How To Relieve Joint Pain

Need to know how to relieve joint pain? Arthritis is a general term that simply means inflammation of the joints. Over the years, doctors have discovered over 100 forms of arthritis, which proves that getting the right diagnosis is important, especially before you try to treat the wrong form of joint pain. Besides doctor-prescribed medicines for specific joint pains, there are a few remedies that work to relieve some of the pain found in your joints.

1. Hot therapy. A warm hot pack can be good to alleviate pain caused by inflamed joints. The hot pack is better moist, in order to incorporate the healing affects of hydrotherapy as well as heat. For a quick at-home pack, take a damp folded towel and heat it in the microwave for ten to 60 seconds. Take it out and test it on your arm to make sure the towel is not too hot, then apply it to the affected area. Dry, warm weather is also said to help alleviate joint pains in some cases.
2. Cold therapy. Cold has analgesic effects similar to those of heat and can relieve joint pain considerably, especially after an injury. Gel-filled packs from your local pharmacy are inexpensive and can be placed in your freezer for immediate use whenever you have need. If you use a hot or cold pack, do not leave it on for more than twenty minutes at a time.
3. Lose weight. Extra pounds add more stress to your knees. Eat healthy and drop excess pounds while eating food that can aid in joint pain relief. One of the best things to help with joints is turmeric; add the spice to your food daily for added relief.
4. Exercise. The idea of exercise causing more damage to an aching joint is a myth that couldn’t be further from the truth. By not exercising because of aching joints, you are weakening your joints further. You can start small with a bicycle, walking or swimming in a pool, but exercise expands the range of motion in your joints, giving more flexibility and mobility to your joints and improving your lifestyle.
5. Quit smoking. If you are smoking, stop! Smoking can cause your inflamed joints to become more severe and can also change your response to treatment. Smoking affects your bone health in general, so don’t light up a cigarette, go for a swim instead.
6. Consider over-the-counter supplements. Vitamin D aids in cartilage health and can improve strength in weakened joints. SAM-e, a supplement known to aid in depression, has also been found to ease moderate joint pain, thanks to its sulfur components that build cartilage and ease inflammatory pain. Another great supplement is a joint mixture of glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin; when taken together they prevent the progression of arthritis, reduce inflammation and relieve joint pain.
7. Eat foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Cold water fish, such as salmon, herring, sardines and mackerel, are rich in omega-3 fats that can reduce stiffness in the joints when eaten on a regular basis.
8. Hydrotherapy. Physical therapists firmly believe in the healing affects of water, as it alleviates the strain on aching joints and gives a recuperating time for the joints to rest. Take a soak in your bath tub, or for better results, soak in a hot tub for a good fifteen to twenty minutes.
9. Over-the-counter creams. Many people who have dealt with pain in the joints have noticed a sense of relief from applying creams associated with a warm peppery feeling. Check out your options at your local drug store.
10. Anti-inflammatory drugs. For mild pain, a simple painkiller can help alleviate the pressure in your joints. You can try acetaminophen, aspirin, ibuprofen or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Vioxx, Celebrex, or Bextra. If you are already on medications, do not take anything new before consulting a doctor.

As with any pains or changes your body undergoes, make sure you see a doctor to receive a full diagnosis and a possible cure directed at your unique situation.