Pain in your hands and in the joints of your fingers can have a very negative effect on your ability to work or do your daily activities. While sometimes it is simply an inconvenience, at other times the pain can be impossible for you to manage. For those whose hands are affected by Rheumatoid Arthritis, this is especially true.
1. Use Ice and Heat:
Ice and heat can be great temporary remedies for aches and pains. Each has its own beneficial side effects. Heat works well because it increases blood flow to the area, which means more nutrients moving to the cells, which then allows your body to repair the damage.
2. Use Non-steroidal Anti-Inflammatories:
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory pain relievers such as Advil or Tylenol can be good for temporary relief of the pain. These are also great for those who have chronically painful joints. When you experience pain on occasion such as you do from Rheumatoid arthritis, this can be taken once or twice a day until the pain subsides.
3. Limit Movement:
For those with Rheumatoid arthritis, especially an early joint disease, they must limit their movement. Avoid repetitive use of the joint if possible, and do not stay in one position for extended periods of time. This will not only allow your joints to recover from the initial usage, but it will also let you avoid permanent damage to the joint.
4. Exercise Your Hands:
Exercising with the joint will help reduce stiffness and pain. This can be done through simple stretching, as well as standing and using your hands in a variety of ways. As long as you remain within your pain limits, do not stop exercising.
5. Give Yourself a Break:
Sometimes the best remedy for aches and pains is to simply give the body a break. This can be accomplished through deciding not to do chores or tasks that will cause pain, or through taking a day to feel “stiff.” Being connected to your body is important for the recovery process, and giving it a break may give it time to rest and recover without any outside influence.
6. Get a professional opinion:
Often times, Rheumatoid arthritis can lead to a professional opinion. Call quickly for a hand surgery consult if you are in pain or have limited mobility of your hand. There may be the possibility of a surgery limiting the pain and the damage to your hand.
Conclusion:
If you experience pain in your hands or in the joints of your fingers, it is best to speak with your doctor about these issues. They can tell you the best course of action, help you to avoid pain, and give you ways to manage the pain that you have. After all, you do not want the pain to limit your daily life.
