Arthritis is one of the most common chronic pain conditions affecting the disabled community—and one we hear about frequently from our customers. While no two experiences are the same, the core symptoms are often shared: pain and stiffness, usually caused by inflammation in the joints.
Unfortunately, because arthritis is an invisible condition, it’s sometimes misunderstood or underestimated by others. But if you're living with arthritis—or caring for someone who is—you’re not alone, and there are ways to make life more manageable, outside of just traditional medication.
Here are some gentle, practical approaches that could help ease your symptoms and improve day-to-day life.
💪 Low-Impact Exercise
Keeping active might sound daunting when you're in pain, but gentle movement is incredibly helpful for arthritis. Exercise helps:
-
Improve flexibility
-
Strengthen muscles around joints to provide extra support
-
Maintain a healthy weight, which reduces strain on your joints
Try:
-
Swimming or aqua aerobics
-
Yoga or Pilates
-
Cycling on flat terrain or a stationary bike
-
Tai Chi for balance and joint mobility
Start slowly and listen to your body. Some movement is always better than none.
🥗 Diet and Natural Remedies
Your diet can play a powerful role in reducing inflammation. A few foods and natural remedies you might consider adding to your routine include:
-
Turmeric – a natural anti-inflammatory spice, easy to add to curries, soups or smoothies
-
Oily fish – like salmon and sardines, rich in omega-3 fatty acids
-
Leafy greens and berries – packed with antioxidants
-
Supplements – such as devil’s claw or stinging nettle, which have been used traditionally to help joint pain
💡 Always check with your GP before starting new supplements or herbal remedies to ensure they’re safe for you.
🌡️ Hot and Cold Therapy
Simple but effective, heat and cold therapy can help ease flare-ups and reduce discomfort.
Try:
-
A warm bath or heated blanket to relax tight joints
-
A cold compress or gel pack to reduce inflammation during painful spells
-
Heated gloves or socks in colder weather to prevent stiffness, especially in hands and feet
These techniques won’t cure arthritis, but they can provide great relief during difficult moments.
🧘 Acupuncture
Acupuncture, a traditional Chinese medicine technique, involves placing fine needles in specific pressure points throughout the body. It may sound intimidating, but it's usually painless—and studies suggest it can:
-
Reduce pain
-
Improve joint function
-
Promote a sense of calm and relaxation
Not everyone will feel the same effects, but for many people with arthritis, acupuncture is a valuable part of their self-care toolkit.
🛋️ Prioritise Self-Care
Arthritis can be exhausting—both physically and emotionally. That’s why it’s so important to give yourself permission to rest and recharge.
Don’t underestimate the power of:
-
A quiet cup of tea with your feet up
-
A warm blanket and a good book
-
A massage or spa day if you enjoy being pampered
-
Sleep and relaxation, especially after a flare-up
Reducing stress is key, as high stress levels can actually trigger inflammation and pain.
A Final Note of Encouragement
Living with arthritis is a daily challenge—but with a mix of movement, nutrition, self-care, and the right support, you can find relief and reclaim more control over your life.
👉 And most importantly: always consult your GP, pharmacist or rheumatologist before trying new supplements, therapies, or significant changes to your routine.
You deserve to feel empowered and supported on your arthritis journey.
