Are you a mature adult suffering from arthritis pain? If you are, you are not alone. In fact, an estimated 50% of those over 65 years old have been diagnosed to have arthritis. Although arthritis may not be curable, there are many ways to manage and relieve the pain. Hence, here are the top 5 tips for relieving arthritis pain.
Make Use of Heat Therapy
Did you know that heat helps to relax your tight muscles and joints, can improve circulation, and relieve muscle spasms? That’s right, heat therapy is a great solution to arthritis pain. However, remember to use a small towel between your skin and the heat source. This will protect your skin from direct contact with heat packs. Here is a tip. A damp towel may also double as a heat pack. Simply place it in the microwave for 1-2 minutes. Wrap the heated towel in a plastic bag and shield the skin with a dry towel before applying the covered heated towel to your skin.
Make Use of Cold Therapy
There are a number of useful cold wraps and pads that can help with relieving pain in joints that much easier. While cold packs could feel a little painful at first, they have the ability to relieve severe pain. Swelling and inflammation can also be reduced by rubbing ice cubes over uncomfortable regions. Use a cloth or towel to keep your skin from direct contact with the cold pack and take breaks every 15 minutes so as to avoid getting too cold.
Use Both Hot and Cold
If heat therapy and cold therapy work for you, why not combine both and get the best of both worlds? After all, most find that utilizing both heat and cold therapies relieves their arthritis pain the most. Here is a tip for using both hot and cold therapies. Make use of heat therapy during the day and cold therapy at night. This is because heat therapy relaxes your muscles and joints, while the use of cold treatment can help to reduce inflammation caused by everyday activities.
Consume More Omega-3
Did you know that omega-3 can help to reduce inflammation in your body, which can help lessen your arthritis pain? Hence, consume more omega-3-rich seafood such as salmon, sardines, herring, tuna, and omega-3 supplements. However, before adding any supplements, be sure to check with your doctor to see if any of your drugs or medications have any restrictions.
Exercise and Move Around Constantly
Contrary to popular belief, exercising and moving around regularly is beneficial and can relieve arthritis pain. While it could hurt when you first start, regular exercise will reduce the pain in the long term. On the contrary, the lack of movement will worsen your arthritis pain. Hence, aim to gently move and make use of your muscles and joints throughout the day for at least an hour.
