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Managing Pain and Stress


Dealing with pain and stress may be part of living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but it's not something that should be kept bottled up inside. If you're experiencing even the slightest pain or stress, talk with your rheumatologist. It may be time to consider your RA treatment options.

What you can do now
Even though there's no substitute for finding the right RA treatment, some other ways to manage your pain and stress are listed below. Keeping a journal can help you track what works best for you and what you should avoid in the future.
  • Get a better night's sleep
    Research suggests that getting a good night's sleep can help prevent fatigue and even pain. Some tips that can help include:
    • Choosing a firm mattress
    • Using an orthopedic pillow
    • Sleeping on your stomach
    • Keeping the temperature relatively cool (around 67°F)
    • Using an electric blanket during the winter
    • Avoiding alcohol before bed
    • Keeping the room quiet
  • Fall-proof your home
    All it takes is one fall to put you out of commission for months. To help prevent a fall from happening in your home, here are a few tips:
    • Keep doorways and hallways clutter-free
    • Make sure every room is well lit and keep a flashlight handy
    • Install a raised toilet seat and handle bars in the bathroom, and use a rubber bath mat
    • Keep all kitchen items within reach, and, if necessary, ask for help instead of using a stepladder
    • Furnish your home with chairs and couches that are high enough so that your hips are never below your knees when you are seated
    • Keep cords and loose curtains tucked away
    • Finish floors with a non-slippery coating
  • Find a physical therapy that works for you
    Regular massage and various other forms of physical therapy may help soothe pain and ease stiffness. Ask your rheumatologist what's right for you.
  • Maintain intimacy with your partner
    During a flare, you may have to avoid some physical contact, but there are many ways to be intimate with your partner. For example, holding hands during a movie or enjoying a romantic dinner. Just be patient, and take the time to develop an understanding with each other. Maintaining strong relationships is an important part of living with RA.
  • Practice relaxation techniques
    Even though relaxation may not directly reduce your pain, it can reduce stress. To learn a useful breathing exercise, click here.
  • Wear shoes that fit
    It sounds obvious enough, but the fact is, wearing shoes that give you the proper support can help reduce pain and avoid falls.
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