Don't get discouraged if you are dealing with arthritis and severe joint pain. Even if you are in the late stages of the condition, there are things that you can start doing right now to ease the discomfort, and even prevent further degeneration. You can take control of arthritis right now, starting with the facts and advice you receive in this article.

One way to deal with arthritis is to make sure you are coping with it in a positive manner. Focus on wellness and not on sickness. It is not easy when you are in pain to think in a positive way, but you can do it! It will help you and your pain.

Before you begin self-treating for arthritis pain, be absolutely certain that the cause of your joint pain and stiffness is really osteoarthritis. A lot of people make assumptions that aches and pains they suffer as they age are from arthritis, but a wide variety of ailments can cause joint pain. A CT-Scan is the best way to know if your pain is really caused by arthritis.

Try physical therapy. A good physical therapist should be able to help you identify where your issues come from and show you what kind of exercises you need to do. You might not have to go to physical therapy regularly. Perhaps, going once to establish a good work-out plan is enough.

Studies have shown that calcium and magnesium supplements help to alleviate arthritis pain and other pain of the body. These minerals are recommended to be taken as a preventative more than as a painkiller. It has also been proven to help women reduce pain associated with premenstrual syndrome if taken consistently.

Whenever you are considering alternative treatments for arthritis, remember to talk them over with your doctor, and if you see an herbalist or other alternative care provider, be sure to disclose all your medical treatments. Some alternative treatments and medical treatments work very well together. Others counteract each other. You want to be sure all of your treatments work together properly for optimum care.

Keep in touch with your doctor about different options for treating your arthritis symptoms. There are almost always new options coming on the scene for treating arthritis. From new drugs to new physical therapies, stay on top of these advances by making sure your doctor knows that you are interested in learning more and trying new options.

Avoid putting too much pressure on your joints. Even if they are not hurting, you should still avoid lifting heavy things or typing on a keyboard for too long. You will have to make conscious efforts at first to protect your joints but very soon everything will become a habit.

At this time, there is no single cure that can eliminate all types of arthritis. Fortunately, the advice you have just read is an excellent place to start as you look for ways to live with arthritis. Apply the information in these tips, and you are sure to notice improvements.