Learning to cope with a chronic illness is an ongoing process.
With most illnesses, you know it will go away in a few days
or weeks. But a chronic illness like arthritis may never go away.
Millions of American suffer from arthritis. People with the same symptoms and
pain cope differently. Some people see themselves as fairly helpless and
limited. Others see themselves in control of their disease and focus on
what they can do and don’t dwell on what they can’t do. People with a positive,
proactive attitude will usually experience less pain and limitations.
Lifestyle changes are often
necessary.
Stress causes muscle tension which can worsen arthritis
pain. You will need to learn to control stress by avoiding situations which
cause stress or changing your reaction to the situation. You will need to
understand your pain and your body’s needs. Learn when it is time to relax and
rest before you become too tired. Learn to ask for help with a task when
necessary. Learn to tell the difference between pain associated with your
illness and that caused by overuse. Use assistive devices to make daily
tasks easier and less harmful. Don’t view these devices as a sign of
weakness; they are just one more tool you can use to help preserve function of
your joints for as long as possible. Exercise is important to keep your
body moving and flexible.
A good night’s sleep is important in
pain management.
If you never reach Stage 3 sleep (the deep sleep you need
for your body and muscles to get true rest), your fatigue and pain will
worsen. Talk to your doctor, Tricycles antidepressants can improve your
sleep.
There are now a numbers of
alternative therapies used for arthritis.
Discuss them with your doctor if you are considering using
any of them. Many of these therapies have not been proven to be
effective, although they seem to work for some people. Glucosamine,
chrondroitin, and SAMe supplements may reduce pain, swelling and
stiffness for some people. In some studies, fish oil has been shown
to reduce inflammation, pain and stiffness. At least a dozen different herbs
have been used to ease the symptoms of arthritis. The National Institutes
of Health considers acupuncture an acceptable alternative treatment for
osteoarthritis. Studies have shown that it helps reduce pain, may
significantly lessen the need for painkillers, and can help increase range of
motion in affected areas. Copper bracelets have long been used to ease
the pain of arthritis for many people.
Bio-Magnetic Therapy is being used by
many people to help control the symptoms and pain of arthritis.
It has been proven to reduce pain, lessen stress, improve
sleep, increase energy, and improve circulation. All of these benefits of
Bio-Magnetic Therapy are things that will help you cope with your
illness. Unlike most medications for arthritis, there are no known side
effects of using bio-magnetic therapy and it can be used in conjunction with
other treatment options.
For many, although by no means
everyone, arthritis seems to be an inevitable part of the aging process.