Joints like movement, or how to prevent rheumatoid arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disease that involves the joints and organs. Untreated, it can lead to their destruction and even death. It is one of the most common rheumatic diseases in Poland – about 400,000 people suffer from it. It is estimated that 1 in 100 people suffer from RA, and the disease most often attacks women and usually occurs between the ages of 30 and 50.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic disease and usually accompanies patients for the rest of their lives. During it, there are periods of worsening symptoms interspersed with times when the symptoms are milder (remission).
Not just the joints
With RA, formerly known as chronic progressive rheumatism, progressive stiffening and distortion of the joints occur. At the same time, they have limited mobility and are painful under the application of pressure. Oedemas appear at the joints.
Rheumatoid arthritis is, however, a systemic disease and its symptoms affect not only the joints, but also many organs too. The patient, for example, may exhibit rheumatoid nodules – i.e. painless subcutaneous nodules – or vasculitis, atherosclerosis, lung, heart, kidney and eye problems.
People who are likely to experience RA should be under the constant supervision of a rheumatologist – this disease can cause life-threatening complications.
From exercises to physiotherapy
In the prevention of RA, the most important is regular physical activity, which prevents contractures, the restriction of joint mobility and changes that occur in them. Swimming, cycling and walking are especially recommended, as well as exercises that aim to strengthen muscles, improve fitness and increase the range of movement.
Remember that movement can not only prevent adverse changes in the joints, but also reverse some of them. Without physical activity, joint mobility decreases, contractures appear and muscular strength decreases.
Physical activity and the selection of exercises should be consulted with a doctor or a physiotherapist who will decide what form of movement is right for us. They may also include physiotherapy, which helps to relieve the pain that occurs with rheumatoid arthritis.
In terms of physical therapy, the specialist may recommend different techniques: from cryotherapy, ultrasound to massages and balneotherapy (brine and hydrogen sulphide baths), which relax the muscular system, help relax and reduce pain and arthritis.
Relaxation and rest are also important for RA – patients often complain of fatigue and weakness. It is worth, especially in the active period of the disease, to give yourself time to relax – doctors recommend a short nap during the day, which may help relieve painful joints.
In the case of rheumatoid arthritis, a good diet and proper body weight are also crucial, because overweight and obesity lead to overloading the joints, further accelerating the development of atherosclerosis. On the other hand, patients should not go on fasting or cleansing diets because they can seriously harm them. It is also worth avoiding processed foods, full of dyes and preservatives, which may exacerbate the inflammation in the joints. What should we remember? RA significantly accelerates the development of osteoporosis, so the patient’s diet should include an adequate amount of vitamin D and calcium.
In addition to the aforementioned physical exercises and taking up an appropriate form of sport, patients with RA should not give up their daily activities but instead should, for example, make sure their hands get the chance to move: for instance, by washing the dishes or countertops and kneading dough (these activities move the joints in your wrists, elbows and shoulders as well as strengthening the grip).
Although the onset of rheumatoid arthritis cannot currently be prevented, if it is detected and treated quickly enough, patients are able to enjoy long-term remissions. Appropriate prophylaxis effectively facilitates functioning and relieves pain. Remember that movement, healthy lifestyle, natural methods and proper diet are much more effective than taking supplements!
