4 Arthritis Challenges to Help You Feel Better

If you struggle with arthritis, it is time become proactive by making the best lifestyle choices. Everything from establishing an exercise program to choosing an arthritis-friendly diet can make a difference in how you feel. Consider your treatment options by seeing your physician.

Here are a few ways to challenge yourself to better manage your condition.

1. Ditch Your Sedentary Lifestyle

Although you may be inclined to believe you need to rest your aching joints and avoid exercise, remaining sedentary could make your condition worse. You need to keep your joints mobile through regular exercise. However, avoid high-impact activities and repetitive motion. For example, individuals with knee arthritis might want to avoid jogging and running.

One of the best and safest exercises for arthritis sufferers is walking. Get yourself a good pair of walking shoes, and then enjoy a daily walk. Aquatic exercise is also recommended for arthritis sufferers. If you don’t have a swimming pool at home, join a club or class that focuses on water exercises.

Remember, any type of low-impact exercise may help you avoid stiff joints and improve your mobility. Staying active may also help you manage your weight. Commit to the challenge of staying fit and losing weight if need be, as being overweight may place stress on your weakened joints.

2. Choose Natural Anti-Inflammatory Foods

Your diet plays an equally important role in managing your arthritis. Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation. Try eating more salmon, sardines, and tuna. Also, choose nuts and fruits, especially berries, as these foods contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Green, leafy vegetables such as spinach and kale are also good choices.

Don’t forget to add beverages with anti-inflammatory benefits to your diet. Green tea may help your arthritis inflammation and pain. Ginger and chamomile tea may be beneficial as well.

At the same time, avoid foods that may worsen your arthritis inflammation. For example, avoid too much refined sugar. Limit fried and fatty foods as well, as a diet high in fat may contribute to inflammation.

3. Experiment With Heat and Cold

Hot and cold therapy may relieve some of the pain and stiffness of arthritis. You can use heat and cold treatments easily at home without any added expense. Try soaking in a warm Epsom salt bath. A moist heating pad may also bring you relief.

Experiment with both hot and cold applications to discover which option works best for you. If you prefer, you can use both heat and cold alternately. Make a cold pack by wrapping some ice or a bag of frozen vegetables in a hand towel, and then apply it to your aching joints. If you prefer, purchase a cold pack at the store, and keep it in your freezer for a treatment that is ready when you need it.

4. Head to the Arthritis Center Now

Perhaps you have put off seeing the doctor in regard to your condition. Doing so may delay your recovery. Your arthritis specialist can evaluate your condition and provide a diagnosis. Once diagnosed professionally, you can receive proper treatment. Your physician might prescribe non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDS).

Your doctor might also recommend taking some supplements to reduce your pain and inflammation. Ginger, SAM-e, and turmeric may also help combat inflammation, and you can purchase these supplements at any pharmacy.

As a final consideration, do not take dietary supplements without first consulting your doctor. Some supplements may interact with medications you are currently taking. Also, don’t begin an exercise program without consulting with your doctor first. Schedule an appointment at Sarasota Arthritis Center today for more advice on managing your arthritis.