Flare Management

Whether it’s relatively short-lived or more severe, disrupting your day to day life, a flare can be frustrating, upsetting and painful.

Increases in joint pain, swelling, fatigue and stress can be hard to live with. There are some general strategies for coping with flares that may help listed below.

• Make sure you get enough rest and take it easy

• Get enough sleep

• Gentle exercise may help to ease pain and lift your mood, but only what you feel up to

• Try heat and cool packs

• Don’t be afraid to use an aid if you need it. A walking stick might help tremendously

• Try yoga or meditation, many people find relaxation techniques help to manage their pain

• Make sure that you're taking your medications at the right time and the right dose

• Warm baths or showers can help, especially in the morning

• Speak up – let the people around you know that you're not feeling your best, you don’t have to suffer in silence

• TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulators) machines may help some people to reduce their pain

Sometimes, simple self-management techniques and a few days rest are enough, and you don’t need additional treatment. If you are having regular flare ups or your symptoms get worse, it’s best to speak to your doctor.