6 Tips for Easing Joint Pain in the Elderly without Medication

Older people may experience joint pain. Occasional aches and pains may hinder normal everyday activities, like walking upstairs or climbing stairs. While medication can help ease this pain, some people may not want to take medication or may not be able to take it because of other health conditions.

Certain short-term knee ailments may not require medical attention, and patients can often aid in their own healing. When it comes to easing joint pain in the elderly without medication, there are a few non-pharmacological therapies that can be useful. Here are some tips for easing joint pain in the elderly without medication.

Physical activity

Maintaining an active lifestyle is probably one of the very best things you can do for yourself. Physical activity helps keep joints flexible and strengthens the muscles around them, which can help reduce pain strive to spend at least thirty minutes of daily physical activity, ideally a combination of walking, swimming, or biking.

Exercising also helps to maintain muscle mass, which can support joints. Movements that entail no impact on joints, such as swimming, walking, and cycling, are ideal for those experiencing joint pain.

Yoga and tai chi are also great options, as they combine low-impact exercise with stretching and relaxation techniques that can be beneficial for those with arthritis or other joint issues.

Follow a healthy diet

Good nutrition is also key, as eating a balanced diet helps to keep bones strong and muscles healthy. Eating nutritious foods will help keep your joints healthy and functioning properly. Sugary items and saturated fats can contribute to inflammation, so it’s most beneficial to eat fresh foods that are high in fiber. Eat as much fruit, vegetables, and whole grains as possible in an effort to incorporate them in your diet.

Fish oil supplements can reduce inflammation, which helps reduce joint pain. Staying hydrated is important as there is an association between water and joint pain. It is recommendable to drink several glasses of water every day, along with herbal teas.

Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine practice that involves the use of needles to stimulate specific points on the body. Some research has revealed that acupuncture can be useful for alleviating joint pain in seniors without needing to take pills. While the scientific evidence for the effectiveness of acupuncture is inconclusive, many people find it to be a helpful treatment option.

Herbal supplements

Some herbal supplements that can be helpful include ginger, turmeric, and Boswellia. These plants have gained a reputation for having anti-inflammatory effects that may help to reduce inflammation and pain. It’s crucial to speak with a healthcare professional prior to beginning any new supplement program, as herbal interactions may occur with pills or prescription drugs.

Manage your weight

Arthritis pain can be caused by your body weight. Your joints such as your knees, hips, and feet bear an increased amount of strain when your extra pounds increase. Elderly should avoid putting on too much weight in the first place.

Heat and Cold compress

Treating swelling and inflammation in the joints with a cold compress can decrease the pain. It’s best to use a cold compress for about 15 minutes at a time, and you can do this up to four times per day. Ice cubes or a cold pack wrapped in a towel can be used. Another way to ease joint pain is by using heat therapy. Blood flow can be improved through heat therapy.

You can apply heat directly to the affected area with a heating pad, or you can take a hot bath or shower. Make sure that the temperature of the heat item is tested before applying on the skin as elderly have a sensitive skin which can cause a burn to the skin.