According to Onlymyhealth, Dr. Bhumesh Tyagi - medical consultant at Shardacare, Health City (Noida, India) - shared that arthritis is a common chronic disease that seriously affects the quality of life if not properly controlled. In addition to taking medication, a comprehensive approach, from lifestyle changes, exercise regimens to nutrition, can help reduce symptoms and improve long-term health.
Weight control
Overweight puts a lot of pressure on weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips, especially in osteoarthritis, says Dr. Bhumesh Tyagi. Lossing a few kilos can also help relieve pain and significantly improve mobility. Weight control is not only for aesthetics but also to protect long-term joint function.
Gently but regular exercise
Although pain can make patients afraid to move, a sedentary lifestyle will make joints stiffer and muscles weaken. Mild-impact physical activities such as swimming, walking, yoga, and water aerobics are recommended. A reasonable exercise program will help improve flexibility and strengthen the muscles around the joints without causing additional damage.
Anti-inflammatory nutrients
A healthy diet can help reduce inflammation and increase resistance. Dr. Tyagi recommends a diet rich in fruits, green vegetables, whole grains, good fats (such as olive oil, avocado), and lean protein. Omega-3 in fatty fish (almonds, sardines), flaxseeds and walnuts has strong anti-inflammatory effects.
In addition, you should add turmeric and ginger, two spices with natural anti-inflammatory properties. At the same time, it is necessary to limit processed foods, sugar, refined starch and red meat.
Useful support methods
In addition to the above main factors, arthritis patients can refer to the following tips:
Heat and cold therapy: Hot compresses help soften muscles, cold compresses reduce inflammation, especially effective after exercise or when the joint is in severe pain.
Get enough sleep: Good and punctual sleep helps control chronic pain and increase resistance.
Reduce stress: Meditation, deep breathing, or engaging in favorite activities help stabilize your mood, indirectly improving inflammation.
Joint protection: Use a brace, supportive stick or adjust your walking posture properly to reduce pressure on damaged joints.
Quit smoking: Smoking not only affects the lungs but also weakens connective tissue, making arthritis worse.
Supplementary therapy: Emergency care, massage or physical therapy can also help control symptoms, but you should consult a doctor before performing it.
Note
The management of arthritis does not have a fixed formula but needs to be personalized for each patient. A comprehensive strategy, combining health care, a scientific lifestyle and support from experts will help patients live healthier and more proactively despite chronic diseases.
