When joints stiffen up, say knees or fingers, moving about can be a problem. But helping them feel better can be as simple as a few tricks you can try at home! It is like a slight hug for the aching parts.
1. Warm hugs and cool kisses (heating pad and cold pack)
Consider the sore joint a not-so-great friend. Sometimes it needs a warm hug! Warm towel on sore areas or a warm-water bottle (ask your adult for help)! Place it gently on the ouchy part for a while.
Other times, that irritable friend needs a cool kiss! A cold pack-classic works wonders for joint swelling! Just wrap a bag of frozen peas in a towel (yeah, the grown-up thing again!) and check if your joint likes to be kissed instead! It might numb the pain and help with the swelling. You could try alternating between the heats to see what kills the pain the best!
2. Gentle Movement (Dancing for your joints)
Your joint might not want to move at all when it hurts. But in some cases, moving a little can help! It’s like oiling a squeaky door! Try bending and straightening your arms and legs slowly. Wiggle your fingers and toes! Just move them gently to where they are comfortable. That way, they will not get stiff!
3. Yummy Helpers from Your Kitchen:
- Turmeric Magic: This yellow spice that mothers sprinkle sometimes in the food has a hidden power! It calms down any hurt inside your body. Ask an adult if you may have small amounts of turmeric in your milk or food.
- Ginger Zing: Ah! Ginger-the spicy little root-is another miracle worker in the kitchen! It helps with soreness, too. Sometimes grown-ups will prepare ginger tea. Perhaps they would let you have some (strong stuff!)
4. Sleepy Time is Healing Time (Rest is Super Important!):
You will have a fantastic time fixing things that are not quite in your body when you sleep. Be sure that you do have enough sleep so your joints can rest, recuperate, and feel better.
5. Soft Pet-like Rubs (Massage):
Sometimes, a little gentle touch can do wonders for your achy joints. Ask an adult if they wouldn’t mind giving you a little gentle massage over the sore part. They could use a little plain oil, such as coconut oil or olive oil, to make it more effective.
6. Epsom Salt Bath (A Soothing Soak!):
Epsom salt is a great salt for relaxing sore muscles and joints. Just ask an adult to add some into a warm water bath. After that, you can soak in the tub for about 15-20 minutes. It’s very soothing and can decrease some of that ouchiness. Stay away from drinking the bathwater!
7. Staying the Right Size (Being a Healthy Weight Helper!):
Can you imagine carrying a backpack all the time? Your knees and other joints will feel tired after that! Being a healthy weight can relieve pressure on the joints, making them feel better. Eating the deliciously healthy foods in addition to activity (but not too much, especially where the joints are sore!) can help maintain the right size.
Important Things to Remember:
- Please always ask an adult before trying any of these things. They know what is best for you. Take care of yourself. Too much pushing will not help you while moving.
- Those things may help a little, but if your joint pain is very strong or is persistent at all, you must go see a doctor. They are the real experts to help you feel much better!
These simple helpers at home are like small friends to join your aches. Be patient and considerate when asking for adult help. Hope the joints will soon be happy and moving just fine again!
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