Arthritis is an inflammatory joint condition that can stem from different root causes. Ultimately, whether you suffer from autoimmune arthritis or joint degeneration, you still deal with immense pain.
Knowing what to do and what to avoid can help you manage life with this chronic condition. Here are the key “dos” and “don’ts” when living with arthritis.
Do: Stay as Active as Possible
Arthritis causes a lot of mobility problems, and movement can be painful during a flare-up. However, if you’re able, you should aim for regular gentle exercise. Staying active can help reduce the intensity of your pain and improve your mobility.
Don’t: Smoke or Drink Alcohol in Excess
Tobacco and alcohol both cause inflammation in the body. When you struggle with arthritis, these substances only add fuel to the fire. Your body processes alcohol and nicotine as toxins, which further burdens your immune system.
Try to quit smoking and limit your alcohol intake as much as possible for better health.
Do: Manage Your Weight
Maintaining a healthy weight reduces stress and strain on your joints. This can protect you from further joint damage and inflammation as your arthritis progresses.
Each extra pound of body weight above your normal BMI range puts seven additional pounds of pressure on your knees and other joints. Preserve your soft tissues, like cartilage, by maintaining a healthy weight for your height.
Don’t: Eat Lots of Junk Food
Processed foods are high in calories, low in nutrients, and inflammatory to your body. Eating an excess of junk food may increase inflammation and discomfort for those suffering from arthritis.
Do: Consider Diverse Arthritis Treatment Options
Arthritis treatment isn’t one-size-fits-all. If other interventions haven’t been working for you, consider something new and innovative, like regenerative medicine. This and other natural therapies may yield the results you’re after.
Don’t: Stop Taking Your Medication
Always take all your prescriptions as directed by your doctor. Suddenly stopping arthritis medication can lead to inflammation, pain, and tissue damage.
Live a Comfortable Life with Arthritis
By making healthy lifestyle changes and considering a broad range of treatment options, you can support your joint health. Living with arthritis doesn’t have to impair your everyday life.
This post was written by a medical professional at Stemedix Inc. At Stemedix we provide access to Regenerative Medicine for back pain, also known as stem cell for Arthritis. Regenerative medicine has the natural potential to help improve symptoms sometimes lost from the progression of many conditions.