1. Understand the Types of Arthritis
Arthritis is a general term that describes over 100 different conditions. The two main types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis occurs when there is a wearing away of the cartilage in the joint. As the cartilage diminishes, the ends of the bones in the joint begin to run against one another, causing pain.
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition and there are many different forms of RA. Some common forms include fibromyalgia, Lyme's disease, Ankylosing spondylitis, and Gout. RA may affect just one joint, or it can affect the entire body, including the organs.
While arthritis is more common in the elderly, children and young adults can develop it as well.
2. Keep Moving
According to the Arthritis Foundation, arthritis affects nearly 46 million adults and 300,000 children in America alone. Even so, arthritis does not automatically develop with age. There are many people who live well into their nineties who never get arthritis. It is important to know that you do not have to accept chronic joint pain and a loss of mobility as a natural part of the aging process. Even if you do develop arthritis, there are many therapies that can help you to manage your symptoms and remain active and independent. Arthritis should not be an excuse to be sedentary. Since there are many other health concerns that occur with age such as heart disease, cancer and osteoporosis, it is important to keep moving and remain as healthy and active as possible.
3. Engage in Exercise
Exercise is an important component to managing your condition. Since arthritis can bring on joint pain, it is helpful to maintain a healthy body weight. Being overweight places excess wear and tear on your joints and body which can cause more pain. Carrying extra weight will make it more challenging to walk, climb stairs and maneuver around in general.
You should aim to get at least 30 minutes of cardiovascular exercise at least 5 days per week. You can walk, bike, swim or take aerobic classes. A full body strength training routine should be done two to three times per week, and you should try to stretch every day.
Once you understand what type of arthritis you have, you can work with your physician or a physical therapist to develop a routine that is appropriate for you. Sometimes it takes some trial and error to find the program that works for your unique situation.
4. Use Good Posture
Using good posture and body mechanics is key in managing your symptoms. As people age, there is a tendency to develop a forward rounded posture. This not only puts you at a greater risk for a fall, it also places stress on the shoulders and back which can then increase your pain. Learning to keep a straight back during all activities such as bathing, grooming, dressing and housework will help you to keep your joints protected from further injury.
5. Protect Your Joints
Along with using good posture and body mechanics, make sure you take additional steps to protect your joints. There are many medical supports and devices that can be used during daily activities to take pressure off of painful joints. This can include using splints when joints are inflamed, long handled reachers, brooms, shoe horns and sponges. There are devices that can help you to better grip and open doors and jars. You can also make changes to your home such as adding grab bars and replacing doorknobs and faucets with levers that turn more easily.
