6 Ways to Ease Arthritis Pain

Arthritis can be a frustrating and painful condition that affects quality of life for many elderly adults. While it can affect people of all ages, it tends to be more prevalent in those who are older. Joints become stiff and painful which makes it more difficult to carry out different tasks and sometimes even to move comfortably. Everyone responds slightly differently to various treatments and what works well for one person may not be as effective for the next. However, here are a few strategies to try for alleviating your arthritis pain:

1. Maintain a healthy weight. Excess weight can put more stress on your joints and also make it more difficult to stay active. As you lose weight, you may notice relief and a decrease in symptoms. Strive to make healthy choices and keep your weight in check.

2. Engage in low-impact exercise. Staying active can improve mobility and decrease pain. Gentle stretches and low-impact exercises can strengthen muscles and improve range of motion. Start with stretches in the morning and then continue periodically throughout the day. Try to refrain from long periods of sitting. Activities such as swimming and cycling can also be easier on your joints while keeping you active.

3. Get a massage. Massage therapy can stimulate blood flow, reduce inflammation, and alleviate pain. It can also help decrease joint stiffness. Find a therapist who is experienced in working with those who have arthritis.

4. Apply heat. A heating pad or relaxing in a warm bath can soothe sore joints. Be careful not to make them too hot or leave the heating pad on for more than 20 minutes to prevent burns.

5. Take anti-inflammatory medication. There are several anti-inflammatory medications tailored specifically toward those with arthritis. Your doctor can also prescribe medicine. Reducing inflammation in your joints can ease stiffness, relieve pain, and make movement more comfortable. In addition, there are many foods that also have anti-inflammatory properties and can help seniors to be proactive in coping with arthritis.

6. Use topical ointments. There are also topical ointments that you can apply directly to painful areas. They are absorbed directly into the skin and can temporarily relieve pain.

Depending on the type of arthritis you have, your doctor may recommend different strategies or medications. Incorporating healthy foods and regular exercise into your daily routine can help to keep joints looser and inflammation down. Try several approaches to figure out what works best for your situation. Arthritis does not have to keep you from doing things that you enjoy and staying as active as possible. With some strategic planning and modifications, you can continue to engage in many activities and minimize pain.