The most intensive treatment plans for rheumatoid arthritis still result in a lot of time spent at home, at work, and places other than your local Saint Paul Rheumatology clinic in Eagan or Roseville. There is no substitute for the cutting edge treatments you receive for your condition but that doesn’t mean you can’t make the best of the time you have to make your condition more manageable in between treatments.
Some things you may be able to do on your own to help your symptoms and improve your quality of life include home remedies such as:
- Aquatic Exercises: Activities such as swimming or just simply walking in a pool can allow patients to move their joints and muscles against resistance without the added impact of land-based exercises such as jogging.
- Tai chi: Based on a foundation of slow and gentle movements, Tai chi is another form of exercise that an encourage movement while limiting the impact on joints and tissues. A 2013 study found that tai chi contributes to the reduction of pain and stiffness.
- Yoga: You may be detecting a theme at this point. Slow and gentle movement is crucial for people with rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. Yoga can increase flexibility and strength while also helping people focus on breathing and meditation depending on the type of yoga they participate in. Stay tuned for more on meditation.
- Hot and cold therapy: Simple yet effective. Hot packs and ice packs can be used to treat pain. Even starting the day with a hot shower can have benefits for people who are experiencing arthritic pain.
- Mediation: Chronic conditions like rheumatoid arthritis can wreak havoc on mental health as well as physical health. Engaging in mindfulness-based stress reduction can “help people manage pain and stress, both of which compromise the immune system.”
At Saint Paul Rheumatology we are driven by our mission of helping people live their best lives while receiving treatment for conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. We hope you have found these ideas helpful as you look for new ways to manage your condition and increase your quality of life.