Are You Suffering From Arthritis? Follow These Doctor-Recommended 6 Essential Tips For Relief

According to doctors, arthritis patients must pay attention to joint health and lead a healthy life. They must stay vigilant and not engage in intense activities that can further strain the joints. Read on to know more about some dos and don'ts.

Finding relief from arthritis: Arthritis is a painful condition, which happens when there is an inflammation in one or multiple joints in the body. It is something one must learn to manage throughout their life, because arthritis is a long-term condition that brings a lot of discomfort, joint stiffness, and limited range of motion. According to doctors, this condition gradually impacts one's mobility and decreases the quality of their life.

Various forms of arthritis exist, such as osteoarthritis -- resulting from joint degeneration -- and rheumatoid arthritis -- an autoimmune disorder. "Many individuals suffering from arthritis find their symptoms tend to intensify due to weather changes," Dr Abhay Chhallani, orthopedic surgeon at Seawoods and Vashi, Navi Mumbai points out. He adds that many patients feel more pain in the cold and rainy season, than in warm, dry weather. "Those with arthritis must be cautious during the seasonal changes and follow the instructions given by the doctor," he says.

Arthritis Patients Should Follow These Vital Measures

Here are some important points Dr Chhallani wants all arthritis patients to know:

1. Engage in regular physical activity: Doing this can ease arthritis discomfort by enhancing flexibility and strengthening the muscles. Gentle exercises like swimming or cycling can be considered. One must, however, avoid strenuous activities that can put pressure on the joints. Warm-up and cool-down before and after exercise, which will help to strengthen the flexibility of the joints. Try to stretch daily. It is better to seek advice from an expert before initiating any fitness routine. If you wish to go out for a walk, make sure to check the weather conditions, whether it is hot or cold outside. Avoid squatting or sitting crossed legs, or climbing stairs if you have knee arthritis.
2. Wearing multiple layers: This will help maintain warmth in the muscles and avoid stiffness. Choose thermal fabrics; wear gloves, socks, and a hat to shield yourself from cold during the chilly days.
3. Opt for heat therapy: When it comes to the joints, heat therapy can alleviate pain and reduce stiffness. Consider using heating pads, warm towels, or enjoying a warm bath to soothe your muscles and improve blood flow.
4. Manage your weight: It is a known fact that excessive weight can add extra pressure on the joints, potentially intensifying arthritis symptoms. By maintaining a healthy weight, you can relieve some of this strain, lessen discomfort, and stay healthy.
5. Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water helps to keep the joints lubricated. It may decrease inflammation. Try to drink at least eight glasses of water daily to support joint health.
6. Watch your diet: Arthritis patients must avoid sugar, refined and processed foods. They must instead consume omega-3 fatty acids in the form of fish, flaxseeds, walnuts, berries, and leafy greens; they are loaded with antioxidants. Take vitamin D supplements as per an expert's advice.

Factors That Can Trigger Joint Pain And Worsen Arthritis

Dr Girish Bhalerao, super specialty consultant orthopaedic surgeon at Wockhardt Hospital Mira Road points out that arthritis pain can often worsen because of factors like inflammation, joint overuse, cold weather, and leading a sedentary lifestyle.

"Joint pain is induced when people sit for longer hours, do not exercise or stretch, or maintain an optimum weight. Poor diet inclusive of processed and sugary foods, and excess weight, can also add strain on the joints, increasing discomfort and pain. One may, therefore, find it difficult to carry on with daily activities," the doctor cautions.

Staying active with low-impact exercises, maintaining a healthy weight, and following an anti-inflammatory diet can help reduce joint pain and improve mobility. "Exercise daily for at least 30 minutes under the guidance of an expert. Regular stretching and sun exposure for vitamin D and proper hydration are also key to keeping joints flexible," Dr Bhalerao concludes.