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Post-Holiday Pain Management for Arthritis

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Posted: Jan 4, 2019 | by Kat | 0 Comment

Holidays can bring as much stress as joy, and if you suffer arthritis the pain may have felt more intense this time around.

Once the decorations are cleared away and you’ve resumed a normal schedule, though, your discomfort may continue at holiday levels. According to a recent study from Tufts University, a rise in cold weather may correspond to an increase in this kind of joint pain. With spring some time away, it’s important to manage pain in a way that allows you ease back into your routine.

An injured hand will put an end to most workoutsEvery new year, we’re encouraged to make resolutions to improve our health, relationships, and overall quality of life. Those who suffer arthritis may not have the ability to aim for a complete recovery, but there are ways to tie in resolutions to help manage the pain:

Adjust your diet – If weight loss isn’t a goal for the new year, you may want to consider changing how you eat to improve mobility. Gradual measures like passing on extra salt for your meals and incorporating anti-inflammatory foods like leafy greens, dark berries, and beans may help.

Choose the right exercise – As there is no singular type of arthritis, so there isn’t one specific exercise for all patients to practice. Regular physical activity – be it walking, yoga, or cycling – can help manage pain if performed safely. Consult with a physical or occupational therapist to determine your best course.

Get some sleep – Our work culture has us checking and answering emails and texts at odd hours, day and night. Viral videos keep us glued to our screens and up well into the dark when we should be sleeping. We may think we can function on a few hours of sleep, but rest is vital. The Arthritis Foundation recommends getting a full night, every night, to alleviate pain and reduce the stress that can aggravate your joints.

The staff at Virginia Orthopaedic and Spine Specialists (VOSS) are available to answer your questions and assist you with arthritis relief. Contact us today for more information.

 

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