In a recent Arthritis Talks webinar, Susan Johnston, nurse educator at Vancouver Coastal Health’s OASIS Program, explained the importance of a good night’s sleep and provided helpful tips for getting enough ZZZs to help manage arthritis. Sleep allows our body tissues and mechanisms to be restored and repaired. While in deep sleep, the bone marrow. . .
Research has shown that mindfulness meditation can help individuals better manage arthritis pain. This introduction to mindfulness shares the basic principles of the practice and takes you through a guided meditation. Written by: Marg Smit-Vandezande, MSW, RSW Social Worker Arthritis Rehabilitation and Education Program (AREP) Arthritis Society Narrated by: François Bernard Music by Chris Collins, https://indiemusicbox.com
Using heat therapy helps to relax muscles and stimulate circulation, and thereby decrease pain. It may be helpful to apply heat before doing stretching exercises, as it warms the muscles and helps them stretch. There are various methods of using heat therapy: Some people like to use gel packs or bags stuffed with grain to. . .
Using cold therapy can help to reduce arthritis pain, inflammation and swelling and may be especially helpful during a flare when you have hot, swollen joints. There are various methods of using cold therapy: Some people like to use cold gel packs, frozen vegetables (such as peas), or bags stuffed with grain. These should be
Ideally, the end of your day is something to look forward to: a time to relax, recharge and reconnect. When you’re living with arthritis however, evenings can be challenging if you struggle with increased pain and extra fatigue. Here are some tips for your nighttime routine – so you can have a good night’s sleep. . .
Back pain due to osteoarthritis can cause a frustrating ripple effect on many parts of your life. The pain can affect your sleep and also your mood if it becomes difficult to do the things you need and like to do. However, there are a number of evidence-based approaches you can use to find relief.. . .
When living with arthritis, the accompanying anxiety and stress can sometimes make symptoms worse. While we can’t always control what happens in our lives, we can control how we respond. Follow this guided meditation to learn how to better manage your worries and stress. Written by: Pamela Jarvis, RSSW Arthritis Rehabilitation and Education Program (AREP)
You may have heard about complementary therapies such as acupuncture to treat symptoms of arthritis. Alison Cheung, a Registered Acupuncturist and Registered Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioner in Toronto, shares her expertise to help you make informed decisions about your healthcare. What is acupuncture? Acupuncture is a relatively safe approach to treating many forms of illness,
Picture sunlight filtering through leaves, the feel of springy moss, colourful wildflowers or mushrooms, birds calling and the wind rustling: that’s what comes to mind for many of us when we think of nature. For many, spending time in nature is relaxing and restorative, whether it’s something we’ve always done or have recently rediscovered. The. . .