Friday, 31 May 2024

7 drinks to reduce arthritis pain and inflammation

From msn.com

Wondering which drink you may consume to improve your joint health? Well, there are a plethora of options available. To know the best drinks to manage arthritis, Health Shots spoke to Dr Archana Batra, a nutritionist and certified diabetes educator.

1. Warm turmeric milk

Turmeric contains curcumin, a natural anti-inflammatory compound, that can alleviate symptoms associated with arthritis. Batra says, "Warm turmeric milk has been around for ages, and its potential benefits include reducing inflammation and joint pain." Curcumin contains anti-inflammatory properties may help alleviate symptoms associated with arthritis. Simply heat a cup of milk, add a teaspoon of turmeric powder, stir well, and enjoy before bedtime for a comforting sleep.

2. Green tea

Green tea is celebrated for its numerous health benefits, including its anti-inflammatory properties. Rich in antioxidants called polyphenols, green tea may help reduce inflammation, promote healthy joints and skeletal muscles. Plus, it's a refreshing and hydrating beverage that you can enjoy throughout the day. Brew a cup of green tea and sip it hot or cold for an energy boost.

green tea benefits       © Provided by Healthshots

3. Cherry juice

Cherries are renowned for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Cherry juice, in particular, has gained attention for its potential benefits in reducing arthritis pain.

"Anthocyanins, the compounds responsible for the vibrant red colour of cherries, have been found to have the ability to reduce inflammation," explains Dr Batra. Opt for unsweetened cherry juice to avoid added sugars and reap the maximum benefits.

4. Ginger tea

Ginger has long been recognised for its anti-inflammatory properties. Drinking ginger tea can be a soothing option for individuals with arthritis, as it may help reduce joint pain and inflammation.

"You can prepare ginger tea by steeping fresh ginger slices in hot water or using pre-packaged ginger tea bags. Adding a touch of honey or lemon can enhance both the flavour and potential health benefits," advises the expert.

5. Tart cherry smoothie

Tart cherries, similar to sweet cherries, contain anti-inflammatory compounds that may help alleviate arthritis symptoms. Batra explains, "They also contain anthocyanins, which have been shown to reduce inflammation and alleviate joint pain." This smoothie not only tastes great but also provides essential nutrients for joint health.

6. Bone broth

"Bone broth is rich in collagen, glucosamine, and chondroitin—nutrients that support joint health and may benefit those with arthritis," according to Batra. Collagen, in particular, is a key component of cartilage and may help maintain joint function. Sipping on warm, nourishing bone broth can be a tasty and nutritious way to provide your joints with the building blocks they need for optimal function.

bone broth         © Provided by Healthshots

7. Hibiscus tea

Hibiscus tea, made from the dried petals of the hibiscus flower, is not only a visually appealing beverage but can fight against arthritis symptoms. Rich in anthocyanins and other antioxidants, hibiscus tea may contribute to reducing inflammation. Enjoy it hot or cold, sweetened with a touch of honey if desired, for a flavourful and potentially soothing experience.

Incorporating these drinks into your daily routine can be an effective way to manage joint pain and arthritis symptoms. So make sure you are giving it a try!

https://www.msn.com/en-in/health/health-news/drinks-for-arthritis-7-beverages-to-reduce-joint-pain-and-inflammation/ar-BB1iyULn?ocid=msedgdhp&pc=U531&cvid=3db5282da3b54721c1cf870360c5e2dd&ei=13 

Wednesday, 29 May 2024

Can A Heatwave Cause Inflammation In People With Arthritis?

From ndtv.com

Heat can trigger an inflammatory response, causing joints to swell and become more painful

A heatwave can exacerbate inflammation in people with arthritis. High temperatures and humidity can lead to increased joint pain and stiffness for arthritis sufferers. The body's response to excessive heat includes increased blood flow and sweating, which can cause dehydration and lead to the thickening of joint fluids, reducing their lubricating ability. The stress and fatigue caused by coping with high temperatures can also amplify the perception of pain. Consequently, during a heatwave, individuals with arthritis may experience heightened discomfort and inflammation, making it essential for them to stay hydrated, and cool, and avoid excessive sun exposure. Read on as we share tips to help manage arthritis in summer.


Tips to help manage & reduce inflammation during summer for people with arthritis:

1. Stay hydrated

Proper hydration helps maintain joint lubrication and prevents the thickening of synovial fluid. Drink at least 8-10 glasses of water daily. Carry a water bottle with you and take regular sips throughout the day.

2. Stay cool indoors

Reduces exposure to high temperatures, which can trigger inflammatory responses. Use air conditioning or fans to keep your living space cool. Spend time in air-conditioned public places like shopping malls or libraries if necessary.

3. Avoid peak sun hours

Minimises direct exposure to heat and UV radiation, which can worsen inflammation. Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late evening when temperatures are lower.

4. Wear lightweight, breathable clothing

Keeps your body temperature down, reducing heat stress and associated inflammation. Choose clothing made of natural fibres like cotton or linen, and wear loose-fitting garments.

5. Apply cold compresses

Cold therapy can reduce swelling and numb the pain in inflamed joints. Use ice packs or cold compresses on affected joints for 15-20 minutes several times a day.

6. Have an anti-inflammatory diet

Consuming anti-inflammatory foods can help reduce overall inflammation in the body. Incorporate foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins, such as fatty fish, leafy greens, berries, and nuts, into your diet.

7. Practice gentle exercise

Maintains joint flexibility and reduces stiffness without overexertion, which can be exacerbated by heat.  Engage in low-impact exercises like swimming or yoga during cooler parts of the day to keep joints mobile.

8. Take cool showers or baths

Helps to lower body temperature and soothe inflamed joints. Take a cool shower or bath when you feel overheated, particularly after being outside.

9. Use fans or portable coolers

Provides direct cooling to reduce body temperature and inflammation. Place fans or portable coolers near you, especially when sleeping or sitting for extended periods.

10. Monitor weather reports

Being aware of upcoming heatwaves can help you plan and take precautions in advance. Check weather forecasts regularly and prepare by stocking up on supplies like water, cooling packs, and planning indoor activities.

By following these tips, people with arthritis can better manage their symptoms during a heatwave, reducing the risk of increased inflammation and maintaining a higher quality of life.

Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.

https://www.ndtv.com/health/can-the-heatwave-cause-inflammation-in-people-with-arthritis-5758392

Saturday, 25 May 2024

Five anti-inflammatory foods to fight against arthritis - doctor's recommendation

From msn.com 

Roughly 10 million people in the UK suffer from arthritis.

The conditions results in significant pain and inflammation in the joints and is often accompanied by swelling a tenderness in different parts of the body. However, while the symptoms of arthritis can be frustrating for patients, one doctor says an anti-inflammatory diet can significantly reduce pain.

Dr Sunni Patel, from Dish Dash Deets, highlighted that the foods he recommends will not outright cure arthritis. However, it can ease symptoms, especially the swelling and pain often associated with the condition, the Express reports.

He said: "While they may not provide a cure for arthritis, incorporating these foods into your diet can potentially help ease symptoms and improve overall joint health."

                                                     Certain foods hold brilliant anti-inflammatory properties   © Getty Images/iStockphoto

Here are five anti-inflammatory foods that could help with symptoms associated with arthritis.

Fatty fish

Packed with omega-3 fatty acids, fish, like salmon, mackerel, sardines, and trout, can help reduce joint pain and stiffness in people with arthritis, the doctor explained. Dr Patel recommended aiming for at least two servings of oily fish per week, with each serving being about 85 to 120 grams, to achieve a “good dose” of omega-3 fatty acids.

Turmeric

Turmeric’s yellow bright colour comes from a compound with strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, known as curcumin.

“There is no specific daily recommendation for turmeric, but including it in your diet (paired with black pepper to increase its absorption) as a spice or in dishes regularly can be beneficial,” the doctor said.

Ginger

Whether you drink it in your tea or add it to your curry, ginger offers natural anti-inflammatory properties that can help alleviate arthritis pain. The doctor recommended including one to two teaspoons of fresh ginger or ginger powder in your daily diet.

Berries

Between strawberries and blueberries, berries are also rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. These properties may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress in the body, Dr Patel explained.

He added: “Aim for at least one cup of berries per day as part of your fruit intake. This provides a good source of antioxidants.”

Leafy greens

Leafy greens, including spinach, kale and Swiss chard are natural sources of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that can help combat inflammation. Therefore, the doctor advised incorporating a serving of leafy greens into your daily meals, such as salads or smoothies.

While the amount of each anti-inflammatory food needed to reap its benefits can vary depending on individual factors such as age, gender, activity level, and overall diet, the overall guidelines can provide a general advice, the expert concluded.

https://www.msn.com/en-gb/health/other/five-anti-inflammatory-foods-to-fight-against-arthritis-doctor-s-recommendation/ar-AA1gWDHM?apiversion=v2&noservercache=1&domshim=1&renderwebcomponents=1&wcseo=1&batchservertelemetry=1&noservertelemetry=1

Friday, 24 May 2024

How Are DMARDs Used to Treat Psoriatic Arthritis?

From healthcentral.com

These disease-modifying medications can be highly effective, with a few considerations 

DMARDs (disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs) are used in psoriatic arthritis (PsA) treatment to reduce inflammation, slow joint damage, and improve symptoms like pain and stiffness. If your doctor has prescribed a DMARD as part of your treatment plan, you probably have some questions about what DMARDs are, how they work, and whether there are any side effects to worry about. Here’s what you need to know.

How DMARDs Work for Psoriatic Arthritis

DMARDs are often referred to as immunosuppressants or immunomodulators because they change the way your immune system works. In simple terms, when you have psoriatic arthritis, your immune system goes off track and mistakenly attacks your body’s healthy tissues. While the exact mechanism of action is still being explored, scientists believe that DMARDs target at least one inflammatory pathway, helping to tamp down uncontrolled inflammation.

Unlike commonly used over-the-counter medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), DMARDs can reduce the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis while also slowing down the disease to prevent further damage.

Types of DMARDs Used for Psoriatic Arthritis

Historically, when you think about DMARDs for psoriatic arthritis, you are usually referring to conventional systemic DMARDs (such as methotrexate), according to Laura Coates, Ph.D., an associate professor and researcher of psoriatic arthritis at the University of Oxford in England.

Because newer classes of PsA medications (such as biologics) are also disease-modifying and anti-rheumatic, you may also see biologic medications denoted as bDMARDs. In addition, some of the newer targeted synthetic medications are denoted as tsDMARDs (apremilasttofacitinib). “I think of the targeted synthetic DMARDs as being more similar to biologics than to methotrexate as far as cost, novelty, and effectiveness,” Coates says.

The list of conventional DMARDs that are commonly used for psoriatic arthritis include:

  • Arava (leflunomide)

  • Azulfidine (sulfasalazine)

  • Cyclosporine and Tacrolimus (calcineurin inhibitors)

  • Rheumatrex, Trexall, Rasuvo, Otrexup (methotrexate)

Which DMARD Is Right for Your Psoriatic Arthritis?


                                                  Getty Images/WLADIMIR BULGAR/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY

Which treatment is right for you will be a decision based on close collaboration between you and your provider. It depends on a variety of factors, according to Elizabeth Schulman, M.D., attending physician at the Hospital for Special Surgery and an assistant professor of medicine at Weill Cornell Medical College in New York City. “Today, the first line of treatment for PsA is biologics for most cases,” says Dr. Schulman. “We really only use methotrexate as a first line of treatment when it is contraindicated, for example if someone is fearful of the side effects of a biologic, or if there is a comorbidity that would prevent them from using a biologic.”

The choice of medications can also depend on the specifics of your disease. “As an example, methotrexate is not approved for axial disease [inflammation related to the spine],” explains Dr. Schulman.

Costs may also come into play in the decision-making. For example, conventional DMARDs are often less expensive than the new biologics that are available. And patient preference matters. DMARDs can be taken as a pill, which can be helpful for those uncomfortable with injections. According to Dr. Schulman, “DMARDs are not our usual standard of care, but they are still in our toolbox.”

Side Effects of DMARDs

“All drugs have significant specific side effects and DMARDs are no exception,” says Coates. For example, DMARDs can lower the ability of your immune system to fight infections. According to the American College of Rheumatology, other side effects of DMARDs include:

  • Abnormal blood counts

  • Diarrhoea

  • Dizziness

  • Elevated liver function tests

  • Gastrointestinal upset

  • Hair loss

  • Hypertension

  • Mouth sores

  • Rash

What if the DMARD You're On Isn't Working?

If your DMARD isn’t providing symptom relief, talking to your provider is a great first step. Even if you are experiencing side effects, your provider may be able to adjust your dose or timing of your medication or add a supplement (such as folate) to help reduce the side effects.

How long do you need to wait to decide if it is working? According to the National Psoriasis Foundation, if you don’t meet your target goal with your treatment in three months, it’s time to discuss other treatment options with your doctor. If you do need to change treatment, don’t worry, there are more therapies available than ever before for psoriatic arthritis.

Takeaways

Disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) have been a cornerstone of psoriatic arthritis treatment for many years. Due to their long history, they are often called traditional or conventional DMARDs. There are newer disease modifying medications now available and those are also sometimes referred to as disease modifying drugs, but they are often denoted as bDMARDs or tsDMARDs.

There are known side effects of traditional DMARDs but these are also well-understood medications. If you are prescribed a DMARD and it isn’t working for you, there is always the option to change medications or add a new treatment to the one you are taking. Your provider will help you understand the benefits and risks of all your medications. Together you will decide the best treatment for you.

https://www.healthcentral.com/condition/psoriatic-arthritis/dmards-for-psoriatic-arthritis

Tuesday, 21 May 2024

Doing this exercise through your lifetime protects against knee pain or arthritis

From yahoo.com 

Bicycling, whether outdoors or in a spinning class, may help prevent knee arthritis and pain.

People who biked at any point in their lives were 17% less likely to develop knee pain and 21% less likely to develop arthritis with pain in the knee joint, according to an analysis of data from more than 2,600 people in their 60s. The report was published earlier this month in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise.

“Based on our observational study, bicycling over a lifetime is associated with better knee health, including less knee pain and less damage to the joint,” said the study’s lead author, Dr. Grace Lo, chief of rheumatology at the Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Centre in Houston. “The more periods of time in life a person spent bicycling, the less likely she or he had knee pain and signs of osteoarthritis.”

From a more personal perspective, Lo said, “the findings from the study make me feel pretty good that I make my kids ride their bikes on a regular basis and I will continue to encourage that activity. I also am happy that I have a bike and I ride when I have a chance as well.” Lo is also associate professor of medicine at Baylor College of Medicine.

Biking builds muscles around the knees

People with knee arthritis are often told by their doctors to keep their joints moving, but until now it wasn’t clear what activity might be best for that. The new study suggests that biking may build muscles around the knees without the downside of jarring to the joints that might result from activities such as running.

Lo and her colleagues focused on a subset of volunteers from a larger study, the Osteoarthritis Initiative, a multicentre observational investigation that recruited people ages 45 to 79, some of whom had knee arthritis while some did not.

As part of the new research, eight years into the original study participants filled out a questionnaire that asked about leisure physical activity during four periods of their lives:

  • Ages 12 to 18.

  • 19 to 34.

  • 35 to 49.

  • Age 50 and older.

For each time period, the participants were asked how often they cycled. More than half of them had cycled consistently at some point in their lives.

The data from the study can’t explain why biking might be protective. But Lo suspects that people who biked between 12 and 18, when most did it, built up their quadriceps and that development stayed with them even though they may not have continued to ride.

Biking may be so protective because it doesn’t jar the joints.

“We do know that activities that are non-weight bearing are less likely to cause pain,” Lo said. “That’s probably a reason why people have less pain when bicycling as compared to other activities.”

When it comes to outside versus inside pedalling, Lo says there’s no research to determine whether one is better than the other. It’s just a matter of personal preference and convenience.

“This is a pretty cool study,” said Dr. Andrew Gregory, an associate professor of orthopaedics neurosurgery and paediatrics at the Vanderbilt University Medical Centre in Nashville. “It’s advice we give out a lot but it’s good to be able to support that advice with evidence.”

Activities that involve moving the knee help maintain the health of cartilage.

"Movement of the joint is really important because it drives nutrients into the cartilage,” Gregory said, adding that this part of the knee has no blood supply of its own.

Which helps knees more — biking or running?

The big advantage biking has over running is it saves the knees from being jarred, Gregory said. In fact, people with knee arthritis probably shouldn’t be running, he added.

Moreover, biking strengthens an important group of muscles that isn’t built up by running.

“Running works the muscles that are in a straight line: the hamstrings, the quads and the calves,” Gregory explained. “Biking strengthens the glutes, which keep the hips and knees strong and that helps because they affect side to side motion.”

Without strong muscles on the sides of the legs, the knees are more vulnerable to injury.

The new study doesn’t suggest how often people should bicycle. But for that, you might want to fall back on general recommendations on how much activity is healthy, said Dr. Christine Peoples, a clinical associate professor of medicine in the division of rheumatology at the University of Pittsburgh.

“I would say, if you’re not active now, you should start slow and cycle two to three times a week pedalling slowly and at a low intensity," she said. “Make sure you’re on a bike with a supportive seat position. Then you can gradually increase the intensity.”

The study does have limitations. It doesn't prove that biking helped people’s knees — it can only show an association between cycling and less pain and joint damage, said Dr. Scott Barbuto, an assistant professor of rehabilitation and regenerative medicine at the Columbia University Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons in New York City.

When a study is retrospective, meaning the data are examined after the fact, “you can never talk about causality,” he added. “And the authors do mention this as a limitation of the study.”

Still, Barbuto said, doing a prospective trial in which participants are randomly assigned to bike or not to bike is not feasible since it takes so long for arthritis to develop.

How does biking help the knees?

It’s possible that the non-concussive exercise sparks the production of factors that limit the development of inflammation, Barbuto said. Moreover, it strengthens the muscles in the leg that support the knees, he said. And it does so without the impact stress on the joints you would get with running.

Rehab for an arthritic knee includes physical therapy to strengthen the muscles around the joint, he said.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com

https://www.yahoo.com/lifestyle/doing-exercise-lifetime-protects-against-182149957.html

Sunday, 19 May 2024

What To Know and Do About Arthritis Pain

From health.com

Arthritis is a condition that causes pain, inflammation, and limited mobility in your joints. There are several subtypes of arthritis, all of which cause varying levels of discomfort and affect different parts of your body.

In most cases, arthritis pain develops gradually and can worsen as time goes on. Some people may experience pain suddenly. Pain may also worsen at the end of the day or after physical activity.

There's no cure for arthritis, but there are several ways to manage the pain. Many people choose to use medications to reduce inflammation. You can also try home remedies in addition to medical treatments. If you have arthritis or are experiencing joint pain, seek advice from your healthcare provider to receive proper treatment and reduce the risk of complications.

Potential Causes of Arthritis Pain

Arthritis pain can occur for two primary reasons: mechanical breakdown of your joints due to aging and wear-and-tear or inflammation due to an immune system response. Several different conditions can cause joint pain, including the following.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a condition that causes a gradual breakdown of the entire joint and its cartilage (cushion) over time. Without the cartilage to provide a cushion, the bones rub together, which can change the shape of your bone. This can result in extreme pain, increased inflammation, and joint stiffness that limits your mobility.

Normal wear and tear of aging or an injury (such as an ACL tear) can cause symptoms of OA to develop.

Most people with OA typically experience pain in the joints of the knees, hips, lower back, hands, and neck. The discomfort tends to increase at night-time or after completing a physical activity, such as household chores or exercise. Other symptoms may include:

  • Stiffness in the morning or after prolonged periods of inactivity
  • Decreased joint mobility or flexibility
  • Clicking sounds when bending the joint
  • Joint swelling
  • Weak muscles around the affected joint

Not everyone will get OA as they age. While the condition is common in people over 50, younger people may also develop symptoms of osteoarthritis. Factors like joint injury, obesity, muscle weakness, and having a family history of OA can all increase your risk of developing the condition at an earlier age.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune condition that causes your immune system to mistakenly attack your joints. Researchers don't know the exact cause of RA, but a combination of genetics and environmental factors (like infection or stress) can trigger your immune system. After the immune system becomes activated, it attacks the synovium (the lining of your joints), causing a range of symptoms like pain and stiffness.

RA usually starts in the feet and ankles and tends to affect the same joint on both sides of your body. People with RA often experience joint stiffness in the morning that lasts longer than 30 minutes. Other symptoms of this condition include:

  • Extreme fatigue
  • Low-grade fever
  • Muscle weakness.

You may be at an increased risk of developing these symptoms if you were assigned female at birth, are middle-aged, or have a family history of this condition.

Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is another autoimmune condition that occurs when your immune system attacks healthy cells in your joint tissue and skin. Many people who develop PsA also have an underlying diagnosis of psoriasis—a common skin condition that causes inflamed patches of itchy skin. However, it is possible to develop PsA without having psoriasis—though this is rare.

If you develop PsA, you may experience the following symptoms:

  • Joint pain and stiffness
  • Swollen fingers and toes
  • Redness and swelling around the joints
  • Inflamed and discoloured patches on the skin
  • Nail discoloration and pitting (holes in your nails)
  • Separation of the nail from the nail bed
  • Limited range of motion in your joints

Gout

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that occurs when your joints have an excessive build-up of uric acid (a waste product). When uric acid gets left in your body and builds up, it creates needle-like crystals around the joints, causing extreme joint pain and inflammation. Generally, gout develops in your big toe, but other body parts like your knees and elbows can also become affected.

This condition is very common, but you may have a higher chance of developing symptoms if you have an underlying diagnosis of obesity, metabolic syndrome, chronic kidney disease, hypertension (high blood pressure), and psoriasis.

When to Contact a Healthcare Provider

                                                                                                PORTRA / GETTY IMAGES


If you're experiencing joint pain, meet with your healthcare provider to learn how to reduce your symptoms and preserve the function of your joint. Consider reaching out to your provider if you develop any of these symptoms:

  • Sharp, stabbing, or constant joint pain
  • Limping
  • Joint pain that worsens at night or after exercise
  • Excessive swelling and tenderness around the joints

In some cases, arthritis-related conditions may lead to complications. If you have a type of arthritis and experience any of the following symptoms, it's important to seek prompt medical care:

  • Joints that are discoloured or feel warm
  • New skin rashes
  • Chest pain
  • Shortness of breath
  • Fevers or chills
  • Eye redness or pain

Diagnosis

If you're ready to make an appointment about your joint pain, it can help to understand the diagnostic process. In most cases, you'll see your primary care provider first to discuss your symptoms. If they think that you have arthritis, they will likely refer you to a rheumatologist—or, a doctor who specializes in inflammatory conditions that affect the joints, muscles, and bones.

During your appointment, your provider will ask about your medical history and perform a physical exam. They'll want to know if you have any underlying health conditions and check for symptoms like swelling, inflammation, stiffness, or warmth around the joints.

To learn more about your condition and overall health status, your provider may also order one or more of the following symptoms:

  • Blood tests: Rheumatoid factor, antinuclear antibodies, and anti-double-stranded DNA are diagnostic tests used to detect autoimmune disordersErythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and C-reactive protein tests can also help detect inflammation.
  • Joint fluid analysis: This exam involves using a needle to withdraw fluid from your joint to check uric acid levels or test you for an infection that may trigger your arthritis symptoms.
  • Imaging tests: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), computerized tomography (CT) scans, and X-rays can help to determine the extent of joint erosion and bone damage.

How To Treat Arthritis Pain

The goal of arthritis treatment is to help you better manage your pain, reduce symptoms, and improve your mobility. Over-the-counter (OTC) medications like Advil (ibuprofen) can help reduce inflammation, while Tylenol (acetaminophen) can help relieve pain. Depending on the type of arthritis you have, your provider may also order prescription-strength medication for you.

Other remedies in conjunction with medication can also help reduce symptoms. Consider the following pain-relieving treatments:

  • Regular physical activity: Exercise and gentle movement can help strengthen the muscles that surround the joints and relieve pain.
  • Heat or ice therapy: Heat can help relieve muscle pain surrounding the joint and ice plays a role in reducing inflammation. When using heat and ice therapy together, alternate which therapy you're using and apply each treatment for 15 minutes at a time. It's also helpful to use an ice pack or heating pad with a protective barrier, such as a towel.
  • Massage: Swedish massages can relieve stress and promote relaxation in your body, while deep-tissue massages can help improve joint pain and reduce knots in the affected areas.
  • Biofeedback: This mindfulness technique can help reduce pain by teaching you how to control your breathing, heart rate, and muscle responses.
  • Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT): This type of psychotherapy helps you identify negative thoughts and feelings about your symptoms, which can help lower perceived stress levels and reduce pain.

A Quick Review

Many types of arthritis can cause joint pain, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. While there's no cure for arthritis, several treatments can help reduce your pain, increase mobility, and improve your overall quality of life.

Your healthcare provider may recommend medication alongside treatments like massages, heat and ice therapy, and gentle physical activity to help you manage symptoms.

https://www.health.com/arthritis-pain-8613230