The pain of arthritis can limit daily activities, interfere with sleep and affect your quality of life. The website Caring 4 Arthritis reports that more than 40 million people in the United States suffer from some type of arthritis. About half of those people have osteoarthritis. If you suffer from pain and stiffness or swelling in your joints, consult your doctor. A combination of medical treatment and soothing solutions you can try at home may ease your pain.
Step 1
Take a warm shower or bath in the morning. The University of Washington Medical School's Orthopedics and Sports Medicine department reports that moist heat can often ease joint stiffness and pain, which may be worse in the morning. Don't use water that's too hot, and don't stay in the shower or tub more than 15 to 20 minutes.
Step 2
Stretch gently. After you've dried off from your shower, run through a series of gentle stretches. The key is to move slowly and gently, not straining joints or muscles.
Step 3
Exercise regularly. Doing exercises that build up your muscles can reduce the strain on your joints, reports the University of Cincinnati's NetWellness website. Aerobic exercise helps you maintain your weight and builds stamina. Mix up your exercise routine and do some strength training and some aerobic exercise such as walking or swimming every week.
Step 4
Move regularly during the day. Sitting in one place for long periods of time can cause stiffness and pain, according to MayoClinic.com. If you're working at your desk, driving in your car or sitting and watching television, take regular breaks to stretch and walk around.
Step 5
Apply cold packs to joints. Wrap a package of frozen peas in a towel or use a gel pack you freeze. Place it on the painful joint for no more than 15 minutes at a time to help reduce swelling and numb pain.
Step 6
Relax. Relaxation eases both the physical and emotional stress of arthritis. The Arthritis Foundation recommends such relaxation exercises as meditation, prayer, visualization and the use of relaxation tapes.
Tips and Warnings
- If you're overweight, losing weight will reduce the strain on your joints and can help ease arthritis pain, reports MayoClinic.com.
- Consult your doctor before taking over-the-counter or prescription pain medications for arthritis.
Things You'll Need
- Towel
- Frozen peas or gel pack
- Relaxation tapes
