Joint pain can be frustrating, but there are small ways to ease it at home or wherever you are the moment it strikes. Indulging in some helpful stretching can do wonders for the pain. Instead of reaching for the medicine cabinet, you can engage the areas that hurt by applying some pressure. Here are a few stretches that will help relieve discomfort.

What Are the Best Stretches to Relieve Joint Pain?

1. Child's Pose

Your spine houses many joints that hold weight for your body, making it prone to stiffness or pain. If your lower back, spine, or hips are in pain, a Child's Pose can help relieve tension and soreness in those areas. Place an exercise or yoga mat on the floor, then get on your hands and knees in a tabletop position. From there, push the hips back gently toward the heels. Allow the toes to touch, and let your chest lower closer to the thighs. Place both palms outstretched on the ground in front of you, and continue to gently lower as far as the body will allow. Hold for 30 to 45 seconds, then repeat three to four times a couple of times a day. 

2. Heart Opening Stretch

The muscles around your arms, chest, and shoulders can get tight throughout the day, especially the joints that sit where the sternum and collarbone connect. If you spend a lot of time at a desk and computer, use this heart-opening stretch to ease joint pain in these areas. Adjust the feet so they are shoulder-width apart, then move the arms and hands behind your back until the palms can clasp. Begin lifting them as high as they go without pain, keeping the elbows locked. The shoulder blades should be as close together as possible, pushing your chest outward at the same time. Use this three or four times a day, staying in the position for 30 seconds before slowly lowering out of it.

3. Ankle Circles

If you experience ankle stiffness or pain, engaging ankle circles once or twice a day can help loosen this area up. Sit down on a chair, then move to the edge and place both feet on the ground. Place both hands on your thighs, then lift one foot off the floor, extending it away from the body. Rotate the ankle and foot clockwise for five spins, before doing the same in a counterclockwise motion. Repeat on the other side, making sure to focus on only moving the foot and ankle.

If you experience joint pain, turn to the specialists at Midway Pointe Chiropractic. For the last 20 years, the friendly staff has helped patients become stronger and recover from back and neck pain, as well as a variety of other issues. Dr. Schaffer offers first-time visitors a complimentary exam, as well as X-rays, diagnosis, and spinal assessments. The office uses a combination of chiropractic adjustments and massage therapy to help clients feel better and get to the root of the issue. For more information, call (440) 324-2040 or visit their website.