3 Ways to Manage Joint Pain without Medication

For people with arthritis, joint pain becomes an unfortunate part of life. And while there are medications available to help reduce inflammation and joint pain, many doctors recommend that patients try natural methods to find relief as well. There are a number of drug-free and non-invasive treatment options that can help relieve joint pain.

Wearing the Right Shoes

For those who suffer from foot, ankle, and knee pain associated with joint inflammation and arthritis, simply switching to a more supportive pair of shoes can make all the difference. This is especially true for those with osteoarthritis. Flexible shoes with proper support can reduce wear and tear on the knee and hip joints, relieving joint pain.

Trying Heat/Cold Therapy

Just as applying a cold compress to a swollen part of the body can help to reduce swelling and relieve pain, a similar concept applies to using heat/cold therapy for joint pain. Heat can be used to promote better blood and oxygen flow throughout the body, which can reduce inflammation. Cold temperatures, on the other hand, can be used to relieve swelling and reduce pain sensations. There are many ways to use heat/cold therapy at home, including heating pads, warm baths, and ice packs/cold compresses.

Using Topical Treatments

There are many topical treatments for joint pain that do not require a prescription. These gels and creams contain sodium channel blockers and, sometimes, NSAIDs to numb nerve endings and relieve pain. The NSAIDs can actually work to reduce inflammation upon direct application to the affected joint. Before you decide to try one of these topical treatments, however, it is always a good idea to speak with your doctor and make sure they will be safe to use as each case of joint pain is different.

Living with persistent joint pain can have a major impact on your everyday life. If your joint pain is affecting your daily routine, it’s time to seek treatment from Arthritis & Osteoporosis Treatment Center. Our doctors have more than 30 years of experience in serving patients in North Florida. Give us a call today to find out more about our treatment options and to schedule an appointment.