Arthritis pain affects the joints, most commonly in the hands, spine, knees and hips.
Symptoms vary on the type you have, but joint pain, tenderness and stiffness, inflammation in and around the joints, restricted movement of the joints, warm, red skin over the affected joint, and weakness and muscle wasting, are the usual signs.
There are more than 100 types of arthritis and they all have risk factors, individual features, behaviours and circumstances that are associated with the condition, according to Arthritis Foundation.
It states: “There are risk factors that are not modifiable. That means there is nothing you can do about them. Being female and having a family history of arthritis are two examples of factors that make people more likely – but not certain – to get some types of arthritis.”
But in contrast, some risk factors are considered to be modifiable. So how can you prevent rheumatoid arthritis?
The nonprofit organisation advises that to prevent rheumatoid arthritis you should not smoke.
Osteoarthritis, another comment type of arthritis, can be prevented by keeping a healthy weight.
You can also reduce the risk of gout by eating a healthy diet, low in sugar, and alcohol.
There’s no cure for arthritis, but the NHS lists prescribed medications under treatment, which includes painkillers, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and corticosteroids.
Some health experts recommend more natural remedies to ease arthritis pain, such simple changes to diet, as well as exercise.
Soaking in warm water is also one of the oldest forms of alternative therapy.
“Research shows our ancestors got it right. It makes you feel better. It makes the joints losers. It reduces pain and it seems to have a somewhat prolonged effect that goes beyond the period of immersion,” Bruce E.Becker, director of the National Quatics & Sports Medicine Institute at Washington State University, told Arthritis Foundation.
Soaking in warm water works. It reduced the force of gravity that’s compressing the joint, offers 360-degree support for sore limbs, can decrease swelling and inflammation and increase circulation.
But how long should you soak in a warm bath for?
Dr Becker added that patients he’s studied seem to reach a maximum benefit after about 20 minutes.
You should also make sure you drink water before and afterward to stay well hydrated.
Arthritis Foundation recommends that the temperature of the water be between 33.3 degrees Celsius and 37.7 degrees Celsius.
If you have cardiovascular problems you should beware of water that’s too hot as it can put stress on the heart.
It adds: “Warm water is great for relaxing, but it is also good for moving.
Adding this fish dinner to your diet could reduce signs of rheumatoid arthritis or osteoarthritis.
