Arthritis DOs and DONTs
Arthritis is a common illness that is characterized by the inflammation of the joints, causing pain, swelling, stiffness, and disability at the advanced stage.
Like many other illnesses, lifestyle changes can help to facilitate recovery. If you’re suffering from major health issues like Arthritis, your doctor may place you on therapy and some diets while treatment procedures are ongoing.
Today, we will be looking into some of the things you should start doing and others you should avoid if you are suffering from the inflammation of the joint(s).
Things YOU SHOULD DO if you have Arthritis
Exercise regularly
While you may experience pain trying to move your bones, you should not stop engaging yourself in light exercises.
Light exercises like stretching, walking, Yoga, and swimming can help strengthen the muscles around the joints, maintain flexibility and mobility, reduce pain and inflammation, and prevent disability.
Maintain healthy diets
One of the things you should start doing is eating a lot of fruits and vegetables. Vitamin C for example can help reduce the inflammation
Balanced diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help reduce inflammation of the joints, and pain and improve your overall health.
Nuts, fatty fish, green veggies, fruits, non-leafy vegetables, whole grains, and other foods that are high in vitamins, iron, magnesium, etc.
Reduce your weight
You are likely to increase in weight due to less physical activities, however, weight gain is not good for you at this period.
Shedding some pounds can help reduce the strain on your joints and improve arthritis symptoms.
Use assistive mobility aids
While trying to get your legs to walk, you can use mobility aids such as braces, splints, and canes to support your movements, prevent further damage to your joints, and reduce pain.
Use your medications religiously
Try not to miss your appointments with your doctor and use your medications properly. Your rheumatologist would prescribe the best pain reliever and also offer specialized treatments for you.
Rest
Don’t get depressed, and don’t be in a hurry to recover. Take your time to sleep to help your immune system and, and aid recovery.
Deep sleep is important to help you heal your joints and muscles.
Things YOU SHOULD NOT DO if you have Arthritis
Don’t stress yourself
Stress can worsen arthritis symptoms, so it’s important to find ways to manage stress, such as meditation, deep breathing, or yoga.
While exercise is important, it’s important not to overdo it. Listen to your body and avoid activities that cause pain or discomfort.
Don’t smoke
Smoking can worsen arthritis symptoms and increase the risk of other health problems.
Tobacco contains nicotine which can cause damage to your blood vessels, and also trigger inflammation.
Also, smoking can reduce the efficacy of your medications, therefore, you should quit smoking totally while suffering from arthritis.
Don’t sit or stand for too long
Sitting or standing for long periods can put stress on your joints. Take breaks to move around and stretch.
Avoid these foods
There are some foods to avoid with arthritis such as snacks, or any food with added sugar and too much salt.
You should also avoid processed foods, foods that have gluten protein, foods that have refined carbs, high-fat foods, etc.
Don’t ignore pain
If you experience pain or swelling in your joints, don’t ignore it. Talk to your rheumatologist and seek treatment as soon as possible.
While you can consult your doctor for any illness, your doctor should refer you to a specialist. In the case of arthritis, rheumatologists would offer the best advice.
