If you suffer from the pain of arthritis, there are proven techniques that you can use to eleminate the symptoms;even though you may be taking medication to accomplish this. These techniques can even boost the effectiveness of professional care. They are simple but effective methods people can use to get immediate pain relief.

The Importance of Rest

It is a well known fact, that if the body gets over tired we are going to feel aches and pain. That's why it's important to get a good night's rest. Getting your body on a schedule by going to bed and getting up at the same time every day helps.

People with arthritis can lead very active lives; but they have to realize the importance of taking breaks from their tasks. Taking time out to just relax; by sitting in a comfortable chair or lying down will relieve the pain we can experience from working too long. Listen to what your body is telling you. If you are feeling fatigue; "rest".

Rest is extremely important. If your body is suffering fatigue; you are going to hurt!

Warm Baths

Many people with arthritis experience pain relief by sitting in a tub of warm or hot water for half an hour. This is not only relaxing, but very soothing for the "stiffness" that is associated with the disease. This can be helpful upon arising in the morning; as this often is the time when stiffness in the muscles and joints can be a problem.

There is no limit to the number of baths per day we can take; especially when they provide relaxation; relieve pain, and also provide rest. You might like to try adding some salts or oils or even bubble bath to the water. Try moving your fingers, ankles, arms, legs in the water as you bathe.

Applying Heat

It is a well known fact that heat is a good antidote when it comes to stopping pain. People have been using heat for decades to relieve pain. Some of the better known and more modern heating methods include: electric heating pads, hot-water bottles, or a bean-bag that you put in the microwave. Probably the electric heating pad is the most often
purchased item used for arthritis pain relief.

Moist heat is actually more beneficial than dry heat for treating arthritis pain. You can purchase electric heating pads that have moist heat. Another alternative would be to wring excess moisture from a towel soaked in hot water and apply to affected area.

Be careful not to burn yourself by applying a dry towel to the area before you apply the wet towel. When the hot towel looses its effect; reheat and apply again. Do not to apply heat to a hot and swollen joint.

Applying Ice

If you have a joint that is hot and inflamed; use ice instead of heat. Actually some people prefer to use ice instead of heat to remove their pain.

You can purchase the jell-type ice-pads that will wrap around your leg or arm and are held with a velcro closure. After use you just place it back in the freezer and it's ready for the next time you have
to use it.

When using the ice-pads, be careful not to get a frost-bite. Use a towel first on the joint or apply over pants. The recommend time for leaving the ice-pad in place is fifteen to twenty minutes.

The methods of pain-management mentioned above are known to work and have the added benefit of no side effects.

For more FREE tips and advice on managing arthritis as well as a Free Report, visit:
http://www.removingjointpain.com