Rheumatoid arthritis can be a debilitating and dispiriting condition, this page sets out ways in which people may be better able to cope with their condition and retain a greater degree of control over it.
A Positive Attitude.
It is really important that people feel in control of their RA. This can be acheived by patients working in partnership with their healthcare professionals to put together a plan to manage the rheumatism. The Mayo Clinic states that studies have shown that people who feel in control of their condition experience less pain and make fewer visits to the doctor. Informing family members/carers about the care needs of people with RA also promotes a sense of control and common endeavour.
Exercise
People with RA are faced with a difficult dilemma, resting affected joints makes them feel more comfortable but insufficient exercise can lead to stiffening of the joints and wasting away of the muscles. Getting the balance between rest and exercise right is crucial in minimising the effects of this condition.
The Arthritis Research Campaign Site says that the most important thing is to use the affected muscles and joints without harming them. It recommends that people should exercise until the joints become warm and swollen or if there is "severe" pain. It is important to retain good posture whilst exercising.
Getting the balance right between rest and exercise will vary from individual. It is best to try and avoid overdoing things on good days as people tend to suffer on the day after. People need to accept that some things that can be done on a good day will become impossible during a flare up. If a particular activity causes problems then people should consider whether there are other ways of doing it or whether it can be done by somebody else.
All contact sports, squash and exercises involving hard impacts should be avoided as these may cause further damage to the joints. Gentler forms of exercise such as badminton and walking are more likely to exercise the joints without causing further damage.
Swimming is the best form of exercise for people with RA as there is minimal pressure of the joints and the level of exertion can be varied according to the individual. Aquaerobics (aerobic exercise in a swimming pool) is cited by the ARC as a "very valuable form of exercise for most people". Cycling and walking are good exercises for those people whose legs are not affected by RA.
Protecting the Affected Joints
Reducing strain on the joints will lessen the pain that is associated with RA. People should-
Weight and Diet
Keeping weight under control is important because being overweight puts additional stress of joints in the back, hips, knees and feet. Being overweight can also cause problems if surgery is required.
Whilst there isn't any specific diet that will help with RA, a diet with a healthy balance of fruit and vegetables, starchy foods, dairy products and proteins will help to promote general well-being and fitness. The ARC suggests that the following steps will help people with RA;
Heat and cold
Heat eases pain, helps with relaxation and increases the flow of blood around the affected joint(s). The easiest way to apply heat is to take a hot shower or bath for 15 minutes. Alternatives are a hot pack, an electric heat pad or radiant heat lamp. People with poor sensation or poor circulation should not use heat treatment.
Cold packs can help with the pain associated with occasional flare ups. Cold should not be used by people with poor circulation or numbness.
Relaxation and sleep
Hypnosis, deep breathing and muscle relaxation are all useful in managing pain. Getting a good night's sleep is also important so avoiding coffee and tea after 9pm is a good idea.
