1. A Natural Approach
Conventional treatments for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis usually address pain, inflammation and bone and cartilage deterioration associated with those diseases. At times people experiencing arthritic symptoms may opt to augment these standard treatments with natural remedies in order to avoid medication side effects or reduce the amount of conventional medication required. Available natural remedies include herbal and nutritional supplements, dietary modifications and alternative treatment approaches.
2. Soothing Supplements
There are a number of herbal supplements that have anti-inflammatory properties and reduce pain by reducing inflammation. These include turmeric, ginger, feverfew, nettle leaf, yucca root and willow bark extract. Horsetail contains substances that help strengthen connective tissue and bones. Vitamins E and B3 are both used to treat arthritis and slow the disease's progression. Glucosamine and chondroitin contribute to cartilage and joint health by helping these tissues repair themselves. MSM is a sulfur compound that is also beneficial to joint maintenance.
3. Healthy Diet, Healthy Body
Dietary modifications can help some people with arthritis. Natural health experts recommend reducing consumption of animal products because a chemical found in meat can contribute to joint inflammation. Increasing consumption of omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil, nuts and flax seeds helps reduce inflammatory processes in the body. People with rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune disorder, may consider eliminating dairy, wheat and other gluten-containing grains and soy from their diets because underlying allergies to these foods can exacerbate autoimmune reactions. For other people dietary modification to lose weight may help, because extra weight puts extra strain on the bones and joints.
4. Reduce Stress and Pain
Stress and tension can aggravate the pain and inflammation of arthritis. Because stress depresses the immune system it is particularly problematic for those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Meditation is a great stress management tool, and can help people deal with chronic pain, too. Yoga is good exercise for the muscles, bones and joints and also promotes relaxation. Exercise is good both for stress relief and physical fitness. Swimming is a good aerobic exercise choice for arthritis sufferers because it eliminates impact on the bones and joints.
5. Try an Alternative
Alternative treatment approaches are also available. Acupuncture, massage, osteopathy and chiropractic medicine can all help with pain management. Some people with arthritis use bee venom treatments; they apply bee stings to the skin around a painful joint. However, the risk of allergic reaction is high with these treatments and people who react strongly to bee or wasp stings should avoid them.
