31 Tips for Coping With Rheumatoid Arthritis part 1

Protect your joints

You should always be thinking about your joints, even those that are currently symptom-free. And remember, no task is too small. Instead of lifting a heavy pot, slide it across the counter; use a shoulder to open a door rather than your hand; and hold books in the palm of your hands, not with your fingers.

Use hot and cold treatments

Applying heat to an area with a heating pad or chilling out with an ice pack or ice water can soothe your joints and muscles. Alternating hot packs with cold ones can also offer powerful relief. But, as with exercise, don't overdo it. Talk to a health-care provider about how to use heat and cold safely.

Eat omega-3s

Several studies suggest that people with RA may benefit from fish oil supplements, which contain inflammation-fighting omega-3 fatty acids. They're especially valuable to RA patients, who are said to have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. 

Get exercise

Exercise can give you more energy, improve your mood, and, most importantly, keep joint pain at bay—if you feel physically capable of working out. Walking, cycling, swimming, and light weight training done three times a week for 30 minutes are options, but check with your doctor to make sure they are safe, and know your limits. Don't exercise when joints are inflamed; take a break if you feel pain; and alternate positions periodically when performing tasks such as gardening or cooking.

Don't smoke

Smoking is a lifestyle factor that is known to increase the risk of RA. It is also associated with more severe symptoms and joint damage in those who have been diagnosed with the condition.

Consider counseling

Cognitive behavioral therapy, a type of psychotherapy that helps people identify problems in the way they think and act and encourages them to change their behavior, can be helpful if you have RA, especially if you are suffering from depression. Counseling can also help you cope with the other stresses and strains of chronic illness.

Try yoga

Yoga's emphasis on stretching, whole-body well-being, and group involvement makes the practice especially relevant to some arthritis sufferers. Although the scientific evidence of arthritis-specific benefits is limited, it's still recommended by the Arthritis Foundation.

 http://www.health.com