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Arthritis: Learning To Live With The Condition

Living with arthritis can be lifejoints by taking warm baths or, where
changing but it's not a life sentence.appropriate, applying cold compresses to
Here are a few suggestions that may makeaffected joints and perhaps considering
things easier.therapies such as osteopathy can all
Eat a healthy diet. This is reckonedgive significant relief from pain. Also
important when you have arthritis - asget sufficient sleep - pain is harder to
well as providing your body withmanage if you are tired.
essential nutrients it will help youLive an independent life. Not so easy if
maintain a healthy weight, thus reducingyou suffer from acute arthritic
stress on your joints. Even losing a fewconditions but help is available. The
pounds can make a difference that youmental lift that any person affected by
will notice.the mobility problems that arthritis can
Your diet should avoid red meat, creamcause is well worth the effort of trying
and dairy products such as cheese. Tryto stay in control of your life.
instead to eat foods from the followingAgain, tell family members that yes, you
groups - fruit, vegetables, pasta, whiteneed help but don't require babying.
meat, fish and brown rice.Check out the internet for arthritis
It's also a good idea to try to eatsupport groups in your area - you may be
'oily' fish such as sardines, salmon,surprised at the support available.
tuna, herring and mackerel - theseMake use of technology. Don't feel that
provide omega-3 EFA's (essential fattyby using a powered aid such as an
acids) which are thought to easeelectric scooter or wheelchair to get
arthritic symptoms.around you're 'beaten'. It's an
In the home. Don't be afraid to changeadaptation to a condition and you have
things to suit you - let your familyno need to feel guilty about wanting an
know which tasks you find difficult andeasier life. You paid your taxes, didn't
which you can still manage easily. Useyou?
mobility aids where you need them - handThe many aids for those experiencing
rails, lever taps, trolleys for movingproblems of mobility is today far more
things around and long-handled spongesextensive than you may realise. From the
for bathing all rank high on simple aidspowered scooters mentioned above to
to keep you mobile and independent.kitchen utensils with thick, grippy
Don't be too proud to ask for help.handles - the choices are endless. And
Having arthritis isn't your fault!the best thing is that these items are
Occupational therapists can help you tonot made with 'invalids' in mind - just
find new, easier ways of doing everydaypeople whose life has changed.
tasks. They are specially trained forThat change may not be perceived by the
this - so why not take advantage ofarthritis sufferer to be for the better
their knowledge?- indeed, it would be patronising to
Pain management. Pain is a westernsuggest that arthritis improves anyone's
taboo, yet the stark fact is thatlot - but at least it can now be adapted
arthritis can be a very painfulto and indeed combated, giving the
condition. Modern analgesics can help aperson concerned a realistic approach to
great deal, but research shows thatliving with this sadly common condition.
keeping active, looking after your



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