Arthritis is one of the most common health problems in the United States, including Phoenix, Arizona. Nearly 1 out of 10 Americans have it, and it can affect people at any age. It’s a problem that will only become more pervasive as time goes on. By 2040 CDC estimates that 78 million (26%) US adults aged 18 years or older could be affected. The good news is that arthritis can be managed and, in many cases, even cured. A visit to a center for arthritis treatment Phoenix will enlighten you on the management. Let’s look at the common do’s and don’ts when having arthritis.

Do’s

• Keep the Joints Moving

 This may seem counterintuitive, but one of the best things you can do for your arthritis is keep your joints moving. Exercise helps to keep the joints lubricated and increases the range of motion. It also helps to reduce pain and stiffness. Of course, you don’t want to overdo it. Start slowly and increase the intensity gradually.

• Use Heat and Ice

When your joints are stiff and sore, using heat or ice can help to relieve the pain. Heat will help relax the muscles and increase blood flow, while ice will help to reduce inflammation. Experiment with different methods and find what works best for you.

• Take Medications as Prescribed

Many people with arthritis take medication to help manage their pain. It’s essential to take these medications as prescribed and not skip doses. If you’re having trouble taking your medicines, talk to your doctor about ways to make it easier. There may be a different form of medication that you can take or a different schedule that would work better.

Don’ts

• High Impact Activities

High impact activities, such as running or jumping, can put a lot of stress on the joints and aggravate arthritis pain. Try to stick to low-impact activities such as swimming or biking instead. These strenuous activities can worsen the pain and should be avoided if possible.

If you’re having trouble identifying the right workouts, speak with your doctor. They can recommend safe exercises for your arthritis and help manage the pain.

• Smoking

Smoking is terrible for your health in general, and it’s especially harmful to people with arthritis. Smoking increases inflammation and can worsen the pain. It also increases the risk of developing other health problems. If you smoke, quitting is one of the best things you can do for your arthritis.

• Drinking Alcohol

Alcohol can also aggravate arthritis pain. It can increase inflammation and interfere with the medications you’re taking. It’s best to avoid or limit alcohol if you have arthritis.

• Sedentary Lifestyle

A sedentary lifestyle can lead to weight gain, putting additional stress on the joints. It can also make the pain worse. Try to get up and move around every few hours to keep the joints moving and prevent stiffness.

Being active is vital for everyone, but it’s crucial for arthritis. It helps to keep the joints moving and strengthen the musculoskeletal system.

Arthritis is a chronic disease that affects many people. Still, fortunately, there are ways to reduce the pain and maintain your quality of life through exercise, heat therapy, ice therapy, and medication. If you’re experiencing arthritis symptoms or know someone who does, be quick to seek help from an expert.