En Español (Spanish Version)
by Carson-DeWitt R
Lifestyle Changes to Manage Rheumatoid Arthritis
Lifestyle changes can help slow the progression of rheumatoid arthritis and return you to your normal level of functioning. They include:
- Exercise
- Appropriate rest
Exercise
Reasonable, careful exercise can help improve mobility and flexibility. Exercise can strengthen your muscles, which may help keep your joints more stable. Consult your doctor before beginning an exercise program. You will need to tailor your exercise program to be protective of the joints that are affected by rheumatoid arthritis. You may be advised to consult an exercise physiologist or physical therapist to help you design a safe exercise plan.
Get Appropriate Rest
It is important that you get appropriate rest. It is also important that you stay as active as you possibly can. Talk to your doctor about how to strike a balance so that you are well rested but still getting adequate exercise.
When to Contact Your Doctor
Always contact your doctor if:
- Your symptoms do not improve with the recommended changes
- Your symptoms worsen
- You develop any new symptoms
References
Arthritis Foundation
website. Available at:
http://www.arthritis.org/
.
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases
website. Available at:
http://www.niams.nih.gov/
.
Cecil Textbook of Medicine
. 21st ed. W.B. Saunders Company; 2000.
Conn’s Current Therapy
. 54th ed. W.B. Saunders Company; 2002.
Firestein ED et al.
Kelley’s Textbook of Rheumatology
. 8th ed. Philadelphia: Saunders, 2008.