Health
Easing the Pain of Rheumatoid Arthritis
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Easing the Pain of Rheumatoid Arthritis
Promising studies may provide new ways to treat and prevent rheumatoid arthritis in the future. Data from the Iowa Women's Health Study suggest that vitamin D may protect older women from the auto- immune joint disorder. Over the course of the study, women whose diets were highest in vitamin D had the lowest incidence of RA.
An individualized exercise pro- gram can go a long way in relieving symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and promoting overall health. A bal- ance between rest (to reduce inflam- mation) and exercise (to improve strength, endurance, and mobility) is key. Experts recommend a begin- ning regimen of basic stretching and isometric exercises, which involve tensing the muscles without moving the joints. Then try mild strength training with machines that use compressed air for gentle resistance. The graceful and gentle movements of tai chi-which combine range-of- motion exercises with relaxation techniques-may be of particular value to people living with rheuma- toid arthritis. For water workouts, a minimum water temperature of 83 to 88 degrees F. is advised.
Rheumatoid arthritis involves inflammation in the lining of the joints and/or other internal organs and typically affects several joints. The chronic disease is characterized by flare-ups.