Take Care of Arthritic Joints

Even everyday activities can strain stiff and inflamed arthritic joints.

The Arthritis Foundation offers these suggestions to help tame arthritis stiffness and pain:

  * Avoid too many activities that hurt your joints. Use aids—such as zipper pulls or jar openers—to make such tasks easier.
  * Try to lift with muscles and joints that are largest and strongest, and cause the least amount of pain.
  * Don’t stay in the same position for too long.
  * Strike a good balance between physical activity and resting when you need it.
  * Listen to pain as a sign that you’ve pushed yourself too hard, and take it easier next time.
  * Get help from friends and family when faced with a challenge that’s too tough.