Joint care, also known as joint protection, is a self-management approach that involves making small changes to your lifestyle to reduce pain and strain on your joints. Here are some ways to manage joint care:
Exercise
Regular exercise can help keep your joints strong and reduce stiffness and fatigue. However, you should warm up before exercising to prevent injury.
Healthy diet
Eating a healthy diet and taking supplements like calcium and vitamin D can help manage joint pain.
Pain medications
Over-the-counter and prescription medications can help with pain and swelling. However, some medications can have serious side effects, so it’s important to talk to your doctor before taking them.
Physical therapy
A licensed physical
or occupational therapist can help you improve your strength and mobility, and reduce pain.
Joint protection
You can try changing your movement patterns and working methods to reduce the stress on your joints. For example, you can use devices like splints or pace yourself when you’re feeling pain.
Posture
Good posture can help protect your joints. You can try standing and sitting up straight, or taking a walk to improve your posture.
Ice
Applying ice or a cold pack to a sore joint can help relieve pain and swelling.
Sleep
Getting enough sleep can help you manage pain and fatigue.