Arthritis sufferers know all too well that even life’s simplest chores are complicated by the pain and discomfort of swollen joints. If arthritis is controlling your life, do not allow it to. You do not have to suffer in pain. Keep reading for more information on dealing with your condition.
Temperature changes from heating pads and ice packs can help fight joint pain. Alternate use of a heating pad and an ice pack for even better results. Get your doctor’s advice on the most effective pain relief strategy to use with hot and cold treatments.
Do not skimp on sleep if you are suffering from arthritis. By not getting enough shut-eye, your body won’t get the chance to fight the painful symptoms of arthritis. The amount of sleep people require usually vary from 6-8 hours per night, more if the stress level is high. You will feel a noticeable difference in your arthritis pain when you get enough sleep.
Relaxing your body and eliminating stress can help to control your arthritis symptoms. If you are under stress, it can release chemicals that will make your muscles inflamed and you will feel pain from arthritis. One way to eliminate stress is to learn new time management skills. Light exercise will also help lessen stress.
Smoking can decrease your flexibility and increase your arthritis symptoms. Although it’s hard to quit smoking, it may help to think about how it negatively impacts your arthritis.
Pain killers should be used only if you absolutely have to. You might end up addicted to this medication and the pain will always come back. If you need prescription pain medication and your doctor has authorized its use, be sure that you follow all of the directions provided by the doctor and the manufacturers.
This may not be a cure for arthritis, but these simple daily changes can result in stopping some of the common causes for the issue. Many people develop the problem because of everyday things, such as posture or the way they walk. With this article, you can begin to change these activities into something that can, instead, shield your joints from a lifetime of pain.