Arthritis can make your day-to-day painful or challenging. However, with the right education and arthritis treatments, you may reduce your discomfort and prevent flare-ups. If you’re looking for long-term pain management solutions for your condition, here are a few do’s and don’ts that will help you stay comfortable.
Do:
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Talk to your doctor about arthritis treatments.
As with other medical conditions, discussing your symptoms with your doctor should be one of the first steps to take. There are many options for medications and treatments available, so talking to your doctor will help you pick the right one for you. They will examine your lifestyle and, depending on the extent of your daily discomfort, recommend dietary changes, exercises, over-the-counter or prescription medications, injections, physical therapy or surgery.
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Manage your weight.
Excess weight can put extra pressure on your joints and cause arthritis flare-ups. Enrolling in a weight loss or exercise program will reduce joint pain in your knees and hips, improve flexibility and function, and help minimize joint damage. Low-impact activities like bicycling, walking, using an elliptical machine or doing water aerobics are also helpful for those with arthritis to help manage your weight without stressing your joints.
Don’t:
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Be sedentary
If you stay on the couch because you are too sore to move, you risk developing further joint and muscle damage. Instead, choose activities that are easy and comfortable to build up your muscle strength. Taking breaks from prolonged sitting and going for a walk will keep your joints lubricated and help you stay healthy. Remaining as active as possible is to keep minimizing the impact of arthritis.
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Smoke
Smoking cigarettes is linked to several arthritis issues. First, people who smoke have a higher risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis due to a connection between smoking and poor immune function. Smokers are also more likely to have severe symptoms because treatments, especially medicine-based ones, become less effective. Plus, smokers are often less able to participate in exercise-related arthritis treatments due to breathing problems caused by long-term tobacco use.
If you are looking for the best arthritis treatments, come to Advanced Orthopaedic Associates in Wayne, NJ. We have served Bergen, Passaic, and Morris counties for over 25 years, treating everything from sports injuries to age-related joint pain. Our two-phase approach involves treating symptoms and preventing recurrence. Learn more about how we can help with arthritis pain and call (973) 839-5700 to schedule an appointment.
