Managing Arthritis Pain
Just because you have arthritis, it doesn’t mean you have no control over pain and debility. There are many steps you can take to prevent and relieve discomfort.
Let’s take a look at some of the most effective tools you can use to enhance your comfort level, improve your mobility, maintain your independence, and improve your quality of life.
1. Begin and Stick with an Exercise Program
Exercise is a known pain and stress reliever, and can do wonders for you when suffering from arthritis pain. If you are overweight, engaging in an exercise program will help you to take off excess pounds that put stress on your joints.
Regular exercise can also improve your flexibility and strengthen your muscles and joints, which as a result can relieve joint pain. As an added bonus, when you exercise your body releases endorphins, a hormone that acts as a pain reliever.
Along with the physical benefits, regular exercise will give you more energy during the day, as well as help you sleep better at night. Feeling relaxed and getting enough sleep has a direct impact on how much discomfort you experience with arthritis pain.
Check with your health care provider before starting an exercise program.
Tips for Exercising with Arthritis
- Select an activity that interests you. Swimming, yoga, walking and isometric exercises are excellent options. Avoid activities that jar your joints.
- Set achievable goals.
- Warm up and cool down before and after each session.
- If you experience pain, back off on the activity. Do not press through it.
- Apply hot or cold packs to relieve muscle and joint soreness after exercising.
- Include activities that enhance your flexibility.
- Begin slowly. It will not take long for you to begin to experience rewards of your efforts.
- Consider getting a massage after your workout as a reward.
- Apply diluted essential oils to your joints before exercising. They can help to warm your joints, reduce inflammation and lower levels of discomfort.
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