Homeopathic medicine allows the body to heal itself by creating a stimulus, which initiates the body's natural response to disease, according to the National Center for Homeopathy. Various homeopathic remedies can be used to support the body and help reduce joint pain and inflammation due to arthritis, autoimmune diseases, acute injuries and other conditions. It is best to consult a qualified homeopath to treat serious disease and injuries.
Bryonia Alba
Bryonia alba is one of the first remedies to think about for the treatment of acute joint injuries as well as chronic joint pain. It is indicated for people whose pain is worse when they move the sore joint, according to Frans Vermeulen in the "Synoptic Materia Medica." The pains are tearing and excruciating, especially on movement. There may be swelling in the joints and tenderness when touched. In addition, the person needing Bryonia may be thirsty for large quantities of cold water, excessively grumpy and desire to be left alone.
Arnica
Arnica is generally used for acute injuries to the joints and can also be used for chronic pain, according to Dana Ullman in, "Everybody's Guide to Homeopathic Medicines." The person needing Arnica may feel bruised and sore in the injured joint. There may be a deep aching sensation with swelling and discoloration. The individual may be extremely uncomfortable, complaining that the bed feels too hard. In the case of an injury needing Arnica, most likely the individual will not want anyone to touch the injured part.
Rhus Toxicadendron
Rhus toxicadendron, or Rhus tox, is commonly used in cases of joint pain and inflammation, as well as other muskuloskeletal conditions. It has been found helpful in cases of gout, fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Vermeulen writes that Rhus tox is indicated in cases where the pain is worse during the first moments of movement and then lessens with continued motion. There may be stiffness, redness, swelling and inflammation. This remedy is often useful in chronic cases of joint pain where other treatments have failed. Other indications for its use are that the injured or sore part is better during warm applications and warm baths and worse during damp, chilly weather.
Colchicum
Colchicum may be helpful for the treatment of joint pain in conditions such as gout, especially if the gouty joint is in the toes, according to the University of Michigan Health System. The pain is excruciating and unbearable even with the lightest touch. There may be burning, stinging, aching and stiffness accompanied by redness and swelling in the joint. The affected joints may be bright red and feel hot to the touch. The person needing Colchicum will notice a worsening of the pain at night in bed.
Additional Considerations
Homeopathic remedies are available over the counter at health food stores, online and from homeopathic practitioners. If you suffer from a chronic condition, a qualified homeopath should be consulted to help ascertain which remedy best fits your case. Ask your practitioner for guidelines pertaining to dosing. If you choose to self-treat for acute injuries, buy a homeopathic first aid book for reference.
References
- University of Michigan Health System: Gout -- Homeopathic Remedies
- "Synoptic Materia Medica"; Frans Vermeulen; 1992
- "Everybody's Guide to Homeopathic Medicines", Stephen Cummings, F.N.P. and Dana Ullman, M.P.H. 1984
