How to Ease Arthritis Pain, Naturally

Approximately one in five American adults is diagnosed with arthritis. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention states arthritis is one of the main causes of disability in American seniors. The CDC further estimates the number of people suffering from arthritis will rise to 67 million by 2030.

This ailment can cause extreme discomfort and pain. There are several different types of arthritis and the cause depends on what type you are affected with. This condition which affects the joints occurs due to wear and tear of cartilage, lack of synovial fluid that nourishes the joints and cartilage, or due to infection, autoimmunity, and a combination of many factors. Arthritis affects you in different ways. The severity and length of pain depend on the type you are affected with. However, pain is the main factor. So, what do you do? How can you overcome arthritis pain? Arthritis medication can be extremely costly. Therefore, you should consider a few natural remedies that may help overcome the pain.

Maintain a Healthy Weight

Arthritis, most often, affects your knee and hip joints. More pressure is exerted on these joints if you are overweight. One of the best ways of managing arthritis pain is by maintaining a healthy weight. First, you need to lose the excess pounds by exercising and eating a healthy diet. Once you have lost the extra weight, you should do everything necessary to maintain the weight. At least 10 to 20 pounds of weight loss can significantly reduce arthritis pain.

Stay Active

If you suffer from arthritis, physical exercise is a must. It was thought exercise made arthritis worse. However, this is not so. Lack of exercise causes joint stiffness and pain. Physical exercise keeps the joints flexible and strengthens the muscles and surrounding tissue. Lack of exercise makes these tissue and muscles weak. This creates more stress on the joints resulting in pain. In addition, staying active, helps you maintain your ideal weight. Consider walking or swimming to stay in shape and keep your joints flexible.

Get a Massage

According to the Arthritis Foundation, regular massage helps alleviate arthritis pain. This does not require the payment of exorbitant amounts of money for a professional masseuse. You can speak to your doctor about self-massage methods so that you can practice these on your painful joints.

Consider Hydrotherapy

Pain simply vanishes when you soak your body in warm water. So, chase the pain away by lying in a tub of warm water. Consider replacing your conventional bathtub with one that comes with jets designed to help ease the pain of aches. If you are worried about tripping or slipping when getting in and out of the bathtub, consider purchasing a walk-in bathtub.

Consider Physical Therapy

Severe arthritis pain may require physical therapy. For example, if you find it difficult getting in and out of a chair, you should consider physical therapy. There are many qualified therapists who make house calls. Make sure he or she is experienced in the treatment methods used for arthritis patients.

Arthritis is a debilitating problem that can take away your independence. However, these natural remedies may be beneficial in alleviating your pain and restoring your independence. Remember to consult your doctor about any remedy you consider for your arthritis. Some types of therapy may not be suitable for your condition.

This article is courtesy of activeadultliving.com, a website that lists over 8,500 active adult retirement communities, categorized under various lifestyles, state-wise.