Arthritis is a condition characterized by swelling and pain in the joints. The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis, which is caused by the breakdown of the cartilage between your bones; and rheumatoid arthritis, which is caused by the immune system attacking the joints. Symptoms of arthritis include pain, stiffness, redness, swelling, and decreased mobility and range of motion. Unfortunately, these symptoms tend to worsen with age.
While there are prescriptions that can ease the symptoms of arthritis, including Otezla combination therapy and Enbrel arthritis treatment, there are also many lifestyle changes you can make in conjunction with your medication to help find some relief. Here is a list of six lifestyle changes you can make to manage your arthritis:

1. Regular exercise
Studies show that exercise can reduce joint pain and stiffness, replenish cartilage lubrication, increase strength and flexibility, and reduce fatigue. Every case of arthritis is different, so be sure to check to see if your doctor or physical therapist can recommend exercises tailored to your needs, such as those for range-of-motion and strengthening and low-impact aerobic exercises like walking and swimming. Remember not to push yourself too hard and always ice afterwards.

2. Consume anti-inflammatory foods
The pain associated with arthritis is generally caused by inflammation, so consuming anti-inflammatory foods can help to ease pain and other symptoms. Try some omega-3 rich fish, such as salmon, tuna, sardines, or mackerel, or soy products, like tofu, if you’d rather stay plant-based. You can also add veggies like cauliflower, mushrooms, brussels sprouts, or broccoli to your diet, and try cooking them with extra virgin olive oil. For dessert, cherries and certain berries contain anthocyanins, which have great anti-inflammatory properties. Otherwise, just sip on some green, ginger, or turmeric tea.

3. Take vitamin C
Vitamin C is an excellent source of antioxidants, which reduce inflammation and fight infection. As such, ensuring you have enough vitamin C in your diet can potentially help you reduce your joint pain. The recommended daily intake of vitamin C can be easily attained in your regular diet, especially by eating foods like red peppers, oranges and other citrus fruits (whole or juiced), broccoli, and spinach. If you are concerned about getting enough vitamin C, vitamin C supplements are also widely available.

4. Avoid alcohol
While alcohol in extreme moderation has been shown to occasionally reduce inflammation, in general, it is best to avoid alcohol when regularly taking medication to manage arthritis symptoms. Alcohol can interact poorly with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) such as ibuprofen and naproxen, risking stomach ulcers and bleeding, while interaction with acetaminophen or rheumatoid arthritis drugs Trexall (methotrexate) or Arava (leflunomide) can cause liver damage.

5. Manage your weight
As you can imagine, carrying around extra weight can put additional force on your joints, causing strain and cartilage breakdown. Managing your weight can help to reduce stress on your joints and relieve pain. Luckily, many of the other activities listed can assist with weight management, including keeping as active as you can, reducing alcohol, and eating lots of fruits and veggies.

6. Make time for rest and self care
Arthritis is uncomfortable, painful, and difficult! It is important for you to be gentle and kind to yourself. While part of your self care may involve doing things you aren’t necessarily thrilled about, like exercising when your joints are sore, self care should also involve doing things that make you feel good. Rest a day between your workouts, and do something nice for yourself—spend some time with a good book, watch your favorite film, or just let yourself sleep in every once in a while. You’re going through something difficult; you deserve to rest!