Arthritis refers to any of a large group of disorders affecting joints of the body. The most common types are osteoarthritis, which is usually found in individual joints; and rheumatoid arthritis, which is a systemic disease caused by a malfunction in the body's immune system. Neither is curable, but medications and other alternative remedies can help arthritis sufferers control pain and keep active.
Lifestyle Changes
While the effectiveness of some arthritis treatments may depend on the type of arthritis you have, diet and exercise and reducing stress are always good therapy.
Maintaining a healthy weight reduces the stress on joints, while regular exercise helps maintain mobility. If your joints are already damaged or you are just getting started with an exercise program, tai chi or yoga may be good choices.
Stress is also associated with worsening the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, often resulting in the need for higher doses of prednisone. This need may be lessened by practicing meditation, praying or finding other stress-reducing activities. The Arthritis Foundation website includes a guide called "10 steps to Stress Relief." Tai chi and yoga have also proved to reduce stress.
Nutritional Supplements and Herbs
Among the nutritional supplements that help reduce the pain of osteoarthritis are glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate. You should not use glucosamine if you are allergic to shellfish.
For rheumatoid arthritis, fish oil--especially when combined with olive oil--has proven anti-inflammatory properties. Other herbs, including thunder god vine, ginger and curcumin and boswellia are currently under investigation. All hold promise, but each has possible side effects.
Getting adequate sleep is frequently an issue for those with arthritis. Valerian supplements have proved helpful, but you should not take them with other sedatives.
Many of these herbs and supplements, including TGV, ginger and chondroitin sulfate tend, to thin the blood, so you should use them cautiously, if at all, if you are also taking warfarin or other blood thinners.
Always to tell your doctor if you are using herbs or nutritional supplements, as many interact with prescription medicines. And take the time to search for a reputable source, as these supplements are unregulated.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture has long been used in Chinese traditional medicine. Acupuncture involves inserting small needles into specific points in the body to treat various conditions. Acupuncture has proved to help reduce joint pain in osteoarthritis.
Hydrotherapy
Warm water is often soothing to aching joints caused by arthritis. Take care that the temperature doesn't get too high, which can cause blood vessels to expand too much. As with all therapies, talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits specific to your particular physical condition.
Assistive Devices
Canes or walkers, splints, braces or shoe inserts may provide that little extra protection to relieve joint pain enough to help you keep active.
