Arthritis is a common health problem that causes pain and stiffness in the joints. Arthritis can affect any joint, but the most common joints affected are those in your fingers, knees, hips, neck, and lower back. Arthritis can improve or get worse over time depending on what you do to manage it.
Recently there have been many studies that have shown that some natural remedies can help to relieve arthritis pain. Here are a few of the most effective natural remedies.
1. Apply Heat or Cold
The most basic and yet surprisingly effective treatment for rheumatoid arthritis is to apply heat to the places that give the most stiffness, agony, and overall discomfort. The heat dilates the blood vessels, and this will help reduce pain and inflammation. Conversely, cold therapy is also beneficial for people who suffer from arthritis. Applying cold to the inflamed joints will help numb the area and restrict blood flow to that joint, which decreases swelling and pain.
2. Fish Oil Supplements
Fish oils are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have been shown to be effective in reducing inflammation. Arthritis sufferers often lack these fatty acids in their diets, so taking a fish oil supplement can help to improve symptoms. Look for a high-quality fish oil supplement that has been certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC).
3. Turmeric
Curcumin is a compound found in turmeric that has been shown to decrease inflammation. Taking either a curcumin supplement or a turmeric supplement can help reduce pain and stiffness associated with arthritis. The recommended dosage is 400-600mg, three times daily.
4. Meditation
Meditation has long been used as a natural remedy to help manage pain associated with arthritis. Meditation is the act of detaching yourself from your immediate surroundings and focusing on your feelings, state of mind, and inner thoughts. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you need to sit down in the lotus position at all times; it simply means that you should take some time out for yourself every day to focus on your inner thoughts. Arthritis pain can be quite distracting and overwhelming, so taking a few minutes every day to clear your mind and relax can do wonders for managing your pain.
5. Exercise
Exercise is another important part of managing arthritis. Exercise helps to keep the joints flexible and strong, and it also helps to reduce inflammation. Arthritis sufferers should try to exercise every day, even if it’s just a short walk.
6. Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine that has been shown to be effective in treating arthritis pain. Acupuncture involves inserting needles into specific points on the body. This helps to regulate the flow of energy (qi) and blood, which reduces inflammation and pain.
7. Yoga
Yoga is an ancient form of exercise that combines stretching and breathing exercises. Yoga has been shown to be effective in reducing pain and stiffness in people with arthritis. The best yoga poses for arthritis are those that stretch the joints and muscles.
8. Diet
What you eat can also play a role in managing arthritis pain. Arthritis sufferers should try to eat a healthy diet that is low in sugar and saturated fat and high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Omega-3 fatty acids can also be beneficial, so try to include fish or fish oil supplements in your diet. drink plenty of water, which will help to flush toxins from the body and reduce inflammation.
Managing arthritis can be a challenge, but by using a combination of natural remedies and medication, you can reduce pain and improve your quality of life. Talk to your doctor about which natural remedies might work best for you, and find an arthritis support group to help you manage your condition.