Some ways that can help manage Arthritis
- Exercise - Low impact exercise can increase flexibility and muscle tone around the joints for additional support. It’s also a great way to manage your weight – a healthy BMI puts less strain on the joints while you’re moving around.
- Diet - Nature is a great healer and there are lots of super foods which have natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Try spicing it up with turmeric added to a few dishes, or if you prefer the herbal supplement route then stinging nettle and devil’s claw are both great options.
- Hot and Cold Therapy - Although this will not help with the cause of arthritis it can help alleviate symptoms. A warm bath or cold compress can help the affected area when pain is particularly bad. Keeping hands and feet warm in general can also help avoid flare-ups.
- Acupuncture - Acupuncture is traditionally a Chinese medicine that involves putting small needles in various pressure points through-out the body to help alleviate pain. Whilst not everyone’s cup of tea it is generally painless, and the benefits have been well documented.
- Self-care - Take it easy! Looking after yourself is important, and anything that makes you wind down can have a therapeutic effect. Whether it’s a massage, a lay-in, or putting your feet up with a cup of tea, reducing stress and resting as necessary can be as important as everything else (and let’s be honest, far easier to adhere too!)
