Sore fingers? How to deal with Arthritis
Sore fingers? How to deal with Arthritis
If you've recently found yourself saying to a friend, "I'd love to walk, but my knees are so sore," or are you waking up with a dull ache in your fingers and joints? Well, you're not alone. Osteoarthritis tends to affect the thumb joints at the bottom of the thumb, the middle knuckles, and the knuckles closest to the fingertips, sometimes making them swollen or crooked. In rheumatoid arthritis, the knuckles closest to the palm and the wrist become painful, swollen, and warm. In psoriatic arthritis, the whole finger or fingers tend to be swollen. The pain can burn, ache, or feel sharp in all cases. Your hands and fingers may also feel stiff.
Your physician may perform various tests to rule out the carpal tunnel, but if you are diagnosed with osteoarthritis, there are ways you can feel better and get back to swinging the golf club, playing tennis, or just feeling more like yourself.
These exercises can bring a sense of relief and comfort to your fingers and joints:
1. Tuck and roll: Open your fingers, palms facing down. Close your fingers slowly, roll your fingers towards your palm, and turn your fists over so you are looking at your nail bed (the "tuck").
2. Finger Touch: Open your fingers wide with your palms facing each other. This simple exercise can be done at any time and requires no special equipment. It's a small action that can make a big difference in how your fingers and joints feel.
Other practical everyday practices include using two hands instead of one while working on a task, taking breaks so you aren't holding your hands in the same position, and putting your grocery bag over your shoulder.
Lastly, it's essential to keep a healthy diet. (and as a health coach, I have to mention this!). Following an anti-inflammatory diet can be easier than it sounds. It's not about strict rules or deprivation but about making simple, healthy choices that can help reduce inflammation and improve your symptoms. Here are some suggestions to start:
Incorporate omega-3 fatty acid foods, such as fatty-fish like salmon or mackerel, into your diet
Cut out seed oils and add only olive oil. Olive oil contains oleocanthal, which acts in the body in a way that is similar to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
Include nuts in your diet, as they contain calcium, magnesium, zinc, vitamin E, fiber, and healthy fats. Grab a handful of nuts before leaving the house for a protein-filled snack and a way to reduce inflammation.
If you need further assistance or have more questions, contact your local physician or schedule a consultation with me!. We can do much through food, exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight to improve our feelings.
