Getting regular exercise is one of the ways to deal with arthritis. Sitting too much can cause joint stiffness and muscle weakness, putting more stress on the arthritic joints. If you have arthritis, try to walk every half hour or so. Even a simple walk can help prevent stiff joints and back pain. In addition, heat and cold therapy can reduce inflammation. Listed below are some ways to handle arthritis.

Exercise

Although it’s common to hear that exercise is a way to handle arthritis, it’s crucial to begin with slow movements and gradually increase the intensity of your workout. If your arthritis flares up during exercise, you should stop and break until your joint has recovered and swelled again. During a flare-up, apply ice to your affected joint for 20 minutes. If you’re exercising on an uneven surface, take extra precautions to avoid damaging your joints.

The benefits of aerobic exercise are well-known. It can improve cardiovascular fitness and overall function. In addition, losing excess weight can be beneficial for people with arthritis, as extra weight puts pressure on many joints. Aerobic exercise is a great way to combat this additional pressure, and many health clubs have exercise programs for people with physical limitations. For example, try Pilates or walking, which builds strength and endurance in the muscles and joints. Whether a beginner or a seasoned athlete, aerobic exercise will improve your condition and prevent the disease from worsening according to arthritis treatment Orange Park, FL.

Heat

Heating joints and tissues can relieve pain in arthritic joints. It is also effective for relieving muscle spasms. The increased blood flow to affected areas improves circulation and loosens tight muscles. Heat increases blood flow to the site and promotes healing applied to joints. However, it is not recommended for swollen joints. On the other hand, cold packs are helpful for acute pain associated with inflammation.

A doctor may recommend using heat therapy as part of a treatment plan. For example, 15 to 20 minutes of heat application will be sufficient for minor to moderate joint pain. For more profound common injuries, longer sessions may be required. Using heat therapy is safe as long as it is performed under the supervision of a medical professional. However, people with hypertension or heart disease should consult their doctor before applying heat therapy.

Cold

There are many benefits to applying heat or cold therapy to your joints and muscles. Generally, heat reduces inflammation and increases circulation. When applied to joints, the cold helps to relax muscles and ease the pain. In addition, both therapies are effective for relieving symptoms of arthritis. In some cases, either type of treatment may be used in combination. To learn more about heat and cold applications, read on. Also, remember that both types of therapy can be used after physical activity.

Dressing warmly and avoiding strenuous activities can reduce joint pain and inflammation during the cold season. You can also take advantage of cold therapy by staying indoors and participating in a gym or fitness class. Another way to relieve the pain from arthritis is to limit the amount of food you eat. Avoid rich foods and holiday treats that can trigger flare-ups. In addition, bad food choices can lead to osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.

Combination of medication, therapy, and proper nutrition

Treatment of osteoarthritis typically involves a combination of anti-inflammatory medications, physical therapy, and proper nutrition. When conservative methods fail, joint replacement surgery is the next step. This procedure can restore mobility and ease the pain. However, the process has its benefits and drawbacks, so patients with RA should discuss the pros and cons of this treatment with their doctors. Here are some tips to help you make the best decision. Keeping pain and swelling at bay is essential to maintaining a quality of life and mobility.

Both treatments have their pros and cons. Lifestyle changes can help with long-term relief, and dietary changes should include a healthy diet and regular exercise. The muscles that stabilize joints will strengthen over time by making these changes. Always consult with a doctor before starting any exercise program. The Arthritis Foundation recommends 75 to 150 minutes of aerobic activity per week. It is OK to begin with shorter sessions and increase the time as your strength increases.

Medication

While medication for arthritis can reduce pain and inflammation, it cannot eliminate the disease. The response to an arthritis medication depends on many factors, including age, disease progression, and any comorbid conditions. You should select a drug that improves your symptoms and helps you feel better to improve your situation. Learn more about the different types of arthritis medications. You can also talk to your pharmacist for more information. Here are some of the more common drugs used for arthritis.

Acetaminophen – this painkiller is sold over the counter but is only used for pain relief. It does not reduce inflammation but can reduce a high temperature. NSAIDs – These drugs work against the body’s immune system to reduce inflammation and pain and ease stiffness. They are available as a cream, gel, or suppository. If you are prone to stomach and kidney problems, it is crucial to stick to the recommended dosage.