3 Tips for Managing Arthritis Better

arthritis

There are many types of arthritis. The most common is the good old wear and tear variety, osteoarthritis. In honor of Arthritis Awareness Month, we at Pasco Hernando Foot & Ankle would like to offer our Nature Coast patients some simple ways to help decrease arthritis symptoms and increase the enjoyment of daily life.

1. Park farther away from the store. Statistics show that physical activity and exercise help improve arthritis symptoms. However, if you’re not ready to commit to a proper fitness regimen, you can still increase your daily activity level. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Walk around your home while you talk on the phone. Make multiple trips from the car to put items away rather than trying to take everything at once. Look for small opportunities every day to expend more energy.

2. Make more friends in the produce aisle. Losing weight if you are carrying excess pounds or maintaining a healthy weight is tremendously helpful in taking pressure off your joints. The payoffs are significant: you can reduce strain on your joints by 3-5 pounds for every pound you lose. Most patients think of “dieting” as taking away foods, but by adding more vegetables and fruits to every meal, you will naturally feel fuller and decrease the amounts of high-calorie, low nutrient foods you eat. An added bonus? Many fruits and vegetables also help lower the body’s inflammatory response, translating to less joint pain.

3. Set the stage for sweet dreams. Did you know not getting the sleep you need (7-9 hours per night) can increase arthritis pain? Conversely, pain, certain medications, and stress-related to arthritis can keep you up at night. There are some steps you can take to help ensure a good night’s sleep:

  • Make and stick to a sleep schedule.

  • Power off your phone, laptop, television, and all other electronics before trying to fall asleep. Not only do digital devices keep your mind from relaxing the light emitted from them interferes with sleep.

  • Avoid caffeinated beverages in the afternoon and evening. Reduce fluid intake after dinner to cut down on the middle of the night bathroom trips.

If you’re struggling with arthritis pain and stiffness, make an appointment at our Hudson office by calling 727-868-2128 or 352-683-5799. Our podiatrist, Dr. Lawrence J. Kales, discusses how good podiatric health can improve arthritis symptoms.

arthritis, General HealthPasco-Hernando Foot & Anklearthritis awareness month, arthritis, foot pain, foot care tips