When people hear arthritis, they picture an older person who is having trouble with their joints. But that common form of arthritis is known as osteoarthritis. People can suffer from rheumatoid arthritis at a far younger age—its onset is typically in a person that’s between 30 and 50 years of age. The stiffness and soreness in the joints are caused by an immune system problem, not age or overuse.
But there is some relief if you or someone you know suffers from rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Far Rockaway Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing has four tricks to relieve the pain.
- Meditation
Stress is a common RA trigger, so some turn to meditation to increase relaxation and keep stress levels low. You can do five minutes’ worth of breathing exercises twice a day, or just take some time to yourself with something that relaxes you (one person finds peace in pausing her day to enjoy the sunset). The key is to be present in the moment and not worry about the past or the future.
- Give Yourself Extra Time in the Morning
Many find the stiffness and pain to be worst in the morning. If you take an extra few minutes to slowly stretch and warm up your body before getting out of bed, you will likely be in less pain than if you rise quickly and rush through your routine.
- Quit Using Your Fingers to Text
Smartphones require small-joint movement, which can be painful for RA sufferers. If you’re one to send plenty of text messages throughout the day, use the talk-to-type option on your phone instead of using the tiny keyboard.
- Low-Intensity Exercise
Vigorous exercise can cause extra swelling and pain, so the key is to engage in a regular, low-impact exercise like walking, swimming, using an elliptical machine, or doing Pilates.
To learn more about Far Rockaway Center for Rehabilitation and Nursing and all of the services they offer, visit http://far-rockaway-center.facilities.centershealthcare.org/.
