4 Ways to Manage Reactive Arthritis

1. Treat the Small Symptoms

While the main concern of those suffering from reactive arthritis should be to keep the inflammation and pain of the joints under control, there are usually lots of small underlying issues that should also be addressed to improve quality of life. Eye inflammation, for example, can be treated with prescription drops, as can ulcerations of the mouth and skin.

People suffering from more serious symptoms, including burning pain on urination, penile lesions or gastrointestinal problems, should also address those issues by taking antibiotics, cortisone creams and sulfa-based medication.

2. Keep Moving

Since swelling and inflammation of the joints often comes together with stiffness, keeping active is a great way to help the symptoms. Physical activities such as walking, biking and swimming strengthen the muscles and tendons surrounding the joints, making them more resistant to pain and strain. The same is true of simple stretching exercises of the affected joints.

Most people who suffer from reactive arthritis could benefit from weight training as well. Exercises done with either dumbbells or elastic bands are low impact and can be done even by people who have a hard time with walking or cycling.

3. Get Informed

New treatments for reactive arthritis come into the market all the time. These include everything from drugs to recommendations on how to live day-to-day without letting the pain and swelling affect your quality of life. Finding a support group can help you stay in touch with the community and exchange information with others in the know, or you could check out websites such as The Arthritis Society, which offers links to programs and experimental treatments that can help.

4. Treat Your Body Well

Take lots of breaks during intense activities that put pressure on the joints, back and legs. This includes walking or standing for long periods of time, as well as carrying heavy loads or doing lots of repetitive actions. If you still suffer from discomfort, consider looking into devices created for arthritis sufferers in general, such as handles and bars to help stand and move more easily, as well as kitchen devices such as special can openers or steps and bar reachers.