Rheumatoid arthritis is a debilitating autoimmune disease that can cause extreme pain in the joints. If you are one of the millions of people with this condition, you know how difficult it can be to manage your discomfort. Winter can be an especially difficult time because the cold weather and dry air can cause added inflammation, among other foot problems, making it hard to get through the day. If you are struggling with discomfort this winter, these tips can help you relieve your symptoms.

How to Ease Your Arthritis-Related Foot Problems

1. Get Moving

Exercise is one of the best ways to relieve arthritis pain and stiffness. Try to stay active throughout the day by taking walks, doing light stretching, or even swimming in a heated pool. Exercising regularly will keep your joints healthy and help reduce inflammation. Just make sure that you don't overexert yourself. Listen to your body and take regular breaks if needed.

2. Use Heat Therapy

Heating pads, hot baths, and moist heat compresses are all great ways to get relief from rheumatoid arthritis pain and other foot problems. The warmth helps relax muscles, reduce stiffness, and soothe sore joints. You can also use electric heating devices like an infrared lamp or deep tissue device to provide deep heat penetration and relief.

3. Try Natural Remedies

Natural remedies such as fish oil, turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper are anti-inflammatories that can be taken in supplement form or added to your meals. However, keep in mind that these are not remedies on their own. Rather, consider them a form of supplementary relief used in addition to recommendations by your podiatrist.

If you have Rheumatoid arthritis, seek relief from the caring experts at Westside Podiatry Group. For more than 50 years, they have helped people in Rochester, NY and throughout Monroe County cope with an array of foot problems, including heel pain, bunions, and more. Schedule an appointment to receive a personalized treatment plan for optimum pain relief and improved function. Visit the website to learn more about their treatments, or call (585) 225-2290 to speak to a representative today.