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Stiffness--any no-med solution?

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Posted 9/30/2012 12:50 PM (GMT 0)
I try to avoid medications when I can, but I do break down and take them when I get a long, nasty flare.

Has anyone used anything other than medications for stiffness?  I think the stiffness bothers me lots more than the pain (though neither is fun!).

I do take fish oil and evening primrose oil, magnesium, and sometimes potassium, B vitamins, and vitamin D.

Any suggestions appreciated.  Thank you.

Edited to add:  I should specify I mean 'really bad' stiffness, with muscle spasms, etc.--not just the minor, everyday stiffness.  I know that stretches and exercises can help with that.

Post Edited (Luvzminis) : 9/30/2012 7:17:38 AM (GMT-6)

Posted 9/30/2012 1:19 PM (GMT 0)
Concentrated cherry juice seems to help me somewhat. You can buy it in the health food section of some grocery stores. I mix it with a little water morning and evening.

I try to keep as active as I can switching from sitting to walking throughout the day. I get more stiff if I sit too long or if I overdo.

Baths and showers help also.

What I eat and drink affects me. If I eat sugar or high fat foods or spicy foods or unhealthy carbs it causes me more pain. I also stay away from chocolate and caffiene.

Good luck to you.
Posted 9/30/2012 1:42 PM (GMT 0)
Muscle relaxers may help you. I am always stiff bad in the mornings. I just let it work itself out. It does take more time for me to get moving, but I think it is a part of age too. Something that is eventually going to happen anyway.

I hope you feel better soon. If you find something for stiffness, let us know. Muscle rubs might help. Mine goes away in one to two hours.

Hugs, Karen
Posted 9/30/2012 2:08 PM (GMT 0)
I use a muscle relaxer called Robaxin.

Sherrine
Posted 9/30/2012 2:18 PM (GMT 0)
I'm not sure what else can be done if you are talking about severe spasms and walking/stretching/hot bath or shower doesn't work.

I try all of these things first and then use my muscle relaxer, Flexeril, when it gets really bad. I've also been on Robaxin and Skelaxin as we rotate through them every few years. They are all good ones.

I think we all try to avoid medications and only take them when needed. But my Drs. have told me that you need to recognize your "#" to where it's too late for anything and a flare has taken hold.

If you do these types of things, and take a muscle relaxer when needed and rest for some hours...it has always helped calmed things down and prevent me from getting worse or having a long flare.
Posted 9/30/2012 2:20 PM (GMT 0)
I found that Yoga worked for me to help with stiffness. Not the regular Yoga classes. I was able to find someone that is certified and teaches Yoga for chronic Pain. She actually modifies poses for the individual. After about a month, I felt it much easier to move around and the stiffness slowly disappear. She is in Ontario, Canada, but I know she does email suggestions for free, if you would like to message me and I will send you her name. Also you can try rehabilitative yoga classes or senior yoga classes.
Posted 9/30/2012 2:48 PM (GMT 0)
I think each person should speak with their Dr. to find out what type of Yoga would be good. Many of us also have spine issues to where a Dr. should make sure what we do is safe..

If this person does things for free...then why not have her come on and just share this info on the boards?
Posted 9/30/2012 3:07 PM (GMT 0)
I do my twice a day stretches that I learned from a physical therapist years ago.
Posted 9/30/2012 6:45 PM (GMT 0)
Hot shower, muscle rubs, heating pads...
I try these first before medicine.
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