Health Tip: Alleviating Rheumatoid Arthritis

Potential treatments

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(HealthDay News) -- Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the joints. Remedies may include lifestyle changes, medication and surgery designed to help control pain and minimize joint damage.

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The U.S. National Library of Medicine offers this list of possible treatments for rheumatoid arthritis:

• Range-of-motion exercises and other exercise routines devised by a physical therapist can help prevent or delay joint damage.
• Splints, braces and other supportive devices can help protect the joints.
• Heat or cold treatments can help ease pain and inflammation.
• Working with a physical therapist can help you learn how to protect your joints during daily activities and tasks, and how to use your joints when your arthritis is causing pain.
• Getting at least eight hours sleep at night and taking frequent rests during strenuous activities are recommended to ease joint stress.

-- Diana Kohnle