4 STRATEGIES TO RELIEVE OSTEOARTHRITIS PAIN

According to the Canadian Arthritis Society, osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis. It affects nearly four million people.

There is no cure for osteoarthritis. However, it is possible to manage osteoarthritis pain better by incorporating a few strategies into your daily routine.

STAY PHYSICALLY ACTIVE

When your joints hurt, you may be inclined to cut back on your activity. While it may sound counterintuitive, it is exactly the opposite you should do.

Regular physical activity helps strengthen muscles and increase flexibility, which in turn helps you stay active. It is important to choose a physical activity with as little impact as possible on the painful joint. You should also adopt the intensity of the activity to your physical ability.

Walking, Pilates, Tai Chi, swimming, and mild intensity strength training are just some of the activities that are good for the muscles that support your joints—and for your overall health.

ACHIEVE AND MAINTAIN A HEALTHY WEIGHT

Excess weight can exacerbate pain in your hips, spine, knees, or feet if you have osteoarthritis. It places additional strain on your joints, leading to increased discomfort. Losing weight can alleviate this burden on your joints and provide relief.

AVOID OVERWORKING YOURSELF

When going about your day-to-day tasks, it is important to respect your pain and fatigue threshold. Spread your tasks over different times of the day or week, and plan moments of rest. Ask others for help, when possible.

RELAXING CAN HELP CONTROL THE PAIN

Finally, practices such as relaxation, meditation, and breathing techniques can effectively clear your mind of negative thoughts and contribute to better pain management. Acupuncture is another option that may offer benefits.

If you have any inquiries regarding osteoarthritis or its treatment, do not hesitate to consult your pharmacist. They are available to offer guidance and support to enhance your overall quality of life.