5 ways to relieve aching joints

Aching joints can make even the simplest tasks feel challenging, disrupting your daily routine and diminishing your overall quality of life. 

Joint pain can stem from various conditions, such as rheumatoid arthritis (RA), bursitis, osteoarthritis, or tendinitis, most commonly affecting the hands, feet, hips, knees, or spine. Symptoms vary depending on the condition. Inflammatory conditions like RA often cause stiffness and pain in the morning that eases as you move, while degenerative conditions like osteoarthritis tend to worsen as the day progresses.

The good news? Relief is within reach. For the more than 53 million Americans with conditions that cause joint pain, there are effective ways to manage discomfort and improve mobility. Talk with your doctor about which of the following methods might work best for you as part of your overall treatment plan.

At-home joint pain management

For pain associated with conditions other than arthritis, it may be possible to find reprieve through routine management techniques at home. Massages, warm baths and stretching can loosen joints and relieve discomfort.

Pain relievers for joint pain

You might also try over-the-counter pain relievers like acetaminophen or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen or naproxen. In some cases, your doctor may recommend stronger prescription doses. If you have stomach ulcers or kidney, liver or heart disease, check with your doctor to make sure these medications are safe for you.

Exercises to relieve joint pain

When you’re dealing with joint pain, exercising might feel like the last thing you want to do. However, once you’re cleared by your doctor, staying active is essential. Regular movement can play a key role in managing your symptoms and enhancing your overall well-being.

Without regular movement, muscles and posture can weaken, potentially leading to increased discomfort. Exercise, on the other hand, can help improve flexibility, build strength, and alleviate some of the strain on your joints.

Low-impact activities like swimming, walking, or cycling are excellent options for individuals with joint pain. If you're used to high-intensity workouts such as running, boot camp classes, or heavy weightlifting, consider scaling back to gentler exercises that are easier on your joints.

Weight loss to relieve joint pain

Extra weight puts added pressure on load-bearing joints like your knees and hips, potentially worsening existing pain. Maintaining a healthy weight — or losing weight if you're overweight — can significantly improve joint health.

Studies show that losing as little as 10 to 15 pounds can lower the risk of developing osteoarthritis, particularly if you’re obese. Speak with your doctor about achieving a healthy weight, considering factors like your body mass index (BMI), waist circumference and other health risks such as high blood pressure or cholesterol. With their guidance, you can develop a personalized eating plan and exercise routine to support your goals and relieve joint pain.

Topical treatments to relieve joint pain

While oral NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are effective for treating joint pain, topical treatments such as gels, liquids or patches can also provide relief. Although they’re not suitable for everyone — particularly those with sensitive skin — topical pain relievers might be a better alternative to oral NSAIDs if:

• You have arthritis-related pain in smaller joints like hands, elbows, or ankles
• You’re over the age of 65
• Your stomach is sensitive to oral NSAIDs
• You have heart-related risk factors that make oral NSAIDs less suitable for you

Oral NSAIDs are absorbed into the bloodstream and can often cause stomach-related issues such as bleeding, ulcers or pain. While topical NSAIDs are also absorbed into the bloodstream, less of the medication circulates throughout the body, making them a better option for those who experience stomach problems with oral NSAIDs.

Parkridge Health System, your partner in care

If a higher level of care is needed for your joint pain, our skilled orthopedic specialists in Chattanooga can offer comprehensive solutions, including supportive aids like braces to improve mobility, physical therapy, joint injections, prescription painkillers, and, in severe cases, joint replacement surgery. Together, we'll work with your physician to create a personalized care plan to restore function and alleviate pain.

Take the first step toward relief today with our free and quick knee health and hip health risk assessments. Learn what might be causing your pain and receive personalized recommendations, all confidentially delivered to your inbox. If you are seeking care or a second opinion, we invite you to learn more about our orthopedic services or find an orthopedic surgeon near you.