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Rheumatoid arthritis? Just because it has a hold of you doesn't mean that you just have to roll over and give up. No, you can make a different choice. A choice to get healthy and regain control of your life. Even though you have been diagnosed with RA, you are still quite capable of living a full life, even though you will have to make some adjustments to your lifestyle. But here's the bottom line, a healthy lifestyle is recommended for all of us regardless of whether you are ill or not. Clearly, it is even more important if you are dealing with a life altering disease. One important thing you should do is to learn to respond to your body. You should become aware of when you feel joint stiffness the most. Make a note of when you feel joint discomfort. You will have to learn to test and set your limits. By paying attention to how your body reacts to certain physical activities, you will learn to avoid overexertion. Maintaining a schedule of regular physical activities is another important health tip. It can help you to have less pain and discomfort while at the same time helping you to maintain flexibility and strength. Your joints will thank you. Regular exercise can also help you to reduce your fatigue as you get stronger and more flexible. Don't be scared of exercise if you are battling RA but without a doubt learn to listen to your body and adjust as necessary. Avoid over exertion and add a little more to your exercise program every week. Don't try to do it all at one time. Pilates and Yoga are both well suited to helping you to gain more flexibility while improving your range of motion. If neither of these exercises interest you, then talk with your Physical Therapist about other types of exercise that may be suitable for your joint health. Exercises that focus on strengthening, aerobic activity and flexibility are generally good choices. Water exercises are especially good for those battling arthritis since the water is gentle on your joints. Riding a stationary bike and walking are also good choices. Again, look for an exercise that increases your flexibility but also works to increase your strength. Of course, as with all exercise programs, before you get started with any new exercise program, you must talk with your health care provider to make sure that you are healthy enough to begin. You physician may have specific exercises that can help you to reduce your arthritis symptoms. A physical therapist may also be helpful when you are trying to determine the best exercises for you. Here's the thing. If you are looking to help control the pain of your arthritis, then you should be certain that you are taking care of yourself and eating well. Not only does it help you to stay healthy, but it also helps to keep your weight in control. It is very important to maintain your weight so that you can help to protect your joints. Excess weight on your joints is simply not acceptable. Healthy eating includes enjoying lean proteins, low fat dairy products and plenty of yummy fruits and vegetables. Remember to eat a well balanced diet so that you are ingesting the right nutrients, including calcium and vitamin C. If you are vitamin and nutrient deficient your physician may elect to have you begin to include supplements to help you fight the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Listen, take notes and follow the directions of your physician. As with any chronic health condition, arthritis demands your attention. If you are battling the symptoms of arthritis and living day to day with the pain and limitations it can bring, then one of the best gifts that you can give to yourself is a dedication to follow a healthy lifestyle. Don't wait another day! Making the decision to get healthy and stay healthy is one of the best gifts you can give to yourself.
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For more important information on arthritis resources visit www.arthritis-life.com where you'll find information on arthritis topics such as arthritis symptoms, arthritis relief & more
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