Arthritis is an inflammatory disease affecting the joints and affects more than 40 million Americans. Although there are more than 100 types of arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are the two most prevalent kinds of arthritis. Both types of arthritis cause inflammation and pain in joints and can lead to disability if left untreated. Your doctor may use Medford MRI to diagnose arthritis so that they can find the best treatment method for you.
Even if you have been diagnosed with arthritis, you can lead an active and happy life. Here are ways to manage arthritis in your daily life;
- Eat an anti-inflammatory diet
Inflammation is the main factor contributing to joint pain and stiffness for those with arthritis. Some foods have anti-inflammatory properties that can help you manage arthritis pain regularly.
Vegetables and fruits, nuts, fish, beans, and nuts are anti-inflammatory foods to include in your diet. Foods high in fiber, such as whole-grain bread, can also lessen inflammation.
- Keep your weight in check
The added pressure and strain placed on your joints by carrying extra weight makes arthritis pain worse and increases the risk of complications. Losing weight can considerably reduce joint discomfort if you are fat or overweight.
You may lose excess weight and keep it off permanently by making little lifestyle adjustments. If you are a healthy weight, keeping it off with a balanced diet and regular exercise will prevent joint discomfort from worsening.
- Exercise regularly
Regular, gentle exercise keeps your joints mobile and reduces pain and stiffness. Select workouts that build muscles while being gentle on the joints. People with arthritis can benefit from swimming, walking, and cycling.
In addition to cardiovascular activity, consider including light stretching into your regular regime. Your doctor can help you get easy stretches that allow your joints to move through their entire range of motion.
- Know when to rest
If you have arthritis, you should live an active life and pay attention to your body. Don’t be scared to pause and rest When you feel like you need it. Also, elevating aching joints and applying heat or ice
can help ease pain and inflammation.
Using a heating pad for 20 minutes at a time helps ease arthritic pain. After exercise, you can treat painful muscles and inflammation with ice packs.
- Quit smoking
Various health problems, including arthritis, are exacerbated by cigarette smoking. Toxins in cigarette smoke directly impact the connective tissue around joints, which might aggravate arthritis.
Additionally, smoking raises your chance of postoperative complications. When it comes to treating arthritis, some people choose a joint replacement, which may not be a good option for smokers.
- Add natural supplements to your diet
Numerous vitamins, minerals, and supplements may help lessen arthritis pain and inflammation. All vitamins and minerals, including iron, magnesium, zinc, and calcium, are crucial for general health.
Capsaicin, turmeric, and several other supplements may help some arthritis patients with their symptoms. Find out from your medical team which supplements might be a smart supplement to your arthritis management strategy.
Arthritis can make it challenging to lead an active lifestyle and negatively affect your quality of life. Call Southern Oregon Orthopedics & Paragon Orthopedic Center to book your appointment for diagnosis and treatment of arthritis.
