(NC) Pain is a common and often very challenging symptom of arthritis. And pain treatments that work for one person may not work for another.

“It’s important to remember that no one knows your pain as well as you do,” advises Trish Barbato, president and CEO of the Arthritis Society. “While different health-care professionals may help, you are the best person to manage your pain, to know when a treatment is working or not working, and to know when to reach out for help.”

Here, Barbato shares some dos and don’ts to help you manage your arthritis pain:

Do:

• Remember that pain is complex
• Seek information to help you better understand your condition
• Seek support – from family, friends and community resources
• Try different approaches to managing your pain

Don’t:

• Blame yourself
• Let your pain make you feel isolated
• Be physically inactive
• Avoid facing the situation directly.

Strive for a positive attitude. While telling yourself “with the power of my brain I will be pain-free!” is unrealistic, a mantra of “nothing I do will make a difference” can have a negative impact on your outlook and perception of pain. Look for the small wins and celebrate them.

Find more information at arthritis.ca.