Arthritis can be so debilitating that some people can’t complete basic tasks. If you have arthritis and it is controlling your life, stop allowing that to happen! This article is specifically for people like you who are sick and tired of suffering from arthritis. Read this article to learn methods you can use to help your arthritis.

Proper posture can help you maintain the strength of your joints. This can help reduce the pain involved with arthritis. Make sure you stand upright and never slump down when seated. Your legs should both be supporting your weight equally. You will strengthen your joints and spine, which can minimize your arthritis symptoms.

Exercises that are low impact, such as swimming, cycling and walking, are shown to assist in easing some pain from arthritis. Always make sure you speak with a doctor first about which exercises would be best for you.

Use heating pads or ice packs to help relieve some of the pain in your joints. For maximum relief, alternate between the application of heat and cold packs. Before using the heat/cold method, get advice from your doctor about exactly what to do.

While some medical conditions are exacerbated by consumption of alcoholic beverages, this is not always the case. In fact, some research shows that alcohol can actually alleviate mild arthritis-related pain.

If you have arthritis, consider taking part in aquatic activities. Water activities are not weight-bearing, so they are easier on your joints. In addition, the soothing feel of warmer water can feel great on your sore joints. If you are not already a swimmer, taking a few classes can help you to start participating in these wonderful activities.

Use both hot and cold packs to treat your arthritis. It’s easy to overuse your joints, and switching between these cold and hot packs can ease pain and decrease swelling. However, these treatments will lead to some more issues if you overdo it. Shoot for twice daily as a maximum.

Cigarettes worsen arthritis and decrease flexibility, so avoid smoking at all costs. Although it may be difficult to stop smoking, the knowledge of how it can affect your arthritis should make it easier.

Use the heel of your hand and press down on your leg. Trying to manipulate a small clipper can cause a great deal of pain in arthritic fingers and wrists.

A cane offers great support. It can be tough, and a lot of people whom suffer from arthritis refuse to use one, because they imagine that it symbolizes a disability. The truth is that if a cane makes it easier for you to walk without pain, you are far less disabled that you would be without it. Look for a cane with some personality to feel better about carrying one.

Having well-developed abs can actually help alleviate your joint pain. Research has shown having solid abs improves posture, therefore limiting damage on the joints. Know your limitations and avoid overdoing it with your workouts.

Taking a long warm bath before bed is a great way to help you to sleep easier, and can also alleviate some of the pain. This can help you get to sleep sooner as well as stay asleep longer because the muscles in your body are being relaxed, which relieves arthritis pain.

Drink enough water. If you are feeling thirsty, water is most nutritious thing you can drink. Stay away from dehydrating liquids containing caffeine.

Quitting smoking can serve as a huge benefit to your health, as it will reduce the swelling and irritation from arthritis. There have been studies done on nonsmokers and it shows that they don’t have as many problems with pain from arthritis and swollen joints as smokers do. If you do smoke, seriously think about quitting to help with your symptoms. If you are having trouble quitting on your own, consult with your doctor who can prescribe a medication that will help.

Avoid wearing high heels and shoes that are not comfortable if you are one of the many that suffers from arthritis. Regardless of the location of your arthritis, shoes that are not comfortable cause you to walk in an abnormal manner, and that can negatively impact your arthritis. Wear comfortable shoes that offer proper support.

Arthritis Sufferer

As you know, if you’re a chronic arthritis sufferer and from reading the beginning of this article, arthritis can make it difficult to go about daily tasks. If you are an arthritis sufferer, hopefully this article has shown you something you can try to manage your condition and start living better.

Sit back in your chair, let your eyes gently close, and breathe deeply over and over again. Techniques that distract your mind are often helpful because they give you a break from the pain.