Arthritis is a set of degenerative conditions characterized by pain, stiffness and inflammation. Doctors traditionally treat it with pain and anti-inflammatory medications, which usually produce side effects. Natural approaches are becoming more popular as alternative or complementary remedies, which provide solutions without the side effects. It is important to keep up with your medical treatment and consult with your health care practitioner before trying any of the natural alternatives below:
- Heat and cold: heat relaxes muscles and promotes blood flow while cold helps address inflammation and swelling;
- Keep moving: regular movement throughout the day (stand up, rotate joints, move around) minimizes stiffness and keeps joints healthier;
- Weight loss: every pound lost reduces pressure on the knees by 4 pounds;
- Stretch daily: stretching increases flexibility and mobility;
- Physical activity: exercise regularly, even regular 10 minutes of walking helps joints, tendons and ligaments;
- Omega-3: oily fish, flax seeds or supplements help lower inflammation;
- Supplements with glucosamine and chondroitin: reduce pain and cartilage loss;
- Ginger: improves circulation and is anti-inflammatory;
- Turmeric: adding turmeric to food may help arthritis as lab tests on rats showed reduced inflammation;
- Apple cider vinegar: mixed with water is claimed to help arthritis;
- Self-massage: learning to massage joints can help ease pain and increase range of motion;
- Herbal supplements: bromelain, boswellia, ashwagandha, devil’s claw and other supplements should not be taken prior to consulting with a doctor as they may interfere with certain drug treatments;
- Capsaicin cream: alleviates arthritis pain by diverting attention to nerve endings;
- Essential oils: wintergreen, eucalyptus or rosemary in a carrier oil, such as coconut oil, can alleviate pain with topical use.
- Castor oil: many find relief within a short time with the use of castor oil applications locally, by itself or with the use of castor oil packs with heat.
