Natural Relief for Arthritis Pain

Arthritis is a painful condition occurring when joints in the body swell, affecting over 20 million adults in the United States. Due to this high patient number, the affliction gets a great deal of attention in the medical and homeopathic treatment communities. Some arthritis information, however, does not always underscore there are more than 100 unique types of arthritis and that a proper diagnosis of which type a patient has can greatly influence the type of treatments recommended.

Most experts agree that there are basically two common types of arthritis.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is frequently referred to as the “wear and tear” form of arthritis as this condition evolves from the overuse of various joints – especially in joints that bear weight. Knees, hips, spine and feet are generally the most common places where suffers complain about osteoarthritis pain, although hands may also be affected. A professional dancer or athlete, for example, may be more likely to suffer from this type of arthritis because their joints have simply been used in a more demanding way compared to others who have not had a longtime physical exertion. Obesity and the basic aging process may also be the culprit of some joints wearing out. Although these patients have broken down cartilage in affected joints, there is typically no other fatigue or sick feeling associated with this type of arthritis. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis and may also be referenced as the “degenerative joint” arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA), on the other hand, is an inflammatory version of the ailment that usually appears when a patient’s immune system is not functioning properly. Classified as an autoimmune disease, this form of arthritis affects approximately one-tenth as many people as osteoarthritis. Typically, the onset of rheumatoid arthritis occurs earlier -- between 30 and 50 years old. The body’s immune system cells believe they have found a dangerous assailant in the synovium, or joint lining, of a joint. In an effort to neutralize the perceived threat, the human body essentially attacks its own membranes lining these joints. Fluid builds up in these areas and causes swelling and pain, as a result. Some experts believe that smoking, hormones or certain infections may trigger rheumatoid arthritis although other experts feel genetics or other factors ultimately play a bigger role in terms of who is more likely to struggle with this health condition.

Traditionally, osteoarthritis is treated with injections of select steroids into the joints. Oral medications, such as naproxen or ibuprofen may be recommended to address issues with pain. Commonly, rheumatoid arthritis patient therapies may also involve stronger oral therapies, such as prednisone.

Osteoarthritis seemingly affects both men and women equally. Rheumatoid arthritis, however, affects approximately three times as many women as men.

Because certain medications may cause unwanted side effects, patients may inquire about more natural therapies when coping with arthritis. While a doctor’s approval is obviously strongly encouraged for any therapy program, there are a few commonly recommended pursuits in natural therapy programs.

Weight maintenance is often suggested for arthritis patients as extra pounds can put additional pressure on various joints. Low-impact exercises (swimming, water aerobics) may enhance joint flexibility and also help improve the ability to reach or maintain weight goals. Cold and hot therapies – such as warm, electric blankets or frozen packets may be applied to hurting joints to help alleviate discomfort. Acupuncture treatments and massages have also helped certain sufferers find various degrees of relief, as well.

Various supplements or vitamins can play a part of a natural arthritis remedy plan. Omega-3 fatty acid or fish oil supplements may help lower joint pain and stiffness. GLA or “gamma-linolenic acid” is also an oral supplement commonly considered. Aloe vera gel, which is applied topically, may provide soothing sensations to hurting joints. Specific herbs -- including ginko, stinging nettle, ginger, thunder god vine, boswellia, bromelain and devil’s claw – have also been linked to arthritis relief for some patients.

In terms of basic food items to add to your grocery cart, some experts claim the yellow spice tumeric found in many Indian cuisine recipes may also aid in the reduction of arthritis pain. Specifically, the chemical curcumin associated with this spice is sometimes credited with impressive anti-inflammatory powers. Green tea and Willow Bark tea are beverages that may also provide arthritis pain relief.

Wrist splints or other various support or wraps may also aid in the stabilization of certain joints and provide some relief, as well.

** Please note that a medical professional should always be consulted when adding a supplement into one’s diet due to concerns with drug interactions, allergies or other numerous potential medical complications.

Finally, doctors may also advise those with arthritis to avoid consuming certain foods – including butter, candy, and beef – as they may feel these selections could potentially aggravate arthritis pain or swelling.