TIP! If you deal with rheumatiod arthritis, start recording brief notes every day in a journal or diary. The information in your journal can help you determine if there is a pattern to your flare-ups.

Joint inflammation has a variety of causes and many forms of treatment. Your doctor is better able to accurately diagnosis and treat your arthritis if you go to your appointment with some accurate information about your symptoms. These tips can help you deal with arthritis, and learn how to cope and live a better life.

TIP! Be mindful of the condition of your joints. Some of the smallest tasks could be very difficult and painful, when having arthritis.

If you are a smoker, consider quitting, and if you don’t smoke, avoid cigarettes. Nicotine sometimes decreases blood flow towards your arms and legs, which possibly alleviates short term inflammation. Remember too, that slow circulation will also affect joint health, making your arthritis symptoms more severe.

Lay on your thigh using your hand to push it down. This not only makes the task easier overall, but makes using your fingers completely unnecessary.

TIP! Eat a wide variety of fresh fruit and vegetables, and cut down on meat. Studies show that people who suffer from arthritis are less likely to experience pain, swelling, or inflammation if they eat a vegetarian diet.

If you have arthritis, wearing comfortable shoes is very important. Regardless of the location of your arthritis, you will not walk correctly in shoes that are uncomfortable, and that can worsen your arthritis symptoms. Rather get a pair of shoes that give you plenty of support.

TIP! Employ the services of an experienced physical therapist. A good physical therapist can provide you with a customized workout that will alleviate your arthritis pain.

If you are building a new house and you are living with arthritis, see if you can change the building plans to accommodate your condition. Make a list with the person that will be constructing your home. Completing small modifications such as these can ease your pain and make your life easier.

TIP! Use assistant devices when you do strenuous activities. If you are standing for long periods or handling large objects, you need to protect yourself from the extra strain on your joints that could make your condition worse.

Be sure to participate in some therapy. Some people that have arthritis have a hard time doing things on their own; therapy can be very beneficial, and show that you’re not alone. People who suffer from arthritis have a greater chance of developing depression so its very important to undergo therapy to address these concerns.

TIP! If you are fighting with the pain that arthritis brings, try to lose a few pounds. Arthritis sufferers who are overweight or obese may experience increased pain, inflammation and swelling of the joints.

Managing your arthritis can help you enjoy your life without being controlled by the symptoms of your condition. Take these tips and use them to better cope with arthritis; start using them today.