What You Can Do to Manage Osteoarthritis Pain at Home

What You Can Do to Manage Osteoarthritis Pain at Home

Many people who are approaching their fifties or even forties may come to experience osteoarthritis (OA). This is a common and unpleasant joint ailment that occurs when cartilage in the joint breaks down and wears away. Joint cartilage functions as a shock-absorber. It sits between the bones and provides a layer of rubber-like material to protect your joints from tension and pressure. When the cartilage degenerates, it is common for people to experience stiffness or achy joints. OA can affect the knuckles, elbows, shoulders, hips, and knees, but it also has demonstrated to cause several problems in the back and neck. However, there are a handful of pain management techniques you can start at home to help with the pain…

1. Over-the-counter pain medication may be taken to relieve pain temporarily. However, if you’re in the midst of receiving treatment or have recently received treatment with us, we will personally recommend the appropriate medication. We never want you to take medication that is incompatible with the procedure or that might hinder results.
2. Topical treatment is another way you can find temporary relief for osteoarthritis pain. Creams, rubs, or sprays may be applied to the affected joint for fairly quick relief.
3. Fitness enthusiasts probably already know that exercise helps with joint movement and how it can help prevent joint pain. Aim for low-impact exercises, such as walking or swimming as they do not put extensive stress on the joints. But remember, if you are ever doing an activity that causes pain, do not push past it!
4. Do you have a few extra pounds that you wouldn’t mind losing? Carrying extra weight means your body has to work harder to support itself, and that means extra tension and pressure on your joints. Losing as little as 5 pounds might even bring you relief.
5. Hot or cold therapy is a pain-relief method that may never fade. Hot therapy may be used for stiffness, whereas cold therapy may be used for inflammation or swelling. And who doesn’t love taking a warm or hot bath to relax and promote circulation? Electric heating pads and cold pack compresses are other options you may use.

If you need quick relief and can get treatment right away, then these tips will definitely be able to help you manage pain at home. However, if you’re tired of dealing with constant and unyielding chronic joint pain, then you’ll be glad to know that osteoarthritis sufferers have found relief through stem cell therapy.

We utilize the patient’s own stem cells to reinvigorate, regenerate and heal the degenerating joints. These stem cells can rebuild damaged tissue and reduce inflammation, alleviating joint caused by osteoarthritis.

Stem cell therapy is a promising treatment for osteoarthritis sufferers. So if you are experiencing pain from osteoarthritis, call to book an appointment with Progressive Rehabilitation Medicine at (319) 774-8143.