Learning to Live with Arthritis

by Charles Kassotis

In the United States alone, more than 40 million people suffer from arthritis discomfort. Although many view this condition as a natural part of the aging process, there is no reason why it has to be debilitating. In fact, many doctors help their patients learn to manage arthritis symptoms like pain and stiffness by utilizing a variety of techniques. The first step is to see your doctor for an accurate diagnosis. Bone pain can be a symptom of other medical problems, so it is important to find out if arthritis is the true cause. If so, you can then begin the quest for proper treatment.

Depending on the degree to which you have arthritis and its impact on your lifestyle, you may need to take anti-inflammatory medications that your doctor will prescribe. Always follow the directions carefully and take the medication only as directed. Let your doctor know if you experience side effects or allergic reactions, which might include hives, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing. Over-the-counter medications likewise may be prescribed so you can take them as needed for sporadic discomfort if the pain has not become chronic or severe.

If you are only beginning to develop arthritis, or if it presents only mild discomfort, you can try other things to help make it more bearable, as well. For example, regular physical exercise is a great way to build bone mass and to promote bodily circulation, both of which can help to control arthritic symptoms. Ask your doctor to recommend the best type of exercise for your condition. People with joint swelling or pain might need to avoid weight-bearing exercise like walking and instead go swimming at the local pool, which helps their bodies to float and thus relieves pressure from the joints and bones.

Dealing With Arthritis on the Job

If you suffer from some form of arthritis, chances are you know how difficult it is to deal with this painful condition on the job. Experts recommend that arthritis patients take a physical inventory before applying for a job, or to assess their current employment situation. If you have arthritis, there are certain questions that you should ask yourself. Although it can be difficult, you must be honest and realistic about what you can and cannot do. Here are some vital questions that you should ask yourself before taking a position, or to assess whether your current position is potentially harmful to your arthritis.

First, make a list of all the physical activities that are difficult for you to accomplish without some form of pain, stiffness or pressure. How long can you stand, walk or sit before you feel uncomfortable? Can you accomplish these activities for extended periods of time, or are you immediately seized by arthritis symptoms? How far can you reach? How much weight can you lift without feeling uncomfortable or in pain? Also consider your level of fatigue. Beside the normal feelings of joint stiffness and pain, arthritis can also cause a great deal of fatigue in most patients. What is your specific fatigue level? Are you quickly worn out after periods of moderate activity? Consider also your ability to drive and get in and out of cars. Does your job consist of driving? Do you have a long commute into work? Can you open the car door and get in and out of the car with ease, or does it cause you significant pain? Many jobs consist of some form of repetitive movement, whether it be typing or working with some kind of machinery. Can you perform repetitive tasks with ease? Can you accomplish these movements without aggravating your arthritis? Make your judgments with honesty. Be realistic about what you can and cannot do. There is no shame in not being able to accomplish certain tasks. After you've put together your physical inventory of things you can and cannot do with comfort and ease, it's time to think about employment possibilities where you can work comfortably and safety. If you are already employed at a job you love and don't want to give it up due to your arthritis, consider these ideas for making your job more workable for your.

First, if you are looking for an employment position that can help you work comfortably and pain-free, make a list of jobs that interest you that do not require repetitive movement, extended periods of sitting or standing, or excessive driving. Consider working part-time if you can. If on the other hand you already have a job you love and don't want to part with it because of your arthritis, there are several things you can do to make the position work for you. Consider talking to your colleagues and supervisor about your arthritis. Be honest about your condition and talk about what you consider your physical limitations to be. Find ways to augment your working day to avoid or relieve the symptoms of arthritis. For instance, if you work at an office that requires you to sit for extended periods of time, plan to take several stretching or walking breaks throughout the day. Also, make sure your workplace is as arthritis-friendly as possible. Adjust your seat, files, and keyboard to reduce the stress and pressure placed on your body.

In addition to medication and exercise as ways of controlling your arthritis pain, you may want to consider herbal remedies, like glucosamine, among others. Some studies suggest that those using certain herbal formulas that are based on glucosamine and related substances may experience less joint pain and swelling. Ask your doctor if this is a good idea for you. There are other herbs that might reduce inflammation and ease joint pain, but check with a medical expert or an herbalist before taking any of these.

People who suffer from chronic conditions like arthritis often benefit from environmental therapies as well. Listening to soothing music or relaxing scents like potpourri can help to relieve stress and reduce discomfort associated with joint pain. Keeping a journal and writing about negative aspects of having arthritis for 15 to 20 minutes at least three days a week has been shown to improve immune function and decrease stress levels. Joining a support group or visiting with friends and family several times a month likewise provides comfort to ease difficult physical symptoms.

Don't let arthritis keep you down. Take control of your life and your symptoms by trying strategies like these to build a better future.

About the author:

Want to know more about managing arthritis discomfort? For helpful information, visit The Arthritis Directory at http://www.arthritisdir.com

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Glucosamine Chondroitin & Arthritis

Interesting Facts about Arthritis

Learning to Live with Arthritis

Manage the Pain of Osteoarthritis

Natural Relief From Arthritis Pain Using Alternatives To Medications

Relieving Your Ache Joints and Arthritis -- are there Options?

How to treat Rheumatoid Arthritis

Arthritis Site Map

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