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How To

How to Help Joint Pain

Contributor
By Valencia Higuera
eHow Contributing Writer
(0 Ratings)

Joint pain caused by an injury or chronic condition can result in daily discomfort and impact your quality of life. But fortunately, joint pain doesn't have to control your life. There are various ways to alleviate pain and lead a relatively active life. The key is identifying the cause, and taking steps to relieve inflammation.

Difficulty: Moderate
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Medication Supplements Heat pack Ice pack
  1. Step 1

    Buy an OTC anti-inflammatory. Anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen, naproxen sodium and aspirin are effective remedies for mild to moderate joint pain. Follow the package directions.

  2. Step 2

    Take vitamin supplements. If you prefer natural remedies, visit a health-foods store and purchase glucosamine or omega-3 supplements. Glucosamine promotes healthy joints, tendons and cartilage; whereas omega-3 (fish oil) is a natural anti-inflammatory supplement.

  3. Step 3

    Use a heating pad. Heat therapy works best for chronic or ongoing joint pain. Apply a heating pad to the affected joints in 20 minutes intervals--on for 20 minutes and off for 20 minutes.

  4. Step 4

    Apply an ice pack. Acute joint pain caused by an injury generally responds to cold therapy. Wrap an ice pack in a dry cloth, or use a package of frozen vegetables. Likewise, apply the cold pack to painful joints for 20 minutes and then remove for 20 minutes.

  5. Step 5

    Lose weight. Excess weight can result in ongoing joint pain--especially in the knees and ankles. To relieve pain, create a plan to lose extra pounds. Eat a low-fat, low-sugar diet, and begin an exercise routine (at least 30 minutes, three to five times a week).

Tips & Warnings
  • If joint pain doesn't improve with OTC drugs or home remedies, talk to your doctor about a cortisone injection.
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