Arthritis is a general term for joint pain and inflammation. According to the Arthritis Research UK organization, there are more than 200 kinds of musculoskeletal conditions, many of which are different types of arthritis. Arthritis can be controlled by pain-relieving medications, but the aching and swelling of the joints can also be managed through more natural strategies. People who want to treat their arthritis with natural remedies that include dietary supplements should consult their doctors before beginning a new regimen.
Weight Management
Weight management can be a very effective tool in managing arthritis. Not everyone who has arthritis is overweight, but according to the Mayo Clinic, obesity is a risk factor for some forms of the disease, including osteoarthritis. A person who weighs more than her ideal weight puts more pressure on her joints, which can cause arthritis or speed up the degeneration process.
Exercise
Exercise may seem counterintuitive when thinking about strategies to stop joint pain, but according to the Mayo Clinic and PeaceHealth, exercise is an effective tool for managing arthritis naturally. Working out through periods of inflammation and pain are not suggested, but gentle stretching and slow movements in between flareups may reduce pain without intensifying symptoms. Two activities that involve gentle movement that are ideal for arthritis sufferers are tai chi and yoga.
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Acupuncture or acupressure, similar forms of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), may be natural strategies for some people who have joint pain. Acupuncture realigns the body's energy, called the qi (pronounced "chee"), by inserting very fine needles into specific locations, or pressure points, throughout the body. Acupressure performs the same tasks using the pressure of a provider's hands and fingers instead of manipulation through needles. Traditional Chinese medicine is used as a natural pain reliever for a variety of medical conditions.
Diet Adjustments
Inflammation, and subsequently, the stiffness and pain in the joints, may decrease in response to diet. According to The World's Healthiest Foods, omega-3 fatty acids, an essential nutrient that can prevent cancer and promote blood vessel health, may also reduce bodily inflammation. Arthritis Research UK explains that people who reduce or eliminate meat from their diets may have a decrease in symptoms, especially those who suffer from a form of arthritis called gout.
Natural dietary supplements may also benefit arthritis patients. Glucosamine and chondroitin may boost joint health. Coking with ginger can curb joint pain. A variety of herbal remedies may be helpful, ranging from Burdock root to cat's claw and yucca. Scientific evidence for herbal remedies to treat joint pain and other medical conditions is not always consistent and should be discussed with a medical care provider before use.
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