The Dos and Don’ts of Arthritis Pain Management

Pain is a signal from the body that something isn’t right. It’s an indicator, not just for the pain itself, but also for how much stress the body is under. However, chronic pain can be debilitating for anyone and significantly impact quality of life.

Arthritis is one of the most prevalent chronic illnesses in the world and is described as joint inflammation that results in pain, stiffness, and limited movement. Arthritis pain management requires balancing medications, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes, so you feel your best as often as possible with your arthritis. This article will give you the dos and don’ts of managing your arthritis pain, so you feel more comfortable and confident moving forward with this part of your life.

Don’t Engage in High-Impact Exercise

Exercising is essential to manage arthritis pain, but you must choose the right type of exercise. Avoid high-impact exercises like running, jumping, and sports. These activities can cause joint damage and increase your risk for injury. Instead, opt for low-impact aerobic activity such as walking or swimming.

Do Find New Low-Impact Exercises to Try

Low-impact exercises are great for managing chronic pain associated with arthritis. Yoga and Tai Chi are two popular forms of exercise that can benefit people who suffer from lower back pain. Walking, swimming, and other low-impact exercises can be helpful if you want to avoid joint damage.

Don’t Lead a Sedentary Lifestyle

Resting doesn’t necessarily mean you’re doing something wrong. However, it would help if you didn’t sit on the couch for too long. Instead, try getting up every hour or so to stretch and move around. This will help prevent stiffness and improve circulation.

Do Invest in an Ergonomic Workstation in Your Office

Most people spend about 8 hours per day sitting at a desk or table. A comfortable office chair will help prevent lower back pain. Adjusting the height of your monitor can reduce neck strain. It would be best if you also considered investing in a keyboard tray to keep your wrists straight while typing.

Don’t Allow Yourself to Get Too Stressed

Stress causes inflammation which leads to joint pain. Meditation helps reduce anxiety and depression. Breathing exercises help relieve tension and increase oxygen flow.

Do Manage Your Body Weight

It is essential to manage your weight when you have arthritis, as carrying extra weight can strain your joints, leading to pain and further damage. Losing weight can help reduce pain and improve mobility. There are several ways to lose weight safely and effectively, so speak to your doctor or a registered dietitian for advice.

Don’t Skimp on Medical Treatments

Many patients benefit from a combination of medications, physical therapy, and other therapies. Arthritis treatments can help improve the quality of life for many people. Patient’s preference for treatment options is essential in determining which type of arthritis care works best for them.

Do Keep Track of Your Pain Levels

Pain levels fluctuate throughout the day. You may need to adjust your medication dosage based on how much pain you’re experiencing. It’s important to note when symptoms get worse and better. This can help you and your doctor knows if your current treatment options are working.

Don’t Eat Foods That Increase Inflammation Levels

Inflammation is a natural body response to infection or injury, but chronic inflammation can lead to various health problems. Many foods can contribute to inflammation, so it’s essential to be aware of which ones to avoid. Some common inflammatory foods are processed meats, refined carbohydrates, saturated fats, and artificial additives. Eating an anti-inflammatory diet rich in whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce inflammation and promote overall health.

Do Pay Attention to Your Foot Health

If you have arthritis, paying attention to your foot health is essential. This is because arthritis can cause problems with the bones and joints in your feet, leading to pain and difficulty walking. There are a few things you can do to help keep your feet healthy:

• Wear shoes that fit well and support your feet.
• Don’t walk barefoot, as this can strain your feet unnecessarily.
• Avoid high heels, as they can cause joint and bone problems.
• Stretch and exercise your feet regularly to keep them flexible.

If you have foot pain, see a doctor or podiatrist to check it out. Taking care of your feet will help you stay mobile and independent as you age.

Wearing comfortable shoes can help people who have arthritis. Flat, flexible shoes can reduce forces applied to the knees. People with knee pain should wear shoes that allow them to move freely without putting pressure on the joints.

Schedule an Appointment With an Orthopedic Doctor

Arthritis affects millions of Americans every year. There are many different ways to treat arthritis. People with arthritis should consult a doctor or specialist to determine what works best.

If you have any concerns about your health, talk to your doctor. You’ll find out what steps you can take to treat your condition. Contact Orthopedic Laser Spine Surgery at (855) 853-6542 or complete our online form to schedule an appointment today.