Lifestyle Changes to Manage Rheumatoid Arthritis - Reston Hospital Center | Reston, VA
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Lifestyle changes can help slow the progression of rheumatoid arthritis and return you to your normal level of functioning. They include:

  • Exercise
  • Appropriate rest

Exercise

Reasonable, careful exercise can help improve mobility and flexibility. Exercise can strengthen your muscles, which may help keep your joints more stable. Consult your doctor before beginning an exercise program. You will need to tailor your exercise program to be protective of the joints that are affected by rheumatoid arthritis. You may be advised to consult an exercise physiologist or physical therapist to help you design a safe exercise plan.

Get Appropriate Rest

It is important that you get appropriate rest. It is also important that you stay as active as you possibly can. Talk to your doctor about how to strike a balance so that you are well rested but still getting adequate exercise.

When to Contact Your Doctor

Always contact your doctor if:

  • Your symptoms do not improve with the recommended changes
  • Your symptoms worsen
  • You develop any new symptoms

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

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References

  • Arthritis Foundation website. Available at: http://www.arthritis.org/ .

  • National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases website. Available at: http://www.niams.nih.gov/ .

  • Cecil Textbook of Medicine . 21st ed. W.B. Saunders Company; 2000.

  • Conn’s Current Therapy . 54th ed. W.B. Saunders Company; 2002.

  • Firestein ED et al. Kelley’s Textbook of Rheumatology . 8th ed. Philadelphia: Saunders, 2008.