Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can make your knees feel stiff, swollen, and painful. It’s a type of autoimmune disease, which means your immune system mistakenly attacks your joints. This can lead to joint damage over time—especially in weight-bearing joints like the knees. But the good news? Gentle, regular exercise can actually help make your knees stronger…
As a rheumatology nurse practitioner who’s spent years knee-deep in swollen joints, morning stiffness, and flare-up stories, I’ve seen firsthand how critical early intervention and lifestyle adjustments can be. One of the best ways to prevent arthritis joint deformity is catching it before it sneaks up and changes someone’s entire quality of life. And let…
Living with rheumatoid arthritis sometimes feels like you’re carrying an invisible weight that just won’t let up. As a Rheumatology Nurse Practitioner, I’ve walked alongside countless patients trying to reclaim their movement and independence. One thing I get asked a lot? “What are the best home workouts for joint health when you have rheumatoid arthritis?”…
Living with rheumatoid arthritis and finding the best morning routines for pain relief has honestly been one of the biggest game-changers not just for my patients, but for me personally as a Rheumatology Nurse Practitioner. I’ve seen firsthand how those early hours can either set you up for a manageable day or make everything feel…
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune condition that affects millions of people worldwide. It’s not just about joint pain and inflammation; it’s about a complete disruption to your daily life. For many, one of the most challenging aspects is the loss of hand strength, making even the simplest tasks feel impossible. If you’ve ever…
Ever rolled out of bed feeling like the Tin Man from *The Wizard of Oz*? If you have rheumatoid arthritis and joint stiffness in the morning, you know exactly what I’m talking about. That frustrating, aching, can’t-move-my-fingers kind of stiffness that makes simple things—like gripping a toothbrush—feel like an Olympic event. Trust me, I get…
Living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) isn’t just about managing pain—it’s about navigating everyday life when your joints seem to have a mind of their own. One of the biggest challenges? How rheumatoid arthritis impacts your mobility. Whether it’s struggling to open a jar, climb stairs, or even get out of bed, mobility limitations can be…
Living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is like being in a relationship with a very unpredictable partner. One day, your joints feel decent, and the next—bam!—you’re stiff, sore, and questioning all your life choices. If you’re wondering how to improve joint function with rheumatoid arthritis, trust me, you’re not alone. As someone who has worked closely…
Living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can be tough, but physical therapy might just be the game-changer you need. Here’s how PT can make a real difference in managing RA symptoms and improving your quality of life! If you or someone you know has rheumatoid arthritis (RA), you’re probably familiar with the pain, stiffness, and fatigue…