Is it becoming too difficult for you to deal with your arthritis? There are a lot of people around the world that have arthritis pain and limited mobility, and a lot of them do not know what to do about it. There are many ways to fight arthritis besides medication, so don’t let a fear of drugs stop you. Use these tips below to learn how to cope with this condition on a daily basis.

Ice packs and heating pads can both be of use for relieving your arthritis joint pain. Try applying ice packs and a heating pad alternatively. Always check with your physician for a pain management strategy when using cold and heat for pain.

Even if you do not smoke cigarettes, you should still avoid secondhand smoke whenever possible. If you are a smoker, now is the perfect time to ditch this unhealthy habit. The nicotine in cigarettes can reduce blood flow to your extremities, which may reduce inflammation in the short term. In the long-term though, smoking will corrupt your joints and sharpen the pain that you feel from arthritis.

Swim a lot if you are an arthritis sufferer. The water bears the majority of body’s weight, decreasing pressure on your joints.

If you suffer from psoriatic arthritis, understand your limitations. Although you will still be able to continue enjoying your favorite activities, your body will require more rest. Don’t think that they are, because your symptoms can get worse. Instead of trying to do everything, focus your efforts on only those things that really matter to you. Do not try to be everything that you think people expect of you, as it’s not possible.

If you are a woman suffering from arthritis, make the commitment to not wear heels. Although they make you more attractive, you do your feet no favors by wearing high heels. Heels tend to increase strain on the knees which actually heighten arthritis symptoms. Stick to comfortable shoes and your arthritis pain will likely diminish. Do it for your body.

You should always make use of a cane so that you have proper support. Often arthritis sufferers are reluctant to use canes, because they feel it indicates they are disabled or infirm. But, if pain can be reduced by the support of a cane, then you will be more disabled without using one. Choose a personalized cane. It can have your favorite sports team on it or an elaborate design.

If you have osteoarthritis in the knees, speak with a doctor about electrical stimulation treatments. Research has proven that this treatment not only reduces knee swelling due to osteoarthritis, it can also help with pain reduction.

Doctors usually advise against the use of alcohol, especially when you have medical problems. But, research has shown that alcohol in moderation doesn’t aggravate arthritis symptoms. In fact, some researchers say that consuming alcohol in small quantities can actually help reduce the symptoms a bit.

Have the right equipment on hand at all times. There are many items and accessories available that can make it easier for anyone with arthritis to complete any task. Shoe horns, zipper pulls, electric can openers, and special pens and knives are just a few examples of products out there for arthritis sufferers to go about their daily lives. Collecting a number of these handy gadgets can make arthritic life simpler.

Always be prepared. Arthritis can start bothering you almost anytime, so it is important to be prepared for when it happens. Break up your jobs into sections so that you can rest between them, and have a way to end any activity immediately should the need arise.

Lay down the clipper on your thigh, then press down using the heal on your hand. You will not have to use a finger that is sensitive, it will be easier to do.

Talk to your doctor and make sure you get the treatment you need right away. You can minimize the harm that arthritis does to your joints if you get a jump on treatment. Take the pro’s advice early and begin treatment immediately following the diagnosis.

Build a strong support group of family and friend. The more they know about how it affects your life, the more supportive and helpful they can be. If members of your support system are aware of your limitations, they will be far more likely to help you by making accommodations to meet your needs.

Keep a healthy weight and this will help reduce the stress your joints receive. Carrying extra pounds puts added stress on the joints, making your arthritis symptoms worse. Instead of skipping meals and losing weight this way, eat well.

If your life is affected by arthritis and the pain that comes with it, you don’t have to sit there and take it. You can stand up for yourself and give yourself the wellness that you desire from life. Start with the arthritis tips above that can show you a better way to manage your arthritis in a way that helps you in the long run and not only right now.