Arthritis is the inflammation of joints which results in pain, stiffness, swelling and limited movement. Arthritis is caused by the cartilage breaking down. Cartilage is the cushion that protects the joint and allows for smooth movement. Cartilage acts as the shock absorber when pressure is placed upon the joint. Arthritis is caused by a broken bone, an autoimmune disease or general wear and tear on the joints.
The only way to cure arthritis is to undergo a complete joint replacement. Sometimes a joint replacement is possible if it is a single joint like a hip or a knee. But usually a joint replacement is not feasible. The pain that comes with arthritis can’t be cured but it can be minimized through pain management.
In addition to medication prescribed by a doctor, there are other ways to minimize arthritis pain. Exercise can help minimize arthritis pain. Exercise causes the body temperature to rise thereby heating up the joints. The warmth relaxes the joint and all its components, increases circulation and reduces swelling and stiffness. Exercise also helps to keep the body toned and nimble and the joints a little more pliable. Swimming in a heated pool and taking a hot shower has a similar affect on joints as exercise does. Pain can also indicate the need for rest. Inflammation decreases during a restful phase. However, to much non movement can lead to muscle weakness which brings on a whole new set of problems. It is important to find a balance between exercise and rest.
A massage can bring pain relief, soothe stiff muscles and reduce inflammation. As muscles tension is relaxed circulation increases and pain is decreased. Gentle stretching along with a massage can help maintain and sometimes improve range of motion for your joints.
Music therapy has been established as a health service similar to occupational and physical therapy. The use of music for those with arthritis provides anxiety and stress reduction and positive changes in mood and emotional state. Stress relief relaxes the body and in turn relaxes the muscles and joint components. Circulation increases and swelling subsides.
Some arthritis sufferers may benefit from meditation and yoga. Both work on relaxation techniques that reduce tension and stress, allowing the body to relax. That in turn relaxes the muscles, especially around the affected joints reducing swelling and inflammation. Meditation and yoga also works to divert your attention to other things rather than focusing on pain and discomfort.
Heat and cold therapy is also effective in managing arthritis pain. Through trial and error, you will find what works best for you. Some respond better to heat than cold and some find a combination of the two works for them. Heat dilates the blood vessels and increases blood circulation and reduces muscles spasms. Cold reduces swelling by constricting the blood vessels. Hot and cold can applied with heat packs warmed in the microwave and cold packs chilled in the refrigerator freezer.
It is always wise to consult your doctor before beginning any self help program to determine the boundaries of any exercise. The arthritis sufferer may find treatment is most effective using one or more technique to minimize arthritis pain.