Rheumatoid Arthritis

A rheumatoid arthritis flareup can be unpredictable. It can even come on suddenly. However, there are things you can do to avoid or delay a flareup and lessen the severity of the symptoms you experience.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important in minimizing flareups. This means getting enough sleep, eating a well-balanced diet, engaging in regular exercise, quitting smoking, and limiting your alcohol consumption. Managing your stress is also part of maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

Taking any medications you’ve been prescribed by a doctor for your condition is also crucial. Refrain from skipping or stopping your dosage without approval from a medical practitioner.

Yes, engaging in a proper and regular stretching routine can help minimize the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, directly and indirectly.

Stretching can boost blood circulation, reduce stiffness, and improve the mobility of the joints. It can also promote the proper alignment of the bones, reduce stress hormones that are linked with inflammation, and prevent muscle atrophy.

Stretches to consider for rheumatoid arthritis include wrist or ankle rolls, arm circles, thumb crosses, and seated spinal twist.

There are a variety of exercises that aren’t just safe but also useful for those with rheumatoid arthritis. Exercises applicable to this condition often involve focusing on flexibility, building the muscles, or engaging in aerobic exercise. Gentle movements can also be helpful.

Examples of rheumatoid arthritis-friendly exercises include swimming, cycling, bending and stretching, tai chi, or walking. Exercises involving the hands, shoulders, knees, hips, or back are also suggested.

Especially when diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, be sure to engage in warm-up and cool-down movements before and after exercising. Doing so can maximize the benefits you receive from these exercises while reducing risk of injury, like muscle tears.

Easing the discomfort of rheumatoid arthritis goes beyond lifestyle decisions and taking medication as prescribed by a doctor. Taking advantage of the wellness services at Recovery Lab of Cucamonga can also provide short- or even long-term symptom relief.

Cold air exposure during a cryotherapy session can help decrease inflammation in the joints associated with rheumatoid arthritis. It can also function as a temporary pain reliever and decrease joint stiffness.

Our proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) stretching service boosts muscle strength, reduces joint stiffness, and improves range of motion in the joints.

Red light therapy is another option we offer for those with rheumatoid arthritis. The use of red or near-infrared light in this wellness service can lower inflammatory markers, improve joint mobility, and promote cellular repair.