Arthritis Relief: 10 Ways to Help You Feel Better

The aches and pains of arthritis can wreak havoc on one’s life. Fortunately, there are many steps you can take to get some relief from arthritis, so you can start feeling better. Below are some methods of keeping your arthritis under control.

Eat More Vegetables

Eating more vegetables is one of the simplest ways to ease your arthritis symptoms. Veggies, such as spinach, kale and parsley can help protect your cartilage. Additionally, green vegetables are high in calcium, which can protect your bones.

Get Moving

Exercising is also way great way to relieve the pain from an arthritic hip. In fact, being sedentary can worsen arthritis pain. Perform gentle exercises, such as walking and yoga for 30 minutes per day. Gentle exercises can make a big difference.

Toss that Cigarette

Smoking can cause inflammation, which can worsen cause more pain associated with arthritis. People who smoke are also more likely to suffer a joint fracture. You can lessen your symptoms and overall health by quitting smoking.

Lose Weight

Losing extra weight is also a good way relieve pain from your joints. You do not have to lose a lot of weight in order to alleviate your symptoms; a little weight loss can already make a difference. Talk to your doctor to determine a healthy weight for you or give us a call here at Urgent Care.

Low-Fat Dairy Products

We can’t stress the importance of low-fat dairy products, which are a great source of calcium. Yogurt, milk and cheese are examples of foods high in calcium. Protect those bones!

Increase Your Intake of Omega 3 Fatty Acids

Omega 3 fatty acids are found in walnuts, salmon and flaxseed. These nutrients help curb inflammation. They can also help alleviate stiffness and pain in the joints.

Get a Massage

Massaging the joints can improve your range of motion and alleviate your pain. You can schedule an appointment with a massage therapist. Make sure to tell the massage therapist about your arthritis, which will allow your therapist to give you special care for your condition. If you are going to give yourself a massage, be gentle and don’t stress your body. Do what feels comfortable and if it doesn’t improve, talk to a doctor.

Meditate

Research studies have shown that meditation can help alleviate joint pain. It can also alleviate depression symptoms, which are common in people who suffer from arthritis. Turn on some soothing music, focus on your breath and just breathe. A few minutes of meditation a day can go a long way or you can join a meditation class. If you do join a class, ask your instructor for any special guidance as well.

Heat Therapy

Applying a heat pad to the affected joints helps improve blood flow and promote quick relief. Heat can alleviate stiffness, pain and also improve flexibility.

Capsaicin Cream

Capsaicin is the substance inside of peppers that makes them hot. Capsaicin cream can help alleviate pain by blocking a substance called P. This substance sends pain messages to the brain.

 

The above suggestions can help you feel better. However, it’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor in regards to your specific needs. Call us at Urgent Care and we will be happy to offer insight as to what you can do to get some relief from your arthritis. Thank you for choosing Urgent Care.