If you are suffering with joint pain and arthritis, some basic lifestyle changes could make a big difference to your world. Injury to the ligaments, tendons and bursae around the joint can cause joint pain. The injury could also affect the ligaments, bones and cartilage inside the joint. Arthritis is diagnosed if the joints are inflamed.
There are 3 forms of arthritis - osteoarthritis, gout arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. In America alone, more than 70 million people suffer with this condition. One in every three adults will have to cope with arthritis at some point in life. Here are a few ways to manage your pain and make life easier.
Exercise is vital. However, before you begin, speak to your doctor to find out the type of exercises that are suitable. Stretching is excellent and will help keep the joints and muscles flexible.
Go for a walk at least once a week. Walking will make you stronger and increase bone density. It's also a low-impact exercise so it will not harm your joints. In addition, you can burn off any unwanted calories.
Swimming exercises are really good. Any exercise done in water is beneficial because your body become weightless. Therefore, your joints are not subjected to any pressure. When in the water, swim, run and walk. This will increase strength and mobility.
Exercise should be fun, no matter what it is. It could be bowling, walking, gardening or swimming. But it must be something that you like doing. Exercising with other people is a good idea. Social exercise is wonderful for the body, mind and soul.
Your daily diet should be supplemented with calcium and Vitamin C. A glass of milk and an orange make an ideal snack. Not only do oranges contain a large amount of Vitamin C but they also have antioxidant properties. Antioxidants can retard the progression of arthritis. Milk has a high content of calcium that increases bone density and reduces the risk of osteoporosis.
Start your day well by eating a healthy breakfast. This should include fiber, fruit, water, juice or milk. A good breakfast will give you stamina and nourishment to help you cope through the day. Before you go to bed, soak in a hot bath. This will ease the muscles and joints and help you sleep better.
Music and laughter are effective ways to manage pain. Listen to one of your favorite DVDs or rent a humorous movie. Research has confirmed that laughter truly is the best medicine. It lowers stress levels, relaxes muscles and relieves pain.
Contact your local Center for Independent Living if you live on your own. These associations exist in most countries, although they probably have different names. Telephone directories usually have a Disability Service section. A person from such an association can recommend helpful devices that can be installed in your home.
If your doctor has prescribed drugs to help your joint pain and arthritis, you should follow the dosing instructions. The medicine can only be effective if taken according to the prescription. Lastly, you could attend a pain management clinic. Pain clinics are staffed by professionals who offer valuable advice.
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