Arthritis patients can feel depressed because of their condition. This article discusses ways that make coping with arthritis easier.

TIP! If you are dealing with arthritis, do some activities in the water. You will stretch your whole body and the warmth of the water will take the pain away.

Consider an ice pack or heating pad when you need pain relief in your joints. Try applying ice packs and a heating pad alternatively. Before using the heat/cold method, get advice from your doctor about exactly what to do.

TIP! To cut your fingernails using a toenail clipper, lay the clipper down onto your thigh and press down using the palm of your hand. This will keep you from having to use those sensitive fingers, and make the task much easier to accomplish.

Keep a diary everyday if you have rheumatoid arthritis. A diary can help you to understand the things in life that trigger your arthritis flare ups. A diary or journal can also jog your memory as to what has helped you in the past. It can really help your doctor or rheumatologist in determining what treatment options will work best for you. A daily diary is an extremely valuable tool to use.

TIP! Keep your joints in mind at all times. If you suffer from arthritis, the smallest of tasks can be rather painful and difficult.

Ask a builder to do modifications on your home if you are dealing with arthritis. You can actually sit face-to-face with your builder to go over a list. These simple modifications make every day easier and safer by accommodating your sore, inflamed joints.

TIP! If you are suffering from arthritis and you drive, you are eligible to park in handicapped spaces. Many of those who have arthritis don’t know they are eligible for these spots, and so they just ride out the pain.

Always stay conscious of how you are treating your joints. Even small everyday tasks can cause you great pain with arthritis. Consider sliding large items over the floor instead of carrying them, or recruit the help of a friend. If you can avoid inflaming your joints, you will experience less pain and your joints will stay flexible.

TIP! Seek therapy if you are having a hard time coping with your condition. Therapy can help you learn to cope with your limitations while still remaining self-sufficient.

Though both hot and cold methods of treatment can be effective, alternate the use of them. When joints are particularly painful, going back and forth between heat-packs and cold compresses can reduce swelling and ease pain, as well. Do not do these treatments very often, as heating or over-icing can lead to a lot more issues in the future. Try two times a day at most.

TIP! To minimize the stress felt by your joints, stay at a healthy weight. Weighing too much can put a strain on your joints, thereby making arthritis symptoms worse.

New innovations are helping arthritis sufferers find relief from painful symptoms. Though that has yet to happen, you can still take concrete steps to manage the ravaging effects arthritis can have. What you’ve read in the article above are a few great ways in which you can help to manage the pain, discomfort, and many challenges of dealing with arthritis. This alone can provide you all the help you need.