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Gain Control Over Arthritis Pain
Achy knees? Stiff fingers? Painful hips? Unfortunately, there’s no cure for arthritis, but there are plenty of steps you can take to help manage the pain.
Over-the-counter relief
Physicians recommend several nonprescription
pain relievers for arthritis. These include acetaminophen,
aspirin, naproxen sodium and ibuprofen.
Glucosamine and chondroitin also can be bought without a prescription. Some studies have shown that both these supplements may help ease the pain of osteoarthritis in knees and hips—but experts stress that more research is needed.
Hot or cold packs also may offer relief. Ask your doctor which over-the-counter and home treatments are best for you.
Exercise and weight control
Doctors recommend range-of-motion, strengthening
and aerobic exercises for people with
arthritis.
- Work out when your pain is less severe and your joints more flexible.
- Take frequent breaks and change position regularly. Be sure to stretch muscles before and after working them.
- Ask your doctor to help you adjust your exercise program if you show any of the signs of too much exercise. These include increased weakness or joint swelling, unusual fatigue, decreased range of motion or pain that lasts longer than an hour after exercising.
Protect your joints
Canes, crutches and walkers can make walking
less of a strain on your knees and hips. Also,
whenever possible, use your larger and stronger
joints. For example, carry grocery bags with your
forearms or palms instead of your fingers.
“From jar openers to long-handled shoehorns, many items can make daily activities easier on sore joints,” says Rocak. Other examples include:
- Velcro fasteners or zippers instead of buttons or ties.
- A mobile shower head—bend it, not your body.
- Large cushion grips on tools and equipment.
Placing a splint around painful joints can sometimes help reduce pain and swelling. Ask your doctor if you should use one.
ther helpful therapies
Many people with arthritis find relief with one
or more of the following measures:
- Soaking or exercising in a pool or whirlpool may reduce pain and stiffness. “It also can take stress off your lower extremities, which can allow you to do exercises that you wouldn’t be able to perform when standing on dry land,” says Rocak.
- Relaxation therapy may release tension in muscles.
- Massage therapy may increase joint motion and muscle and tendon flexibility.
Local Relief for
Living With Arthritis
Salem Health offers outpatient occupational
and physical therapy services at the Salem
Hospital Regional Rehabilitation Center,
