If you are fortunate enough to make it to your senior years, it’s a good bet that you will be dealing with some level of arthritis joint pain. It’s simply a side effect of getting older. But, if you suffer from Rheumatoid Arthritis, it can start at any age and currently affects millions of Americans every year.
Rheumatoid Arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes the painful inflammation and swelling of the soft linings of the joints. The disease itself can be very uncomfortable and can limit your mobility and sometimes lead to deformities around affected joints. It can even have an impact on other soft tissues including the heart, lungs and eyes.
There is currently no cure for Rheumatoid Arthritis, but there are many ways to manage your symptoms. Prescription medications and anti-inflammatories are among the more mainstream treatments, but there are also more natural remedies that you can try right at home. Talk to your Rheumatologist about what measures you can take on a daily basis to help manage your symptoms on your own.
Rest & Sleep
Getting quality rest is one of the best ways to fight the swelling and inflammation in your joints. You should aim to get a minimum of 8 hours of sleep a night and even add a short afternoon nap if you feel you need it. Rest and relaxation can help to initiate healing and reduce the amount of discomfort that you feel in your joints. If you have trouble sleeping due to the discomfort of your Rheumatoid Arthritis, you can explore guided meditation and breathing exercises to help your body relax into a deeper and healthier sleep.
Exercise
When your joints are hurting, the last thing you may feel like doing is exercising, but it can actually help if you can push past the pain. Keeping your joints moving will help keep the tissues lubricated and flexible. Low impact activities like swimming and walking are great for everyone. Try a Tai Chi or yoga class to help you keep your flexibility and mobility.
Creams & Gels
There are a variety of topical creams and gels on the market to help treat the pain of arthritis. The can be helpful for many people and easy to apply. Look for creams that contain the active ingredients Salicylate, Capsaicin or Menthol for the best results.
Natural Oils
Fish oil has been known for generations to help with joint inflammation. It can be taken in many forms but you should consult with your doctor before adding it to your treatment. There may be interactions with other medications that you are on so it’s best to check first. Natural plant oils like Evening Primrose can also help with the pain and stiffness in your joints in the mornings.
Heat & Ice
An ice pack is a great way to ease the swelling and pain of an arthritis flare-up. In many cases, heat can also help relax tense muscles and loosen up stiff joints. Speak with your doctor about hot and cold treatments and what is best for you.