Arthritis is probably the most common word that doctors use. Just because something is stiff or hurts that doesn’t mean it’s arthritis. It could be out of balance or tight muscles pulling over that joint.
Muscles are the most common cause of aches and pains. Out of balance muscles actually cause arthritis!
There’s a really good chance that your posture is to blame. Muscles and joints get strained and achey when posture is poor. Try these tips for better posture:
1. If your couch or chair makes you lean back and move your head forward, use a different seat or a pillow behind your back to help you sit more upright.
2. Lift your chest.
3. Lift the crown of your head.
4. Squeeze your shoulder blades toward your spine. (Can you do that? You used to be able to. It may take a little practice.) That will help you strengthen your back muscles.
5. Press your upper arms into your bed when you lay on your back. It helps the same way as squeezing.
6. Press the back of your head gently into the bed. First make your head and neck comfortable. Press only the head, not the neck. This helps strengthen your neck muscles.
7. Turn your head gently from side to side several times (the ‘no’ movement.) Gently do the ‘yes’ movement. This helps relax your neck muscles.
8. Prop behind your waist when you are seated. This helps you sit up straight.
If you feel that you need more help there are lots more articles to discover about the causes of upper back pain at http://SimpleBackPainRelief.com It’s another of my natural pain relief websites.
If you take steps to correct your posture you will have happier muscles. And who knows? Your ‘arthritis’ may just go away naturally. 🙂
I’ve suffered from arthritis for some time now in which I have recently purchased one of those electric recliner chaisr. It has definitely been a great help and would be a worthwhile recommendation to other sufferers.
Hi Alex-Beth, If it was hard for you to get up from your chair or couch this is a great idea! If someone cannot afford an electric lift chair, pads can be added to a chair or couch to make it easier to get up. Lots of furniture is just way too low and is hard on the knees and hips.
Thank you for sharing your arthritis pain relief tip!
Kathryn
The Pain Relief Coach