Joint aches are a widely prevalent condition that millions of people struggle with. The causes may vary from arthritis to fibromyalgia, inflammation, soreness, and fatigue. Whatever the reason, living with joint pains can be challenging. You may encounter mobility issues and a decline in quality of life. The worst thing about dealing with constant aches is that it can affect your mental health sooner than later. Fortunately, proactive self-care can help you manage the condition effectively. Let us share some practical self-care advice for people living with chronic joint aches.
Control inflammation with diet
Underlying inflammation is the primary cause of joint aches, regardless of the medical condition one suffers from. Controlling it is the main treatment goal for most patients. You can do it without medication by switching to the right diet. Load up on inflammation-fighting foods such as oily fish with omega-3 fatty acids, colorful veggies, dark leafy greens, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products. At the same time, steer clear of culprits like sugar, salt, and alcohol. Staying hydrated is equally vital.
You can also add supplements to your diet to fill in any gaps left by food and drink. For example, turmeric and black pepper and ginger are known to help with joint pain and aches, so adding supplements containing these to your diet is worth looking at.
Stay active
Although staying active when you have achy joints sounds counterintuitive, it can help you in more than one way. Exercise keeps your joints moving, which is crucial to managing the pain. You can manage your weight with an active lifestyle and reduce the load on your joints. Moreover, moving around affects your mood and mindset. Choose low-impact workouts to exercise without pain, or consult a personal trainer for the best recommendations.
Try chiropractic care
Painkillers and anti-inflammatory medication may provide some relief, but they are not a long-term solution for joint aches. The bigger concern is that prolonged use of these drugs may lead to side effects and habit formation. Chiropractic care is a holistic wellness therapy that resolves joint aches from the root and offers relief without side effects. A seasoned practitioner can also help you with lifestyle recommendations for preventive care. For those seeking specialized care, jacksonville orthopedic clinics (or ones near where you are located) offer expert solutions for managing joint pain.
Use heat or cold treatment
Another simple and inexpensive measure to alleviate joint pain is to use heat or cold treatment according to the underlying condition. A heating pad, a steamy shower, or a hot soak in the tub can help sore joints. Heat relaxes muscles and resolves morning stiffness for patients struggling with rheumatoid arthritis. Conversely, you may try a cold bath or an ice pack to reduce swelling and dull acute pain.
Get adequate sleep
Getting plenty of is vital for good health as it lowers the risk of conditions such as depression, obesity, and diabetes. It also relaxes achy joints, but you cannot expect to sleep calmly amid the pain and soreness. However, sleeping pills are the last thing you should rely on as they can cause more harm than good. Try sleep-inducing herbal teas, massage, and aromatherapy to sleep better. Also, invest in the right mattress to correct your sleeping posture, ditch the devices, and maintain an optimal temperature in your bedroom.
Joint aches can affect your mobility and mood, but you can deal with them effectively and naturally. Try these actionable self-care tips to address the pain and regain control.
