There is a flood of information out there regarding treatments and advice to successfully manage your arthritis pain. But how do you determine which treatments will be effective? Before you jump into the world of expensive prescription medications, steroids, injections, supplements, and skin creams, try these tips to effectively manage your arthritis pain, without breaking the bank.
Keeping Arthritis In Check
Arthritis can happen in any of the joints in your body, affect multiple joints at a time, and happen to anyone. The two most common types of arthritis are Rheumatoid arthritis and Osteoarthritis. Check out the video below for a more detailed explanation of the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for both RA and OA.
Ditch The Heels
Because most cases of osteoarthritis occur in weight-bearing joints like the knees and hips, wearing heels for long periods of time can be detrimental to these joints. The added height can cause your feet and legs to move at an unnatural angle, putting more pressure on the knees and hips while walking. Switch out your heels for flat, cushioned shoes that will be more supportive and comfortable.
Stay Active With Low-Impact Exercises
Exercise provides many long-term benefits that can aid you in effectively managing arthritis pain. However, there’s a trick to getting the most out of your workout without causing more harm to your joints and making your arthritis worse.
To save your joints from excess pressure, opt for low-impact activities like swimming, biking, or using an elliptical at the gym. Any exercise that can get your heart pumping while also taking the stress off your joints will help minimize arthritis pain and keep you active.
Protect Your Joints
Even though getting regular exercise is important for joint health, it’s imperative that you avoid overdoing it and unintentionally causing more harm than good. Overusing your joints, either while running, boxing, or doing other repetitive and high-impact activities, can cause your cartilage to deteriorate faster. Therefore, it’s important to take active measures to ensure your joints are well-protected and are not overworked. You can protect your joints by doing strengthening and mobility exercises to build up the surrounding muscles and improve your range of motion. Below we share a few exercises you can try at home to work on your joint’s mobility and strength.
Don’t Let Arthritis Hold You Back
Most forms of arthritis cannot be cured, but with an early and proper diagnosis, your arthritis pain can be effectively managed. You can also reduce the effects of arthritis pain by taking the steps above to keep your joints happy and healthy.
If you’re tired of battling with arthritis pain, schedule an appointment with Airrosti. Our hands-on manual therapy approach can be used in conjunction with traditional treatment methods to help you manage the pain associated with arthritis.
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