What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a general term used to refer to a group of more than 100 medical conditions that affect the joints, tendons, ligaments, and bones. It can cause pain, stiffness, and swelling in the affected area and can lead to decreased mobility and range of motion. Arthritis is one of the most common chronic conditions in the world, and it affects people of all ages.
What Makes Arthritis Worse?
There are a variety of factors that can make arthritis worse. These include:
Injury: An injury to a joint can cause inflammation and worsen the symptoms of arthritis.
Obesity: Excess weight puts additional strain on the joints, which can worsen the symptoms of arthritis.
Lack of Exercise: Lack of physical activity can lead to weakened joints and muscles, which can make arthritis worse.
Poor Diet: A diet that is high in processed foods, sugar, and refined carbohydrates can increase inflammation in the body, which can make arthritis worse.
Stress: Stress can increase inflammation in the body, which can worsen the symptoms of arthritis.
Weather: Cold, damp weather can make the joints stiff and achy, which can lead to increased pain and discomfort.
How to Manage Arthritis Symptoms
Although there is no cure for arthritis, there are ways to manage the symptoms and prevent them from becoming worse. These include:
Exercise: Regular exercise can help strengthen the muscles and joints, which can improve mobility and range of motion.
Diet: Eating a healthy, balanced diet can help reduce inflammation in the body and improve overall health.
Weight Management: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the strain on the joints and lessen the symptoms of arthritis.
Stress Management: Learning how to manage stress can help reduce inflammation in the body and ease the symptoms of arthritis.
Medications: Over-the-counter and prescription medications can help reduce inflammation and pain associated with arthritis.