Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease that can result in debilitating pain in your body's joints. When a flare up of rheumatoid arthritis occurs, ease of movement becomes severely restricted and even the simplest task can be challenging. Several different treatment options are available to manage your symptoms.
Definition
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that is characterized by your own immune system attacking the synovium, or thin membranes that line your joints. Rheumatoid arthritis usually affects joints from both sides of the body the same way. Rheumatoid arthritis does not have a cure.
Symptoms
Body stiffness in the morning is one of the primary symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Fingers, knees, ankles and knees may all feel tight and difficult to move. Joint pain accompanied by swelling after a longer rest is also a symptom, as are fatigue, a low-grade fever and small, painless nodules under your skin.
Flexibility Exercises
If you have rheumatoid arthritis, speak to your doctor about incorporating stretching exercises before you just jump in and begin. Stay within your comfort zone when working through the stretches, meaning don't push any stretches beyond your natural range of motion just to try and get more out of the experience. Slight discomfort is typical, but if you feel any sharp pains, stop immediately. To stretch your neck, bend or gently pull your head toward your right ear and hold for 20 seconds. Hold for 20 seconds above the left ear and repeat 3 to 5 times. Next, slowly turn your head to the side, so your chin points at your shoulder, and hold for 20 seconds. Do both sides 3 to 5 times. For your spine, reach up over your head with straight arms and interlock your fingers. Bend your upper body to the side and hold for 30 seconds. Do the other side, then repeat 3 to 5 times.
Frequency
When exercising for flexibility or just in general when you have rheumatoid arthritis, it is wise to do so regularly. Keeping your body moving will help keep muscles loose and weight down, which will benefit your joints. Perform stretching exercises two to three times per day, and engage in regular exercises such as walking or swimming at least three times per week. Listen to your body with all types of exercise and don't push yourself if your condition is flaring up.
Importance
Maintaining joint flexibility is important when you have rheumatoid arthritis, according to the Arthritis Foundation. When your body is stiff and range of motion is poor, everyday tasks like buttoning a shirt or cooking breakfast can become a challenge.
Considerations
Some patients claim that symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis were eased when they switched from a typical Western diet to a more plant-based diet, reports the University of Maryland Medical Center. You could also try an elimination diet and eliminate certain foods from your diet for short periods to monitor any changes.
