Gentle Stretches for Joint Pain

If you frequently suffer from joint pain, there are some stretches you can do to help you cope with the pain. Stretching encourages joint fluid to stay in your joints, providing a cushion which protects you from soreness.

Arms and shoulders

If your shoulders need stretching, shrug them 10 times, then "swim" by moving your arms in a circle 10 times each, forward and back. Bring your right arm across your chest. Use your left hand to push on your right elbow and hold for 10 seconds. Do the same for the left shoulder.

Legs and hips

To stretch your legs and hips at the same time, sit on the floor with your back against a wall. Spread your legs so your feet are about shoulder-width apart. Slowly reach toward your toes, attempting to put your forehead on the ground. Exercise caution with this stretch; you could hurt your back.

Neck, back and sides

To stretch your neck, look left and right 10 times each, using only your neck. Rotate your head counterclockwise and then clockwise 10 times each. For your back, stand up and slowly bend down to the floor. Then stand up and reach behind you with your arms over your head. Do this 10 times. To loosen up your sides, swivel at your hips left and right 10 times each.

Wrists and hands

In order to loosen your wrists, rotate them gently, as if you were stirring a cup of coffee. To stretch your fingers, place your hands together in a "prayer" position. Leave your fingers touching and separate your palms. Push your fingers together, stretching them back, and hold for 10 seconds. Then make a "claw" hand 10 times for each hand.

Now you know some helpful, easy stretches that can help relieve your joint pain by encouraging the movement of fluid in your joints. Eat right and exercise well and you are sure to experience long-term relief.