|
 |
|
 |
|
REST AND EXERCISE
People with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) need to maintain a proper balance between rest and
exercise. More rest is needed when their disease is active because
resting can help reduce joint inflammation and pain while allowing
time for a person to recover from fatigue. However, more exercise
is appropriate when their disease is less active. Experts at the
National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases,
also called NIAMS, recommend short rest periods rather than extended
time spent in bed. They also suggest that exercise, when carefully
matched against the needs of individual patients, can have many
benefits, including:
- Maintaining muscle strength
- Preserving joint function
- Improving sleep patterns
- Reducing pain
- Maintaining a positive outlook
- Reaching or maintaining a healthy weight
 |
Small changes in your daily routine may
make your time at work easier and more comfortable. The following
suggestions are offered to show how you can improve your
productivity at work.
- Frequent short breaks taken throughout the day may help
you conserve energy.
- An occupational or physical therapist can teach you how
to perform work-related tasks in ways that will not stress joints.
- Assistive devices, such as tools to make using a computer
easier or book stands to avoid neck strain while reading, may be useful.
- A flexible work schedule or other options, such as working
by computer from home, may be helpful.
- Participating in a car pool is another way to conserve your energy.
|
|
|
JOINT CARE
The experts at NIAMS suggest that proper joint care may include
using a splint for short periods to allow painful or swollen
joints to rest. In addition, use of "assistive devices" to help
people with everyday tasks and reduce stress on their joints
can be helpful at home and at work. Examples of these devices
include long-handled shoe horns and equipment that helps
people get into or out of chairs. In addition, occupational
and physical therapists can help patients learn how to perform
tasks in ways that place less stress on affected joints.
STRESS REDUCTION
Although stress does not cause rheumatoid arthritis (RA), it can make this condition
more difficult to manage. Stress can even increase the amount
of pain a person feels. Experts suggest many ways to reduce
stress, including regular rest periods, relaxation exercises,
and exercise programs. They also suggest participation in
arthritis support groups.
MANAGING RA
Despite the physical, emotional, and social challenges posed
by rheumatoid arthritis (RA), there are a variety of options available to help people
manage the condition. These include changing your lifestyle
as well as early and aggressive use of disease-modifying
medicines. These medicines reduce the symptoms of RA while
also slowing joint deterioration. In addition,
scientists continue to research new and innovative treatments
for RA.
05C-64S-J010-13
|
|
| |
 |
 |
 |
"THE EMOTIONAL CONSEQUENCES"
|
 |
|
|
|
