Arthritis is often associated with older people, but what many don’t realise is that there are over 100 different diseases and conditions that fall under the arthritis umbrella – and they can affect people of all ages. One of the most common forms is rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
As part of our support for RA Awareness Week, we’ve put together this post to shed some light on the condition and offer a few helpful tips for managing life with it.
What is rheumatoid arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the membranes lining the joints become inflamed, leading to pain, stiffness and swelling. It causes daily discomfort and can limit a person’s ability to carry out everyday tasks that others might take for granted – things like lifting, writing or even walking can become challenging.
The good news is there are ways to help manage the symptoms and protect your joints.
Care for your joints
How you move and the pressure you place on your joints can make a real difference. Where possible, use your larger, stronger joints to reduce stress on the smaller ones.
For example, when gripping something, try to hold it with a looser grip (as long as it’s safe to do so). When lifting, distribute the weight evenly to avoid straining your knees, wrists or elbows. Small adjustments like these can go a long way in preserving joint health.
Maintain an active lifestyle
It’s natural to want to rest when you’re in pain – and sometimes rest is essential. But with arthritis, gentle movement can actually help. Staying active boosts energy levels, strengthens muscles and improves mobility, all of which can reduce the strain on your joints and ease discomfort.
That said, it’s important to be mindful of the type of exercise you do. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new activity to make sure it’s safe and appropriate for your condition.
You are what you eat
A balanced diet not only helps maintain a healthy weight, but also provides the nutrients needed to support strong bones and healthy joints.
Foods rich in Omega-3 fatty acids – such as oily fish, nuts, leafy greens, cauliflower, broccoli and olive oil – are known to help reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Making this part of your regular meals can really support your overall wellbeing.
Never give up
A positive mindset is one of the most powerful tools we have. It won’t cure the condition, but it can make living with it more manageable.
The brain can sometimes amplify pain if it expects it. By shifting your focus to the present moment and practising positive thinking, you can break that cycle and reduce how intensely you feel the pain.
Stay hopeful, be kind to yourself, and remember – progress, not perfection.