How to Effectively Manage Arthritis

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis is not a singular condition, the medical term, arthritis, covers numerous different conditions with the most common being osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis occurs when a person's joints become inflamed and swell; it is caused when cartilage loses its elasticity and wears away. As the cartilage becomes impaired the ligaments and tendons in the joint become increasingly strained which can cause a very uncomfortable pain. After time the joints weaken to an extent where the bones begin to rub against one another.

How to effectively manage arthritis

Anti-inflammatory drugs are a fairly standardised practice in the treatment of arthritis but they are only treating the issue, not the cause. However, there are many things one can do in order to manage arthritis, such as the following:

繚 Hot & Cold Packs

Frozen packs can really help reduce the pain in the joint by cooling the surrounding area. There are many good medicinal and sports related freezing & cooling products that can help.

Heating the inflamed area can also be very effective, it can help relax the joints and ease the muscles. A hot water bottle can be useful when suffering from arthritis.

繚 Light Exercise

There are many forms of light exercise one could partake in to help with arthritic pain. Going for a walk can be very helpful; it is advised to walk on a soft surface like a beach or field. Studies show that walking can strengthen joints and build denser bones.

An alternative form of exercise is the Chinese martial art of Tai Chi. The primary focus of Tai Chi is on subtle gentle movements which helps to increase mobility as well as pain relief.

繚 Healthy Eating & Weight Management

Avoiding fatty foods is essential in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and can really help with managing arthritic pain. Those with a higher BMI (Body Mass Index) are at greater risk of arthritis, as excess weight results in greater pressure on joints.

Be sure to eat plenty of fresh fruits and grains and cut out the saturated fat. Walking and light exercise combined with a healthy diet can yield excellent results.

繚 Relax

Relaxation is essential when dealing with arthritis. According to some studies, those who live a more stressful life and those unable to effectively manage stress are at greater risk of developing arthritic conditions. As mentioned earlier Tai Chi is a good way of relaxing, other good techniques such a meditation and a hot bath can really make a difference in contracting or effectively treating arthritic conditions.