Rheumatoid arthritis is an auto-immune disease that causes inflammation of the joints. Other typical symptoms of this disease are warmth, redness and swelling in the joints, pain and stiffness. Currently, almost 1% of the world's population suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. Women are more oat risk of getting this disease than and mostly people between the age of 40 and 50 are affected.

Today, there are various treatments available, but there are still no treatments that can guarantee a cure of the disease. However, there are ways to slow down the development of rheumatoid arthritis and to get rid of the joint pain that's associated with the disease.

Now, is there anything else you can do to influence the development of the disease in a positive way? Yes, fortunately there are actually several things you can do to reduce the pain and ease the symptoms. Let's have a look at them:

• Physical activity: Light and regular physical activity should be part of any treatment plan. Some people say that physical activity is bad for the joints, but that's completely wrong. Studies have shown that regular light activity increases the range of motion, improves the blood circulation and helps to strengthen the muscles, ligaments and tendons around the joints. I recommend your ask your doctor to help you put together an exercise plan that's best suited for your case.

• Chose the right kind of physical activity: The best types of exercises for rheumatoid arthritis are range of motion exercises, endurance exercises (except running), swimming and water aerobics. All exercises that involve running and jumping or any other form of exercise that puts lots of stress on the joints should be avoided.

• Don't keep your joints in the same position for long periods of time. Get up at least once every hour , stretch yourself and walk around a bit.

• Your nutrition also plays an important role. Make sure to have a balanced diet with lots of fruits and vegetables, vitamins and minerals. Drink at least 2 liters of water every day. Avoid smoking, alcohol and to many unsaturated fatty acids.

• Try to massage your joints with a mixture of rosemary, lavender or chamomile oils. These oils contain anti-inflammatory properties and help to reduce swelling and pain.

• Massage your aching joints with warm olive oil. Many patients have reported that this helps to reduce the pain.

Perform these actions in parallel to the treatment plan that was subscribed by your doctor to help reduce your pain and to positively influence the development of the disease. If you have any questions regarding the points listed here, don't hesitate to discuss them with your physician.