Motion is lotion: Essential tips to support life with arthritis

In Canada, six million people live with arthritis or one of the associated autoimmune conditions. Arthritis is an umbrella term for over 50 autoimmune conditions including rheumatoid arthritis, vasculitis, scleroderma, lupus and others. In these conditions, the immune system mistakenly attacks the body. People living with arthritis or an associated autoimmune condition can experience symptoms such as joint inflammation, stiffness, chronic pain, weakness and fatigue. They can also sometimes develop depression or anxiety as a result of their condition.

In spite of these challenges, patients with all forms of arthritis can live healthy and productive lives – the sky is the limit. We are so fortunate to have an abundance of highly effective pharmacologic and non-pharmacologic treatments that can, in many cases, prevent arthritis progression and damage, thereby supporting good health.

She provides suggestions on three key areas:

Tip 1: Stay active

“You can’t harm your joints by being active. In fact, motion is lotion – so keep moving” said Dr. Steiman. 

Regular activity can help reduce pain and stiffness, improve flexibility and strengthen muscles. It can also boost endurance, support weight management and enhance mood. Patients living with arthritis or an associated autoimmune condition should consider activities that strengthen the muscles around their joints without strain. They should also reach out to a physical or occupational therapist, who can help create a program tailored to their unique needs.

Tip 2: Live a balanced lifestyle

A balanced diet, combined with healthy lifestyle choices such as regular activity, not smoking and limiting alcohol, can improve overall health and reduce risks linked to arthritis. Balanced nutrition can also help offset the side effects of some medications and lower the risk of complications affecting the heart and blood vessels. 

“Many people wonder what they should cut out or add to their diet,” said Dr. Steiman. “Truly, it comes down to balance and moderation. There is some evidence for the anti-inflammatory effects of turmeric, and omega-3 fatty acids. These can be easily – and deliciously – incorporated into your diet. This is an area of intense interest, and I suspect we will be learning more in the years to come.”

Tip 3: Care is collaborative

“You’re the most important person in your own care,” advised Dr. Steiman. “Try to engage with the care suggestions provided.” 

Patient outcomes often improve when patients are active participants in their care. This includes asking questions, collaborating with their care team and engaging in their treatment plan. When patients are meaningfully involved in their care journey, it becomes a collaborative process and patient outcomes often improve.

A leader in arthritis and autoimmune disease care

Mount Sinai Hospital’s Rebecca MacDonald Centre for Arthritis & Autoimmune Disease provides care for patients with a wide variety of autoimmune and inflammatory rheumatic diseases through general rheumatology and sub-specialty clinics. Our rheumatology program is one of the largest of its kind in North America, caring for more than 15,000 patients each year.

As a fully affiliated partner with the University of Toronto, the Centre is also a teaching hub for medical students, internal medicine residents and rheumatology fellows. Our experts play a leading role in advancing research in genetics, epidemiology, and rheumatology, driving discovery and leading-edge research that expands treatment options for patients.