Habits to Avoid While Managing Arthritis Pain

By Donna Stark

You've just been diagnosed with arthritis, and more than likely your well-intentioned family members, friends, and doctors are filling your head with tons of advice on treatment options, lifestyle suggestions, and management tips. And while there are so many things to keep in mind on what you should be doing to relieve the pain and discomfort you are now feeling, there is an equal number of things that you shouldn't be doing too! Keep reading to discover what habits you should try to avoid as much as possible.

Sedentary Lifestyle

The best way to exacerbate the symptoms of arthritis is to avoid physical activity. Reduced mobility, decreased range of motion, joint stiffness, and pain will only get worse if you aren't keeping your body in motion. Now, that doesn't mean you have to engage in some seriously intense workouts. You just need to add as much movement to your day as you can. With as little as 30 minutes each day, you can improve the way you feel and keep your body on the path to good health.

Trying to Heal Yourself

You may be a wiz on the internet, but the advice you find online could leave you confused and will never replace the knowledge and experience your doctors may have. When it comes to treating arthritis, you'll want to see a specialist. It's the safest way to treat, manage, and track the progression of this condition.

Masking Your Symptoms

Another mistake many people make when addressing arthritis pain on their own is their frequent use of pain relievers. Because pain relievers mask the symptoms of the problem, the underlying source of pain is never truly addressed. On top of that, there are many risks and side effects that come with pain relievers.

Eating the Wrong Foods

There's a diet for everything, so of course there are certain foods you should be eating and avoiding if you suffer from arthritis. Foods that are high in anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce symptoms while other foods can make your symptoms worse. Try to eliminate foods high in sugar, saturated fat, and carbohydrates while replacing them with the following.

• Dark leafy greens
• Salmon
• Heart-healthy oils
• Broccoli
• Nuts
• Berries
• Tart cherry juice

Successfully Managing Arthritis Pain

If you are newly diagnosed with arthritis, don't despair. Although it is a brutal thing to deal with, the symptoms from it can be managed with the right advice, treatment, and daily habits. Good luck to you!

To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Farmington, Utah.