Fighting pain is a fact of life for millions of arthritis sufferers. Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition where the immune system attacks and destroys the joints and surrounding tissues.

 There is no cure but research indicates a combination of medication, diet, natural supplements and exercise will work to reduce pain and inflammation. This approach can and does slow down the progression of the disease.

Be proactive in dealing with arthritis.  Rheumatoid arthritis pain and inflammation can be effectively managed by a combination of medication, diet and exercise.  Each method offers some relief from pain and inflammation.

The key to success is having a whole body approach.

Follow your doctors advice when taking prescription or over the counter medications and be sure to tell your doctor about all supplements you are taking.  NSAIDs or non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs work to reduce swelling and inflammation of the joints.

While many NSAIDs are prescription drugs aspirin and ibuprofen are very effective also.NSAID drugs should be taken with caution as long term usage can cause damage to the stomach and liver.

Diet and Arthritis

Change some of your eating habits and reduce the pain. Some foods have been shown to increase inflammation on the body. Changing the type of fats you eat is a good place to start.

Reduce the omega 6 fatty acids from red meat and poultry and increase omega 3 fats from cold water fish such as salmon and sardines. Use olive oil, canola oil or flax seed oil for cooking.

Eating a balanced diet and maintaining a healthy body weight are important to managing arthritis. Being overweight puts extra strain on the joints and can cause greater wear and pain. Eating fresh fruits and vegetables reduces inflammation.

Fruits and vegetables contain methyl sulfonyl methane MSM. MSM reduces joint inflammation and pain. Drinking several cups of green tea daily will provide anti oxidants vital for joint health.

A word about supplements

There are lots of supplements offered in health food stores and on the internet. Many claim to help arthritis sufferers. Glucosamine, chondroitin, vitamin D and vitamin C have all been shown through rigorous studies to provide relief for arthritis. (Medicinenet.com)

Work the Pain Away

Many studies have linked moderate exercise to managing arthritis pain and swelling. Regular exercise lubricates the joints and cartilage. Bone loss is reduced and pain and swelling is diminished.

Exercise has positive long term benefits to both physical and mental health. People who exercise regularly sleep better and suffer less from depression and pain.

Take Charge of Your Pain

Arthritis pain and swelling can leave you depressed and defeated if you let it. A combination of supplements, medications, healthy diet and exercise will enable you to reduce arthritis pain and inflammation.