Injuries caused by car accidents can trigger arthritis pain. This joint pain can also occur because of genetics, infections, and lifestyle choices. Once it develops, you’ll suffer from stiffness and joint swelling that can cause mild or severe discomfort.
Some patients experience sharp pain that comes and goes. Meanwhile, others suffer from constant soreness. These and other arthritis symptoms can make your everyday life difficult.
Many types of arthritis can ruin your life. The most common forms of arthritis are osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). OA occurs when the cartilage wears down, leading to friction between bones. RA is a long-term autoimmune condition. It causes painful flare-ups when the immune system attacks joint tissue.
No matter what type of arthritis pain you have, managing it well is key. Mobility exercises can boost your movement and make a big difference. We will discuss all of these in this blog.
At Physicians Group LLC, we offer complete care for joint pain from auto accident injuries. Our chiropractors, physical therapists, and other medical professionals work together to provide the best possible results for joint pain.
Practical Arthritis Pain Relief Tips
There are many ways you can ease arthritis pain. These pain relief management strategies are also great for supporting joint health. Changing your diet, adjusting your lifestyle, and taking the proper pain medication can relieve arthritis.
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Arthritis pain can be triggered by weight. Excess body weight can put a lot of pressure on joints, leading to arthritis symptoms. Losing even a small amount of weight can slow cartilage breakdown and joint damage.
Eating nutrient-dense food can help you lose weight. This will provide you with enough energy for the day without extra calories. Low-impact exercises, such as cycling, walking, and swimming, can also keep your weight in check without putting stress on your joints. Combining diet and exercise is an essential part of arthritis care.
Eat an Anti-Inflammatory Diet
Arthritis is considered chronic pain since there is no cure for this joint condition. Transitioning to an anti-inflammatory diet can reduce swelling and discomfort.
This diet includes salmon, walnuts, flaxseeds, and other foods rich in Omega-3. You should also make fruits and vegetables with antioxidants a part of your diet. An anti-inflammatory diet only works if you avoid refined sugars, red meat, and processed food. Why? Because they can trigger inflammation.
Try Cold and Heat Therapy
Applying heat and cold to your joints can reduce stiffness and pain. For heat therapy, you can take warm showers, use heating pads, and apply warm compresses. For cold therapy, use ice packs or cooling gels.
But be careful. Don’t apply too much heat. Also, avoid directly applying ice to your joints. Instead, use towels to prevent skin contact. Doctors often include cold and heat therapy in their arthritis treatment plans.
Take Proper Arthritis Medication
If your doctor prescribes over-the-counter pain relievers, follow their instructions properly. Arthritis medications that are prescribed often include DMARDs, corticosteroids, ibuprofen, and naproxen.
These medications can help manage arthritis pain and prevent further joint damage. However, to see results, you need to take them on time and in the right amount.
Try Alternative Pain Management Methods
If you don’t like taking medication, you should also try non-medical approaches. Acupuncture improves circulation and stimulates nerves, which can reduce discomfort. Massage therapy also improves flexibility and relieves stiffness.
Tips for Better Movement with Arthritis
Arthritis pain is chronic, but you can still improve your mobility. Try these common arthritis tips to maintain flexibility for improvement in mobility.
Do Mobility Exercises Daily
Gentle movements can relieve joint stiffness. Daily mobility exercises can keep joints flexible. Stretching exercises such as ankle rotations, wrist circles, and shoulder rolls are great choices. You can do them every morning for five to ten minutes.
Engage in Low-Impact Exercises
When choosing an exercise for arthritis, you should opt for low-impact options. Cycling, swimming, and walking are all great options for enhancing flexibility, easing stiffness, and providing arthritis support. You should aim for at least 30 minutes of exercises per day.
Take Advantage of Physical Therapy
Physical therapy tailored to your needs can reduce strain and stiffness in your joints. Therapists create personalized routines for arthritis patients that focus on balance and strength. These routines include techniques and assistive devices, such as knee braces or orthotics.
Protect Joints from Daily Activities
When arthritis occurs, your joints and cartilage are more vulnerable. This is why it’s important to know different techniques to protect your joints. For example, you can use two hands instead of one when lifting objects. This will distribute the weight, reducing tension. Taking 30-minute breaks when doing household tasks or working can provide inflammation relief.
Expert Joint Pain Care with Physicians Group LLC
At Physicians Group LLC, we understand how painful arthritis is. In many instances, like auto accidents, it can be concerning, and the pain can be unbearable. Our chiropractors, therapists, and medical doctors work together to create personalized care plans to reduce pain and improve mobility.
We provide a range of treatments for auto accident-related arthritis pain. Our services include diagnosis, injections, chiropractic care, and pain management solutions. If you need help with your arthritis after a car accident, call us immediately or book your consultation with us today.