Great Tips for Living Better with Arthritis

Try Some Yoga

Individuals who are trying to live better with their arthritis are encouraged to try some yoga. Yoga is an umbrella term for a group of breathing techniques, meditation, and exercises that can boost mental and physical health. Arthritis is not only associated with physical pain and symptoms, but psychological symptoms as well. These symptoms include anxiety, depression, problems with falling or staying asleep, excessive stress, and lack of general motivation. Yoga has a meditation and relaxation component that has proven to help individuals who suffer from sleep problems, anxiety, and stress. Another common area many arthritis patients need assistance in is joint and muscle flexibility. The pain and swelling arthritis cause results in decreased mobility and loss of muscle function due to the chronic pain associated with it. However, yoga provides an easy and relaxing way to stretch and work out the muscles around the affected joints to help maintain proper levels of flexibility. Yoga is also an effective way to help rebuild and strengthen muscles affected by muscle tone loss and weakness due to arthritis.

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Use Assistive Devices

Arthritis patients who have trouble with day to day activities and functions are encouraged to use assistive devices. There are various devices that can be used in the home to help make everyday tasks more efficient. Such devices provide leverage to the joints when needed, keep joints in the most optimal position for their function, and improve an individual's range of motion. To help with getting dressed, devices such as buttoning aids and zipper pulls can make putting on clothing less of a burden. Kitchen appliances that may help make tasks easier for arthritis patients include slicing mandolins, electric can openers, food processors, and easy grip utensils. Additional security and stability can be accomplished with the use of handrails and tub bars for getting in and out of the shower or tub. Tap turners and faucet levers are helpful when an individual does not have a firm enough grip due to arthritis. An individual can sit down and get up from the toilet more effectively with the use of a raised toilet seat. There are even assistive devices available to help with automobile driving functions. It is easier to turn on the ignition with a key holder, and filling the gas tank is easier with the use of a gas cap opener.