How to Control Arthritis Pain

Sadly, there's no cure for arthritis. If diagnosed with this condition, you'll likely deal with periodic bouts of joint pain and stiffness. But even if you can't permanently remedy arthritis, there are more than a few ways to control arthritis and enjoy many pain-free days.

Things You'll Need

• Compress
• Topical creams
• Medication

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Instructions

• 1

  Apply a compress to manage pain. Cold and heat compresses are quick remedies for joint pain and stiffness. Take either a heat pad or ice pack and apply to arthritis spots for 20 minutes. Remove the compress for 20 minutes, and then repeat.

• 2

  Step on a scale. Periodically check your weight to make sure you're within a healthy range. Being even slightly overweight puts pressure on your knees and ankles, which causes joint pain. Lose weight to relieve pain.

• 3

  Rub away joint pain and stiffness. Topical creams provide immediate relief from pain and stiffness. Apply a topical medicine at night to ward off morning stiffness, or apply after engaging in strenuous activity to prevent pain. Use as directed.

• 4

  Exercise your joints. Rather than let arthritis pain control and immobilize your life, exercise and strengthen your joints. Good options include walking, aqua aerobics and swimming.

• 5

  Naturally get rid of inflammation. Omega-3 is a natural anti-inflammatory supplement. Take regularly to control arthritis pain.

• 6

  Manage pain with medicine. Even if home remedies are effective, some occasions may call for medication to control pain. Use over-the-counter drugs--like aspirin and ibuprofen--to stop pain, or consider a stronger anti-inflammatory medication available from a doctor.