Tips To Pain Free Living With Arthritis

(Last of 3-part series)

Avoid Arthritis Triggers

Recent studies reveal that identifiable triggers initiate arthritis in certain individuals, comparable to how dust or pollen may cause an allergy or asthma attack in some people. The food-arthritis link has too often been ignored, even when many have attested that pain had been reduced significantly when particular foods were avoided.

How then can you identify if a certain food triggers arthritic pain and stiffness?

Although there are specific tests doctors can perform, an Elimination Diet has proven valuable in identifying allergenic foods. This diet works by purposely eliminating certain common trigger foods suspected to cause the individual’s arthritic attacks. This is done for two weeks. When the symptoms subside, these foods are slowly reintroduced – one at a time – to see which food causes the symptoms.

It is recommended that arthritic sufferers take note of their food and drink intake, particularly those eaten right before an arthritic attack. The food or drink usually consumed before an attack should be avoided. He should then observe if the pain or swelling continues. If the pain is reduced, chances are that the particular food or drink is a trigger.

Drink Lots Of Water.

Water is an inexpensive and natural way of cleansing our bodies from impurities and toxins accumulated over the years. Our bodies, composed mainly of water, needs water to maintain the healthy and normal physiological and metabolic processes ongoing in our body’s systems. Six to eight glasses a day is recommended.

Exercise Regularly.

"Exercise ? Are you kidding ? I can hardly get out of bed, much less exercise." This is the common reaction of arthritic sufferers. Not enough stress has been made on the importance of exercise to the arthritic patient. The benefits of exercise are twofold. First, it will help improve the flexibility of your joints and prevent them from becoming stiff and immovable. Second, exercise will help strengthen the muscles that support your joints. When the muscles are kept in shape, the joints are less prone to inflammation, pain, and stiffness.

The best exercise is one that strengthens the muscles around the joints without putting too much stress on the affected joint. The type of exercise you choose will greatly depend on the type and location of your arthritis. For example, swimming is suitable for osteoarthritis in the hips and knees. It is also beneficial for those with rheumatoid arthritis, because water exercises help reduce all-over body pain. Those with fibromyalgia need stretching exercises, which reduces deep muscle pain and increases flexibility. Some of the best forms of exercise include – stretching and range-of-motion exercises; walking, biking, and other aerobic activities; moderate weight lifting or resistance training; finger exercises, such as knitting or playing the piano.

Common daily activities like climbing the stairs, sweeping the floor, walks in the mall, etc., count as exercise, too. Ask your doctor or physical therapist which exercise will best suit you. Initially it may be difficult to get started, pain relievers will come in handy here. The right pain medication can do wonders for stiff and aching joints and muscles, and can also help jumpstart your exercise regimen. Ask your doctor about the latest pain medication – coxibs (rofecoxib), proven effective without causing gastro-intestinal irritations like nausea, heartburn, or stomach problems like perforations, ulcers and bleeding - symptoms commonly associated with traditional NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) like ibuprofen, diclofenac, aspirin, and naproxen.

For comments and insights, please write to Pain Management Information Agency (PMIA) P.O. Box 3485 Makati, fax 892-3968 or e-mail at paincare@pmia.com.ph. PMIA was established primarily to increase public awareness and understanding of pain and to recommend appropriate medical and practical ways to manage and control pain.

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