TIP! Consult with your physician before you change how often you take your medication. It may take a while for some medication to take effect, while other medications may cause side effects if suddenly discontinued.

So many people live in pain every day because of arthritis, and researchers continue to look for ways to treat and prevent this debilitating disease. Osteoarthritis, where cartilage in the joints wears away is the most common form of arthritis. There are ways to delay the onset of osteoarthritis as people age. There are also many treatments available for managing the pain of osteoarthritis. Follow the tips provided in this article to prevent and treat arthritis.

TIP! If you are in the process of designing a new house, and you suffer from arthritis, talk to your builder to see if any modifications can be made. Your builder or contractor will be happy to sit down and come up with ideas with you.

Avoid exposure to cigarette smoke, yours or anyone else’s. The nicotine in cigarettes can reduce blood flow to your extremities, which may reduce inflammation in the short term. However, the reduced blood flow can also damage your joints, meaning that your arthritis will be more severe, more quickly, than if you did not smoke.

TIP! Cigarettes can increase the damage done by arthritis. Although it’s hard to quit smoking, it may help to think about how it negatively impacts your arthritis.

Combination hot/cold packs can be used to alleviate joint pain. For best results, alternate using cold and heat. A physician can offer you more detailed advice about utilizing hot and cold therapy to treat pain.

TIP! To get temporary arthritis relief, apply your moist heating pad. A heating pad that is able to give off moist heat is a perfect investment for anyone who is suffering from arthritis pain.

Avoid exercising with worn out shoes if you are living with arthritis. Worn out shoes distribute your weight unevenly. They also cause numerous problems for the joints in your legs. It is important to regularly replace your shoes, especially if you discover uneven patterns of wear on the soles.

TIP! Spend time working with physical therapists. If symptoms of arthritis inhibit your daily activities, a physical therapist can develop an exercise and stretching routine to diminish pain and inflammation, restore flexibility, and reduce swelling.

Consider learning yoga for a hobby. Studies show that yoga’s low-impact stretching helps to loosen the tendons and build the muscles which surround your joins, lessening both inflammation and pain.

TIP! When you go to the doctor, have him check for vitamin or mineral deficiencies. Being low in certain vitamins or minerals, like vitamin B-12 or iron, can cause havoc for arthritis sufferers.

Put it on top of your thigh and press down on it with your other hand. This will save your sensitive fingers from pain, and make the clipping task easier for you to do.

TIP! Be sure to go for a relaxing and beneficial after-dinner walk. A short walk gets your body warm and working and will reduce the aches and pains you feel later.

There is no known cure for most forms of arthritis; however, there are many ways to help keep it from affecting your life. You can also find many techniques that can help you manage and treat it. You should know how to prevent arthritis using the above tips.