Debbie Travis is a design superstar, a television icon and producer, a best-selling author, and the centre of a small business empire. Possessed of a fantastic dry British wit, she is the woman behind the largest celebrity brand in Canada. Travis speaks to the challenges facing modern working women while underscoring her impeccable sense of branding, marketing, and entrepreneurship.
To help Canadians living with inflammatory arthritis better manage their disease and stop the progression of structural damage, the following tips may keep your joint “interior” looking – and functioning – well.
Burnt orange, eggshell and salmon pink 
Not just great design colours, they’re also great foods for your joints!
- Eat foods that promote joint health: Omega-3 fatty acids from fish oil can reduce inflammation associated with RA and PsA.1 Good sources are salmon, herring, tuna.2
- Calcium and vitamin D help build strong bones. 5 Good sources include milk, egg yolks and fortified beverages, such as orange juice.3
When it comes to interior design, and your joints, don’t overdo it!
- Regular exercise (such as walking, swimming, dancing, cycling, yoga and stretching) can help maintain joint function, reduce pain and increase flexibility.4
- Be aware that too much or the wrong type of exercise can cause harm, so speak to your doctor or physical therapist to design a regimen that is right for your fitness level and condition.
- Don’t neglect the importance of rest too! Find the balance between exercise and rest so you don’t overdo it.5
Don’t just use ONE paint colour, or ONE joint!
Try not to place excessive strain on any SINGLE joint by using larger, stronger joints to spare smaller, fragile ones.6 For example:
- Carry a shoulder bag instead of a handbag – and alternate shoulders when carrying a bag.
- Carry grocery bags in your arms instead of gripping them with your hands.
- Use both hands or the side of your body to open heavy doors.
Know when to call in a professional!
- Early diagnosis and effective treatment are key to stopping the progression of the disease and protecting your joint “foundation”.
- To get the most out of your current treatment, it’s important to talk to your doctor or rheumatologist about what treatment is right for you.
- The Arthritis Society. Nutirition. Accessed June 19, 2012.
- Johns Hopkins Arthritis Centre. Nutrition & Rheumatoid Arthritis. Accessed June 20, 2012.
- HealthLink BC. Food Sources of Calcium and Vitamin D. Accessed June 20, 2012.
- The Arthritis Society. Cross Training: Secret of Champions. Accessed June 20, 2012.
- The Arthritis Society. Basic Exercise Guidelines. Accessed June 20, 2012.
- Arthritis Today Magazine. Accessed June 28, 2012.