Cold supplied by a bag of ice or frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel helps to stop pain and reduce swelling when used for 10 to 15 minutes at a time. It is often used for acutely inflamed joints. People who have Raynaud's phenomenon should not use this method. Exercising in a large pool may be easier because water takes some weight off painful joints. Community centers, YMCAs, and YWCAs have water exercise classes developed for people with arthritis.
Some patients also find relief from the heat and movement provided by a whirlpool.
When done by a trained professional, these methods can help control pain and increase joint motion and muscle and tendon flexibility. The inexpensive units are fine. Patients can wear them during the day and turn them off and on as needed for pain control. Relaxation therapy also helps reduce pain. Patients can learn to release the tension in their muscles to relieve pain.