Taking a positive approach to arthritis can make all the difference in creating and sustaining life-altering habits. Since arthritis is a group of conditions involving damage to the joints of the body, it’s important for those suffering to accept their limitations and develop better coping strategies to adjust.

Below are five tips that can help an individual deal with the challenges of arthritis while maintaining a positive attitude.

Educate

Learning more about the symptoms, treatments, therapies, and the role of diet and exercise will help you to understand the importance of adjusting to your lifestyle with arthritis. You can access support groups online to ask questions and share experiences.

Motivate

When pain becomes too much, focus on staying motivated. Remember the things you can do versus what you cannot. Set goals and devise strategies to reach them, and always remain as active as possible to avoid losing your independence.

Medicate

As a large part of treatment, medication is vital in helping to live life to the fullest with arthritis. To successfully relieve pain and reduce inflammation, remember to take medications as prescribed, regularly and routinely.

Meditate

The inability to complete daily, routine tasks can wreak havoc on you mentally. Remaining calm and relaxed will help to relieve tension and stress associated with arthritis.

Concentrate

Avoid dwelling on things that are no longer in your control. It will not help to improve your condition, but maintaining a positive attitude, staying active, and setting realistic goals will contribute to a better quality of life.

If you or someone you know is experiencing arthritis and would like more information regarding its symptoms and treatment options, contact Tahoe Forest Orthopedics & Sports Medicine at (530) 587-7461 or make an appointment request.