To help you manage arthritis symptoms, you need to know what type of arthritis you have. This is important because early diagnosis and treatment may help you avoid persistent pain and may prevent permanent joint damage. Control your weight Excess weight puts added stress on joints in your back, hips, knees and feet. Exercise regularly Inactivity can result in weight gain, which causes further pain and inactivity. Know your limits Rest when you re tired.
Stress increases muscle tension, pain and feelings of helplessness, frustration and depression.
You can help relax your muscles simply by tensing and releasing muscle groups, working from head to toe or vice versa. In addition to the daily lifestyle decisions you make, taking medications can help ease pain. Corticosteroids These drugs help dampen an overactive immune system that occurs in some types of arthritis. These help reduce chronic pain independent of their antidepressant properties. Electrodes taped to your skin deliver a tiny, painless current that blocks transmission of pain messages to your brain.