Rest

Proper rest when joints are inflamed can help relieve fatigue. Complete bed rest may be necessary during periods of severe inflammation involving multiple joints. Listed below are four general ways to relieve fatigue:

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• Get ample rest--at least 10 hours of sleep a day, either all at night or about eight hours at night and two hours during daytime naps. Napping during the day should be avoided if it interferes with nighttime sleep, however.
• Relieve pain promptly--with joint rest, application of heat or cold, or medications--since continued pain causes fatigue.
• Prioritize daily activities and carry out only the most essential ones; postpone nonessential activities until flares subside.
• Try not to waste energy. For example, instead of making numerous trips up and down stairs during the day, consolidate activities and complete all of the tasks on one floor before moving on to the next.

When inflammation is present--but not severe enough to require complete bed rest--joints should be rested properly to avoid flexion contracture. Flexion contracture is a loss of joint motion due to shortening of the surrounding tissues, especially in the hips and knees. Listed below are three tips for proper resting technique:

• Do not remain seated for a long time; be sure to stand up periodically.
• If weight-bearing joints such as the hips or knees are affected, protect them by using crutches or braces when starting to walk again after a period of severe inflammation.
• Apply removable splints (below) to inflamed joints to alleviate muscle spasm and diminish the likelihood of deformities.