Top 5 Ways to Relieve Arthritis Pain

Dealing with a new arthritis diagnosis or helping a loved one who may be struggling with arthritis pain can be a challenge, especially for those who may not be familiar with the complexities of this issue. The good news is there are various ways to deal with arthritis. The effectiveness of the various options depends on where it is most prevalent and the extent of the person's discomfort. 

Consider these five options to relieve arthritis pain. 

Alternate Hot and Cold Therapy

Sometimes, a holistic approach can be effective in managing arthritis pain. Using hot and cold packs, sometimes alternatively and sometimes just one or the other, can help to ease discomfort.

An ice pack or heating pad can be used while relaxing or after an exhausting day when flare-ups may be more likely. Choosing one over the other depends on which helps most at the time. There are times when a heating pad just isn't doing the trick and moving over to an ice pack might help more. This is why it is prudent to keep both on hand and at the ready to address arthritis discomfort. 

Use an Anti-Inflammatory Medication

Before pursuing this option, ask a healthcare provider if this is an effective and safe option for you. The use of an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medication is one of the most common ways to relieve arthritis pain - and one of the most accessible. The efficacy of these medications varies with each person. 

Most are specially formulated to target the inflammation that can perpetuate arthritis pain in the body. In this way, they are different from other traditional pain relief medications because of these components. 

Consider a Topical Agent

Another way to address arthritis pain is through the use of a topical agent, such as an arthritis pain cream. Before doing so, check with a medical care provider to ensure safety.

A cream can penetrate the skin layer just enough to help soothe inflammation around the joint or muscle. This may be most effective in situations where arthritis is not significantly advanced.

Take a Swim

Swimming is another good option to relieve arthritis pain. It is easy on the body, provides enough movement to keep joints well lubricated and moving, and can be a good way to relieve stress.

Those struggling with acute arthritis pain might also engage in physical therapy in a swimming pool, as some of the exercises used in therapy are easier to do underwater. 

Try Ortho Rehab Therapy

Ortho rehab therapy is an extremely effective method for dealing with arthritis pain. It is a robust approach to therapeutic intervention that works gradual physical re-strengthening of the afflicted area and movements that can be used long-term to support the muscle or joint more effectively. 

Benefits of ortho rehab therapy include improved circulation, injury prevention and pain relief. It may increase range of motion in some instances and provide more effective and long-term aid than some of the other options. 

This form of therapy can be used alone or with other methods of pain relief to maximize impact. The earlier that a person dealing with arthritis begins this approach, the more effective it is likely to be. 

Ready to start your journey toward arthritis healing? Schedule an appointment with us today!