Treating Arthritis the natural way

Arthritis is a painful condition related to the joints and can affect people of all ages but is more common in older individuals. The condition results from a deterioration of the cartilage which are the cushions between the bones, causing friction that results in pain and inflammation.

There are a wide variety of medical treatments and home remedies to treat these painful symptoms. Some home remedies have been proven to be more effective than others and can even provide greater relief than medical treatments. 

Exercise And Weight Loss

Extra weight results in additional strain on the joints and losing a few pounds through a change and diet and exercise can alleviate pain associated with arthritis. Weight loss can also slow the progression of the condition as it reduces the wear and tear on the cartilage in the joints.

Exercise also strengthens the muscles surrounding the joints offering additional support to minimize pain associated with movement. Good muscle tone will also slow the progression of the disease and improve joint flexibility. 

Tip: Arthritis can affect mobility and gentle exercises are recommended so as not to exacerbate the condition. Consult your doctor or physiotherapist for the best exercises for arthritis.

Hot And Cold Therapy

Heat therapy stimulates blood circulation that promotes healing and eases pain. A hot bath, shower, Jacuzzi  or hot tub, sauna or steam bath are all great for relieving pain. Infrared heat lamps, compresses and heating pads or patches are ideal for treating localized joint pain.

Cold therapy reduces swelling or inflammation of the joints and relieves pain by numbing the area. Cold compresses, gel or ice packs are ideal. Immersing a joint in water with ice added is also effective.

Tip: Add some Epsom Salts to your hot bath for more effective results. It will also increase your magnesium intake and help detox your body.

Diet

Adding certain types of foods, herbs and spices to your diet can help alleviate the symptoms of arthritis. 

Foods To Include:

- Fresh, raw fruit and vegetables
- Oily foods such as fish, nuts, seeds and natural oils such as olive oil
- Legumes such as peas and beans, preferably raw

Foods To Avoid: 

- Dairy products like milk and cheese
- Red meat including beef, mutton, lamb and game
- Sugary foods and simple carbohydrates

Spices To Include:

- Turmeric and ginger for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

Herbs To Include:

- Green Tea
- Cat's Claw
- Boswellia
- Willow Bark or White Willow Tea

Remember to consult your doctor before taking any herbal or alternative remedies orally.

Tip: If you simply can't stomach any of these foods, herbs or spices, try getting the benefits in supplement form.

Topical Treatments

Nature provides a multitude of healing, soothing and pain relieving plants, fruits and minerals that can be used directly on the body to treat arthritis naturally. Therapies that have anti-inflammatory properties, contain antioxidants and are healing are most effective. These include:

- Eucalyptus Oil
- Aloe Vera 
- Peppermint Oil
- Cayenne pepper or Chili oil or cream (Capsaicin)

Tip: Natural topical treatments have little to no side effects and can be used as often as needed.

Alternative Therapies

Massage, aromatherapy, reflexology and acupuncture are all alternative therapies that are effective in relieving arthritis pain and inflammation. The treatments work by physically treating the symptoms of pain and by releasing certain chemicals in the body that are associated with relaxation, pain relief and happiness. 

Tip: It is important to only use a therapist who is trained and certified to perform alternative therapies. 

It is advisable to try and test different natural remedies to find which are most suitable and effective to relieve arthritis symptoms.

Shana Smith is a natural health enthusiast and successful business owner. She owns a site, which is dedicated to a healthy lifestyle. Visit Website: www.aromatherapy4mom.com