TIP! Stay away from smoking, and quit if you are already smoking. Even though smoking may seem to help inflammation, this is an illusion.

Arthritis is painful and challenging, which you already know if you or a loved one is a sufferer. If you have accurate information and honest advice, however, it becomes much simpler to manage the condition. Read this article for tips on how to control your symptoms.

TIP! If you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, you may benefit from keeping a journal of your symptoms. This diary will help show you what is triggering your flare ups.

Try heated pads or packs of ice to relieve joint pain. For maximum relief, alternate between the application of heat and cold packs. Always check with your physician for a pain management strategy when using cold and heat for pain.

TIP! If you have arthritis, wearing comfortable shoes is very important. Even if you do not suffer from arthritis in your legs or feet, uncomfortable shoes are bad for your posture.

Make sure that you take advantage of the handicap parking, which will limit your physical exertion. A lot of arthritis sufferers don’t realize they can park in the handicapped section. They use the regular spaces. Handicapped includes those in chronic pain.

TIP! Plan activities with your joints’ capacities and limits in mind. Even minor tasks can be harder to do for people with arthritis.

Acupuncture is a treatment that can be helpful for those with chronic arthritis. Research has shown that acupuncture can ease some arthritis pain. This technique should be used on a regular basis, as getting it done only once will not give you the desired results.

TIP! If you suffer from arthritis, you may need to cut back on the amount of things you do. You may have less energy than before.

Cigarettes have actually been shown to cause a loss in flexibility, as well as increasing the chances that your arthritis will flare up. Although it’s hard to quit smoking, it may help to think about how it negatively impacts your arthritis.

TIP! Surprisingly, developing a strong core will help with joint pain. Medical research has shown that having muscles in your abs helps improve your posture, which helps to prevent damage to the joints.

If you suffer from arthritis, both emotionally and physically, consider therapy. If you are suffering from arthritis you should seek help; therapy is a really positive step, reminding you that you’re not alone. Depression is common with arthritis sufferers, so a support group or therapy can help with this as well.

TIP! Sleep in the right bed. Your physician should be able to tell you what bed type is the best one for your unique condition.

To reduce stress on your joints, maintain a healthy weight. Weighing too much can put a strain on your joints, thereby making arthritis symptoms worse. Instead of depriving yourself of food by skipping meals, opt for a healthy, nutritious diet.

Arthritis is a common condition that too many people suffer from. But arthritis can be controlled and the pain alleviated when you know how to treat it correctly.