Top 5 At-Home Treatments for Arthritis Flare-Ups

As the weather cools, arthritis flare-ups can sometimes make it hard to fully enjoy seasonal activities or quality time with loved ones. While we can’t always control when these flare-ups happen, there are soothing ways to ease the stiffness and discomfort so you can stay connected and active. Here are our top five tips to help you manage arthritis symptoms and make the most of each day.

1. Hot and Cold Compresses

Hot and cold compresses can be a quick and effective way to relieve arthritis discomfort. Heat increases blood flow and soothes stiffness, while cold reduces inflammation and swelling. Use warmth to relax tight joints and cold when there’s swelling. Here are a few simple guidelines:

• Limit heat or cold application to 20 minutes at a time

• Try heat for stiffness and cold for swelling

• A warm shower or bath can be an easy, full-body way to find relief

2. Get Extra Sleep

Getting extra rest can do wonders for arthritis, especially during a flare-up. Sleep allows your body—and your joints—a chance to heal and can help reduce inflammation and stiffness. Plus, better sleep comes with added benefits:

• Boosts healing and recovery time

• Strengthens your immune system

• Reduces inflammation, which may ease arthritis symptoms

3.  Massage

A gentle massage can be a soothing way to relieve stiffness in your joints. If you’re experiencing a flare-up, a soft touch may help relax sore areas. Listen to your body, though, and take it easy if any movement increases pain. Keep these tips in mind:

• Be gentle when massaging affected areas

• Ask a loved one or a professional to assist, if needed

• Communicate your comfort levels if someone else is providing the massage

4. Pace Yourself

When a flare-up hits, it’s important to go easy on yourself. Instead of pushing through pain, take time to rest and allow your body to recover. Here’s how to pace yourself:

• Listen to your body, and move at a comfortable pace

• Stick to the methods that work best for your pain relief

• Don’t stress—give yourself the time you need to recover

5. Take Preventive Steps

Being proactive with healthy habits can make a big difference in how you manage future flare-ups. Embracing a balanced diet, light exercise, and good sleep habits can support your long-term joint health. Here are a few more helpful tips:

• Manage your weight to reduce strain on your joints

• Avoid overusing your joints, and give yourself plenty of recovery time

• Practice good posture for better joint support

With these simple, at-home treatments, you can take charge of your arthritis and stay active through the seasons. Remember, every small step toward self-care adds up, helping you enjoy more moments with the people and activities you love. If you’re looking for additional support, consider exploring our in-home care services at Providence Life Services. Our dedicated caregivers can help you manage daily activities and provide the assistance you need to maintain your quality of life, ensuring you remain connected and active with your loved ones.

To learn more, contact the Providence Life Service team.