A wide choice of treatments ranging from conventional drugs to folk remedies to herbs and homeopathic medicines are available for the treatment of arthritis and joint pain. Homeopathy works to relieve pain by stimulating the body's natural reaction to an external irritation or trigger, thereby allowing the body to heal itself. Homeopathy is gentle and considered safe if used according to directions and under the supervision of a health practitioner.
Bryonia Alba
Bryonia alba, simply referred to as Bryonia, is indicated for joint pain that is worse when movement is involved. Pain is extreme and intense and always aggravated when the person moves the injured or diseased part. Even the most minute movement can send the person into spasms of pain. There may be swelling, redness and inflammation present at the site. This remedy is indicated when certain general symptoms are present along with the joint pain, such as great thirst for cold water, a gruff mood and the desire to be left alone rather than comforted by others.
Rhus Toxicodendron
Rhus toxicodendron, or Rhus tox, is indicated for a painful joint when the discomfort is worse with the beginning movement and then made better after continued motion. Additionally, the person needing Rhus tox may experience pain on either side of the body, but ordinarily it is worse on the left side. Pain is often aggravated by damp, cold weather. There may be stiffness and swelling associated with the pain and the patient may be restless, always trying to adjust her position to get comfortable, but is not being able to do so. The person who will benefit from Rhus tox is generally chilly, and the painful areas are often made better with warm applications, like a heating pad.
Ruta Gravolens
Ruta gravolens, or Ruta, is better suited to treating painful joints when the tendons and surrounding soft tissue are involved. The painful joint may feel tender and weak, as though the leg may give out under you if you try make it bear weight. The person needing Ruta may also be aggravated by cold, damp weather.
Arnica
Arnica is indicated for joint pain when the joint and surrounding tissue feels bruised and sore. It is often used to treat injuries as well as chronic pain. One of the leading symptoms indicating the need for Arnica is that the patient will be adamant about not wanting to be touched and says he feels fine, even when the evidence indicates otherwise.
Rhododendron
Rhododendron is often indicated for tearing pains experienced as a result of gout or rheumatism. The person's pain is usually worse during hot weather. Most people needing Rhododendron are aggravated before a thunderstorm and will tell you that they are bothered by a drop in barometric pressure. The person needing this remedy will have pains that are mostly worse on the right side of their body.
Other Considerations
Homeopathic remedies are available over the counter and online without a prescription in most cases. Unless you are familiar with using homeopathy, you should consult a health practitioner who is trained in homeopathic medicine and is familiar with treatment and dosing guidelines. Homeopathic first aid books are available for those well versed in the use of homeopathic remedies. If your pain persists or new symptoms develop after taking a homeopathic remedy, stop taking it and consult a homeopath.
References
- "Desktop Guide"; Dr. Roger Morrison; 1993
- "Homeopathic Medical Repertory"; Robin Murphy; N.D., 1993
- "Homeopathic Drug Pictures"; Dr. Margaret Tyler; 1987
- "Synoptic Materia Medica"; Frans Vermeulen; 1992
- "Materia Medica and Repertory"; William Boericke; 1998
