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.

Use either hot or cold compresses on your aching joints. This can help to relieve the pain you are feeling. Alternating between hot and cold is also a great way to help your joints feel better. It is important to speak with your doctor about the best way to use this technique.

You should always stretch because when you stretch with arthritis it helps with the injuries you could get throughout the day. Stretching also warms up muscles and tendons that are more limber and less likely to get torn, but never overstretch. You should always listen to the noises your body makes so you don't over stretch and hurt yourself.

Most exercise programs for people who suffer from the pain and stiffness of arthritis include range-of-motion exercises. Range-of-motion is the normal amount of distance that your joints can move in a certain direction. These types of exercises help to keep your joints flexible. Some physicians also recommend Tai Chi as an alternative to improve flexibility and increase muscle strength.

If you are suffering from severe arthritis pain consider acupuncture. Although there is limited research in regards to acupuncture helping with the symptoms of arthritis, many people do say they feel better using this therapy. Skeptics believe acupuncture is a placebo, but there is not a downside to just giving it a try if it can help.

Try including Mediterranean food in your diet. A study came out several years ago that found that arthritis sufferers who consistently ate Mediterranean fruits, vegetables, cereals and olive oil over a period of three months had better daily functioning that other patients. Since eating more fruits and vegetables is good for your health anyway, it is definitely worth a try.

If you are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, make sure you're getting enough omega-3 in your diet. If you're not, consider taking a supplement like fish oil to help get those levels up. Studies have shown that omega-3 has many anti-inflammatory benefits for those who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis.

Try some new age therapies to help deal with your arthritis. The new age mind-body approach to making yourself feel better includes, breathing exercises, guided relaxation, biofeedback, and meditation. All of which will help focus your mind in ways that may help you cope with arthritis pain and improve flexibility and strength.

When dealing with arthritis pain you have to protect your joints. Always be thinking about your joints and your joint health and protect them from injury. So be careful; instead of lifting a heavy object, slide it, or use your shoulder to open a door instead of using your hand.

Never give up trying to fight the advancement of arthritis. Keep eating well, getting exercise, and taking appropriate supplements and medication. Give some attention to the ideas and advice in this article, and there's no reason why you can't see at least some improvement in your condition within a reasonably short period of time.