Doing something about arthritis can mean a slight change of attitude. The editors of Arthritis Today, a publication of the Arthritis Foundation, suggest the following ways you can treat arthritis. All can directly or indirectly improve your health, outlook, pain level or just make life a little better.

• Bone up. Stock up on your favorite source of calcium. A diet rich in this important mineral can help decrease your risk of osteoporosis. Try milk products such as yogurt, cheese, and ice cream. Or add powdered milk to puddings, gravies, shakes and other recipes. Other good sources of calcium are broccoli, salmon (with the bones) and kale.
• Take a hike. Choose your favorite spots (indoors and out) and make plans to walk them at least once a week. Walking is the ideal exercise for most people with arthritis. It burns calories, strengthens muscles and builds denser bones, all without jarring fragile joints.
• Do Tell. Take an opportunity to tell a co-worker, friend or family member about arthritis. Start with an interesting fact: Did you know that arthritis affects almost 43 million people? Then go from there. They'll understand you and the way arthritis affects your life a little better.
• Have a laugh. Read a book of jokes, rent a funny movie or watch your favorite sitcom or stand-up comedian. Laughing - even when you feel like crying from agony - can relax muscles, relieve pain and even boost your immune system.
• Try this to keep your calf muscles strong and flexible. Stand two feet from a wall, with your toes pointed inward slightly, and place your palms against the wall. Keeping your knees straight and feet flat, lean forward onto your hands without bending at the waist. Feel your calf muscles pull and extend. Hold this position for 10 seconds, then gently push away from the wall. Repeat.
• Work smarter. Do something that will make your job easier. Check into working flexible hours, telecommuting, or working part-time. Whenever you work, take frequent breaks to stretch stiff joints and sore muscles.
• Turn the other cheek. If an arthritis-related condition or its treatment has cause a rash on or tightening or swelling of your face, check at the cosmetics counter of your local department store for tips or special products to camouflage these problems and give your cheeks a healthy looking glow.
• Make a pack. When joints are hot and inflamed, applying something cold can decrease pain and swelling by constricting blood vessels and preventing fluids from leaking into surrounding tissues. Our favorite ice pack: a bag of frozen peas or corn that can be molded to the shape of your body.