Dr. Keith Reich, a graduate of Kirksville College of Osteopathic Medicine, is a board certified internist and rheumatologist.

He offers the following six considerations for natural arthritis pain relief:

1. Exercise - It is important to engage in exercises that will strengthen the muscle, but not irritate the joint. Eg. walking, bicycling, arm exercises or walking in a pool.

2. Balance Exercises - Eg. Tai Chi and water aerobics

3. Weight control - Every ten pounds of weight gained is equal to 30 pounds of pressure on the knees.

4. Heat/cold - Using ice packs can reduce acute pain while heat loosens joints and increases blood flow. Try sitting in a whirlpool before exercising and icing an irritated spot after exercising to provide soothing relief.

5. Attitude/education - Have a positive attitude. Educate yourselves about the condition.

6. Assistive devices - Anything that makes completing a daily task easier is considered an assistive device. These devices can help to reduce discomfort and disability. In addition, they can also help people with arthritis become more functional by reducing their dependence upon others.

Additional Tips at OurHealthNetwork.com
Reference - Medical News Today

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