Most people who experience arthritis experience rheumatoid arthritis. This is a specific medical condition in which the joints are inflamed. When the joints become inflamed, they swell up and can become painful and stiff. This in turn causes the body to attack the joint tissue, breaking down the collagen and cartilage that help keep the bones from rubbing painfully together. Additionally, the body can be led into attacks on bones and organs by rheumatoid arthritis. This condition seems most common among the aging, but it is possible to experience arthritis even when you are young.
Getting relief from the pain comes in a variety of ways. Many people take some sort of pain reliever in order to help them. Doctors can recommend a variety of legal over the counter and prescription drugs to help with the swelling and pain associated with arthritis. However, some people find that combating arthritis in more natural ways benefits them. They can still use medications if necessary, but many people find success with natural methods.
Exercise is one of the best ways to keep your joints healthy. And it helps the rest of your body, too! If you start young, you can stave off the onset of arthritis by a healthy lifestyle that includes exercise. Strengthening your muscles, using the full range of joint motion, and aerobic exercise can all help you reduce pain from rheumatoid arthritis. One of the most helpful exercises for the relief of joint pain is tai chi. This is a martial art that has become more of an exercise for health than anything else. It requires slow movements that are designed to build strength and flexibility. Additionally, the range of motion is very helpful to people who suffer from arthritis. Plus, tai chi also has stress relief benefits.
It is important to be careful when doing strength training or aerobic exercises. Work lightly and use mild resistance when strength training. This should be done under a physician's supervision if you are doing strength training for arthritis purposes. Aerobic exercises should be low-impact, such as biking, swimming and walking. Things like skiing, jumping, and running are hard on the joints and can make the condition worse. The goal is to offer exercise, without stressing the joints. Exercises that require smooth movements and motions are the best.
Even though there is no evidence about nutrition slowing the effects of arthritis, there are hints that omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, as well as Vitamin E, can block the chemicals in the body that cause inflammation in the joints. While such supplements are usually not enough alone to stave of arthritis, studies suggest that they might help. Of course, you should check with your doctor before beginning any supplement program.
By choosing to engage in healthy activities, you can reduce the instances of joint inflammation in your body. If you begin young to stay healthy and exercise, you can prevent rheumatoid arthritis. Using more natural ways to keep arthritis at bay can be helpful, and they can prevent your becoming dependent on medication to control the pain.
