Arthritis can affect nearly any joint in our body, including the large number of joints found in the spine. To allow for basic flexibility and movement, the individual vertebrae in the spine are connected by sets of facet joints. Due to the tremendous stress we place on our spines every day, combined with age-related changes, arthritis in the back can be particularly common. 

As a progressive condition, arthritis does not have a cure, but it can be successfully managed. If you’re a patient in the Gretna, Louisiana, area who is looking for information on living with arthritis in the back, we’re happy to help. At our state-of-the-art clinic right in Gretna, the Rehab Access team has extensive experience in helping patients deal with this condition. To help you understand how healthy lifestyle choices can help you stay on top of your treatment, we’re sharing the following guide. 

Practice these spine-healthy tips for arthritis relief

Here are some commonly recommended pieces of advice for patients who are trying to live with arthritis in the back:

1. Have a positive attitude — While aches, pain and stiffness can be a drain on your quality of life, there are effective treatments. Believing that relief is possible can improve mood and keep you motivated. 
2. Practice good posture — Poor posture puts added stress on the spine and joints. By sitting, standing and walking straight, you can more evenly distribute this weight. 
3. Eat an anti-inflammatory diet — Processed foods that are high in sugar can worsen joint inflammation. Instead, eat whole grains, fruits, vegetables and healthy unsaturated fats along with plenty of water. 
4. Stay active — While exercise may be the last thing you want to do, regular activity can help keep joints mobile and blood flowing to them. 

These and other healthy lifestyle choices combined with physical therapy help many patients with arthritis find relief and sustained regular functioning. 

Learn more about arthritis treatment at Rehab Access

Proudly serving Gretna patients, Rehab Access and our team of caring and highly trained therapists can help you develop a treatment plan for long-term arthritis management. Our goal is to help you get back to the people and daily activities you love without arthritis-related back pain slowing you down. 

To learn more and schedule your initial appointment, contact us today.