Are you struggling with arthritis pain?
More than 54 million people have been diagnosed with arthritis and over 14 million of them experience regular joint pain due to the debilitating condition.
While there is no way to reverse arthritis or cure it completely, you can treat arthritis and have a better quality of life.
Here are 7 ways to manage your arthritis pain.
Table of Contents
1. Supplements
Many supplements contain anti-inflammatory properties that help decrease the inflammation caused by arthritis.
Supplements include:
- Omega-3 fatty acids: found in fish, nuts, seeds, plant-based oils and more.
- Tumeric spice: an antioxidant with endless health benefits.
- Cannabidiol, or CBD, oil: a chemical compound in marijuana.
These supplements naturally ease inflammation, protect the joints and reduce arthritic pain.
Tip: on the hunt for quality CBD oil? Use our CBD oil buyers guide.
2. Diet
In many cases, arthritis pain relief can be as simple as changing your diet.
Eat plenty of:
- Garlic
- Berries
- Salmon
- Spinach
- Broccoli
- Beans
- Citrus fruits
These foods fight inflammation, ease arthritis pain and, as a bonus, boost your immune system.
3. Exercise
Certain exercises can ease arthritis pain by relieving joint stiffness and inflammation.
If you are experiencing arthritis pain, try:
- Water exercise
- Stretching
- Tai Chi
- Yoga
- Pilates
By adding exercise into your routine, you can increase your range of motion and improve joint flexibility and function.
Tip: always check with your doctor before beginning any exercise routine.
4. Hot and Cold Therapy
Use hot or cold therapy to manage arthritis pain.
Heat relaxes muscles and lubricates joints to relieve stiffness and treat muscle spasms.
Cold reduces pain, swelling, and inflammation.
You can alternate these therapies, depending on what type of pain you are experiencing.
5. Massage
Can your indulgent massage help manage your arthritis pain?
A recent study says yes.
200 people participated in a 52-week study that monitored the effectiveness of light-touch massages vs. Swedish massage for arthritis pain.
After 8 weeks, the participants receiving the Swedish massage reported improved physical function and decreased pain and stiffness as compared to those receiving regular treatment and a light-touch massage.
This study shows massage is a viable option for treating arthritis pain.
6. Weight Management
Releasing a few pounds can make all the difference when you are coping with arthritis.
Weight loss helps to:
- Reduce inflammation
- Relieve joint pressure
- Reduce pain
Proper weight management can also help prevent arthritis.
7. Mindfulness Meditation
Mindfulness meditation has many benefits like reducing stress, improving focus and reducing anxiety.
Did you know that mindfulness meditation can also help with arthritis pain management?
A 2014 study shows that 26 out of 51 people reported a decrease in pain and other arthritis symptoms after participating in an 8-week mindfulness-based stress reduction class.
By implementing mindfulness exercises, you can manage your arthritis pain.
When To See A Doctor
Arthritis is a complicated condition that should be regularly monitored by a medical professional.
Your doctor may prescribe a mixture of medication and lifestyle changes to find the best treatment for your specific case.
You Can Manage Your Arthritis Pain
By working with your doctor, eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly and using mind-body therapies, you can effectively manage your arthritis pain.
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