Support, comfort and small wins every day
If you live with arthritis, you know it’s not just the pain. It's the stiffness, the fatigue, the frustration when something simple like opening a jar turns into a mission.
There’s no magic cure, but there are ways to make life easier, more comfortable and less painful. Some are well-known. Others are everyday hacks that don’t get enough credit. Here's what can help, along with a few tools we've seen make a real difference.
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Gentle movement can help more than rest
Even five minutes of stretching in the morning can loosen things up. Swimming, tai chi and walking all help keep your joints moving without putting too much strain on them. Arthritis NZ has great local resources if you're not sure where to start.
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Natural relief options like arnica
Arnica cream can be a helpful option for managing flare-ups and bruising. Some people also use magnesium oil or anti-inflammatory gels. Just avoid broken skin and do a patch test first.
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Compression and support where it counts
Products like the IMAK arthritis gloves offer warmth and gentle compression. They’re especially useful if you type, sew or work with your hands. We also stock wrist sleeves, elbow sleeves and thumb splints to support different joints during the day.
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Daily tools that save your joints
Sometimes the hardest part is the little stuff. We've heard from many customers that these make a surprising difference:
- Jar and bottle opener grip set for easier twisting
- Easy-grip cutlery that feels better in your hand
- Dressing stick with shoe horn to help avoid painful bending
- Long-handled reachers to save your knees and hands
- Sock aids for getting dressed without the fight
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Hot and cold therapy
Cold packs help with inflammation. Heat can ease morning stiffness. The Polar Ice® therapy wraps combine cold with light compression and are easy to keep in the freezer. A basic heat pack or warm bath in the evening can also work wonders.
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What’s new in arthritis research?
There’s real hope on the horizon. One of the most exciting developments is a bioelectronic implant that stimulates the vagus nerve to reduce inflammation. It’s showing early success in treating rheumatoid arthritis without medication. If you like a bit of science with your updates, read the story here →
It’s not about fixing everything
It’s about taking the pressure off where you can. Choosing tools that give your joints a break. Finding small routines that help you feel more like yourself again.
You can browse our arthritis support range or get in touch with our team if you're not sure where to start. We’re always happy to help you figure out what will actually work for your body.
