Arthritis is a painful condition indeed, but there are ways to manage the pain that don’t even require a trip to the pharmacy. While medication is generally the route that most will take at some point to keep arthritis pain under control, others will find alternative arthritis pain relief methods that are equally effective. Whether you are trying out alternative arthritis pain relief as the first step in treating your condition, or choosing to use it as a complementary treatment to traditional medication, there are plenty of choices that will help you enjoy more symptom-free days and less pain from your arthritis.
Healthy Choices
One of the first methods of alternative arthritis pain relief to try is a regular exercise program. While aerobics or weight training might not sound too enticing when your stiff joints are keeping you from moving freely, certain types of exercise can help you regain some range of motion and keep the pain at bay. Good choices might include introductory yoga, light walking or water aerobics. Most people find that once they begin exercising, the pain is alleviated enough to allow them to continue on with their program. The other advantage to exercise is that it helps you keep your weigh in check, another important alternative arthritis pain relief method that has proven to be quite effective.
Some people also find that an effective alternative arthritis pain relief method is dietary changes that include adding certain supplements to the regimen. Some vitamins that have been effective in bringing alternative arthritis pain relief include vitamins C, D and E. Calcium is another good choice for a vitamin supplement. Vitamins C and E are antioxidants that may provide some protection against further joint damage while vitamin D and calcium will strengthen bones.
Heat and Cold
Adding heat and cold to the affected areas is another good choice in alternative arthritis pain relief. Some people find that soaking in a warm bath regularly will relax the muscles and relieve some of the stiffness that accompanies arthritis. This habit can be especially helpful at night before bed since it can help you sleep better and can also be good for back pain relief. Others find that a hot or cold pack applied to the sore area will provide immediate relief from the pain and inflammation. Heat is good for relieving stiffness while cold will provide relief from inflammation and pain. Do not use either of these packs for more than 15-20 minutes at a time and never apply the pack directly to the skin. Instead, place a cloth between the skin and the pack to avoid burning and irritation.
Arthritis is a challenging condition to overcome, with chronic pain that can get even the toughest down from time to time. The good news is that there are choices in medication and alternative arthritis pain relief that can keep that discomfort at bay and allow you to get on with your life.