Simple changes to your daily routine can combat increased stress in your life. If you live with chronic joint pain, this is especially helpful in your pain management. April is National Stress Awareness Month, and while you may see many tips and tricks to aid in bringing calm to your life, it’s good to keep the habits year round.
Combat Stress, Decrease Your Discomfort
Time management is an important aspect of stress management. Relaxation may not happen immediately, and the same goes for pain relief. By listening to your body and testing various methods for stress reduction, you may be able to counter problems before they happen.
Make Time To Exercise
When you schedule at least fifteen minutes a day to move, you increase the possibility of lubricating your problems joints. Movement helps the fluid surrounding your joints and in turn decreases stiffness and irritations. Exercise is good for stress reduction as well, in that it improves cardiovascular and respiratory health. You need not be rigorous in your routine to feel better. A leisurely neighborhood walk can do wonders.
Be Mindful Of Your Mind
While meditation doesn’t always involve constant movement, it is believed to assist in joint pain relief. Spare a few minutes at the beginning and end of each day for quiet reflection. Use relaxing music or a meditation app to guide you, and adjust as necessary to see the positive results in your mind and body.
Watch What You Eat (And Drink)
Your diet plays an important role in your stress response as well as your joint health. Sugar, caffeine and processed foods high in saturated fat may hinder efforts to lower stress. When you feel thirsty, hydrate with water before reaching for sodas or high-sugar sports drinks. Eat when you are hungry and try to avoid eating out of emotional response.
For further assistance reducing joint pain and improving mobility and flexibility, the physicians and therapists at Bon Secours Virginia Orthopaedic and Spine Specialists are here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our minimally invasive procedures and treatments for arthritis, fractures and other conditions.
Additional sources: The Arthritis Foundation