Frequent small feedings or protein supplements may be prescribed. Some medications, such as oral corticosteroids, can stimulate the appetite and, in conjunction with decreased activity, lead to weight gain. Losing excess weight can help, especially when the legs are affected by arthritis. Dietary counsel can be helpful in establishing a well-balanced diet. Foods high in protein , iron , and vitamins contribute to tissue building and repair.
Exercise is important in the treatment of arthritis.
Thirty minutes of moderate exercise a day can help to prevent complications of arthritis, as well as heart disease , stroke , and diabetes . A person exercising at a moderate level can talk normally without shortness of breath and is comfortable with the pace of the activity. The 30 minutes a day can be done in one session, or it can be broken up into smaller amounts. Low impact aerobics and water aerobics are examples of exercises that minimize joint stress. A recent study focused on adults with osteoarthritis who used tai chi, a form of Chinese exercise that uses slow, fluid movements.