Painful, stiff, and swollen joints are a serious problem for the millions who suffer from arthritis. With more than 66 million in America alone dealing with the chronic joint pain and inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, gout, and other related conditions, learning how to relieve arthritis pain is a serious issue for many people. While natural remedies are not a substitute for regular medical care and all treatment methods should be discussed with your doctor, finding alternatives and complements to conventional care can have profound benefits for many sufferers. The following tips are safe, effective methods for natural arthritis pain relief.
How to Relieve Arthritis Pain with Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy involves the use of water, ice, or steam for healing. In the case of arthritis pain relief these natural techniques can help to ease pain, quell inflammation, and increase circulation. One method is applying an ice pack or alternating between hot and cold packs. Apply ice or a cold pack to inflamed joints for ten to fifteen minutes at a time. For a more potent treatment apply a hot pack or even a clean cotton cloth soaked in very warm water in between cold applications.
Warm baths are another form of hydrotherapy that can be used to relieve arthritis pain and inflammation. Use hot water and soak for twenty minutes. The warm water will sooth aching joints and increase blood flow to speed healing and the release of toxins from the body. Try an epsom salt bath or adding natural essential oils for a more therapeutic effect.
To reduce stiffness in the morning try jumping in the shower upon waking. Alternate between hot and cold water for about ten minutes.
Dietary Changes to Ease Arthritis Pain and Inflammation
What you do and do not eat can have a huge impact on relieving arthritis symptoms. Consider minimizing foods that may trigger joint pain, including:
- Cow's milk
- Pork
- Beef
- Citrus
- Coffee
- Nightshade vegetables (green peppers, eggplant, white potatoes, and tomatoes)
- Fried foods
- Sugary foods
- Chocolate
A healthy diet for natural arthritis pain relief includes plenty of fiber and nutrients from whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts, and seeds. Low-fat sources of protein such as tofu, seafood, and beans should be eaten regularly. Drinking eight glasses of water a day is essential. Foods that are beneficial for people who suffer from chronic joint pain include:
- Fresh pineapple
- Dark cherries
- Blueberries
- Garlic
- Onions
- Brown rice
Using Exercise for Natural Arthritis Relief
Another important simple, yet effective method for relieving joint pain is to exercise regularly. Physical activity has several benefits for arthritis sufferers. It increases blood circulation, helps to control pain and inflammation, strengthens tissue around joints, and slows joint deterioration. According to the John Hopkins Arthritis Center exercise can also improve mental well-being, which is exceptionally important for arthritis patients.
Avoid activities that could put pressure on joints such as heavy weight-lifting, as well as exercises that could cause harm such as running on hard pavement. Biking, swimming, walking, and yoga are all excellent activities to help reduce symptoms and improve well-being.
Prescription or over-the-counter drugs may still be necessary to ease joint pain, but using natural remedies for arthritis pain relief can reduce a dependency on medications. The pain and inflammation associated with the different forms of arthritis can have a huge impact on quality of life. While a difficult disease to deal with, arthritis can be managed with proper medical care, a healthy lifestyle, and an awareness of the many options for pain relief.
Disclaimer: The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and should not be used for diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a health professional. Any reader who is concerned about his or her health should contact a doctor for advice.
References
Balch, Phyllis A. "Prescription for Nutritional Healing." Fourth Edition (Penguin Books, 2006).
Page, Linda. "Healthy Healing: A Guide to Self-Healing for Everyone, 11th Edition" (Traditional Wisdom, 2003).
Brenna Coleman - Brenna is a freelance writer focusing on natural health and beauty. She has written hundreds of articles, helping readers find ways to ...
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