Hello! Welcome to Reignite Health, Bokz the Bio here ready and happy to educate you more on health so you can reignite your health.
Today’s topic will briefly state what Arthritis is and how do Biokineticists can help you manage the pain associated with Arthritis.
What is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a joint inflammation condition that causes discomfort and pain in your joints. There are three main types of Arthritis: Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis and Gout.
Osteoarthritis
This means “bone arthritis”, which is the most common form of arthritis. It is a joint degenerative condition characterised by the loss of cartilage between the joint. It is commonly known as a “wear and tear” condition, meaning that the degeneration in the joint happens due to using the joint over a long period of time. It usually affects only one joint with the knees, hips and shoulders being the most common sites.
Rheumatoid arthritis
This is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory condition that affects the lining of the joints. The immune system mistakenly attacks the joints causing damage in the joints, and possibly joint deformities. Rheumatoid arthritis usually presents in many joints, specifically the hands and wrists, elbows, knees, feet and ankles, neck and shoulders and the hips. Risk factors include genetics, gender, and environmental factors.
Gout
This is a chronic inflammatory condition that is characterised by the buildup of uric acid in the joints. Excess uric acid in the joints leads to crystallisation. These crystals cause the immune system to detect a threat in the joint leading to an inflammatory response, swelling and pain. It commonly affects the toes and ankles, elbows, wrists and fingers. Risk factors include lifestyle, obesity, genetics, and medical conditions such as high blood pressure.
Common/possible symptoms a person may have?
- Joint pain and stiffness
- Joint swelling and redness
- Limited range of motion (ROM) through the joint
- Feeling of bone on bone in the joint
- Joint deformity
- Chronic fatigue, especially if you have Rheumatoid arthritis
What is the best way to manage arthritic pain?
People with arthritis can live a fairly normal life by incorporating pain management strategies into their life. The main cause of pain is increased inflammation, thus adding activities that lower inflammation can help them lessen the level of pain they experience.
Diet: Eating anti-inflammatory foods and increasing probiotics can help. These foods include fruits and vegetables, fermented foods and drinks, lean meats, and healthy fats.
Exercise: low impact exercise is good for your joints. Taking a walk or doing activities such as yoga and Pilates can help you strengthen the muscles around your joints, adding extra protection to the joint. It also helps in calming the pain response system in your body.
Massage: this helps soothe the body and release muscles spasms in the body. It also facilitates lymphatic drainage which helps remove toxins from the body.
Medications: Doctor prescribed medications to help with pain and swelling may help you increase your function.
Stress management: breathing techniques and therapy can help with lowering stress levels which will have a positive impact on reducing inflammation.
How can a Biokineticist help with pain management?
Biokineticists provide a safe and inclusive space for you to exercise and improve your quality of life. The focus is to teach you how to move better improving flexibility, strength, and mobility in your joints. All sessions are person specific giving a sense of belonging and importance to the person.
Looking For A Biokinticist In Fourways?
Book an assessment with Bokamoso Mthimkulu Biokineticist at Reignite Health and discover how exercise can help reduce the effects of chronic inflammation, improve your mobility, and support a healthier, more active life.
Wishing you a lovely week ahead. Chat soon.
Bokz the Bio
Everybody has the ability to take control of their own health
Email: bmbio@reignitehealth.co.za