Final answer:
Considering Jan's preference for non-pharmacologic therapies to manage rheumatoid arthritis, mind-body therapies, low-impact exercises, and localized pain relief methods align with her wishes while supporting joint health and functionality.
Step-by-step explanation:
Nonpharmacological Therapies for Rheumatoid Arthritis
For Jan, a 70-year-old with rheumatoid arthritis looking for alternative strategies to manage joint discomfort, incorporating mind-body therapies is a suitable approach. Considering her desire to avoid drugs, Jan may benefit from the following:
- Mind-body therapies such as music therapy, distraction techniques, meditation, prayer, hypnosis, guided imagery, relaxation techniques, and pet therapy.
- Low-impact exercises such as using a stationary exercise bicycle, which would help in maintaining joint mobility and muscle strength without putting excessive stress on the joints.
- Activities like swimming and water aerobics, known to reduce stress on joints while keeping them flexible and the surrounding muscles strong.
- Nonpharmacological localized pain relief strategies such as applying IcyHot gel for its cooling and warming sensations that can temporarily alleviate joint pain.
Other supportive measures include weight management to reduce joint stress, using mobility aids such as canes for stability, and engaging in community activities like attending church services for overall well-being and support. While there is no cure for RA, these therapies aim to improve quality of life by managing symptoms and maintaining joint health.
Learn more about Mind-Body Therapies for Rheumatoid Arthritis