Tips for Easing Arthritis Pain

CLEVELAND - October 12 is World Arthritis Day.

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and can make everyday movements painful.

However, there are ways to ease the ache and keep moving.

“Studies show that eating healthy and maintaining a healthy weight can make a real difference for people with osteoarthritis,” said Elaine Husni, MD, rheumatologist with Cleveland Clinic. “Even a little weight loss, if you’re carrying extra weight, can take pressure off your joints and help you move more comfortably.”

Dr. Husni said a healthy diet with lean protein, fruits and vegetables is a good place to start.

Healthy eating can lead to weight loss and may also reduce inflammation, both of which can help in managing arthritis pain.

Staying active is also important.

Dr. Husni said it’s a myth that moving an arthritic joint makes it worse.

In fact, the right kind of movement can help support joint health.

For those with painful joints, low impactactivities can be a good choice.

“Sometimes they have to start with what we call non-land-based therapy so it might have to start with water therapy because water therapy allows you to have the buoyancy of the water and still do all the range of motion exercises that are just too hard to do on land therapy,” said Dr. Husni.

Chair yoga is another good low impactoption for physical activity, according to Dr. Husni.

Before starting a new activity, it’s best to talk with your medical provider about safe options for your specific medical condition.