Being diagnosed with arthritis can be disappointing, but you can find ways to deal with it. The advice in this article will give you easy ways to help relieve your stress, as well as your arthritis.

Temperature changes from heating pads and ice packs can help fight joint pain. For maximum effectiveness, alternate between hot and cold applications. Ask your doctor for more advice on how to get rid of your pain using heat and cold.

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. Initially, your inflammation may subside as the nicotine from cigarettes reduces blood flow, yielding a calming sensation. The reduction in blood flow, however, has a negative effect on joint health, which will increase the severity of arthritis over time.

Research has proven that a little bit of alcohol does not make the problem worse, which is different then with many different medical problems that are out there. On the contrary, some experts suggest that moderate consumption may even provide some benefits to those suffering with arthritis.

Avoid taking prescription pain medication for your arthritis unless it is absolutely essential. Many pain killers are addictive and only help to ease the pain temporarily. Take any prescription medication exactly as directed by your physician.

High heels are not a good option for women who are suffering with arthritis. Although they make you more attractive, you do your feet no favors by wearing high heels. They make your knees rotate more often, which causes arthritis to flare up. Wear shoes you feel comfortable in and your legs should feel better. Your body is sure to appreciate your decision.

Fish Oil

If you suffer with arthritis, you might want to utilize fish oil. Report after report indicates that fish oil reduces arthritis pain and joint inflammation, thanks to the fatty acids (omega-3s) it contains. You can buy fish oil at many grocery stores, or at health food or vitamin stores.

Don’t wear worn out shoes when you’re exercising. Worn out shoes may lead to uneven distribution of your weight. This can cause a lot of problems in your ankles, knees and hip joints. Buy new exercise shoes on a regular basis, particularly when you find that the wear on the bottom of the soles is uneven.

Don’t try to do everything if you suffer from psoriatic arthritis. Unfortunately, you don’t have as much energy as before. Don’t think that they are, because your symptoms can get worse. Just put all of your energy into the most important things to you. Sometimes it’s alright to reduce the amount of responsibility you undertake.

Be aware of how much food you are consuming. If you have arthritis, you may be allergic to food but not know it. Keep a running food log, and make notes on your symptoms after each meal. You may be able to track down exactly what is causing it.

Arthritis joint pain can be relieved simply by doing low impact exercises, such as swimming, walking or cycling. Consider consulting with your doctor before starting any exercise routine.

A cane is worth considering if your arthritis leaves you in need of extra support. Many arthritis patients refuse using a cane, thinking it makes them look disabled. But, if pain can be reduced by the support of a cane, then you will be more disabled without using one. Pick a cane that suits your style to make you more at ease while using it.

If you have osteoarthritis in your knee(s), you might want to ask your doctor about trying electrical stimulation treatments. This treatment has been shown to be effective in reducing the amount of arthritic pain and swelling in the knees.

To enhance your ability to sleep through the discomfort of arthritic pain, try soaking in warm bath salts at night. This will help relax your body and ease the pain from your arthritis, which in turn will help you fall asleep and stay asleep longer.

Ask your doctor which pain relief options are available to you. In the majority of cases, the best that can be done is to find effective ways to treat your pain, and eliminate any further damage. Follow you doctor’s advice on what medications and treatment options you should be pursuing.

Try and keep yourself from becoming overly stressed. Oftentimes, stress can escalate inflammation and cause pain. Look for stress-relieving techniques, use them often whenever necessary to keep your body and mind strong and healthy, no matter the situation you are dealing with.

Avoid uncomfortable shoes and high heels if you have arthritis. Regardless of the location of your arthritis, you will not walk correctly in shoes that are uncomfortable, and that can worsen your arthritis symptoms. Wear comfortable shoes that offer proper support.

There are many effective ways to cope with arthritis. You must be capable of effectively managing the signs and symptoms of arthritis, but you should also be receptive to trying new methods. You can learn to live a better life if you know how to deal with arthritis.