There are a variety of different aches and pains that can affect a person over the course of their lives, from muscle pain after strenuous activity to chronic back pain. However, most people agree that arthritis pain is among the worst conditions you can experience. This problem is caused by inflammation of the joints, which makes it difficult for patients move without discomfort. As a result, an effective pain remedy is vital if people with the condition are to live their lives somewhat normally. Fortunately, there are a number of methods you can use to get pain relief for arthritis. Read on to see if one of the tips below can help you!
Use Hot and Cold Therapy
Hold and cold therapy is a popular method for relieving pain, used by everyone from athletes to chronic pain sufferers. Begin by applying an ice pack or bag of frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel to the site of your pain, leaving it on for at least 15 minutes. Once this is completed, take a short break before taking a long, warm shower or bath, laying under a heated blanket, or applying a warm cloth. To simplify the process, you can try using a pain patch instead. If you find that this step works, you may also find that using heated or electric blankets at night keeps your joints loose.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medical treatment that involves inserting thin needles into specific points of the body. This technique may not be for everyone, but many people find that it helps their arthritis pain. If you want to try this acupuncture, look for an experienced practitioner with good references.
Massages
If acupuncture doesn’t sound like an appealing way to achieve pain relief for arthritis, a massage might be more attractive. The Arthritis Foundation reports that frequent massages can help reduce pain and stiffness and also improve motion. A physical therapists can teach you self-massage techniques, or you can schedule regular appointments with a massage therapist. Ask your doctor if they can recommend a practitioner who has experience providing pain relief for arthritis.
Eat Anti-Inflammatory Foods
Have you spent any time researching healthy foods? If so, you have likely heard that omega-3 fatty acids and turmeric have been linked to a number of healthy benefits over the years. This could include reduced arthritis pain, as these foods have anti-inflammatory properties. Try adding fatty fish, walnuts, soybeans, dark leafy greens and, of course, tumeric to your diet, or ask your doctor about fish oil supplements.
Do you have arthritis pain? What do you use for pain relief? Tell us about it in the comments.