4 WAYS TO MANAGE ARTHRITIS PAIN

National coordinator of Creakyjoints Australia NAOMI CREEK reveals the top tricks

I f you’re suffering with arthritis – whether in your wrists, elbows or knees – chances are you’re constantly searching for ways to nix the pain. While there are countless products available, it can be tricky to find something that works.

National coordinator of Creakyjoints Australia Naomi Creek reveals alternative ways to help manage your pain...

1 FIND YOUR ‘PAIN TOOLBOX’

Learn to recognise your body’s pain triggers and warning signals so you can have a range of coping strategies – a toolbox – for different scenarios.

“[Try] hot and cold packs, stretching, meditation, or medication if you need it,” says Naomi. “When your pain levels are low, it can be tempting to do too much. Learn to stop before you reach your limit.”

2 EXERCISE

It’s often the last thing you feel like doing, but exercise is one of the most helpful ways to manage pain. “Be sure to wear supportive footwear and allow rest to aid recovery,” says Naomi.

3 USE HOT & COLD THERAPY

“Generally speaking, if you have inflammation, cold therapy is best,” says Naomi. “If your joints are stiff or you have strained muscles, heat works well to relax the area. Wheat bags, hot water bottles or stick-on heat pads are great for warmth, and ice spray, ice blocks or a frozen bag of peas wrapped in a tea towel are always handy.”

4 HAVE SEX

Yes, you read that right! “The endorphins released during sex are a natural pain reliever,” says Naomi. “However, chronic pain can make both sex and intimacy difficult to get excited about. Open communication with your partner is key – using cushions, bolsters, aids and getting creative will help make this time fun.”