The pain associated with arthritis has given many people the feeling of being defeated and depressed. This article offers helpful tips on dealing with arthritis.

If you’re a woman with arthritis, you may not want to wear high heels. High heels may seem attractive, however, the damage they do to your feet and body is not. Heels tend to increase strain on the knees which actually heighten arthritis symptoms. Do your best to always wear comfortable shoes in an effort to decrease your problems with arthritis. Your body will certainly notice the difference.

If you have arthritis and still want to get in shape, try aquatic exercises. Aquatic exercise can stretch out joints and muscles. Additionally, the water itself may soothe arthritic joints, especially warm water. If you need to learn to swim, join a class.

Heating Pad

A heating pad, especially a moist pad, is very effective at relieving the pain of arthritis. You may want to purchase a heating pad that provides moist heat if your arthritis pain is severe and interferes with your ability to function normally. They can offer quick pain relief, but don’t let them take the place of your doctor for a more permanent treatment plan.

Physical therapy can improve your arthritis symptoms. If arthritis is severely disrupting activities of daily living, a physical therapist can help you discover exercises that will increase your flexibility and prevent swelling. Make sure to follow the plan in order to get the best results.

Knee Brace

If arthritis has you thinking of knee surgery, it is worth using a knee brace first to see if this helps. Having surgery on your knees should be your last resort. Knee braces can often reduce the swelling and the pain associated with arthritis in those joints. You can wear a knee brace at anytime even at night.

Have your doctor regularly check for deficiencies. A deficiency in certain nutrients, including iron and vitamin B-12, can cause painful arthritis flare-ups. If you regularly have your blood work checked for deficiencies, you can manage your levels and reduce the amount of pain and inflammation associated with your condition.

Let your friends and loved ones in on how you’re dealing with arthritis. The more they know about how it affects your life, the more supportive and helpful they can be. If members of your support system are aware of your limitations, they will be far more likely to help you by making accommodations to meet your needs.

A nice walk after eating your evening meal is a good idea. By taking a daily stroll after dinner you can settle some of the food that you’ve eaten, get some much needed exercise, and boost your energy levels for the rest of the night. Even a short walk with a friend or family member can be beneficial to your health, and give you quality time with that person which you may not otherwise have.

With advances in medicines every day, at some point in time there might be an arthritis cure. It is in your best interest to help prevent it and delay it until that cure is found. While the tips you’ve read here may not totally change your life, they will assist you in dealing with many of the challenges arthritis presents. That on its own can change your life at least a little.