Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease where
white blood cells suddenly attack healthy tissues, specifically joints and
cartilage. There are a few ways to help
ease the symptoms, depending on which stage of the disease you are in. If you are in the early stages of rheumatoid arthritis
there is a new disease modifying anti-rheumatic drug (DMARD) which has done an
excellent job in controlling symptoms.
It works best in the initial stages, so if you suspect you may have rheumatoid
arthritis, see your doctor as soon as possible.
There are other options if you are in later
stages of rheumatoid arthritis. These
are also helpful if you are still in early stages. One is to use anti-inflammatory drugs such as
aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen. This
does a great job reducing pain and inflammation. However, these have side effects including
heart problems and gastrointestinal bleeding.
You can also use acetaminophen for your rheumatoid arthritis, which does
not have these side effects.
When symptoms are mild, moderate exercising
including stretching, weight lifting, and aerobics ease rheumatoid arthritis
symptoms. Be sure to rest when your
joints flare up as this would just add strain to your aching joints. Stretching is important because it increases
flexibility and is easy enough to do at any age. When stretching, stop when you feel mild
discomfort and hold for 10 to 30 seconds.
Then repeat 3 to 5 times. Weight
lifting also improves flexibility as well as strength and balance. Barbells are easy, convenient, and
inexpensive. Remember to stretch before
lifting any weights. Start with 3 sets
of 8 to 10 repetitions. If you would
like you can start with no weights at all (such as going leg lifts for rheumatoid
arthritis in the knees), then add weights when you can. Lift the weights slowly and evenly to not
damage the cartilage.
Some other popular forms of exercise for rheumatoid
arthritis are aqua therapy and Tai Chi.
Be sure to find an actual therapist as they have specific exercises they
do for arthritis patients. Aerobics
instructors may push to far and do further damage. Tai Chi has no long term studies proving its
effectiveness, but due to testimonials from patients who have taken Tai Chi,
the Arthritis Foundation began offering the class. Remember to always check with your doctor
before starting an exercise program.
Some other ways to relieve rheumatoid arthritis
pain are to lose weight to take additional pressure off joints, eating a
healthy diet, getting enough sleep, using heat or ice, and possibly using
devices such as a cane, brace, or splint.
There are many resources for additional information on rheumatoid arthritis
including websites, flyers, periodicals, books, etc. Your doctor should be able to provide you
with some reference on where to look for additional help.
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