If you are suffering joint pain from arthritis, you are not alone. Millions of Americans experience chronic pain due to arthritis each year. Arthritis is a common condition that causes joint discomfort and inflammation. Other symptoms of East Village arthritis include redness, edema, and stiffness. Although arthritis is unpleasant and painful, there are several ways to manage it.
Here are ways to manage arthritis pain.
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Exercise
Exercises with low- or no-impact that don’t put a lot of stress on your joints, like walking, water aerobics, tai chi, or yoga, can assist people with arthritis in managing their pain and enhance their quality of life. Also, cardiovascular exercises may be beneficial. For instance, stationary cycling can help maintain heart health. In addition, engaging in regular physical activity can lower the risk of acquiring diabetes and heart disease.
Aim to do 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercises every week. Depending on your conditions, your activity level may change. See your doctor if you are unsure about what kind of exercise is best for you.
Manage your weight
Additional weight can put greater strain on the joints that support body weight and make the discomfort worse. Additionally, fat releases chemicals that worsen inflammation. Being overweight harms your general health since it raises your risk for heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Make sure your diet is well-balanced, with lots of fresh fruit, vegetables, healthy grains, and lean protein sources like beans, chicken, and fish. Avoid red meat, processed meals, and sweetened beverages.
Apply heat or cold therapy
Applying heat or cold to affected joints can temporarily relieve arthritis pain. A heating pad, hot towel, or warm bath can help ease joint stiffness and relieve pain. Cold therapy, such as an ice pack, can reduce swelling and numb the affected area. Experiment with heat and cold treatments to see which works best for you.
Take medications
To reduce inflammation and treat your joint pain and arthritis, your doctor may advise using prescription or over-the-counter medications. If you are taking prescription medicine, pay close attention to the doctor’s instructions and let them know if you have any unpleasant side effects. Additionally, be sure to take your prescription as prescribed. Your doctor can suggest topical therapies and oral treatments, such as creams you might apply to your painful joints.
Find ways to manage your stress
You may relax and manage your joint pain better by doing massages, meditation, and mindful breathing. Never allow fear to prevent you from trying new things that might enhance your quality of life. Limiting your activities to avoid flare-ups might make matters worse.
Do your best to manage your stress levels and retain a pleasant attitude. You may keep your mind active and your spirits high by engaging in social activities with family and friends, taking up a hobby, and seeking the counsel of a therapist.
Use assistive devices
Assistive devices, such as canes, crutches, and braces, can help to reduce the stress on the affected joints and relieve arthritis pain. Your doctor can help you determine which type of assistive device is best for you, depending on the location and severity of your arthritis.
Living with arthritis-related joint pain is tough, but it may be simpler with the correct management strategy. Try implementing some of the lifestyle modifications mentioned above and monitor your symptoms. You will undoubtedly find that making adjustments like losing weight, getting more exercise, and reducing stress can improve your general health.
Call Matt Pabis, MD, to book your appointment to manage arthritis pain.