Arthritis is an affliction that can happen to people of all ages. According to statistics, approximately 40 million Americans suffer from some measure of this inflammatory condition. While there are many professional treatments available for arthritis, including visits to the chiropractor, prescription anti-inflammatory medications and even surgery, there are also a few things you can do at home to help ease those aching joints.

Hot Baths

If you can't afford a hot tub, a hot bath can work just as well to help soothe your aches and pains related to arthritis. A hot bath can help reduce inflammation, reduce the effect of gravity (thanks to buoyancy) and can even improve circulation. Even better, the helpful effects of the bath can last for hours after you get out of the tub.

Add a cup of Epsom salts to the bath water to really kick start the soothing affects and to help relieve any bruising as well.

Heat Pads

Whether you use a plug-in heating pad or a microwavable rice or corn pad, these types of direct heat on your arthritic spot can work wonders for the pain and discomfort. It may seem contraindicated to use heat on a spot that is inflamed, since with normal injuries you would use ice instead. Arthritis, however, is a bit different and benefits immensely from the heat.

The increase circulation seems to help reduce the stiffness associated with arthritis, and the heat offers pain relief. Be sure to stop using the heat once your pain is improved or if you notice excessive redness.

Pycnogenol

Otherwise known as French Pine Bark, this unique over-the-counter supplement has come under a great deal of medical scrutiny, thanks to its astounding range of beneficial health applications. One study found that regular use of this supplement reduced arthritis pain by 43 percent and helped reduce stiffness, pain and improve overall mobility.

As with any supplement, don't take this without discussing it with your doctor, particularly if you are taking other medications. This supplement has not been used widely for a long enough period of time to know all of the potential side effects, so use with caution.

For all of those arthritis sufferers out there, it's always a good idea to regularly visit your doctor or chiropractor for checkups and treatment. However, you can also use these helpful tips for your day-to-day management of chronic pain and discomfort associated with this very common condition. 

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