (if applicable), advice on pacing and good posture, hydrotherapy and exercise in water,” notes Joyce.

GPs often also prescribe painkillers – such as paracetamol, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and opioids – to patients depending on the severity of the pain, according to the NHS website.

And in some severe cases, joint replacement surgery is considered.

“Joint replacements can be life-changing in a positive way supported by subsequent physiotherapy to assist recovery,” says Joyce.

Here are some tips about how to manage arthritis symptoms in the cold weather…

Stay warm

“Wrap up in layers, use low-cost solutions such as electric blankets and ensure that you stay on top of boiler maintenance and draught-proof your home,” recommends Peter Grinbergs, physiotherapist and co-founder of musculoskeletal health company EQL. “A warm bath, heating pads and hot water bottles are also excellent for providing quick relief.”

Keep moving

“Stay active by incorporating regular movement into your day, including stretches, walks and weight-bearing exercises,” advises Grinbergs.

Take some vitamin D

“Taking vitamin D is now recommended if you can do this,” suggests Joyce.

Eat well

“Eating well and keeping a healthy body weight will also help,” says Joyce.

https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/health-and-families/arthritis-physiotherapy-nhs-gps-b2654619.html 

Do abrupt changes in weather cause health issues?

From fox59.com

YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) — We have all heard it, and may have even said it ourselves: “These changes in weather are making me sick.” But is there any truth to this claim?

Dr. Mike Sevilla, from Salem Family Care in Salem, Ohio, said these claims are legitimate.

“I get a lot of questions from patients about a change in the weather. They tell me when a cold front comes through, it can affect a lot of symptoms in the body. It is definitely a thing,” he explained to Nexstar’s WKBN.

With winter starting to set in, some parts of the country have already undergone big weather changes. That includes the major “bomb cyclone” that battered the West Coast this week as well as the first snowflakes and freezing temperatures of the season for parts of the Midwest and Ohio Valley.

During these drastic weather changes, some people may experience headaches. This is because these changes can cause an imbalance in brain chemicals, according to the Mayo Clinic.

Not only that, but weather changes can cause issues for those with chronic pain and arthritis says Dr. Sevilla.

“A lot of my patients who have chronic pain symptoms or arthritis symptoms… They know exactly when the front is coming through because it does flare up. Sometimes they have to adjust their medication,” he said.

The cold weather itself will not, however, make you sick. Summer Clay, a physician’s assistant with Sparrow Health System, previously told Nexstar’s WLNS that common colds we catch during winter are not brought on by the weather but by viruses.

Becoming congested or developing a runny nose after being outside is instead a sign of our lungs’ spasmatic response, Clay explained.

The cold weather can weaken our immune systems slightly, as our bodies focus on keeping us warm, according to the Mayo Clinic. A spike in illnesses during the winter months is largely attributed to us being confined to small spaces with limited ventilation. 

https://fox59.com/news/national-world/do-abrupt-changes-in-weather-cause-health-issues/

Does Alcohol Affect Psoriatic Arthritis?

From healthcentral.com

The research—and people’s individual experiences—are mixed. Here’s what you need to know 

When you have psoriatic arthritis (PsA)—an inflammatory condition of the joints linked to the skin disease psoriasis—a healthy lifestyle is a key component for managing your symptoms. That includes regular physical activity, a nutritious diet, and avoiding smoking. Does it also mean you should re-evaluate your alcohol intake? The relationship between alcohol and psoriatic arthritis isn’t completely straightforward, so if you have PsA and you also enjoy unwinding after a busy day with an adult beverage, there are a few things to consider.

Psoriatic Arthritis Symptoms

The symptoms of psoriatic arthritis vary from one person to the next but are mainly felt in the skin and joints. The disease can also affect other areas of the body, like the eyes and gastrointestinal (GI) tract. According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), people with psoriatic arthritis may experience:

• Eye inflammation that causes pain, redness, and blurry vision

• Fatigue

• Inflammatory bowel disease, the symptoms of which include abdominal pain, diarrhoea or changes in bowel movements, nausea, and unexplained weight loss

• Joint stiffness, pain, and swelling, which can also affect the spine

• Nail changes

• Sausage-like swelling of a finger or toe

• Scaly, inflamed patches of skin on scalp, elbows, and knees

• Tenderness in areas where tendons and ligaments attach to bones, such as the back of the heel or sole of the foot

Alcohol and Psoriatic Arthritis Risk

The answer to the question of how alcohol intake impacts your chances of developing psoriatic arthritis isn’t cut and dry—and that’s because much of the research is conflicting, says Elena Schiopu, M.D., a professor of medicine in the division of rheumatology at the Medical College of Georgia at Augusta University.

For example, a British study of more than 90,000 people with psoriasis (about 1,400 of whom had also developed psoriatic arthritis) published in the British Journal of Dermatology found that moderate drinking (but not heavy drinking) was associated with an increased risk of PsA among those with psoriasis.

On the other hand, a study of more than 80,000 women (141 of whom developed psoriatic arthritis) published in the Journal of Rheumatology found that moderate drinkers were at a lower risk of PsA compared to non-drinkers, while those who reported excessive alcohol use (more than two drinks per day) had a four-fold greater risk of psoriatic arthritis compared to non-drinkers. That may be due to the fact that high levels of alcohol contribute to inflammation, possibly triggering the disease in some people. Still, other research has not found alcohol to be a risk factor for psoriatic arthritis.

If you have psoriasis (which often precedes a diagnosis of PsA) or you’re already living with psoriatic arthritis, where does that leave you? To start, researchers do know that increased alcohol intake is associated with more severe psoriasis symptoms and can affect treatment of the disease. Drinking also raises heart disease risk (which psoriasis also increases). The issue is so pressing that one article in the American Journal of Clinical Dermatology called on dermatologists to ask all patients about their alcohol use.

Dr. Schiopu suggests that if you currently have more than two drinks per day, it will probably benefit you to cut back. “Having alcohol socially once or twice a week and limiting yourself to one serving may not cause a big issue,” she says. (Of course, if you don’t drink now, there’s no reason to start.) You’ll also want to keep tabs on how alcohol affects your psoriasis flares, and if you already have psoriatic arthritis, your PsA flares as well.

Alcohol and Psoriatic Arthritis Flare-ups

People who have psoriatic arthritis will notice that they have their own unique individual triggers for flares (times of active disease where you experience symptoms). You may notice that alcohol intake is one of yours. For example, Dr. Schiopu says that some patients report that wine in particular aggravates their condition. Others find that one drink on occasion is okay, but going over a certain amount brings on symptoms. “It requires some personal experimentation,” she says.

There are a few reasons why alcohol may trigger flares. The alcohol itself may be proinflammatory. In addition, the sugar in alcoholic drinks can trigger flare-ups of psoriatic arthritis, says Elizabeth Ortiz, M.D., a rheumatologist and clinical advisor at the virtual care platform WellTheory. (Sugar is also proinflammatory, she says—in research, patients with rheumatoid arthritis or psoriasis report that sugar is a common trigger.) Dr. Ortiz recommends making the lowest-sugar choice you can, which means staying away from mixers like sodas and cocktails (which often contain added sugar in syrups or juices) and instead opting for spirits mixed with no-sugar-added sparkling water, low-sugar canned alcoholic beverages, or zero sugar wines.

Dr. Ortiz points out that alcohol can also decrease your inhibitions, affecting the food choices you make—and you could end up eating foods that trigger symptoms for you. If you are drinking, “be mindful of the amount you drink, as well as how that amount affects other behaviours,” she advises.

Alcohol and Psoriatic Arthritis Medications

If you drink alcohol and are taking a medication to treat psoriatic arthritis, ask your prescriber about any potential interactions or risks associated with imbibing, advises Dr. Schiopu. One to keep in mind is methotrexate, an immunosuppressive medication that is a common treatment for psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Because of the potential harm to the liver, people should avoid using alcohol while taking methotrexate. “This medication is known as a liver irritant, as is alcohol. If you have one liver irritant, why add to it and press your luck with another?” says Dr. Ortiz.

Lifestyle Choices to Help Manage Psoriatic Arthritis

Identifying your personal triggers (and then avoiding them as much as possible) can go a long way to helping you manage your condition. “Knowing how someone reacts is based on trial-and-error and seeing how they feel after eating certain foods and making adjustments to their lifestyle. Everyone has their own personal threshold of what they can tolerate,” says Dr. Ortiz.

Keeping a journal can help you pinpoint the foods, drinks, or habits that may be linked to worsening symptoms. In addition, there are several lifestyle measures that are recommended across the board to help manage the disease and keep symptoms at bay. According to NIAMS, these are:

• Exercise regularly

• Maintain a healthy weight

• Quit smoking

• Seek out mental health to address the emotional toll of PsA

The Bottom Line on Alcohol and Psoriatic Arthritis

Research is conflicting on how alcohol intake affects your risk of developing psoriatic arthritis, and its impacts on symptoms can vary from one person to the next. Rheumatologists recommend moderating your alcohol intake if you choose to drink. And even more importantly, pay attention to how alcohol intake affects your symptoms and make adjustments as necessary, such as decreasing the amount or frequency that you drink, or changing the type of drinks you consume.

https://www.healthcentral.com/condition/psoriatic-arthritis/psoriatic-arthritis-and-alcohol

Millions of arthritis sufferers warned against eating two foods

From msn.com

Arthritis sufferers in the UK, numbering in the millions, have been warned about two common fruits that could potentially worsen their condition. Arthritis, a condition characterised by pain, swelling, inflammation and mobility issues, currently has no cure, but symptoms can be managed.

Diet can significantly impact the condition, either alleviating or worsening it. The Physicians Committee has identified certain foods as "pain triggers", including apples and tomatoes.

The report stated: "While genetic factors are important, studies show that lifestyle factors, including diet, play a role. If you have rheumatoid arthritis, a diet change could help you, and perhaps even eliminate your pain entirely. In research studies, many people who cut out certain trigger foods find that their pain improves or goes away. When those foods are gone, so is the inflammation. A survey of more than 1,000 arthritis patients revealed that red meat, sugar, fat, salt, caffeine, and nightshade plants most commonly worsen the condition."

Both apples and tomatoes contain solanine, a glycoalkaloid poison found mainly in nightshade family species. A study published in the Arab Journal of Nuclear Sciences and Applications in 2013 explored the link between solanine and arthritis, reports Surrey Live.

The study suggests: "Solanine is a toxic compound produced in nightshades family such as potato, tomato and eggplant when exposed to light. The current study was carried out on 18 female postmenopausal albino rats to investigate the effect of solanine on the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. The data of the present study showed that old age and postmenopausal suffering from arthritis and joint swelling must eliminate or avoid the nightshades plants to alleviate the joint pain and also decrease the destruction of the tissues."

However, this claim has been challenged by other health organisations. The Arthritis Society Canada recommended monitoring personal reactions to foods containing solanine, according to the Mirror.

In related news, researchers have recently found that a medication which controls blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes can also benefit patients with certain autoimmune diseases. The drug, Canagliflozin, affects T-cells – which are typically involved in fighting infections but can mistakenly attack healthy tissue in autoimmune conditions.

Therefore, Canagliflozin's action on these cells could help over 400,000 people in the UK who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis and another 50,000 with lupus.

https://www.msn.com/en-gb/health/other/millions-of-arthritis-sufferers-warned-against-eating-two-foods/ar-AA1tO1V2?ocid=BingNewsVerp 

How brushing your teeth could reduce your risk of developing arthritis

From dailymail.co.uk

Brushing your teeth could reduce the risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis, a study has suggested.

Scientists have pinpointed a bacteria, often found in the mouth, which may trigger the painful joint condition.

A study by the University of Leeds found that people who developed arthritis were more likely to have high levels of this bacteria in their gut in the months leading up to diagnosis.

Experts say the findings could help doctors prevent arthritis from occurring in the first place. This might involve prescribing thorough tooth-brushing or a probiotic – a daily tablet containing 'good' bacteria.

Affecting more than half a million people in the UK, rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease that causes swelling, pain and stiffness in the joints because the immune system is mistakenly attacking the body's healthy cells.

While there are a number of effective treatments to manage the symptoms of arthritis, there is no cure.

In the study researchers followed 19 patients who were deemed to have a high-risk of developing the condition.

Only five received a diagnosis during the study, but those who did develop the condition were significantly more likely to have substantial levels of prevotella in their gut – a bacteria which is usually found in the mouth.

Research suggests that many cases of arthritis are due to a 'leaky gut' theory, where harmful bacteria leaves the stomach and enters the bloodstream, setting off the immune system.

Experts will now explore ways to lower the amount of prevotella in these at-risk patients. Solutions include eating a high-fibre diet, which research suggests reduces levels of the bacteria.

'As there is no known cure, at-risk patients often feel a sense of hopelessness, or even avoid getting tested,' says Dr Christopher Rooney, lead researcher on the study at the University of Leeds. 'This new research might give us a major opportunity to act sooner to prevent rheumatoid arthritis.'

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-14091923/brushing-teeth-reduce-risk-rheumatoid-arthritis.html 

Exploring the Benefits of Sauna Therapy for Rheumatoid Arthritis

From creakyjoints.org

"The sauna has been one of the biggest interventions in my rheumatoid arthritis self-care management plan"

At this year’s American College of Rheumatology (ACR) Convergence, Eileen Davidson shared her inspiring patient perspective on how sauna therapy has become a cornerstone of her self-management strategy for rheumatoid arthritis (RA).  

When Eileen Davidson was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in 2015, she began a journey to find ways to manage her symptoms and improve her quality of life. Over the years, she’s explored various treatments, therapies, and lifestyle adjustments. One of her most impactful discoveries? The soothing power of the sauna. 

The Sauna’s Role in RA Management

Over the years, Eileen has found that time in the sauna not only eases her RA symptoms but also boosts her overall well-being.  

“The sauna has been one of the biggest interventions in my rheumatoid arthritis self-care management plan,” she explains. This non-pharmacological approach has become especially helpful in managing the muscle pain, stiffness, and chronic fatigue that often accompany RA flares. 

The sauna has also helped motivate Eileen to be more active. After periods of reduced activity due to RA flares, returning to exercise can be a daunting challenge. Regular sauna sessions make this transition smoother by alleviating her pain and improving joint mobility.  

Beyond Symptom Management

For Eileen, the sauna offers benefits beyond physical symptom relief. It has had a positive effect on her mental health, offering a much-needed escape during challenging times and even helping to alleviate symptoms of depression.

Sauna therapy has also played a role in managing the chronic fatigue and poor sleep that are often part of living with RA. Living in Canada, where harsh winters can intensify joint pain and fatigue, the sauna provides a welcome respite from the cold. Eileen also credits it with helping her ward off infections, which is especially important since she is immunocompromised. 

The sauna has provided Eileen with numerous benefits, including: 

• Relieving muscle pain 
• Making regular exercise more manageable 
• Improving sleep quality 
• Managing chronic fatigue 
• Providing mental and emotional benefits 

A Call for Integrative Approaches

Eileen’s experience with the sauna has shown her that effective RA management can include complementary approaches alongside medication. “It’s important for clinicians and patients to think outside of the medication box,” she says. “What can patients do every day that will benefit them? For me, it’s the sauna.” 

Eileen hopes that others will find similar benefits from incorporating sauna therapy into their routines, and she advocates for greater support, including insurance coverage, for non-pharmacological treatments. 

“The sauna is a healthy and relaxing daily activity for those living with rheumatoid arthritis,” adds Eileen, underscoring her belief that integrative care approaches can be life-changing for people with chronic conditions like RA. 

A Holistic Approach to RA Management

Eileen’s poster shares a fresh, patient-centred approach to managing RA: sauna therapy. She highlights how it helps relieve muscle pain, makes exercise easier, improves sleep, and eases chronic fatigue. Beyond the physical benefits, sauna therapy has become a key part of her self-care, offering mental, emotional, and social support. 

At ACR 2024, Eileen hopes her story inspires others with RA to explore creative ways to enhance their quality of life while managing their condition. 

https://creakyjoints.org/acr-2024/sauna-therapy-for-rheumatoidarthritis/