Keeping Your Life In Control By Controlling Your Arthritis
Bring your journal with you to your doctor visit and let him read it. They might see patterns or clues to help with a treatment plan. A daily diary can help you feel like you are taking control of your condition, and become a very valuable tool in your successful treatment.
For people that deal with arthritis, it's a smart idea to avoid uncomfortable shoes, especially high heels. It doesn't matter where your arthritis affects you, uncomfortable shoes can make the problem worse. So, it is important to get a pair of gym shoes that will give you proper support and keep you comfortable.
Try using a cane for some support. Many people who have arthritis refuse to use a walking aid to show they have a disability. Many times using a cane will alleviate your pain and be able to do things you couldn't do without one. Find one that you like, and congratulate yourself on finding a way to help reduce your pain.
Utilize the benefits of a timing device. When in the throes of a tedious chore, set that timer as a reminder that you need to rest for a while. A lot of people try to tolerate the pain and get something done all at once. This is harmful to the person.
Make a stretching routine. One of the main problems a sufferer of arthritis has to go through is losing how flexible they are. A daily stretching routine can help maintain your flexibility and delay the effects of arthritis. Start off with stretching your feet, and then move in an upwards direction across you entire body until you reach your head.
Be sure you have a strong group of people around you who can lend you support if you are an arthritis sufferer. Have a team made up of doctors, friends and family around you so that they can help you deal with what you are going through. Support groups are also very helpful. It will give you the chance to talk to others who are also coping with arthritis, and probably dealing with the same things that you are.
Make use of accessibility tools whenever you perform difficult tasks. If you know that you will be standing for a long time, or lifting heavy objects, make sure that you protect your arthritic joints from a lot of pressure that can cause further damage. Pain results from additional joint damage, so anything you can do to relieve pressure on your joints caused by unusual stressors is helpful.
Heat is the best treatment if your pain is wearing you out. Although manyt people think a cold pack is the best treatment for pain, this is not true for arthritic pain. Fatiguing pain, like the pain associated with arthritis, is best treated with warm packs and warm water. It will not only relieve your pain, it will also help increase your energy levels.
If you are tired of constantly feeling the pain and decreased lifestyle of arthritis, then do something about it. With the right strategies, you can overcome the pain and enjoy your life! By using these tricks, you will find that your arthritis is no longer deciding your life for you.
