autoimmune disease blog

Understand clearly the difference between rheumatoid arthritis pain and common join pain from overusing would really help who deal with it. By noting when an activity causes joint pain, you can then avoid repeating that movement or think of ways that you can modify the task. Pain that lasts more than an hour after an activity may indicate that the activity was too stressful. Remember that you’re more likely to damage your joints when they’re painful and swollen.

Most people with rheumatoid arthritis are faced with frequent or ongoing pain. While you may not be able to avoid pain, you can take control of the situation. Is the pain of rheumatoid arthritis starting to affect your life? There are specific positive steps you can take to live with it?

Rheumatoid arthritis pain causes

Understanding your pain will better help you deal with it. There are a number of types of pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis.

• Acute pain from inflammation. Anyone with rheumatoid arthritis knows the pain that comes with a flare.
• Exacerbation of pain. After living a long time with pain and the other struggles of rheumatoid arthritis, you can get stressed and worn out. The real pain you feel is made worse by your emotional state.
• Pain from joint damage. Joints may become damaged over time by rheumatoid arthritis and cause pain even though your arthritis itself is inactive.

Most people with rheumatoid arthritis will experience all of these types of pain. This can become a complicated and overwhelming situation and requires an overall approach.

Rheumatoid arthritis pain management

1. Avoid making a tight fist. Use tools with thick or ergonomically designed handles, which make the tools easier to hold.
2. Avoid positions that push your other fingers toward your little finger. Finger motions should be in the direction of your thumb whenever possible. For example, when opening jars use a gripping aid and direct the force through the palm of your hand rather than just through your fingers. There are several types of jar opening devices available.
3. Avoid prolonged pinching items between your thumb and your fingers. Hold a book, plate or mug in the palms of your hands. If you’re reading for long periods, use a book holder. Instead of a clutch-style purse, select one with a shoulder strap.
4. Avoid keeping your joints in the same position for a prolonged period of time. Don’t give your joints the chance to become stiff — keep them moving. When writing or doing handwork, release your grip every 10 to 15 minutes, or when your hand feels fatigued. On long car trips, get out of the car, stretch and move around at least every one or two hours. While watching television, get up and move around every half-hour.
5. Use the strongest joint available for the job. Save your smaller, weaker joints for the specific jobs that only they can accomplish. Throughout the day, favor large joints. For example, carry objects with your palm open, distributing the weight equally over your forearm. Slide objects along a counter or workbench rather than lifting them.

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