Typically, the general wear and tear on a person’s joints increases as they age and joint discomfort can put a damper on one’s day-to-day activities. Basic movements, such as walking up a flight of stairs, may become obstacles for a person with joint pain.
Many people turn to traditional treatments, such as anti-inflammatory medication, to help reduce pain or inflammation. But there are several alternative ways you can also soothe sore joints, such as:
Get active. Joints in motion stay in motion, joints at rest stay at rest. So the more you move the better. Sign up for a yoga class or start a regular swimming, walking or bicycling routine. These are all low impact forms of exercise that won’t put a lot of pressure on joints. Mix up your routine so you don’t get bored.
Eat healthy. Eating a healthy diet and controlling your weight will minimize stress on your joints. Stick to foods low in saturated fats and eat plenty of fruit, vegetables and whole grains. Also, increase your intake of calcium- and vitamin D-rich foods to keep bones from becoming osteoporotic.
Cool your aches. To reduce pain and swelling, apply an ice pack or a bag of frozen peas to sore joints for 15 minutes.
Soak in your tub. A warm, relaxing bath before bed can relieve muscle tension, ease aching joints and help you sleep better.
Go for a massage. A massage can help decrease pain, increase circulation, reduce stress and improve flexibility. Find a certified massage therapist who treats people with arthritis.
If you find that traditional or alternative treatments aren’t working to alleviate your aches and pains, Steward Health Care orthopedic surgeons can help find the treatment option that is right for you. To make an appointment with an orthopedic surgeon in your community visit, Steward DoctorFinder™ or call 1-800-488-5959.
