9 Natural Holistic Ways to Relieve Arthritis Pain

Arthritis is a type of degenerative disease which involves painful inflammation of the joints and causes stiffness. Osteoarthritis is one form of arthritis which progresses with age and is caused by wear and tear of the joints.

Arthritis is treated with painkillers and anti-inflammatory medicines; however there are some natural ways to manage your pain.

1. Weight Loss

Weight loss has a major effect on arthritis associated pain. It reduces the pressure on knees, hips and foot joints.  It also increases mobility and protects from further damage to the joints.

2. Exercising

Exercising has even more benefits than weight loss because the routine movement improves flexibility in the joints. It is however recommended to stick to low-impact workouts such as swimming or water aerobics to avoid stressing the sensitive areas.

3. Hot and Cold Therapy

Hot and cold treatment can make a lot of difference. Warm baths or hot showers ease the stiffness. Heating pads or electric blankets can also be used at night to loosen the joints. Cold treatments such as ice packs can be applied to joints for immediate relief.

4. Acupuncture

The ancient Chinese acupuncture treatment can reroute energy and restore the balance of the body. It is reported to reduce pain and inflammation associated with arthritis by inserting needles into the body.

5. Meditation

Meditation is said to help relax the body and mind to manage arthritis pain. It reduces the stress levels and provides relief. The National Institute of Health endorses meditation as a helpful remedy for arthritis pain. It is also a cure for depression that most arthritis patients are struggling with.

6. Fatty Acids

Fatty acids such as Omega-3 are a recommended part of the diet as they promote good health. Flax oil is rich in omega-3 and and reduces the stiffness in joints for arthritis patients. GLA is another fatty acid commonly found in hemp, black currants or primrose. These macronutrients are available in the form of supplements. However, a doctor should be consulted before using them.

7. Turmeric

Turmeric is a common Indian spice which contains the chemical curcumin, an anti-inflammatory compound. This can also reduce arthritis pain as reported by the NIH research labs. It not only has health benefits but adds flavor to any meal.

8. Massage

Regular massaging of the arthritic joints helps reduce stiffness, manage pain and improve mobility. The Arthritis Foundation also says that massages can be beneficial for patients. They can learn to massage themselves with the help of a physical therapist or schedule appointments with a massage therapist. It is important to make sure the therapist hired has the experience of working with arthritic patients and doctors can recommend an appropriate one.

9. Herbal Supplements

There are many herbal supplements commonly available now that treat arthritic joint pain. Some herbs included in these supplements are bromelain, boswellia, devil’s claw, stinging nettle, ginkgo and thunder god vine.

A medical professional like Dr. Tom Macek should be consulted before the patient begins using any of these alternate pain relieving methods because they can recommend the best remedy.