1. Diet and Exercise Are Always Good Alternatives
There may be newer alternative treatments, but it turns out that eating right and getting moving is pretty much always good for what ails you, even for osteoarthritis, an increasingly common complaint in our aging society. Osteoarthritis can be quite painful and damaging to joints. Recent studies indicate that working out moderately at least three times a week and losing as little as 11 pounds can reduce your risk of getting osteoarthritis in your knees by as much as 50 percent. If your joints are already sore, you may find that tai chi or yoga, with their slow movements combined with gentle stretching, are more tolerable.
2. Add Acupuncture To Your Conventional Treatments
The jury is still out on whether or not this traditional Chinese medicine technique is effective in treating osteoarthritis pain by itself, but most studies say it has a good effect when combined with traditional Western medications. One important factor is the skill of the practitioner. So if you do try this form of therapy, research practitioners in your area to find out who gets the best results treating osteoarthritis.
3. Consider the Claims of Magnets
The static magnets sold to consumers to be placed on or near bothersome joints are thought to relieve pain by increasing circulation. However, researchers say electromagnets, rather than static magnets, show the most promise in treating osteoarthritis pain. Those are harder to come by and should be used by an experienced practitioner. While static magnets haven't raised any safety issues, some sellers have made claims about their effectiveness that has s put them at odds with the Food and Drug Administration, so do research before plunking down your money.
4. Nutritional Supplements May Keep You Moving
Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are widely used natural substances you might try, especially if your pain is moderate-to-severe. Studies show they don't provide as much relief for those who have less pain. Unfortunately, these substances won't stop or reverse joint damage. Ginger extract is another alternative for treating the pain of osteoarthritis. Long used in cooking, the spicy supplement has also been employed to treat nausea, stomachaches and diarrhea. Its effectiveness in treating osteoarthritis has not yet been determined, but it may give you some relief if you stand or walk a lot.
5. Be Cautious About Using Supplements
Because glucosamine is derived from crab shells, don't use it if you have an allergy to shellfish. Also be cautious using chondroitin sulfate or ginger supplements if you take warfarin or other blood thinners. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking these or other supplements, as they may interact with prescription medicines. Also, because these supplements are unregulated, be sure your source is reliable.
