How do you manage your rheumatoid arthritis?

Learn about your arthritis

• Learn about your body and what is happening to it.
• Learn about your doctors and medicines, and what they can do for you.
• Find out what can improve your health, such as losing weight or starting an exercise program to be more flexible.

Learn how to cope with your symptoms

• Find out what helps you feel better and what feels worse. Some people can write without pain. Others can’t. That’s also true for walking and other tasks and activities.
• Learn how to use your body to protect stiff areas. This can help you stay active.
• Try splints, canes, and other assistive devices. These also can help you stay active.

Take an active role in managing your arthritis

• Learn how to stay active with this type of arthritis.
• Work with your doctors, friends, and family to set up a plan to care for yourself.
• Set goals to practice your coping skills. These can include learning ways to feel stronger.
• Follow your self-care plan every day.