3. Lifestyle changes
Some lifestyle changes may also reduce the burden of the disease. One of the most important recommendations is smoking cessation. Weight loss is also recommended in overweight and obese patients because this extra weight places additional stress on the affected joints. Thus, living a healthy lifestyle should be a general rule for these patients to improve their own quality of life. Rest is also essential, especially in acute episodes when the pain increases. It may also be useful to explore vocational readjustments in patients who work in a very active environment.