(NC)-For those who suffer from arthritis, it’s hard to know when a flare up of pain will occur or how intense the flare up will be. All forms of arthritis are serious and can affect many aspects of a person’s life. Though it is unclear why pain strikes when it does, there are some things one can do to help and try to avoid flare ups from occurring.

1. Avoid lifting heavy objects – Lifting heavy objects can put a huge strain on your joints and muscles, which in turn may cause arthritis pain to flare up. Try using carts or carriers with wheels in order to move things. Read the rest of this entry »

(NC)-Many people with arthritis think they shouldn’t exercise because it will further damage their joints. Nothing could be further from the truth. Activities that use large muscles, such as those in the arms and legs, are the most important part of any fitness program. Health care providers often recommend activities like aquafit, swimming, walking, cycling and dancing. They often suggest working out with a friend or joining an exercise group since it can make the experience more enjoyable.

Other suggestions include: Read the rest of this entry »

(NC)-For people with arthritis, finding easy-to-open packages or bottles can be a pain. But it has gotten easier since The Arthritis Society created the Arthritis Friendly stamp of approval program designed to encourage manufacturers to develop products and packaging that are easier to use. Read the rest of this entry »

Could help four million Canadians who suffer from condition

(NC)-A recent study shows that the nutrients found in tart cherries may help ease pain caused from arthritis, the world’s most common chronic condition affecting almost four million Canadians.

For decades, arthritis and gout sufferers have leveraged the power of tart cherries, commonly available in juice, frozen and dried forms, to soothe some of their symptoms, but now there is scientific research backing up this anecdotal evidence.

Research conducted at Michigan State University found tart cherries to be the richest source of anthocyanins, which have anti-inflammatory properties similar to those of common pain relief medications. Read the rest of this entry »

(NC)-Exercise, combined with a balanced diet, is the best way to maintain a healthy weight and is extremely important for people with arthritis.

“A 10 pound weight loss now can cut the amount of osteoarthritis years later by as much as 50 per cent,” said Dr. Arthur Bookman, former chair of The Arthritis Society’s medical advisory committee. “If you are just starting, consult your doctor first.”

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