It might be challenging to get out of bed or begin your day if you have arthritis since you frequently wake up in the morning with a severe, excruciating pain in your joints. The inflammation brought on by the illness itself is primarily to blame for this discomfort.
Chronic stress amplifies pain: Stress raises cortisol and adrenaline levels. Although these hormones are necessary for short-term life, prolonged exposure can cause inflammation, which exacerbates joint discomfort.
Worsening of rheumatoid arthritis: Research has demonstrated that stress exacerbates the symptoms of pre-existing rheumatoid arthritis. However, it may also serve as a trigger. A lot of those who suffer from the illness say that stressful situations came before their symptoms appeared.
Muscle tension and increased stiffness: When you’re under stress, your muscles may stiffen up more, making movement uncomfortable and challenging. Your mobility may be more restricted as a result, leading to a vicious cycle of discomfort and annoyance.
Isolation and mental health issues: Social isolation and even despair can result from the physical restrictions of arthritis and the psychological effects of ongoing pain. Stress is only made worse by this emotional load, which deteriorates mental and physical health.
How to Manage the Stress-arthritis Cycle
Regular physical activity: Exercise releases endorphins, the body’s natural analgesics, and lowers stress hormones. Maintaining joint mobility and reducing stiffness can be achieved with a customised workout program.
Adopt a healthy diet: Foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, for example, can help lower inflammation. Additionally, controlling stress and arthritis symptoms may depend on avoiding foods that cause inflammation.
Practice meditation and yoga: These practices are powerful tools for fostering calm and lowering stress. Frequent practice can help reduce joint stress and increase flexibility.
Seek help: Both arthritis and chronic stress need to be managed consistently. While an orthopaedic doctor can help manage arthritic symptoms with treatment choices like heat therapy or orthotic devices, a psychologist can help with the emotional effects of stress.
Follow stress-relief techniques: Creating daily stress management techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or mindfulness exercises, can greatly lessen the negative effects of stress on your physical and mental well-being.