Dealing With Arthritis Pain

There are many different types of arthritis, including Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis which are extremely common, especially in older populations. One thing all arthritis has in common? Pain and discomfort. For many sufferers, arthritis is crippling. In fact, many doctors say it is the leading cause of impairment. Fortunately, we're here to offer a few tips for dealing with arthritis pain.

First, a note about arthritis pain and discomfort: Other health issues can exacerbate the problem. In particular, extra weight can make arthritis much more challenging, so a healthy diet and regular exercise are great preventive steps. Similarly, sleep issues and gastrointestinal issues can also exacerbate arthritis, especially if they (or other health issues) contribute to swelling or inflammation.

As a result, it’s incredibly important that you eat well (lots of fruits and vegetables; limited grains, meats, and dairy; pay attention to allergies and food sensitivities, which can result in inflammation), exercise regularly (especially in ways that promote aerobic and anaerobic fitness as well as flexibility and strength), sleep well (with a regular bedtime and good sleep habits) and whatever else helps you stay healthy (including meditation or other stress-relief techniques). All of this can help you not only prevent arthritis but help manage it if you’re already fighting arthritis pain.

Gentle exercises such as water aerobics, swimming, tai chi, or walking can all be effective in boosting circulation without aggravating joint sensitivity, which can make them a helpful part of dealing with joint pain. For some patients, a warm pool can be more beneficial, as can yoga, but check with your care team to get more ideas here. Additionally, mobility supports can also help, whether that’s tools like a walker or braces like a KS7 compression knee sleeve. When searching for the right supportive aids there are many different options on the market.

The KS7 is a unique blend of medical-grade support in a lightweight brace with heavy-duty support. Massage can similarly help reduce pain and swelling while also boosting circulation. Aromatherapy oils may additionally help with pain relief; personally, I’ve seen patients have good luck with black pepper, juniper, and ginger oils added to a carrier oil such as jojoba; chamomile, rosemary, and lavender (again, added to a carrier oil) are also good choices for soothing sore joints and easing inflammation and stiffness. Simply massage the imbued carrier oil into the affected oil to ease the pain. Baths with Epsom salts or essential oils can work in much the same way. Arthritis medications have come a long way in the last 10-15 years, too.

Not only do many of the medications on the market now have far fewer side effects, but they may also be far more effective in managing your pain and stiffness. There are also natural treatments using herbs and spices that may work well for you, such as turmeric to reduce inflammation or ginger root. If this is something you are interested in, it is well worth talking to a trained naturopath, who can help you find the right treatments for you. Other alternative treatments that work well for some people include acupuncture and cupping. Regardless of what approach you take to dealing with your arthritis pain, make sure you do so under the supervision of trained professionals and your care team.

Arthritis doesn’t have to be crippling, and with the right care for you, it won’t be.

Author: Rebecca Evans