Rheumatoid Arthritis: Understanding, Causes, Symptoms, and Yogic Management

Rheumatoid arthritis is a prevalent condition affecting millions of people worldwide. According to the World Health Organization's 2021 statistics, over 350 million individuals globally suffer from various arthritic conditions. Among them, up to 14 million people are diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis. Let's delve into what arthritis is and specifically explore rheumatoid arthritis, its causes, symptoms, and available treatments. Additionally, we will explore how yogic management techniques can contribute to long-term relief and overall well-being.

Arthritis is not a singular disease but rather an umbrella term encompassing around 100 different types of joint pain and other bodily discomforts. The two most commonly recognized forms of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, each distinct in nature.

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint condition characterized by the gradual degradation of the cartilage between joint bones. On the other hand, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease wherein the body's immune system, instead of protecting against harmful bacteria and viruses, attacks the synovial membrane surrounding the joints. This immune response leads to inflammation, swelling, and pain in and around the affected joints. Over time, this inflammation thickens the synovium, potentially causing damage to the cartilage and bones within the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis commonly affects joints in the fingers, hands, feet, elbows, knees, and ankles, often exhibiting a symmetrical pattern where both sides of the body experience similar joint effects.

While the precise cause of rheumatoid arthritis remains unknown, several factors are believed to contribute to its development. Genetic predisposition plays a significant role, as certain genes can make individuals more susceptible to the condition. Additionally, infectious agents such as bacteria and viruses can trigger the disease. Female hormones also play a role, as around 70 percent of women experience this arthritic condition. Stress, both physical and emotional, can exacerbate the problem. Environmental factors, including exposure to cigarette smoke, air pollution, and insecticides, may also contribute. Occupational exposure to substances like mineral oil, silica, or asbestos can be a risk factor. Furthermore, obesity increases the likelihood of rheumatoid arthritis, particularly in women aged 55 years and younger.

Recognizing the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis is crucial for early detection and effective management. Common signs and symptoms include joint pain, tenderness, swelling, and stiffness lasting for six weeks or longer. Morning stiffness, lasting for 30 minutes or more, is another characteristic symptom. Multiple joints are typically affected, with smaller joints such as wrists, certain hand joints, and feet being commonly affected initially, followed by potential progression to larger joints like knees, elbows, hips, and shoulders. Furthermore, rheumatoid arthritis is often accompanied by fatigue, loss of appetite, and low-grade fever.

While there is no permanent cure for rheumatoid arthritis, various treatment methods can help individuals cope with the condition more effectively. Treatment primarily focuses on reducing inflammation, relieving symptoms, preventing joint and organ damage, improving physical function, and enhancing overall well-being. Splints may be utilized to prevent joint deformities, and in some cases, joint replacement surgery becomes necessary to improve mobility and flexibility.

In the context of managing rheumatoid arthritis, incorporating yoga into one's lifestyle can offer long-term benefits. Yogic management emphasizes four main pillars: food, rest, activities, and thoughts. Paying attention to these pillars can help address the root causes and manage the condition effectively.

In terms of food, consuming antioxidants like vitamins A, C, and E, as well as selenium, can aid in reducing inflammation. Fiber-rich foods help mitigate inflammatory responses, potentially lowering levels of C-reactive protein. Incorporating strawberries and pineapples into the diet can be beneficial. Additionally, foods containing flavonoids, such as berries, broccoli, and grapes, can help counter inflammation. It is equally important to identify trigger foods that may exacerbate the disease, such as high-protein non-vegetarian options, beans, processed carbohydrates, saturated and trans fats. Avoiding caffeine, tea, soda, chocolate, tobacco, alcohol, and other recreational drugs known to increase inflammation is recommended. Fried foods, citrus fruits, white sugar, and gluten should also be avoided.

Rest, recreation, and activities play a crucial role in achieving overall health. Adequate rest is essential for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis as it helps reduce inflammation and fatigue. Engaging in activities that divert the mind from pain, such as pursuing hobbies like singing, dancing, or practicing relaxation techniques like Savasana with deep breathing and guided visualization, can provide relief and promote happiness. Quality sleep is vital for eliminating toxins from the body and ensuring optimal organ function. Spending time with loved ones for support and encouragement is also beneficial. Incorporating specific yoga asanas (poses) like lying-down twists, baddha konasana (butterfly pose), ardha shalabhasana (half locust pose), and parvatasana (mountain pose) can be helpful when performed regularly throughout the day.

Achara, or routines and habits, play a crucial role in managing rheumatoid arthritis. Maintaining a consistent schedule for medication intake is essential, ensuring no missed or skipped doses. Avoid self-reduction of medication dosage, as it can lead to side effects. Balancing rest and exercise for affected joints is key. Stretching exercises and developing sensitivity in stiff and sore areas while resting affected joints and exercising other joints promote joint health. Heat treatments, such as using heating pads, hot water bags, and warm water baths, can soothe sore joints. Cold treatments, though more suitable for acute pain, can numb painful areas and reduce inflammation. Alternating between warm and cold compresses can help alleviate pain. Regular practice of asanas strengthens joints and muscles, and pranayama (breathing exercises) can provide additional benefits. Daily chanting and tratak (candle gazing) can redirect the mind away from pain and aid in pain relief.

Finally, addressing how we think and managing emotions are essential for overall health and recovery. Accepting the condition as it is and shifting toward a positive mindset helps manage emotions effectively. Learning to manage stress is vital in limiting potential triggers. It is crucial to choose happiness and positivity in any situation. Practicing prati paksha bhavana (cultivating opposite thoughts) can help redirect negative thoughts. Letting go of stress and developing faith in a higher reality contribute to emotional well-being. Cultivating an attitude of gratitude and practicing reflection (anitya) on the transitory nature of things can aid in managing stressful situations. Following dharma, which encompasses responsibility and caring for oneself and others, is important.

Adopting a holistic approach to rheumatoid arthritis management by focusing on these four pillars can yield positive outcomes. Remember to incorporate them into your daily life and prioritize your well-being.

Now equipped with a comprehensive understanding of rheumatoid arthritis, its causes, symptoms, available treatments, and yogic management techniques, you can take charge of your health and live a happy life without allowing pain and suffering to control you. Follow these beneficial steps, train your mind, understand the problem, and become stronger in the face of challenges. Problems remain problems only when we are unaware or ignorant of how to manage them. Once we gain knowledge and develop effective strategies, we become capable of managing them successfully. Take control, prioritize self-care, and be healthy.