Get tips for decreasing the pain of rheumatoid arthritis for those in your care.

You care so much for the person in your life with rheumatoid arthritis, you suffer when they suffer. But what can you do to increase their comfort and help decrease the pain of rheumatoid arthritis?

"Plenty," says June Breiner, MD, an internal medicine specialist in Lutherville, Md., and Bill Guerra, a former RN, BSN, from Parkway Surgery Center in Henderson, Nev., both of whom have cared for hundreds of rheumatoid arthritis patients.

Follow these tips for helping your loved one deal with the pain of rheumatoid arthritis:

Relaxation eases rheumatoid arthritis pain. Progressive relaxation is good for everyone, but it is particularly effective at reducing pain in rheumatoid arthritis patients, according to Amanda Booze, a rheumatoid arthritis patient who is an East Tennessee Advocacy Ambassador for the Arthritis Foundation. Progressive relaxation has even been shown to reduce the amount of swelling in joints affected by rheumatoid arthritis, Dr. Breiner adds. In progressive relaxation, you tense and relax your muscles, starting with your feet and working your way up your body.

Fight depression. Studies show that people with depression have lower pain thresholds than those without depression. You and your loved one should talk to a doctor about any prior history of depression, and how an antidepressant can be helpful, Breiner says.

Find a cool solution. When your loved one's joints are swollen, apply ice to the area. A bag of frozen peas also works well because it can be molded to the shape of the swollen joint, Booze adds.

Plan some activities. Certain physical activities can be very helpful in reducing pain from rheumatoid arthritis. Aquatherapy, Tai Chi, and yoga are often helpful for rheumatoid arthritis patients. Or, try walking, Guerra says. You can burn calories, strengthen muscle, and build denser bone — all without harming fragile joints.

Stretch to relieve stress. Breiner also recommends stretching as a great way to relieve stress and keep joints and muscles flexible, which leads to reduced pain and increased comfort.

Mantain a healthy weight. If your loved one is overweight, consult with a doctor or dietitian to develop a weight-loss plan. Losing weight will ease the stress on joints and, therefore, the amount of pain.

Make sleep a priority. Help your loved one develop proper sleep habits: going to bed and getting up at the same time each day; keeping the room cool and comfortable; ensuring a quiet and restful space. Moreover, if your loved one is taking painkillers, make sure they are taken at night to allow for recuperative sleep.