Individuals with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) have an autoimmune disease where the body is attacking “self tissues,” beginning in the thin tissue membrane that lines joints.  Because the body’s immune system is “fighting” itself, fluid builds in the joints, often creating swelling, inflammation and significant pain throughout the body.

Even though Rheumatoid Arthritis is not curable, it can be controlled by avoiding  the following foods:

1. Red Meat: Red meat contains high levels of saturated fat which can exaberate inflammation and also contribute to obesity. Some people with RA have reported that their symptoms improve when they rid their diet of red meat.
2. Sugar and refined flour: Sugary drinks and snacks spike your blood sugar and produce proinflammatory chemicals called cytokines which can worsen RA symptoms if the inflammation affects your joints. These foods can also cause you to put on the pounds which stress the joints.
3. Fried Foods: Mount Sinai School of Medicine published a study in 2009 that reported fried foods contain toxins called advanced glycation end products which can increase oxidation in the body’s cells and increase inflammation.
4. MSG: Mono-sodium glutamate (MSG) is a flavor-enhancing food additive most commonly found in prepared Asian food and soy sauce, but it can also be added to fast foods, prepared soups and soup mixes, salad dressings and deli meats. This chemical can trigger chronic inflammation.

Even though Rheumatoid Arthritis is not curable, it can be controlled getting physical therapy treatment.

Your physical therapist at Forest Hill Physical Therapy will tailor a program to your specific needs, whether your arthritic problems are widespread or confined to one joint or body area.

The goals of treatment are to:

• Prevent loss of use of the joints
• Restore abilities that may have been lost
• Help you adapt to new activity levels
• Maintain your fitness
• Maintain your ability to take part in the activities you choose with minimal help from others