Understanding Arthritis Better
By Donna Stark
Arthritis is one of the leading causes of disability in our country with millions of people suffering from it every single day. If it hasn't touched your life already, chances are that it has touched the life of someone you love, which is why it is so important to learn as much as you can about it. And since May is Arthritis Awareness Month, there is no better time to do that than now. Let's take a look at the following facts to understand this debilitating condition a little bit more.
Understanding Arthritis
Arthritis may be one of those medical conditions you have heard mentioned over and over again, but how much do you really know about it? Did you know there are over 100 different types? Did you know that children can be afflicted with it too? Did you know that it is actually a very complex issue for those who suffer from it? There certainly is a lot to digest when it comes to arthritis, but since we have to begin somewhere, let's start with its symptoms. Here are a few of the most common.
- Aches and pains
- Inflammation and swelling
- Joint stiffness
- Cartilage degeneration
- Decreased range of motion
- Deformity of the joint
Treatment for Arthritis
Although there is no cure for arthritis yet, that doesn't mean there aren't ways to treat and manage it. Here are some helpful suggestions that have proven to be quite beneficial for many arthritis sufferers.
- Physical activity - Low-impact exercises, such as walking, yoga, and swimming are often recommended for those battling arthritis because they can help alleviate the pain. Exercise will help build muscle strength, improve range of motion, and restore joint function.
- Nutrition - It's important to stay on top of the inflammation levels in your body and a natural way of doing so is with your diet! Try to incorporate more anti-inflammatory foods, such as fatty fish, berries, nuts, and leafy greens into your meals and avoid processed items as much as you can.
- Hot and cold compresses - Sometimes, applying a hot or a cold compress to the painful joints is enough to find relief. The relief may be temporary, but it will help! Just make sure you do it for no longer than 20 minutes at a time.
Pain-Free Days
The goal of Arthritis Awareness Month is to share information about this crippling condition, but if you would like to know more, or if you need other suggestions to help manage your pain, head on in to see your local chiropractors at The Joint Chiropractic. They will be happy to help!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Vancouver, Wash.