RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS PAIN MANAGEMENT

Rheumatoid Arthritis is the second most common type of arthritis next to Osteoarthritis. It is a disorder where the own immune system of the body attacks its tissues. Most damage takes place to the cartilage tissues within the joint lining which results to the inflammation of the "synovium" membrane that surrounds the joint. Eventually, this will cause the erosion of the two bones when rubbed to each other.

This type of arthritis is a chronic disease, mainly characterized by the symptoms of swelling and unbearable pain. Unfortunately, it can lead to long-term joint damage, resulting in chronic soreness, loss of function and disability.

Though persistent, rheumatoid arthritis pain can be well managed. As long as it is properly supervised and taken care of, it is not doubtful that the pain and other symptoms it manifests can be controlled. Here are 2 simple guides for proper management of rheumatoid arthritis:

1.Balanced diet

Maintaining a healthy weight helps a lot in managing one’s rheumatoid arthritis. Being overweight can add stress to the joints and would not help in treating the disease. A balanced diet aids in the maintenance of the right weight. Eating the right food can assist in the reduction of its symptoms, while taking in the wrong ones may add more damage to it. Here are some tips of what food to choose:

•Whole grain products, high in fiber

•Vegetables and fruits

•Low fat, non-saturated fat and no cholesterol

•Those that have less sugar

•Avoid alcoholic beverages

•Avoid salty foods

2.Physical exercises

All arthritis pain can adequately be managed through the right physical exercises. A person suffering from rheumatoid arthritis would not have to give up moving its joints to prevent feeling the pain— because this can just worsen the case. On the other hand, advisable work outs can keep the joints healthy and flexible, which will eventually lead to less ache. Here are some exercises that fit:

•Regular walking to prevent bone degradation

•Resistance exercises to increase mobility and strength

•Isometric exercises which gives strength to the joints

•Low impact aerobics to strengthen the bones and muscles

•Extending the fingers and wrists, and stretching of elbows and hips for flexibility

•Tai Chi for overall body bones stretching

•Swimming builds muscles and relieve joints

Joint pain is in itself naturally associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Managing it, though, makes all the difference. As suggested above, arthritis pain reliefs are not complicated after all—just manage it well with balance diet and physical exercises and the relief will truly be evident.