Treating Your Arthritis Pain- Tips and Tricks
Are you suffering from arthritis? One in every four American adults suffers from arthritis symptoms. Getting the diagnosis of arthritis doesn’t mean you have to resign yourself to a lifetime of pain or give up the activities you enjoy. Luckily, there are some simple things you can do to reduce the impact arthritis has on your life. And the other good news? Physical therapy has been shown effective for treating the pain and limitations associated with arthritis. Whether you have hip, knee, shoulder, or spine arthritis lifestyle changes combined with physical therapy can increase your flexibility, improve your strength, and help you manage your arthritis symptoms the right way.
Weight Loss
Many lower extremity and spine arthritis symptoms are exacerbated by excess body weight. But even a small amount of weight loss can make a BIG difference in reducing joint pain. Did you know that for every 1 pound you lose, you take 3 lbs of force off of your joint?!? That being said, weight loss is one of the most effective ways to manage the symptoms caused by arthritis without taking any medication. Thankfully, physical therapists have the knowledge to create various weight loss or weight maintenance programs that balance nutrition and exercise to help you meet your goals and reduce your pain.
Hot & Cold
Temperature matters when it comes to arthritis. Many people have discovered that heat helps to ease arthritic aches and pains. Others prefer cold packs. When applied on a regular basis, a cold pack will reduce swelling in the joints and relieve constant discomfort. Heat (in the form of a hot shower or moist heat pack) is preferred to ease complaints of stiffness. For best results, and especially in the active population, it is recommended to alternate between the two. Alternating has proven to provide the perfect balance between the soothing comfort of heat with the anti-inflammatory properties of cold. However, it is imperative to consult with a medical professional about the proper procedures for applying both heat and cold in order to avoid any skin irritation or damage.
Supportive Footwear
Most people overlook the effects of their footwear choices on arthritis of the spine and lower extremity (hips, knees, or ankles) Finding footwear with appropriate arch support or adding insoles/orthotics can result in immediate relief. When the foot is properly supported on the ground, it improves the alignment of the lower extremity joints and allows forces to transfer through the body with less irritation on any single joint. This can make exercise and daily life less painful.
Exercise
It can be quite tempting to simply rest when you are uncomfortable. Don’t fall into that trap. While rest can help ease the effects of an acute pain exacerbation, long-term rest is more detrimental than helpful. Nothing better manages arthritis like exercising on a regular basis. However, many people are not willing to begin an exercise program with arthritis due to a fear of injuring themselves in the process. Physical therapy can not only find the right exercise program geared towards your specific arthritis needs, but it can also provide you with a much-desired long-term solution to keeping your arthritis symptoms under control. Your physical therapist will show you proper technique, a variety of different exercises for your condition, and how to wear any appropriate accessories like braces or wraps if needed.
Arthritis should not stop you from living the life you deserve. The combination of physical therapy, a specialized weight loss program, heat and cold, and footwear can help you manage your arthritis pain in the best way possible. Contact HealthQuest Physical Therapy today to get started on your personalized physical therapy program and start enjoying a symptom-free life!
Call HealthQuest Physical Therapy today to schedule your appointment!