How to Manage Arthritis Pain - Top 5 Tips

Arthritis affects more than 50 million people in the U.S. alone. In fact, there are over 100 types of arthritis, including the well-known osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, which can affect not only the elderly but people of all ages. Most forms of arthritis are not curable. However, with early diagnosis and some simple lifestyle changes, the resulting swelling, joint stiffness, and pain can be effectively managed. These five tips will help you to take control of your condition by reducing joint damage, improving function, and easing your arthritis pain.

1. Keep Active While Protecting Your Joints

It may seem counterintuitive to exercise when your joints are in pain, but remaining active is critical to managing arthritis. Moderate exercise helps to reduce pain and stiffness, and perhaps more important, it helps strengthen muscles that support your joints. Some of the best low-impact exercises include stretching, yoga, walking, swimming, and biking as they take the stress off the affected joints while allowing you to keep active. Rest when needed and take care not to overdo. Repetitive movements or high-impact activities can further damage arthritic joints. Learn your limits. Talk with your healthcare provider about the best activities for you and the possible need for protective equipment like wrist, ankle, or knee supports. 

2. Develop and Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle

Developing a few healthy habits can help improve symptoms of arthritis.

• Work towards a healthy weight as extra pounds put undue pressure on your joints.
• Eat a healthy diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods like fruits and vegetables. 
• Quit smoking as it can cause harm to joints and connective tissues in those with certain types of arthritis. Smoking can also reduce the effectiveness of some treatments.

3. Seek Medical Treatments To Help Manage Pain

Arthritis pain can be managed with some simple treatments.

• Applying alternating heat and cold treatments on an arthritic area can help increase circulation and temporarily ease pain and inflammation. For heat, use a heat pad or microwaveable pack, or take a warm bath. For cold, apply a gel pack or a frozen bag of peas or corn. 
• Topical creams and ointments can provide temporary relief for arthritis pain. Be sure not to apply them to irritated skin or areas with open wounds.
• Careful use of over-the-counter pain relievers (like aspirin, naproxen, or ibuprofen) can temporarily ease arthritis pain and inflammation. Long-term, regular use can come with serious side effects, including stomach ulcers or liver damage. Use them wisely and discuss dosages with your healthcare professional

4. Manage Your Stress

Studies have shown that managing stress can reduce arthritic pain and increase function. Check into building relaxation techniques like meditation or deep breathing into your daily routine. Review your sleep habits and take steps to assure you get a fully rested sleep. Don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare professional for a referral to a therapist.

5. Keep Up to Date on Care Options

• Alternative approaches to arthritis pain relief may include regular massage or acupuncture by trained professionals. Check with your doctor about whether these options may be right for you.
• Educate yourself about the latest developments in arthritis treatments by searching online resources or joining in-person or online support groups. 
• Work with your healthcare provider by asking questions and informing him/her of any changes in your symptoms. 

Are you looking for more ways to relieve your arthritis pain? PrimaryPlus of Ashland, KY provides the highest quality of advanced, affordable healthcare. We can help you manage the pain associated with arthritis.  Visit us online and call 1-606-324-0128 to schedule an appointment with one of our orthopedic experts.