Managing Rheumatoid Arthritis: Things You Need to Know

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system attacks healthy tissue, causing inflammation and damage to the joints.
It is a chronic condition that causes hand, wrist, foot, and ankle pain, stiffness, and edema. Other regions of the body, such as the knees, hips, and spine, might be affected by joint inflammation.
It can target joints, tendons, and muscles in a variety of ways. Individuals with RA must contend with discomfort, limits in daily activities, and emotional stress.

How to cure rheumatoid arthritis permanently?

Diagnosis
The diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis is based on the following general diagnostic features:
• Stiffness in the morning that lasts for over 30 minutes
• Swelling and tenderness in the joints
• Reduced mobility
• Slight fever
• Tiredness
• X-ray examination shows a narrow joint space

Is there a cure for RA?

Rheumatoid arthritis cannot be cured permanently. There are several treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis, including drug and non-drug treatments such as physical therapy and massage therapy. It may take some time to find the right one for the patient.
However, many doctors recommend trying supplements before going down this route, as supplements can be more effective than drugs at reducing symptoms, such as pain or levels of inflammation in the joints.

Other treatment options for rheumatoid arthritis

Acupuncture therapy

Acupuncture has been shown to relieve symptoms in patients with rheumatoid arthritis by regulating blood flow, thereby reducing swelling and pain caused by inflammation; promoting healthy joint function; reducing stress on the immune system, and sleep patterns. It relieves pain and improves the quality of life of patients with RA.

Biofeedback therapy

Biofeedback therapy is a method that uses brainwave machines to train the brain to self-regulate. A typical biofeedback session lasts around 30 minutes and may include exercises for stress reduction, enhancing sleep quality, and strengthening certain muscles.

Massage and exercise

Regular massage and exercise help strengthen muscles and increase blood flow to affected joints, resulting in better mobility and less pain from arthritis.

A person should begin with light exercises, such as walking or swimming, and then gradually increase to more vigorous activity, such as running or cycling.

Heat and cold therapy

Hot or cold packs placed on the affected area help reduce inflammation and increase blood flow to the joints.

Cold therapy can be used by wrapping ice packs on the affected area for 10 minutes every two hours.

Topical cream and Gel

Topical creams are an important part of the therapy of rheumatoid arthritis. Topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) are frequently used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. They reduce inflammation and pain.

Deep breathing, progressive muscle relaxation, and meditation
Several muscle groups are tensed and then released one at a time as part of progressive muscle relaxation therapy. It has been demonstrated to lessen rheumatoid arthritis sufferers’ pain, stiffness, and morning stiffness. Also, it might enhance RA patients’ sleep quality or lift the spirits of individuals who experience sadness as a result of their illness.

Turmeric

Curcumin, a component of turmeric, has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Curcumin was discovered to reduce RA symptoms and improve the quality of life for patients suffering from the disease.

Visualisation

For the treatment of RA, visualisation or guided imagery is a well-known method. Making the sufferers imagine their agony gradually fading and becoming painless in the future is the aim.

Yoga

Yoga has been found to improve range of motion, reduce joint swelling, increase flexibility, relax muscles, enhance sleep quality, as well as improve mood and a general sense of well-being in persons with arthritis.

Aromatherapy and Essential Oils

Rheumatoid arthritis is treated with a combination of essential oils and aromatherapy. Although other oils can be utilised, peppermint and lavender are the most frequently used essential oils. In addition to making the room smell lovely, this will aid in calming the muscles and joints. Add a few drops of essential oil to the bathwater or a hot compress if this is not possible for any reason.

Conclusion

Numerous ways can help those searching for how to cure rheumatoid arthritis permanently. Talking to a doctor about minimising joint pain and swelling is a wonderful place to start.
Following that, patients should have a decent night’s sleep to keep their bodies energised during the day. Also, people should avoid wearing tight clothing or shoes as much as possible.
Finally, patients should choose alternative forms of exercise than walking or riding a bike, such as swimming or yoga, to keep the body active without placing too much strain on the joints.