Arthritis is the nation's leading cause of disability among Americans over the age of 15 and is more prevalent among women than men, according to the Arthritis Foundation. Currently, more than 24 million women and 17 million men worldwide live with this disease. Various types of arthritis exist, the most common being osteoarthritis, which is degenerative, causing pain and loss of movement. For those suffering from any form of arthritis, options are available to help treat and relieve the pain they experience, making life more manageable for them.
Step 1
Exercise on a regular basis to help manage pain and ease the symptoms of chronic pain, such as the pain people experience from osteoarthritis. The Mayo Clinic agrees, saying movement through exercise can help improve range of motion, decrease pain and strengthen muscles. The Mayo Clinic recommends focusing on stretching and strength training while choosing the right activities, which should build muscle around the joints without damaging them, including walking, water exercises and cycling.
Step 2
Ask about medications. Doctors may have drugs they can prescribe for the pain. In some cases, over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Advil) may be effective depending on the severity and the cause of the pain. It is imperative that patients follow their doctor's instructions, and if the pain persists, contact your doctor immediately.
Step 3
Use hot and cold therapy. The Arthritis Foundation recommends using temperature therapy as a means of treating arthritic pain. The cold packs help reduce the inflammation of the joint, thus relieving the pain, while the heat helps relax the muscles and restore circulation to the affected area. Some options for heat treatments include heating pads and lamps, warm baths or warm, moist wash cloths.
Step 4
Create a pain management chart, the purpose of which is to track every method of pain management method a person incorporates. Over time, a person will know what method works and what method does not. The University of Washington Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine department suggests posting the chart in an area such as the bathroom or on the refrigerator, where it is handy, and updating it often.
Step 5
Practice relaxation techniques. As the Arthritis Foundation explains, stress and pain have similar effects on the body--muscles tighten, breathing quickens and blood pressure increases. When relaxation takes place, pain is easier to manage.
One method of relaxation is hypnosis. It is a form of deep relaxation that helps a person focus internally, away from both their thoughts and anxieties. Those in pain may find this method soothing, but this form of relaxation usually requires the assistance of a professional hypnotist or counselor. In some cases, self-hypnosis is an option, but it takes practice to be effective.
Another relaxation technique is guided imagery, which begins with slow, deep breaths. The person imagines themselves in a comfortable and safe place before adding details, such as colors, sounds, smells and feelings. As you become lost in thought, the mind is taken away from the pain.
Things You'll Need
- Hypnotherapist
- Heating pad
- Hot lamp
- Moist wash cloth
- Cold compress
