Osteoarthritis and Beating Fatigue

In even the mildest cases of osteoarthritis, fatigue can be a major issue. It is a "double-whammy" when pain gets out of control. Moreover, we are not talking about someone who is constantly in pain. It can affect any of you who are simply having a bad day. (Even one day of bad pain can become excruciating.)

Make Life a Little Easier

Even the worst of days can be handled with ease if you know how to do it. In other words, by implementing some simple steps even the worst of days will begin to disappear. It is a question of who is in charge. Is it going to be the osteoarthritis or you?

Pain and Rest Cycles

There is nothing more therapeutic for those who suffer from arthritis than consistent sleep cycles. I emphasize the word (consistent) because anyone who alters their sleep patterns is particularly at risk of increasing their pain.

That does not mean "early to bed…early to rise" is the answer. The real solution is to go to bed at the same time every night and get up on an equally consistent schedule. It is important to emphasize that this rule applies to both weekdays and weekends. (We all know how easy it is to stay up a little later on the weekends and sleep in on Saturday or Sunday.)

Don't Rush It

This can be a little tough to get used to if you are already in a pattern of irregular sleep. For some reason, our bodies have an "internal clock" that sets itself to the pattern we have already established. For most, it may take as long as 2-3 weeks to get used to a new and different sleep pattern. That is proof positive that in fact, your body does have that "clock" inside so let it adjust along with you.

Some Things Not to Do

Do not drink caffeine after 4:00 p.m. That includes sodas that contain caffeine as well as coffee. It is definitely going to affect your ability to sleep. (Usually, you will find yourself waking up constantly.) As well, do not be too overly active just before retiring. Some have a tendency to do a little last minute house cleaning or maybe even a little exercise. If you do this, your body is still "racing" when you get into bed.

If you are having trouble adjusting to this new rest cycle, try reducing your activities in the last hour or so before you go to bed. Turn televisions or radios down to lower levels or do a little reading. (Your mind begins to slow down when you do this and is mentally preparing to rest.)

Whatever you do…don't go into full Retreat

Unfortunately, when pain gets to be a little overwhelming, it is very easy to just retreat to the bed. Alternatively, lie down and take short naps all the time. Too much time spent in bed contradicts the need for all arthritis patients to exercise regularly. When the bed starts to look too inviting, stretch yourself that extra mile and take a brief walk. You will be amazed what it does for your overall well-being. The body's endorphins begin to flow and pain starts to decrease.

The Results?

Once you get into the swing of things, this new approach on "how you rest" is going to astound you. It can reduce your pain levels significantly so long as you are using a regular regimen of glucosamine and exercise. You will find that life is more organized and less frantic; and as well, those with depression (very common for those with osteoarthritis) will find that their outlook is better every day. We have often said that winning the battle with arthritis means changing your lifestyle. These simple steps make an enormous difference and are so easy to put into place. There is nothing to think about here. Just make up your mind and do it.

J.R. Rogers is the founder and President of Activex America, Inc. makers of Liquid Glucosamine Formula Syn-flex®