Tips for managing Arthritis Pain

Tips to relieve Arthritis pain Arthritis is the inflammation (or stress) of a joint - resulting from a disease, infection, genetic defect, injury, overuse or other unknown cause. There is no known cure, but proper early treatment can help prevent further joint damage. Arthritis at a Glance? - Arthritis is not one single disease - there are 100+ types. - Women are more likely to be affected by arthritis than men. - Overweight people are four to five times more likely to develop arthritis. The 3 main types are: Osteoarthritis (OA), the most common form, is a degenerative disorder that causes the breakdown of cartilage in the joints. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints along with possible joint and bone damage. Juvenile Arthritis (JA) includes a number of autoimmune and inflammatory conditions affecting kids age 16 and under. Treating Arthritis Although there is no way to reverse cartilage loss or arthritis, there are numerous options to help relieve symptoms. Treatment of arthritis can include medications , injections, occupational and physical therapy, surgery and changes to one's lifestyle (rest, exercise, healthy eating). In the UK, around 10 million people have arthritis. There are over 100 different forms of arthritis, and it is one of the leading causes of debilitating, life-changing pain for many people in the UK. There are a few things you can do to help manage your arthritis.

Follow an arthritis friendly diet. Eat Mediterranean-style foods with plenty of fruit, vegetables, fish, nuts and beans. These foods are known to be anti-inflammatory and so may help ease arthritic pain.

Handle lightweight kitchen tools. Ergonomic, lightweight cooking tools have grips and non-slip handles that can be helpful to individuals who have arthritis. There are many choices and designs available including spatulas, spoons , ladles, whisks and many more. These kitchen tools fit comfortably in the hand and can greatly improve your manual dexterity, reduce pain, and compensate for your swollen and deformed joints.

Convenient cleaning. When cleaning your home, don't use a hard-to-grip duster. Instead, wear an old pair of gloves or socks on your hands for dusting.

Sit in the shower. To avoid falls in the shower, sit on a waterproof chair or stool.

Eliminate buttons. Opt for Velcro, elastic waistbands, hook-and-eye or zipper closures on trousers , skirts and shirts. For an easier grip, choose front zippers or use a zipper pull.