- Keep Active - with joints and muscles, it really is a case of use it or lose it. Housework and gardening can provide a good all round workout. Don't forget to check with your doctor before taking up any form of strenuous exercise.
- Do some gentle stretching exercises every day - start with your neck and move each body joint several times through a full range of movements.
- Eat oily fish twice a week - this can help lubricate your joints, mackerel, salmon, sardines, tuna, and other oily fish contain joint-friendly omega 3 unsaturated fats.
- Lubricate your joints further with a daily 1,500mg dose of cod- liver Oil which contains Omega-3s. Nuts and seeds are another good source.
- 1,500mg of glucosamine sulphate taken daily can slow down knee osteoarthritis. (Ask your GP first if you are diabetic.)
- Have a warm bath or shower or use a hot water bottle or wheat bag to ease joint pain and stiffness.
- Relax - try to learn relaxation techniques, being relaxed takes pressure off joints. Complimentary therapies can help you relax; massage, reflexology etc.
- Read Arthritis Care's booklets: Exercise and Arthritis or Drugs and Complimentary Therapies.
To ask for a copy call Allison on 0191 420 1302 or e-mail us here or via our website, http://www.arthritiscaregateshead.org.uk
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