Joint pain can affect one or more joints and can be caused by a variety of injuries or conditions such as gout, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, infections and bursitis. Anti-inflammatory medications may provide relief from the pain along with the prescribed treatment for the underlying condition. Exercise, rest, massage and warm baths are also important for non-arthritic joints. Certain diets and foods may also help treat and manage joint pain.
Low-calorie Diet
Excessive body weight can put pressure on the joints and muscles and can tear down the cartilages. This is one of the biggest risk factors for osteoarthritis. In fact, according to Jane Harrison, R.D., writing for myOptumHealth, maintaining appropriate body weight can cut down the risk of osteoarthritis by 40 to 50 percent and even a 5 percent loss of the body weight can provide significant relief from joint pain. Avoiding processed foods that are rich in fat and sugars and including healthy options such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains in the diet may be the first step toward maintaining weight and getting joint pain relief. The Family Health Guide also recommends consuming olive oil along with sesame flax and pumpkin seeds and avoiding certain vegetables such as tomatoes, eggplants and capsicum as part of an anti-arthritic diet.
Allergen-free Diet
Joint pain that occurs due to rheumatoid arthritis may be as a result of food allergies. An article published by "Arthritis Today" reports that research has shown that joint fluids of individuals with rheumatoid arthritis had higher levels of antibodies to proteins from cow's milk, cereal, hen's eggs, codfish and pork than people without rheumatoid arthritis, indicating that avoiding these foods may provide relief. Patients with joint pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis should talk to a doctor and get tested for any possible food allergies.
Low Uric Acid Diet
Gout, a severe form of arthritis that leads to accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints, has been associated with consumption of diets rich in meats, seafood and alcohol. According to MayoClinic.com, dietary restrictions are an important aspect of gout treatment. Eating a diet rich in plant proteins, complex carbohydrates, and drinking plenty of water and low fat dairy products can promote elimination of excess uric acid. MayoClinic.com also recommends avoiding alcohol, meat, sugar and processed foods as part of a gout diet.
Omega 3 Rich Diet
Arthritis Today also states that omega 3 fatty acids found in cold water fish such salmon and mackerel can help reduce the inflammation and stiffness associated with arthritis-related joint pain. Consuming supplements or foods rich in omega 3 fatty acids may prove useful to some patients.
