Lifestyle modification
Changes to a person’s lifestyle can improve the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. The most important is exercise. Gentle, regular exercise helps to strengthen the muscles around a joint, improving its stability. It also relieves stiffness. However, it is important to balance exercise and rest, to avoid harming the joints further. Badly swollen joints should not be exercised and it is important to avoid putting too much stress on any of the joints. Low impact exercises such as swimming or walking are the most beneficial.
Eating healthily is also important. Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis can be worse in people who are overweight because this puts more strain on the joints. Eating a healthy diet that is high in fibre, low in fat and sugar and contains plenty of fruit and vegetables can help maintain a healthy weight and provides the body with the vitamins and minerals it needs. It is especially important for people with rheumatoid arthritis to take enough calcium (in milk, cheese and yoghurt) and vitamin D (from oily fish), which are essential for healthy bones. And also iron (found in red meat, oily fish, pulses and green, leafy vegetables) which combats anaemia. Vitamin and mineral supplements can be useful. Antioxidants found in fruit and vegetables help destroy inflammatory chemicals and may also improve the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Cold packs can help to reduce swelling in affected joints. Hot water bottles or heat pads can relieve pain and stiffness, but they are not suitable for very inflamed joints. Some people find TENS machines, which provide gentle electrical stimulation to the target area, helpful. They are available to buy or hire and are sometimes available on the NHS in the UK.
