Arthritis is a term used to describe a group of diseases that cause pain and inflammation in the joints. Is it a degenerative condition with progressively worsening symptoms, or is it an autoimmune kind of arthritis with extra-articular symptoms, defined by inflammatory flares and a long-term clinical course?
Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the two kinds of arthritis. Wear and tear of cartilage lead bones to rub against each other, causing friction, injury, and inflammation.
RA is a systemic disease that causes symptoms all over the body. It’s an autoimmune illness that occurs when the immune system destroys healthy joint tissue by mistake. Doctors can prescribe medication to ease arthritic pain, but they frequently advocate natural remedies as well.
Always check with your doctor before attempting any arthritis treatment, whether it involves medication or not.
- Supplements
Although scientific studies haven’t shown that any one plant or supplement may treat arthritis, many herbal supplements may help relieve joint discomfort.
A few herbs that may help include Boswellia, bromelain, devil’s claw, ginkgo, stinging nettle, and thunder god vine. oil has also been studied and found to help reduce inflammation and ease the pain.
Because the Food and Drug Administration does not regulate herbs and supplements for quality, purity, or safety, it’s impossible to know exactly what’s in them. Make sure you’re buying from a reliable retailer.
- Watch Your Weight
Your weight might have a significant impact on the symptoms of arthritis. Weight gain puts extra strain on your joints, particularly your knees, hips, and feet.
If you have OA and are overweight or obese, the American College of Rheumatology and Arthritis Foundation recommends decreasing weight. Your doctor can assist you in determining a weight-loss goal and developing a plan to help you achieve it.
Losing weight can help by reducing the load on your joints and helps improve mobility, decrease pain, and prevent future damage to joints.
- Give Acupuncture a Chance
Acupuncture is an ancient Chinese medical procedure in which small needles are inserted into precise spots on the body. It is said to function by rerouting energy and restoring balance in the body, according to practitioners. Acupuncture may help relieve arthritis pain, and while there isn’t enough proof to back up its claims, the danger of injury is low.
To have this therapy, make sure you find a licensed and certified acupuncturist.
- Try Meditation
Meditation and relaxation practices can help lessen arthritis pain by reducing stress and allowing you to manage better with it. Stress reduction may also aid in the reduction of inflammation and pain.
Tai chi and yoga are excellent places to start. Low-impact exercise is combined with meditation, relaxation, and breathing methods.
Mindfulness meditation has been found to be beneficial for some persons with RA, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Anxiety, tension, and depression are all frequent side effects of chronic pain diseases like arthritis.
- Use Turmeric in Food
Curcumin is a molecule found in turmeric, a yellow spice commonly used in Indian cuisine. It contains anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. It has been shown in studies to help lessen arthritis pain and inflammation.
Scientists fed turmeric to rats in a study cited by the National Center for Complementary and Integrative HealthTrusted Source. It reduced inflammation in their joints, according to the results.
More research is needed to understand how turmeric works, although a modest amount of this mild but pleasant spice in your supper is probably harmless
- Get a Massage
Massage can help you feel better in general. It may also aid in the relief of joint pain and stiffness.
It is unlikely to pose a risk and may have indirect advantages, such as stress reduction. Request a referral from your doctor for a massage therapist who has experience treating arthritis patients. You might also ask a physical therapist to show you how to self-massage.
Being fit, mindful, and watching your diet can go a long way to helping relieve the symptoms of joint pain.
