How to Prevent Arthritis Flare Ups

Arthritis, also known as osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease, is the result of cartilage in the joints wearing down over time, causing pain and inflammation where the bones rub against each other. Arthritis can appear in any joint in the body but is most likely to occur in the spine, hands, hips and knees. According to the article "Osteoarthritis" on Healthline.com, 63 percent to 8 percent of people in the U.S. over the age of 65 suffer from arthritis while 30 percent of people between the ages of 45 and 64 and 2 percent of people younger than 45 also experience arthritis. Women are more likely to suffer from arthritis than men. There is no known cure for arthritis, but there are some lifestyle changes a person can implement to help prevent flare-ups.

Things You'll Need

• Rest Weight control Diet Exercise Alternative medications Occupational therapy Magnets

Instructions

1. Rest. Using arthritic joints does help keep them from becoming stiff but overuse can cause pain to flare up. In an article on MayoClinic.com titled "Osteoarthritis", it is advised to rest joints before they become swollen or inflamed, and try not to do repetitive work with joints suffering from arthritis. Give damaged joints at least 10 minutes rest every hour to prevent arthritis flare-ups.

2. Weight control. Losing weight can help prevent more damage from occurring to arthritic joints. Hips and knees especially carry the pressure of excess weight and can become damaged over time. For those who are overweight or obese, losing even a few pounds can help to alleviate some of the pressure on the joints and help to prevent flare-ups from occurring.

3. 

   Diet. A balanced diet rich in antioxidant vitamins C and E as well as vitamin D and calcium for bone growth is recommended for those suffering from arthritis. Eating enough fiber and complex-carbohydrates has also been found to be effective for preventing arthritis flare ups. Although there is no proven research, people suffering from arthritis have found eating foods that contain bioflavonoids, such as berries, help with arthritis pain relief.

4. 

   Exercise. Regular exercise helps to strengthen muscles around the joints, allowing better flexibility and more stability in joints. Mild exercise is best, such as walking, swimming and biking. Be careful not to over-exercise painful or swollen joints. A consistent exercise program can help strengthen joints and prevent flare-ups.

5. Alternative medications. Glucosamine is a natural supplement that helps to raise the fluid levels in cartilage that is wearing down so bones do not rub against each other to cause damage. Over time (12-18 months) the use of glucosamine supplements may actually help repair damage to cartilage that was previously at risk. Glucosamine should not be used by those who are allergic to shellfish but otherwise has no dangerous side effects.

6. Occupational therapy. Finding ways to do everyday tasks so as not to stress damaged joints can be helpful in reducing flareups. An occupational therapist can help to teach you how to do tasks without placing your joints at risk of further damage. Ask your doctor to recommend an occupational therapist so you can learn ways to prevent flare-ups.

7. Magnets. It is believed that magnets increase blood flow and oxygen in the body to promote the natural healing process. Wearing magnetic bracelets and anklets in a back brace or in a knee brace may help arthritic joints move with less pain. There are no side effects using magnets.

Tips & Warnings

• Trying a combination of the steps listed above, such as diet, exercise and occupational therapy, will help to greater reduce arthritis flare-ups.

• Always check with your doctor before beginning an exercise program or drastically changing your diet. Ask your doctor before trying any alternative medications to make sure they do not interfere with your prescription medications.

References

• Osteoarthritis
• Osteoarthritis
• How Glucosamine Works

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Osteoarthritis Management: Self-Care at Home