Arthritis pain, or joint inflammation, is often seen in aging adults. Two common questions asked about arthritis are” “what are the symptoms?” and “how can I relieve the pain without medication?”
Common Arthritis Symptoms
- Joint pain (e.g., in your elbow or wrists)
- Stiff muscles
- Muscle swelling
- Skin redness
- Less range of motion
First of all, do not panic if you start to experience some of these symptoms. It’s best to talk to your doctor; they will work with you to make sure you get an accurate diagnosis.
For example, one patient who was suffering from lower back arthritis came to One Medical Seniors and consulted her care team for options to relieve pain holistically and still remain active. Working together, her doctor and Health Coach were able to determine the best route forward for her treatment, which was to actively participate in a yoga class four to five times per week. Additionally, she added stretching and some core exercises to her regimen, and as a result, she’s seen some improvement with pain.
Tips for Holistic Arthritis Pain Relief
- Eating nutritious foods to maintain a healthy weight - by maintaining a healthy weight for your body type this will put less pressure on your joints and minimize pain.
- Performing light exercises regularly - a combination of light exercises, including both aerobic and strength exercises, are good for those suffering from arthritis pain.
- Finding an acupuncturist who specializes in joint pain** - Many people who suffer from arthritis pain say that acupuncture helps relieve stress on the joints; studies have proven this as well.
If you're suffering from joint pain, before trying any holistic pain relief options, please consult your primary care team to get a proper diagnosis and determine the best treatment regimen for you.
**Some Medicare-Advantage plans cover acupuncture at no additional cost - consult your doctor to find out more about what your plan covers.
While the symptoms of arthritis are pretty straightforward, it can be challenging to know where to start with managing this chronic condition. Are you considering adding light exercise to your daily routine?
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