Arthritis pain can be positively debilitating. For those 46 million Americans suffering, arthritis pain relief can seem to be an almost unattainable goal. Arthritis pain is a constant condition and one which, while treatable, is as of yet incurable. A few helpful tips for arthritis pain relief, however, are certainly welcomed if they can do anything to lessen the constant discomfort. Though arthritis pain is caused by a variety of symptoms, the following tips provide a more holistic approach to arthritis pain relief that should offer some comfort with most types of arthritis pain.

1. Hot water

Taking a hot shower or bath can often help reduce arthritis pain by relaxing muscles and joints. It can also stimulate blood flow through your body, which can help lessen pain. Baths are often the first choice for people looking for this kind of arthritis pain relief, but studies show that people with a few certain types of arthritis pain showed significant improvement after a hot shower as well.

2. Stretching

Stretching for arthritis pain relief does not necessarily have to entail stretching for flexibility. Instead, try moving your neck from side to side, bending your joints and flexing your muscles, and shaking out your appendages. This can again help to increase blood flow, and also reduce stiffness.

3. Maintaining movement

Some people report more arthritis pain from sitting still than moving, while others report the opposite. In any case, it is important not to stay too long in any single position to keep your joints able to bend and free of stiffness. Furthermore, a healthy regime of exercise can significantly help with long term arthritis pain relief by increasing blood flow and strengthening muscles. Arthritis pain may also be lessened by simply adjusting position frequently, especially while performing an activity that uses the affected joint.

4. Ice packs

Ice packs are most helpful for reducing one type of arthritis pain: inflammation. An ice pack can greatly reduce swelling and also numb the area, both of which will help with arthritis pain relief.

5. Refraining from overuse

If you have to use an affected joint frequently, try not to overuse it. Take frequent breaks so that the joint does not become further worn out. While this may not specifically help with arthritis pain relief (except in the rest it provides the joint), it will help prevent arthritis pain in the future.

6. Talk to a doctor

Even if you don’t want a medicinal solution for arthritis pain relief, speaking to a doctor can somewhat help. the doctor may be able to suggest other activities or alternate ways of movement that can not only help with arthritis pain relief, but may reduce wear and tear on your joints.