Arthritis is a group of painful and degenerative conditions characterized by inflammation, soreness, degeneration of joint structures and a feeling of stiffness, and subsequently joint deformities. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, it is characterised by wear and tear of the articular cartilage and once it occurs it continues to worsen with age. Rheumatoid arthritis is caused due to a response of the body's immune system that attacks joint structures as if they were foreign tissues. Rheumatoid arthritis is therefore classified as an autoimmune disease.
Usually, the treatment of arthritis involves taking anti-inflammatory and pain medications, which produce results but also lead to some unpleasant side effects (stomach irritation, gastritis, ulcers, etc.). Our Okto specialists will give you 9 tips for managing arthritis pain:
Your weight can have a big impact on the degree of pain you experience due to arthritic changes. The more you weigh, the more strain is placed on your joints, especially your hips, knees and feet. As the weight is reduced, the load on the joints is correspondingly reduced, mobility is improved, pain is reduced and thus the changes in the joint structures are slowed down.
The positive aspects of exercise are not only related to the fact that it supports weight loss, but also has a beneficial effect on the joints. Exercises where there is a strain on the affected joints with the weight of the body such as running and prolonged walking can lead to a worsening of the problem. Instead you can try water aerobics or swimming, these sports maintain the mobility of the joints without adding additional stress on them.
The simple application of hot and cold can have a great impact on arthritic pain. Long warm showers or baths, especially in the morning help to reduce stiffness in the joints. You can use an electric blanket or heating pad for the night.
Cold therapies are best for relieving joint pain, swelling and inflammation. You can use a pack of frozen vegetables or wrap in a cloth of ice and put them on the painful areas for quick relief.
Acupuncture is an ancient treatment that, according to Chinese traditional medicine, uses the insertion of needles into the body to restore the body's energy balance. Acupuncture has the ability to reduce arthritic pain. This method of treatment is also offered at our clinic, Okto, and our specialists are certified in its application.
Meditation and relaxation techniques can help reduce arthritis pain by reducing stress and helping you to tolerate painful sensations more easily. There is some research that shows that reducing stress has a beneficial effect on inflammatory processes, resulting in reduced pain.
Everyone needs omega-3 fatty acids in their diet to maintain optimal health. These fats also help with your arthritis. There are results that show that supplements that are high in omega-3 fatty acids have an impact by reducing stiffness and pain.
Turmeric is an Indian spice that contains a chemical called curcumin, which can help reduce pain. The secret lies in its anti-inflammatory abilities.
Frequent massage therapies relieve pain and stiffness and improve range of motion.
