Researchers believe that with further study, they could prevent the condition from setting in completely. This study offers a great deal of hope in the field of autoimmune diseases, of which arthritis is one – autoimmune conditions work by causing the body to attack healthy cells, thus destroying them. Currently osteoarthritis affects around 8.5 million people in the UK alone, with 700,000 people affected by rheumatoid arthritis.
Arthritis is a condition which causes the joints to become inflamed, which causes pain and can be extremely debilitating in severe cases. There are some studies which suggest that the foods you eat may impact the level of pain you’re suffering – some people with the condition state that citrus fruits, for example, cause more pain. If you’re suffering with arthritis, it may be worth keeping a food diary to see if any foods in your diet act as a trigger. Contrary to what many believe though, exercise can actually help your condition rather than worsen it. Light exercises which don’t put much strain on the joints, such as yoga or tai chi, are great for improving flexibility and helping you to stay agile without straining your joints or increasing pain. Aim to do a couple of sessions each week to build up your fitness and aid your symptoms.