How to Lessen Arthritis Hip Pain
Arthritis or joint disorder is a disease in which a joint is inflamed. A joint is a bodily region in which 2 bones meet, such as knees, elbows and hips. Your joints move body parts connected by bones. Arthritis is usually accompanied by joint pain (arthralgia). Hip arthritis usually affects people over 50 and is more common in those who are overweight. Common symptoms of hip arthritis include limited range of motion, hip stiffness and walking with a limp.
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Instructions
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Take an anti-inflammatory pain medication (NSAID). These medications are available through a prescription (Relafen, Celebrex) or over the counter (ibuprofen, aspirin, motrin). Follow the directions for correct dosage, and do not take more than suggested. NSAIDs can have numerous side effects if taken for extended periods.
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Lose weight if you are overweight. Follow a healthy diet and stick to it. Losing extra body weight can significantly lessen hip pain by easing the load on your hips. Additionally, weight loss can improve your tolerance to exercise.
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Learn new exercise methods and limit certain activities such as lifting heavy objects. Exercising regularly will help keep your weight down and strengthen your hip muscles, delaying the need for hip replacement surgery. There are numerous options for exercises that are beneficial for reducing hip pain including swimming, pilates, cycling and water aerobics. These exercises are most effective if done properly under the guidance of your physician or physical therapist.
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Use a walking aid to help reduce the demand placed on the affected hip. There are numerous walking aids, including crutches, canes and walkers. Consult your physician for a prescription and choice of walking aid.
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See a physical therapist who will teach you exercises and methods for relieving hip pain associated with arthritis. Consult your physician for a referral.
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Apply an ice pack and heat pack alternately to the affected hip. First apply the ice pack. Cooling the affected area causes the blood vessels in that area to constrict; there is reduced swelling, so pain is lessened. Wait for about 15 minutes for your skin to go back to normal temperature. Now apply the heat pack. Heating the area will open the blood vessels and enhance blood flow in the area. Increased blood circulation brings healing elements and oxygen to your hips. Make sure you purchase ice and heat packs that can cover your affected hip.
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Try acupuncture. Acupuncture can reduce the swelling and pain associated with hip arthritis and return energy to the damaged tissues.
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Do therapeutic yoga exercises. Yoga poses, such as hip openers, can help strengthen the muscles in your hip area and reduce swelling. Yoga also enhances the cardiovascular system and improves your capacity to perform other exercises. Consult a yoga instructor to learn more about yoga exercises specific to hip arthritis. Do not perform yoga exercises for the hip without first consulting your physician.
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Tips & Warnings
Consult your physician before embarking on any kind of self treatment for arthritis hip pain.
