The Washington Post discusses ways to ease painful joints caused by osteoarthritis according to experts including Heidi Prather, DO, physiatrist at HSS.

According to Dr. Prather, a number of lifestyle and other nondrug treatments can help ease symptoms — and prevent OA from progressing. “Sleep is crucial to pain perception,” noted Dr. Prather. Insufficient sleep time can reduce the levels of neurotransmitters — feel-good brain chemicals that can help blunt pain, she explained.

Additionally, a Mediterranean-style diet, which is rich in produce, whole grains, seafood, beans and nuts. A high-sugar diet may negatively affect the gut microbiome, according to a study published in the journal PLOS One in 2021. And “your gut makes most of your body’s serotonin, a brain chemical that boosts mood and makes it easier for you to tolerate pain,” said Dr. Prather.

Read the full article at Washingtonpost.com.