Rheumatoid arthritis is a lasting autoimmune disorder that primarily affects joints. It typically results in warm, swollen, and painful joints. Those suffering from this disease are always complaining about pain and find themselves at the bitter end.
At the very start, the reason why it is important for you to take care of yourself when suffering from rheumatoid arthritis at work is that work demands physical stress. Even just sitting causes a lot of stress if you sit in a wrong posture.
Some sure ways to take care of your rheumatoid arthritis is by taking pain-relief medications and working on strategies such as, taking warm baths and going for a swim to loosen up your joints. Obviously, you can’t just hop in a tub and take a therapeutic bath while you’re at work, but these proven strategies may help you manage this condition.
Sit straight up
Posture is of prime importance and this is why you must always sit straight up. If you have a desk job then you’re likely to get a little stiff. Doctors suggest that your workstation should be ergonomically correct. This simply means taking some simple measures, such as, setting up your computer so the monitor is at eye level, and adjusting your chair so your feet can rest flat on the floor and your back is well-supported.
Make some movements
For those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis it is important to move around as much as they can. Working as much movement into your day as possible at your job could prove a huge help, so you should do simple movements like gentle stretching and moving your arms side to side, twisting and turning them. Even just standing up after having sat for long periods can be of great help.
Take breaks
It is common for people with rheumatoid arthritis to feel fatigued and this is why it is required of you to take a short rest. You must find a way to schedule short breaks throughout your day, as it can help you conserve your energy and may even help reduce some of the inflammation that plagues your joints.
Changing of mouse
Computer work can be stressful to the mind and as well as to the body. One way to help your finger and wrist joints is by alternating hands when you’re doing certain tasks so you don’t strain the muscles and joints on one side. This basically means that you should switch your computer mouse from one side to the other.
Orthotic inserts
These are inserts for your shoes if you are spending a lot of your time on your feet and this will help your feet from not experiencing pain and fatigue. Orthotics relieves pressure from the feet and can reduce foot pain, which can give you relief during weight-bearing activities like walking or climbing stairs.
Hand splint
In order to help your hands, especially your wrist you could use a hand splint. A splint is known to prevent deformity or significantly reducing pain. Furthermore, it can also decrease your grip strength. In fact research has shown how ring splints have helped many people who suffer from joints that have become stuck in a bent position.
Let everyone know
It is necessary that people at your work place should know about your rheumatoid arthritis, simply so that they can be of some help to you and support you. HR staff may also be able to assist you in various other ways, such as adapting your work schedule and ensuring your workstation is set up to meet your needs.
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