Arthritis, a condition characterized by joint inflammation, can be quite painful to live with. However, with the right medication and management, one can lead a healthy and active life. For people dealing with arthritis, flare-ups can come unannounced like an unwanted visitor and send your entire schedule out of whack. While nothing can replace prescribed medication and a qualified doctor’s counsel, here are 5 easy home remedies that you can try the next time your arthritis acts up.

Hot and Cold Therapies

Hot and cold therapies are most commonly prescribed for quick relief from joint aches. As a bonus, these are also cost-effective and simple to administer. Hot treatments like hot baths and showers can ease the pain in your joints. Hot water bottles and heating pads can also help. Cold treatments, such as using an ice pack, can also help loosen up your joints and make you feel better.

Turmeric Boosts

The food we eat is medicine in itself; and adding the right spices to your food can lead to quick relief from joint aches. Turmeric, or the humble Indian spice called haldi, is often thought of as a miraculous substance with multifold health benefits. For example, turmeric is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent. Since arthritic pain stems from inflammation, including turmeric in your diet will help tackle the source of the problem and keep your joints in better shape.

Omega 3 Supplements

The human body is a complex machine that requires a host of nutrients to keep it in balance. Any imbalance can manifest itself as sickness - which is why it’s important to eat a healthy, balanced diet. An important supplement for arthritic patients is Omega 3 - these fatty acids offer numerous benefits and help lessen arthritic pain. Omega 3 acids are found in fish and fish oil, so go ahead and load up on seafood. Your joints will thank you!

Shoe Story

Our posture dictates the health of our muscles and joints, and often, the root of our posture problems lies (quite literally) in our shoes! The wrong pair of shoes can cause extreme discomfort and stiffness; and is a major contributing factor to knee pain. While shopping for shoes, pick those that are softer and more flexible, since these cause less shock and impact on the knees, reducing joint stiffness. Avoid high heels at all costs and choose comfort and ease of movement over stylishness.

Exercise Surprise

While it may seem counterintuitive to exercise when you suffer from joint aches, exercising can have numerous benefits and is actually recommended in many cases. To begin with, it helps maintain body weight, strengthens muscles and bones, and reduces pressure on the joints, which in turn minimizes pain and the pressure applied on them. Exercise also improves blood flow, which is crucial in any healing process. With regular exercise, you’ll also find that your overall health, appetite and sleep quality improve drastically. However, before you chart out a fitness course, be sure to discuss it with your doctor and find out what activities you can and cannot do.

But most importantly, remember that early, proactive and regular treatment of arthritis can help you manage it better and live life to the fullest!

Star Imaging is Pune’s leading diagnostic centre, specialized in diagnosing conditions like arthritis. We have the world’s most advanced technology, including 3T MRI scanners with ambient experience that minimize claustrophobia, 128 slice CT scanners, a 3D digital mammography machine, and more, along with 12 super-specialized radiologists. Star Imaging is also Pune’s leading Second Opinion clinic. For more information, feel free to reach out to us on 020 4132 2222 / 4122 2222.