HIMPower Magazine HimPower May 2018 | Page 19

and is mild on a scale of 1 to 10 . Sometimes the onset of pain can be sudden and agonizing and eventually become intense pain . Sometimes individuals report that they cannot stand the rubbing of their joints against bedsheets — leading to restless or sleepless nights . Regardless of the type of pain , arthritis signs and symptoms may persist over time before the individual decides to seek treatment . Too much reliance on self-diagnosis might cause us to mistake early signs of arthritis for an injury or the result of “ too much ” activity . Of course , not every joint ache or pain requires that you seek medical care . Wellness or preventative health visits are an excellent opportunity to discuss joint pain with a family doctor or other health-care provider . A doctor will determine if you need a referral to a rheumatologist or other arthritis and related disease specialist . Protecting joint health and / or managing diagnosed arthritis and related conditions may require lifestyle changes such as increased physical activity , healthier diets , medication regimen , and emotional support---all of which require monitoring by a physician .
As Christians , we know that the bible speaks of many illnesses and conditions that Jesus healed on His way to the Cross . For example , in John 5 : 1-8 , Jesus healed a lame man that had been sick for thirty-eight years . On another occasion , Jesus healed the woman who had been bleeding for 12 years , but no one else had been able to heal her ( Luke 8 : 43-48 ).
We know that the Father and His son ,
Jesus Christ have power and authority to heal any condition that plagues the human body . Unfortunately , physical healing does not always happen on this side of the journey . However , each person has a responsibility to make healthier choices within their limited choices . Seeking help from those gifted with healing hands is equally important for properly diagnosing , treating , and managing arthritis as “ Giving thanks in all circumstances , for this is God ’ s will for you in Christ .”— 1 Thessalonians 5:18
SEEKING HELP THROUGH AVAILABLE RESOURCES
There are many accessible and available resources for education , care and treatment , and support at the local , state , and national levels . Two organizations that can link you with local , state , and national resources are the Arthritis Foundation and the CDC . Visit the CDC website listed below to identify programs proven to improve quality of life for people with arthritis . Both recommended and promising interventions are described , including physical activity and self-management education programs . Many faith organizations also have health and wellness ministries that provide access to health screenings , support groups , and offer linkages to medical care and treatment . More importantly , the HimPower Family strives to be an informed community of caring and loving individuals that encourage and support each other , giving Praise , Honor and Glory to Him . Jude ’ s prayer of praise reminds us of the individual
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