If you have recently been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, maybe you think you're doomed to a lifetime of pain and discomfort. The truth is that many people live long and full lives, even while living with rheumatoid arthritis. But if you truly want to thrive despite your diagnosis, chances are you'll have to reconsider your lifestyle choices. Living a healthy lifestyle is of course recommended for all. But it becomes even more important if you are a rheumatoid arthritis sufferer.
One important thing you should do is to learn to respond to your body. You should become aware of when you feel joint stiffness the most. Make a note of when you feel joint discomfort. You will have to learn to test and set your limits. By paying attention to how your body reacts to certain physical activities, you will learn to avoid overexertion.
Maintaining a schedule of regular physical activities is another important health tip. It can help you to have less pain and discomfort while at the same time helping you to maintain flexibility and strength. Your joints will thank you. Regular exercise can also help you to reduce your fatigue as you get stronger and more flexible. Don't be scared of exercise if you are battling RA but without a doubt learn to listen to your body and adjust as necessary. Avoid over exertion and add a little more to your exercise program every week. Don't try to do it all at one time.
For arthritis patients there are a few basic types of exercises that are well suited for for joint protection. Flexibility and strengthening exercises are perfect for arthritis patients. Cardio and aerobic exercises are also good choices for exercises. Many RA patients benefit from enjoying Pilates and Yoga as a form of exercise since these gentle forms of stretching are fairly easy on the joints, which you must protect regardless of what type of exercise you decide to enjoy. Exercises for RA patients should gently increase your range of motion and should not place strain on the joints.
Other good exercise choices that can help you to reduce the pain of rheumatoid arthritis are cycling, running or even walking. This standard aerobic exercises are great examples of exercises to benefit your heart health. Some RA patients enjoy doing exercises in the water since the water can help to further reduce joint strain. Just remember that whatever exercise you select, it should be one that helps you to increase your flexibility and at the same time increases your overall strength.
Before you begin an exercise program, make certain to speak with your health care provider. As a rheumatoid arthritis patient, your doctor may be able to prescribe specific exercises that can help alleviate your symptoms. Your doctor may also be able to refer you to a physical therapist that you can work with.
Another very important facet of taking care of your self has to do with eating well. Eating well not only helps you get the right nutrients, but also to maintain a healthy weight. This is particularly important for good joint health.
A healthy diet consists of plenty of vegetables and fruits. It is also important to remember to eat plenty of lean proteins and low fat dairy products. Stay away from the fattening, although often far too yummy stuff. It is also important that you are eating enough health foods that contain the right nutrients, such as calcium and vitamin C. If you feel that your diet is not healthy enough to provide you with adequate nutrients, then talk with your health care provider about the possibility of taking supplements. Some rheumatologists believe that certain supplements can help to provide some relief from the symptoms of arthritis.
Well, if you are on the hunt for ways in which you can relieve some of the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, then first of all be sure that you are following all the rules of a healthy lifestyle. It is imperative that a healthy diet and healthy lifestyle are as much a part of your life as breathing. It is simply that important.
