What To Do If You Have Arthritis
According to the CDC, this is what you should do when you are diagnosed with Arthritis:
Learn Arthritis Management Strategies—Learn techniques to reduce the pain and limitations associated with arthritis. There are several great resources about self-management education, such as the Arthritis Foundation Self Help Program (AFSHP), or the Chronic Disease Self Management Program (CDSMP). You can use these programs to help you develop the skills and confidence to manage your arthritis on a day-to-day basis. The AFSHP program has been shown to reduce pain even 4 years after participating in the program.
Be Active—Research shows a direct correlation that physical activity decreases pain, improves function, and delays the disability associated with arthritis. The recommended amount of activity is at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity at least 3 days a week. Research shows that activity in 10-minute intervals is as effective as activity in a 30 minute intervals. Read about the physical activity programs the CDC recommends for people with arthritis.
Watch Your Weight—Arthritis increases with the increase of weight. Research shows maintaining a healthy weight reduces the risk of developing arthritis and may decrease the disease’s progression. Losing just 11 pounds can decrease the occurrence of new knee osteoarthritis.
See Your Doctor—While there is no proven cure for most types of arthritis, early diagnosis of the disease and appropriate management is important, especially for inflammatory types of arthritis. Many doctors suggest reducing the body’s inflammatory response to free radicals through diet and exercise. At the first signs of arthritis symptoms, see your doctor and begin to appropriately manage your condition.
Protect Your Joints—Joint injury can lead to osteoarthritis. Studies show that people who experience sports or occupational injuries or work at jobs with repetitive motions have a great instance of osteoarthritis. If you can avoid joint injury, you may reduce your risk of developing osteoarthritis.
