7 Tips for Managing Your Joint Pain

Joint pain can make it difficult for you to complete your daily activities. Fortunately, you do not have to let joint pain take the joy out of life. There are many things that you can do in order to manage joint pain. 

Get Physically Active 

You may not want to move much if you have joint pain. However, this is one of the best things that you can do to manage your joint pain. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that everyone get 150 minutes of exercise in every week. It is best for you to do low-impact exercises such as swimming, walking and biking. Keep in mind that you do not need to do one long workout session. You can do several 10-minute sessions throughout the day. 

Take Your Medications Wisely 

You may need to take medication if you suffer from severe joint pain. However, it is important to use your medications wisely. You should never take more than what your doctor recommends. If you feel that your current dosage is not working, then you will need to contact your physician. 

Paracetamol is one of the medications that can be used to manage joint pain. If it is taken in large doses, then it can cause kidney damage and liver damage. Aspirin is another medication that you can take. However, it can cause stomach irritation and tinnitus. 

Physical Therapy 

Because medication can cause side effects, it is best for you to try to manage your pain without it. Physical therapy is one of the ways that you can manage pain without medication. It will not only alleviate your pain but it can also help you maintain your mobility. Additionally, physical therapy can improve your mood. 

Massage 

If your joint pain is caused by a soft-tissue injury, then you will benefit from getting a massage. A massage helps improve your blood circulation. If there is more blood flowing to the area, then there will be less pain. A massage also helps release the feel-good hormones. 

Lose Weight 

Excess body weight puts a strain on your joint. That is why if you are overweight, then losing weight may be one of the best things that you can do. In fact, even if you only lose 5 to 10 percent of your body weight you can still get relief from joint pain. 

There are many other benefits that you can reap from losing weight. You will be able to improve your mobility. You will also be able to prevent your joints from suffering further damage. 

Use Hot and Cold Treatment 

Hot and cold therapy can alleviate your joint pain. For example, you can take a long, warm shower in the morning. This will help alleviate joint stiffness, which many people have in the morning. You can also use an electric blanket. 

Cold treatments can also reduce inflammation and joint pain. You can use frozen peas and gel ice pack. You will be able to instantly get relief by applying a cold treatment. 

Eat the Right Fats 

You may have been told that you should stay away from fat if you are trying to stay healthy. However, that is far from the truth. Some fats are good for you. In fact, if you get omega 3 fatty acids in your diet, then you can get rid of joint pain. Omega 3 fatty acids will also help improve your heart health. 

Salmon, nuts and flaxeed are high in omega 3 fatty acids. You can also take a fish oil supplement. However, you should consult with your doctor before you take a supplement.