Statistically speaking, the number of arthritis patients has substantially increased in the past few years. It is a painful condition in which the joints are inflamed, and just moving the body becomes uncomfortable. Here are some strategies for treating and coping with arthritis.

Women suffering with arthritis should avoid wearing high heels. High heels are attractive, but they wreak havoc on your feet. Wearing high heels puts an undue amount of force on the knees and makes arthritis problems in those joints worse. Wear sensible, flat shoes and your pain will likely decrease. You will feel the effects of wearing comfortable shoes and your body will be grateful.

Maintain good posture to help your joints stay strong. This can help keep painful symptoms at bay. It’s something your mother probably always told you – stand up straight and don’t slouch! Distribute your weight on each leg evenly. Soon your joints and spine will feel stronger than before, and arthritic symptoms that were once common occurrences will start diminishing.

If you have rheumatoid arthritis, keep a journal. As you go back and read your diary, you will notice things that have triggered pain repeatedly. Reading your diary entries will allow you to deduce which activities trigger flare ups. You will then have an easier time sharing this information with a doctor so they are able to find the best treatment options. A pain diary can also help you determine the exact type of arthritis you are suffering from.

Avoid uncomfortable shoes or high heels if you have arthritis. It doesn’t matter which part of your body you have the arthritis in, because bad shoes will cause you to walk incorrectly and stress out your entire body. Get yourself a comfortable, supportive pair of sneakers instead, and empower yourself against arthritis with every step.

Try doing meditation or yoga if you have chronic arthritis. It is a proven fact that these techniques help to relax your body, which also reduces the symptoms of arthritis. You should practice these techniques at least three times a week to gain the maximum benefit.

It’s important to stop arthritis as soon as possible. A technique to prevent of the hands is to use good typing practices. Put a pad underneath your mouse and have your hands on equal level in line with your keyboard. This will reduce the stress you put on your hands when you type, which will keep you from running into problems later on down the road.

Use heat and cold alternately. Your joints can easily become inflamed, so switching between hot and cold packs can soothe pain and reduce swelling. Too much heating or icing can cause problems, though, so don’t use them too much. Aim for twice a day at the maximum.

A heating pad, especially a moist pad, is very effective at relieving the pain of arthritis. A quality moist heating pad is a great investment for those times when the pain of arthritis is especially nagging. They can offer quick pain relief, but don’t let them take the place of your doctor for a more permanent treatment plan.

If you suffer from arthritis, both emotionally and physically, consider therapy. Independence may be difficult for people who suffer from arthritis, so therapy can help sufferers realize that they are not helpless. Attending therapy in an individual or group session can help to stave off conditions such as depression or anxiety.

Try using a cane to support yourself. A lot of people afflicted with arthritis resist using a cane out vanity and the stigma of having 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. Find a stylish cane and you can pull off a fun look.

Get a physical therapist’s help. A physical therapist helps you develop an exercise routine that will increase your flexibility. Follow your therapeutic action plan very specifically in order to gain favorable results, and take back your life.

Plan your exercise or work periods carefully ahead of time, taking into account your physical capacities. Your arthritis flare ups can be unpredictable, so plan ahead to avoid issues. Try to plan your jobs to be performed in sections so you can rest when you need to, and also be able to walk away any time.

You cannot allow yourself to take on a bad mood if you have arthritis. If you sink into a funk, your condition is only going to worsen. You are put in uncomfortable situations when performing a variety of activities while having arthritis. If you make yourself feel guilty you may feel as if you have to try and this will just worsen your pain and feelings of inadequacy. Remember, having arthritis is never your fault! Just because there are some things you can’t do doesn’t mean you should give up on everything!

A cane offers great support. Thinking it makes them appear weak or disabled, some people opt against using a cane. However, if the suffering is reduced via using a cane, then it only makes sense to put your pride aside and do what is best for your joints. Look for a cane that can be adjusted to your height so it is comfortable for you to use.

Try to lose a couple of pounds. Heavier individuals put more stress on their joints. This ultimately results in a higher rate of inflamed, swollen joints. When you are carrying extra weight, it can put undue stress on your joints, causing them to flare. Shedding a little weight may be a good idea because it can have an effect on how bad the pain is and how frequently it pops up.

As discussed previously, arthritis is becoming ever more common. This could be because the population is getting older, they eat worse and are less active. You can increase your enjoyment of life and reduce the effects of arthritis by using the information found in this article.

Sleep in a good bed. Arthritis sufferers need to talk to their physicians about purchasing the optimal bed for a person who has their particular condition. Everyone is different, so speaking with a professional is the best way to ensure that you find exactly what you need.