Osteoarthritis is the most common joint-related disease and, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, currently affects more than 25 million people in the United States. In an individual with osteoarthritis, inflammation leads to the degeneration of cartilage lining a joint; this loss of cushioning between bones often results in pain upon movement of the affected joint. Additionally, abnormal bony growths, or osteophytes, can form in the joint space, further decreasing mobility and quality of life. Fortunately, several natural treatments both relieve the pain caused by osteoarthritis and decrease inflammation, which is an important factor in the etiology of the disease.
Step 1
Use glucosamine to relieve joint pain and to promote the health of cartilage. Glucosamine sulfate stimulates the production of substances called glycosaminoglycans, which have a gel-like consistency and are an important component of cartilage. In a review of the effectiveness of glucosamine in treating knee osteoarthritis published in the journal "Health Technology Assessment," researchers found that people taking glucosamine supplements had less pain and increased function of the knee joint as well as a decreased need for knee surgery over an 8-year period.
Step 2
Try the herb Devil's claw. The German Commission E---the German counterpart to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration---approves the use of devil's claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) in the treatment of degenerative musculoskeletal disorders. According to a monograph published in the "Alternative Medicine Review," the herb has both anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects and has been found to protect cartilage from degradation. The actions of devil's claw are likely due to a constituent known as harpagoside, and many products containing the herb are standardized to contain at least 5 percent harpagosides. The monograph recommends taking devil's claw in an amount sufficient to provide 50 to 100 milligrams of harpagosides per day.
Step 3
Apply a topical treatment. Cetylated fatty acids are a type of naturally occurring fatty acid similar to omega-3 fats. This fat, both alone and in combination with menthol, has been shown to decrease pain from osteoarthritis when applied topically. A study published in the "Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research" demonstrated that twice daily use of a cream containing menthol and cetylated fatty acids, for one month, resulted in significant improvements in stair-climbing ability, balance and strength, range of motion and pain levels in individuals with osteoarthritis of the knee. Similar results were found when the cream was used for osteoarthritis of the wrist and elbow.
Step 4
Make an appointment to see a local acupuncturist. In a review article titled "Acupuncture for peripheral joint osteoarthritis," the authors concluded that acupuncture treatments produce short-term improvements in pain and function in individuals with osteoarthritis. It is typically necessary to have frequent treatments in order to fully benefit from acupuncture. A study published in "BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders" found that individuals with knee osteoarthritis who received up to 10 treatments per week had significantly less pain after a three-month period.
Tips and Warnings
- Do a trial elimination of foods from the nightshade family: tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants and peppers. These foods contain an alkaloid called solanine, which may contribute to joint inflammation and collagen degeneration. Include sources of omega-3 fatty acids in your diet. This type of fat helps to minimize inflammatory processes in the body. Dietary sources of these beneficial fats include wild salmon, sardines, anchovies and flax seeds. If you are overweight, create a plan to reach a healthier weight. Excessive body weight increases the strain on weight-bearing joints in the body, accelerating the disease process of osteoarthritis.
- Glucosamine is often derived from shellfish; please avoid this supplement if you have an allergy to shellfish. Devil's claw may potentially interact with several medications. Consult your doctor before taking this herb.
Things You'll Need
- Glucosamine sulfate
- Devil's claw
- Topical pain relievers
References
- CDC: Arthritis Related Statistics
- "Health Tech Assess"; Clinical effectiveness of glucosamine...in osteoarthritis of knee; Nov 2009
- "The Complete German Commission E Monographs"; Mark Blumenthal; 1998
- "Alternative Medicine Review"; Harpagophytum procumbens; Sep 2008
- "J Strength Cond Res"; Cetylated fatty acid topical cream...in individuals with arthritis; May 2005
