Bothell Based Spine Experts Share Tips On Managing Arthritis Pain
Arthritis is a condition that is, unfortunately, prevalent around the country. Arthritis mostly strikes older people, but it’s becoming more common in younger populations as well, and can impact varying body parts, from hands, to even spines, shoulders, and hips. While Arthritis can cause pain and discomfort for many people, there are some things to do to help alleviate any arthritis aches and pains.
How To Lessen Arthritis Pain
Nowadays, there are many tricks and exercises people suffering from arthritis can try to ease their pains and limit them in the future. Some of these methods include:
- Diet – Changing a diet to be a more Mediterranean one can help limit inflammation, as well as cutting down on sugar. Even losing weight can limit arthritis pain in joints.
- Medication – Rubbing a topical cream can grant relief to aching joints. They work to block pain receptors as well as reduce inflammation. And prescription medications should be taken as directed by the label and doctor instructions.
- Exercise – Staying sedentary for too long can worsen arthritis symptoms, especially in the spine or back. With joints, the more they’re used, the more strength they gain, so exercising them regularly, such as swimming, can help the body in the long run. A yoga class or even Tai Chi are also great, non-damaging exercises that can benefit those suffering from arthritis.
- Home Remedies – Try using heat or cold packs when arthritis flares up, and for those suffering from arthritis in their lower body, such as feet, ankles, knees, or hips, adding a shoe insert can increase relief and damage that happens with each step. Finally, a massage may help lessen the pain as well.
- Lifestyle Changes – Don’t be afraid to say no if someone asks for something that can’t easily be delivered due to arthritis pain. And limiting stress is one of the easiest ways to help the body stay healthy and happy.
When to Use Professional Help?
Unfortunately, sometimes arthritis pain can’t be halted with easier methods and must be treated more invasively. There are many different ways professional help can intervene in arthritis pain management and some of them include:
- Joint Resurfacing – This is when only part of the joint, typically in the knee or hip, is replaced as opposed to the whole joint. It can help relieve pain and improve function with daily activity.
- Fusion – Often seen in spines, ankles, wrists, and fingers, surgeons use pins, plates, and rods to join two or more bones, making a single, continuous joint. While results last a lifetime, it can eliminate motion and flexibility.
- Total Joint Replacement – The entire joint is replaced with an implant made from a combination of metal, plastics, and even ceramics. This has a proven track record of success, but artificial joints eventually wear out and may require additional surgery.
Choose An Expert You Can Trust
Dedicated to helping those suffering from arthritis and spine pain, Spine Institute Northwest is a minimally invasive, laser spine surgery that offers faster, at-home recovery, and same-day outpatient procedures. They believe early intervention is important so call to schedule an appointment today!