Sleep restores your energy so that you can better manage pain. It also rests your joints to reduce pain and swelling.

Only you know how much sleep your body needs, so get into the habit of listening to your body. Most people need seven to nine hours of sleep per night.

If you feel tired and achy after lunch every day, taking a brief nap (15 to 20 minutes) can help restore your energy and spirits. If you have trouble sleeping at night, try relaxing quietly in the afternoon rather than taking a nap.

*The above information on sleep and rest was excerpted from the Arthritis Foundation’s online Pain Center.