Heat and cold are the most popular treatments for all types of arthritis. The choice of heat or cold depends on the person and on the type of arthritis.
- Some people with arthritis have a hard time getting moving in the morning, and find that warm water shower or a sauna can really help them feel better.
- Other types of arthritis become worse when the joint is used, and the use of an ice therapy calms down the pain and inflammation.
Other forms of physical therapy include
range-of-motion exercises. These are especially effective when done in a water environment such as a pool. Many local recreation centers have water exercise classes focused specifically on arthritis sufferers. Exercising in the water helps because it reduces the effects of gravity pressing down on the joint.
There is also a wide variety of
support devices that help take weight off of the joint that is causing the pain.
Some patients swear by their chiropractic manipulations to reduce pain and keep the joints flexible.
Surgery is often a last resort and is performed to replace a joint that is destroyed beyond repair.
