Extra weight can increase pressure on some joints and aggravate some types of arthritis. A well-balanced diet is an important part of the treatment plan for arthritis. Your physician will select the form of treatment that will work best for your type of arthritis. Heat therapy may involve paraffin wax, ultrasound, or moist heat. Applying heat increases the blood flow and increases flexibility of the affected area.
Cold therapy numbs the nerves around the joint and helps to relieve inflammation.