Arthritis is a condition that is quite painful, and something in which millions of people live with each day. Like anything else, you need to be educated about the right way to treat your arthritis if you want to be successful. If you want some hints and tips to show you how to treat your arthritis more effectively, just keep reading.
Before you change anything in your medication schedule make sure you consult with a doctor first. The danger lies in a rebound effect if the medication is stopped too quickly. A medication that seems to be ineffective at first, may just need time to build up in your body in order to work.
Avoid pain killers, if possible, when managing arthritis pain. They are at best a temporary fix and can lead to addiction. If you do use a prescription pain medication given by your doctor, don’t use more than the directions say to.
Make sure you form a good stretching routine. One of the biggest issues for arthritis sufferers is the loss of flexibility. A daily regimen of stretching the entire body will keep muscles and joints more supple. Start at your toes, moving slowly up your entire body until you reach your head.
Investing in a home sauna might just help to alleviate your arthritis pain. Inflammation from arthritis is reduced by the moisture and heat supplied by saunas, and this helps to alleviate pain. To have this be an effective practice you’re going to have to go to the sauna regularly.
Always closely monitor your diet and food intake. Arthritis is often unknowingly triggered by food sensitivities. One way to help in finding out if you have any food sensitivities is to keep a food journal. Write down everything you eat as well as any flare-ups that you experience. You might be able to pinpoint the cause.
As stated at the beginning of the article, arthritis affects a large number of people and it is a very painful condition to have to deal with. But with the proper knowledge, coping with arthritis can be simple.