Here’s how to tackle your rheumatoid arthritis joint pain
Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most common types of arthritis, affecting around 1.3 million Americans. Rheumatoid arthritis most often develops in women between the ages of 30 and 60. While there is no cure for RA, our St. Thomas and St. Croix orthopedic team can help you manage your symptoms to slow the progression of this chronic disease. At Virgin Islands Orthopaedics and Medical Specialists, Dr. Mary Olsen is here for you.
Here are some ways to get your rheumatoid arthritis symptoms under control.
Catch Some Nightly ZZZs
Getting quality sleep every night is important for everyone but particularly necessary for those with RA. Not getting enough sleep could worsen pain and make getting around even harder. You should aim to get at least eight hours of sleep each night. If you are having trouble getting quality sleep, talk with your St. Thomas or St. Croix doctor about treatment options and ways to improve your nightly bedtime routine for better-quality sleep.
Stay Active
You may be surprised to discover that regular exercise could help to alleviate some of the joint pain and stiffness you’re experiencing. Of course, you want to choose exercises that won’t put additional stress on the joints. Getting regular exercise can also improve sleep and reduce daytime fatigue. Look for low-impact exercise options like biking and swimming, as well as resistance training, to support healthy, strong muscles.
Eat a Healthy Diet
What you eat can also contribute to inflammation and worsening joint pain. That’s why you must be eating a diet that is rich in anti-inflammatories and nutrients. This includes a variety of different colorful vegetables, spices (e.g. turmeric), fruits, and even yogurt. You want to avoid processed foods, as well as sugar. Not sure what to eat to improve your health? Talk with your doctor.
Take Your Medication
There are certain prescription medications on the market that can help alleviate joint pain and stiffness associated with RA. One of those medications is methotrexate and hydroxychloroquine. These medications can also slow the progression of the disease. If you are dealing with painful, tender hands and feet, some medications can help you get your RA under control.
If you are having trouble getting your rheumatoid arthritis symptoms under control, the orthopedic specialists at Virgin Islands Orthopaedics and Medical Specialists can help. We have offices in St. Thomas and St. Croix to ensure that you get the comprehensive orthopedic treatment you need. Call Dr. Mary Olsen at (340) 714-2845 or (340) 692-5000 for an evaluation.