If osteoarthritis cannot be prevented, adopting good daily health reflexes makes it possible to live better with it.
1. Stay active
Exercising is probably the last thing you want when your arthritis hurts you. However, there are many studies that show that exercise is one of the safest ways to improve your quality of life. It boosts your energy. This strengthens your muscles like your bones and maintains the flexibility of your joints. Your muscles protect and support your affected joints. In addition, this allows you to maintain your healthy weight or lose a few pounds depending on your initial condition. Maintaining a fair weight limits the pressure on your joints.
2. Eat a balanced diet
Studies show that different nutrients can affect the symptoms of osteoarthritis. Foods rich in vitamin C, especially fruits and vegetables, are recommended. Omega-3 fatty acids, found especially in fish, can also help relieve pain.
3. Sleep well
After a good night’s sleep, you will be better equipped to cope with the pain and stress caused by osteoarthritis. To improve your sleep, try to go to bed at the same time each day. Remove the screens from the bedroom. If your pain is affecting your comfort in bed, try using pillows to relieve pressure on your joints.
4. Apply hot or cold
Heat can reduce pain and stiffness. Cold, on the other hand, can limit swelling. You can test both to determine what works best for you; heat can reduce pain and stiffness. Cold, on the other hand, can limit swelling. You can test both to determine what works best for you.
5. Use a splint or a cane
Various devices exist to support painful joints, such as splints or canes, which can reduce your discomfort and prevent injuries. A shower chair can also make your daily life easier.
6. Seek support
Living with osteoarthritis is not easy. Talking to people with the same pathology to talk about it is very helpful. You can for example share your ideas to improve everyday life. Look on the internet and social media to identify support groups online or in your area.
Stay positive
Your mind can have a big impact on how you feel about your pathology. Try to do something you enjoy every day: spending time with friends, finding hobbies compatible with osteoarthritis. Focus on what you can do, not what you can’t do!
