How to Prevent and Cope with Rheumatic Disease Flare Ups

<p><strong>Episode at a glance:</strong></p><ul><li><strong>Introduction and Agenda Review </strong>(1:00)</li><li><strong>Definition of a Flare Up </strong>for rheumatic disease (which includes ankylosing spondylitis, psoriatic arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis) (6:30)</li><li><strong>What causes flare-ups,</strong> and why is it so important to discover our own unique flare triggers? (7:40)</li><li><strong>Focus on Pain:</strong> tools to prevent pain and reduce existing pain (25:00)</li><li><strong>Focus on Fatigue:</strong> tools to prevent and reduce fatigue (31:00)</li><li><strong>Focus on Stress: </strong>ways to decrease stress levels & cope with existing stress (37:00)</li></ul><p>This episode is brought to you by <a href="https://arthritis.theenthusiasticlife.com/rheum-to-thrive/">Rheum to THRIVE</a>, an online support group and education program Cheryl created to help people with rheumatic disease become more confident, supported and connected. </p><p><strong>Medical disclaimer: </strong>All content found on Arthritis Life public channels was created for generalized informational purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.</p><p><strong>Speaker Bio:</strong></p><p>Cheryl Crow is an occupational therapist who has lived with rheumatoid arthritis for seventeen years. Her life passion is helping others with rheumatoid arthritis figure out how to live a full life despite arthritis, by developing tools to navigate physical, emotional and social challenges. She formed the educational company Arthritis Life in 2019 after seeing a huge need for more engaging, accessible, and (dare I say) FUN patient education and self-management resources.</p><p><strong>Episode links:</strong></p><ul><li>Resources discussed in this episode: <ul><li><a href="https://arthritis.theenthusiasticlife.com/2021/06/30/build-your-flare-up-toolkit-free-training/">Video recording of the “Build Your Rheumatic Disease Flare Up Toolkit” webinar</a> (includes presenta