Arthritis is a degenerative condition which may aggravate over time. It is commonly associated with extra-articular symptoms like inflammatory flares, joint pain and stiffness of joints. There are two types of arthritis: rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis is usually caused by wear and tear in the cartilage, leading to friction, inflammation and damage to the joints. However, rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease, and usually happens when our immune system attacks our healthy joint tissue.
Joint pain and stiffness can be challenging for anyone who has arthritis. Physicians will usually prescribe some medication and pain relievers to alleviate the symptoms of arthritis, alongside recommendations for natural methods.
While conventional treatments offer some relief to stiffness and pain by controlling the inflammation and slowing the progression of the disease, they come with several side effects.
It’s best to contact and talk with a rheumatologist before trying any remedy. There are natural methods and treatments that can help you strengthen the muscles around your joints or alleviate the pain you are experiencing.
Here are some of our recommended natural treatments for arthritis.
- Daily exercise
Daily exercises can help you manage your weight and keep your joints more flexible. In fact, it can even strengthen the muscles around your joints, so you’ll be able to move without pain and stiffness.
It is advisable to choose an appropriate exercise program that is suitable for people with arthritis. You may even want to hire a trainer to help and motivate you with your exercise regimen. There are several low-impact exercises that won’t overwork your joints and these include:
- Cycling
- Walking
- Swimming
- Tai chi
Also, daily exercises will help you manage your weight properly and give you the mobility you need. In fact, being overweight can put pressure on your joints, especially the knees, feet and hips which may cause wear and tear on your joints over time.
- Hot and cold therapy
If you’re experiencing pain due to arthritis, you can use hot and cold treatments to relieve inflammation and pain. For hot treatments, you can take a warm shower or bath in the morning to ease any stiffness in your joints. You can also use a moist heating pad or electric blanket to reduce any discomfort overnight.
However, if you want some relief with inflammation, swelling, and joint pain, you can wrap an ice pack on the affected area for quick relief.
You may also want to try some topical ointments like Capsaicin, which is a known herbal cream that you can buy over the counter. These products will sooth joint pain and provide warmth throughout the night.
- Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medical treatment that can help alleviate the symptoms of arthritis. It involves inserting thin sterile needles into several points on your body. Acupuncture may reduce arthritis pain and the risk of harm is considered low.
It’s essential for you to check the qualifications of an acupuncturist before you decide to undergo a treatment. A qualified and licensed practitioner like Belinda Tran will happily answer any questions you have and tailor a treatment plan to your needs.
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