Arthritis, in all of its forms, can inflict pain so severe that even simple daily tasks become impossible. And once the condition takes hold, little can be done about it.But activities like swimming, cycling, yoga and Tai Chi can help by fortifying the muscles surrounding joints, easing pain over time. “Believe it or not, movement is the key remedy I prescribe to my patients,” integrative pain specialist Dr Sheetal Decaria told GB News. The double board-certified integrative pain physician noted that exercise alone will not offer the quick relief so many patients need.Daily movement is one of the best remedies for arthritis | GETTYFor instant appeasement, she recommends soaking the joints in a warm Epsom salt bath or performing light stretches.But for those seeking quick relief for current pain, soaking in a warm Epsom salt bath, performing light stretches, or practising brief meditation can all help.Knowing whether to reach for ice or heat depends entirely on the specific condition, according to Dr DeCaria.As a rule of thumb, those suffering from inflammatory forms of the disease, including rheumatoid arthritis and gout, should turn to cold therapy.”If you have inflammatory arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis or gout, and your joints are swollen, then ice packs can be really helpful to reduce pain and swelling,” she explained.Conversely, patients with degenerative osteoarthritis — often referred to as “bone on bone” arthritis — tend to benefit more from warmth.When it comes to reducing stiffness and enhancing joint mobility, Dr DeCaria advocates gentle stretching targeted at whichever joint is causing discomfort.However, her preferred recommendation for arthritis patients goes further than isolated stretches. “For many of my arthritis patients, I recommend they take up either Tai Chi or yoga, as the whole-body stretching and movements can be really beneficial,” she said.Both disciplines offer a comprehensive approach, working multiple joints and muscle groups simultaneously rather than focusing on a single problem area.The type of arthritis a patient has will naturally influence which exercises prove most effective, but it’s worth noting that keeping the body moving gently is far preferable to remaining sedentary, even when discomfort tempts one to stay still.The kitchen cupboard may also hold valuable allies in the fight against arthritis inflammation, according to Dr DeCaria.She highlights four varieties with notable anti-inflammatory properties to include in everyday cooking. Osteoarthritis in the knee can cause serious problems | GETTY”My favourites are cinnamon, turmeric, ginger, and cayenne pepper,” she saidFor those not inclined towards spicier fare, she noted that supplement alternatives are available. Dr DeCaria confirmed she regularly suggests specific supplement products to her patients as a convenient substitute.