
Understanding the Trigger Factors for Arthritis Flare-Ups and How to Prevent Them

At EASTSIDE FAMILY HEALTH CENTER in Kirkland, WA, we understand how unpredictable arthritis flare-ups can disrupt daily life. Dr. Frank Marinkovich, M.D., combines Internal, Functional, and Sports Medicine to help patients identify their unique triggers, reduce inflammation, and build strategies that protect long-term joint health and mobility.
Common Triggers Behind Arthritis Flare-Ups
1. Weather Changes
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Drops in barometric pressure or cold, damp conditions can increase joint stiffness and pain.
2. Overuse or Sudden Activity
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Excessive strain, repetitive movements, or sudden bursts of exercise irritate inflamed joints.
3. Stress and Fatigue
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Stress hormones and lack of rest heighten inflammation and pain sensitivity.
4. Poor Diet Choices
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Processed foods, excess sugar, alcohol, and inflammatory fats trigger systemic inflammation.
5. Missed Medications or Treatments
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Skipping anti-inflammatories, supplements, or physical therapy allows symptoms to resurface.
Why it matters: Knowing your personal triggers can prevent flare-ups before they escalate.
Strategies to Prevent and Reduce Flare-Ups
Lifestyle Adjustments
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Regular low-impact exercise (swimming, cycling, yoga) to maintain mobility
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Adequate rest and stress reduction through meditation or breathwork
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Weight management to reduce joint load
Nutritional Support
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Anti-inflammatory diet rich in omega-3s, antioxidants, and whole foods
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Avoid refined sugars, alcohol, and high-sodium processed foods
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Consider supplements like turmeric, glucosamine, or collagen (when appropriate)
Medical and Functional Therapies
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Physical therapy and mobility training to protect joints
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Advanced options like joint injections
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IV therapies to lower systemic inflammation
Proactive Monitoring
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Track triggers and flare patterns in a journal
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Schedule regular follow-ups to adjust treatment plans
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Use labs and imaging when necessary to evaluate progression
How We Help at Eastside Family Health Center
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Comprehensive Evaluations: Identify inflammatory markers and joint health status
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Personalized Arthritis Care Plans: Integrating medical, and nutritional therapies
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Joint and Mobility Support: Customized physical therapy and safe exercise regimens
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Long-Term Monitoring: Track outcomes and adjust strategies as your condition changes
Take Control of Arthritis—Not the Other Way Around
At EASTSIDE FAMILY HEALTH CENTER, we help patients move beyond unpredictable pain by identifying triggers, reducing inflammation, and strengthening joint resilience. Our goal is simple: to help you live with confidence, mobility, and less pain.
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