Whether it’s the result of overuse, aging, or an on-the-job injury, joint pain can be disruptive to everyday living. The good news is there are several joint injury treatments to ease pain and improve quality of life. Let’s look at the top three methods to relieve joint pain.
Joint Injury Treatments: Relieving Pain
Stretch It Out
Joint pain is often accompanied by swelling and inflammation. To keep your joints agile and healthy, it’s best to make a habit of stretching regularly. Stretching benefits the joints as it provides lubrication and enhances the range of motion. Two stretches to include are:
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Active stretching — a stretch or “warm-up” that mimics physical movement to prepare the body for exercise.
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Static stretching — a stretch held after physical activity
Are you worried about potentially overstretching? Consult a physical therapist to ensure joint pain is targeted, and stretches are performed safely.
Movement
It may feel counterintuitive to move achy joints but staying sedentary worsens them. Not only does remaining static weaken flexibility and increase pressure on problematic joints, but it also contributes to weight gain, depression, and chronic diseases like diabetes. Moreover, to reap the benefits of movement doesn’t mean enduring intense physical activity — it’s all about balancing rest with low-impact exercises such as cycling, walking, and swimming. Low-impact exercises like these strengthen muscles that surround joints, increase blood flow, and improve bone density.
Nourish The Body
Weight gain results in increased pressure on the joints, weakening them over time. It’s imperative to maintain a healthy weight to reduce this strain. An effective joint pain treatment includes a diet of whole foods that curb overeating and fight inflammation. Some of the best inflammation-fighting foods are:
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Fatty Fish — packed with omega-3 fatty acids that have anti-inflammatory properties which work to reduce stiffness and increase blood flow
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Blueberries — high in anthocyanins, a powerful flavonoid that lessens inflammatory responses in the body
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Leafy Greens — examples include spinach, bok choy, and broccoli; studies show they may be effective at blocking inflammation and slowing cartilage damage
Joint injury treatment doesn’t have to be complicated. Tackling joint pain head-on through preventative stretching, physical activity, and diet is the ideal approach anyone can implement into their life. Restore a sense of normalcy and thrive despite the pain by regularly practicing the above methods.
Carolina Regional Orthopaedic
Are you experiencing chronic joint pain? Carolina Regional Orthopaedics can help. Our pain management team can evaluate your pain and recommend a plan to lessen your pain and get you back to an active life. So, contact us today at 252-443-0400 and schedule an appointment. You’ll feel better in no time.