Overcoming Joint Pain
You're in pain but not sure you're ready to look into total hip or knee replacement. Read about other options that can help.
You've been dealing with joint pain from osteoarthritis for years, and over-the-counter medications have become essentially useless. You want to keep up with your normal life, but joint pain is holding you back. Surgery may provide the best long-term solution, but there are short-term treatment options available to ease your symptoms until you are ready to take that step.
Pain-relieving Movement
Believe it or not, regular exercise can help relieve joint pain. Physical activity decreases pain, increases energy and improves sleep. Exercise can also help you lose weight, which reduces stress on your joints.
If you have mild to moderate arthritis, make sure your exercise activities are low-impact and place little stress on the joints. Always seek medical advice before changing your exercise routine. Your doctor can help you understand why you are having pain before, during or after a workout, and if your exercise is safe for your joints.
Your doctor may refer you to a physical therapist. Physical therapy incorporates targeted exercises designed to strengthen your joints and improve your daily function. If exercise, either on your own or with a therapist, becomes impossible, it may be time to talk about joint replacement surgery.