Arthritis may change how you approach movement, but it doesn’t have to mean giving up an active lifestyle. With the right strategies, you can reduce discomfort, improve mobility, and fully enjoy daily activities. Here are practical tips to help you stay comfortable and keep moving.
Prioritize Gentle Movement for Joint Health
Keeping your joints active is essential for managing arthritis. Focus on low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, and cycling to help reduce stiffness and improve flexibility. These activities put minimal strain on your joints while strengthening muscles around them for added support.
Practice Regular Stretching
Stretching helps reduce stiffness, improving joint flexibility and range of motion. Gentle stretching exercises focused on major joints, like the knees, hips, and shoulders, can be particularly helpful.
Use Heat and Cold Therapy for Quick Relief
Heat therapy, such as warm showers or heating pads, can soothe aching joints and relax stiff muscles. Cold therapy, using ice packs or cold compresses, helps reduce inflammation and numb sharp pain. Experiment with both to see which offers you the most relief for your arthritis symptoms.
Focus on Anti-Inflammatory Foods
A healthy diet can significantly impact arthritis pain. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like salmon, chia seeds, and walnuts, help fight inflammation. Fruits and vegetables, especially leafy greens and berries, are also packed with antioxidants that can ease joint discomfort, while highly processed and fried foods can worsen your symptoms.
Incorporate Assistive Devices for Better Mobility
Devices like canes, grab bars, or ergonomic tools reduce joint strain, making daily tasks more manageable. Speak with your healthcare provider or an occupational therapist about which devices might work best for you.
By staying active and incorporating simple pain management techniques, you can improve comfort and keep moving forward with confidence.
If arthritis pain continues to affect your quality of life despite these measures, it might be time to explore more effective treatment options. Dr. Andrew Ehmke offers the full spectrum of care, from advanced non-surgical treatments to minimally invasive joint replacement solutions, designed to help you regain comfort and mobility. Book an appointment today to discuss the best path forward for you.
AUTHOR: Dr. Andrew Ehmke is a board-certified and fellowship-trained joint replacement surgeon specializing in robotic-assisted and minimally invasive hip and knee replacement in Chicagoland and NW Indiana.
