Arthritis is a source of pain and disability in millions of patients all over the world. This condition causes inflammation of the joints, which can make movements difficult or painful. Arthritis is a degenerative condition, meaning the symptoms get worse over time. Your physician may prescribe medicine to manage the discomfort, but there are other things you can do to keep the pain at bay.
It is possible to live a full and active life while dealing with an arthritis diagnosis. Here are some simple lifestyle changes that can have a big impact on your quality of life.
Extra weight puts more pressure on your joints. If you are overweight, your arthritis symptoms could be exacerbated. Maintaining a weight that is healthy for your age and lifestyle can lessen the pain caused by arthritis.
Not only will staying active help with maintaining your weight, but low-impact exercises like walking or water aerobics can ease joint pain as well. Exercising improves your range of motion, increases muscle strength, and reduces stiffness in your joints. When starting a new exercise regimen, avoid high-impact activities that involve running or jumping.
In addition to incorporating more activity into your routine, you should also do gentle stretches every day. Stretching your muscles and putting them through their full range of motion can help with stiffness and pain.
Applying either heat or cold to sore joints and muscles is a quick and easy way to give you some relief. When it comes to arthritis pain, many people feel that heat works best for pain management. But for some, ice packs can offer just as much relief. Try both to learn which treatment works best for you.
Foods that are rich in vitamins and nutrients can promote overall health—this includes the health of your joints. There is even some evidence that suggests following a healthy diet can decrease arthritis symptoms over time. Regardless of whether your diet directly impacts your arthritis diagnosis, following a balanced diet is one of the best ways to improve your overall health and avoid health complications.
Massages will not treat your arthritis symptoms directly, but they can offer temporary relief to arthritis patients. Whether you decide to book an appointment with a professional masseuse or try some self-massage methods, always consult your physician first.
There are several ways to manage arthritis symptoms using medication, either via drugs or creams. Anti-inflammatory drugs, like ibuprofen, and steroid creams containing menthol or capsaicin are two common ways patients manage their pain.
Implementing these small practices into your everyday routine can help you lead a comfortable, active, and healthy life, despite the onset of arthritis. When determining how to ease arthritis pain, the best place to start is by talking to your physician. Whether you want to manage the pain with medication, physical activity, diet, or all the above, they can help lay out the best treatment plan for your needs.
Content contained on this page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your health care provider before beginning any new fitness or dietary plan. References provided are for informational purposes only and do not constitute endorsement of any websites or other sources. Should you have any health-related questions, you should contact your health care provider.
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