9 Natural Remedies for Arthritis Management
Arthritis is a painful condition that affects a person’s joints. Osteoarthritis, one of its common forms, is caused when the cartilage between the bones wears off and the bones start rubbing against each other. The ailment is so painful that it can impact one’s daily routine and ability to function. But thankfully, treatment options are available to help manage the symptoms. Patients can also use many natural remedies to find relief.
Physical therapy
Physical therapy and muscle-strengthening activities benefit people with arthritis and other joint disorders. It might not be necessary in every case, but having a professional overlook movement practice can significantly help. Patients who find it hard to reach a therapy clinic can have a therapist visit them at home. Regular therapy can help individuals get in and out of their chairs and improve their quality of life. However, it is essential to be gentle during the sessions, especially in the case of osteoarthritis.
Aloe vera
Aloe vera is a well-known anti-inflammatory plant used as a natural remedy for many ailments for centuries. Since arthritis is an inflammatory condition, this plant is highly beneficial for managing pain and specific other symptoms. Patients can apply aloe vera gel or use oral chewables. While oral solutions are readily available, they can interfere with other compounds in the body and are, therefore, advised to use only with a health care practitioner’s guidance. Also, further studies are required to confirm their success rate and safety in the case of patients with pre-existing health conditions. The topical application of aloe gel is helpful and can be used multiple times a day.
Exercise
Some people think that exercise and arthritis do not get along well. However, studies suggest the opposite. Regular activity does not contribute to the worsening of pain in arthritis patients. Instead, it is considered one of the condition’s top natural remedies. One can perform any exercise they wish, such as walking or swimming, as long as they are not pounding their knees and hips with pressure. Strengthening exercises are also acceptable. It is advisable to consult a professional healthcare provider to learn the proper movement techniques and exercises based on the symptoms. Runners who have arthritis should run on softer ground. While exercise helps, a rest day holds equal importance; it prevents the aggravation of symptoms with constant stress.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a trusted remedy among many doctors and patients to deal with pain and the disability accompanied by arthritis. There have also been some studies indicating that acupuncture is beneficial; however, further research is required. While not everyone may obtain tremendous results from the procedure, continued acupuncture does seem to improve things. Acupressure may also be a valuable tool on the path to finding some relief from arthritis pain and other symptoms.
Heat therapy
Heat therapy is an easy and effective natural remedy for arthritis pain. It involves using a hot compress, taking warm or hot showers, or soaking in a bath filled with heated water. Electric heating pads are also a viable option. The heat helps reduce pain and stiffness after being in bed for hours at night. An alternative to hot therapy is wax baths. Here, the painful regions are repeatedly covered in melted paraffin wax. The gradual drying of the hot wax layers helps heat seep into the skin and reduce stiffness and pain to some extent.
Cold therapy
It helps manage inflammation and joint pain and brings down the swelling. Patients can apply ice or ice packs covered with a cloth to the affected joints. Cold therapy is advised to be used for 15 to 20 minutes or till the region starts feeling numb to the touch. Alternative options include using frozen vegetable bags, frozen water bottles, frozen rice-filled socks, and freezing a wet towel. One can stick to either hot or cold therapy or alternate between the two to determine what offers the most relief. Alternating hot and cold therapy is known for its effectiveness but might not work for everyone.
Capsaicin cream
Capsaicin is a natural compound found in peppers that gives them heating properties. It is also highly beneficial for arthritis patients. Applying capsaicin cream reduces the activity of the nerves that deliver pain signals to the brain. This reduces pain sensation, making the symptoms more manageable. Although it takes effort, one can make capsaicin cream at home by mixing ingredients like cayenne powder and coconut oil. These creams are also readily available in stores.
Meditation
Meditation has been accepted and applauded for its benefits in managing various health conditions. In the case of arthritis, this mind and body wellness activity can help manage pain if practiced correctly and regularly. Meditation brings calmness and relaxation to patients, which is sometimes tricky considering the constant pain and discomfort they go through. Numerous studies have found meditation to be an effective tool in pain management. It helps reduce stress and, thus, inflammation in the body that triggers various symptoms.
Compression gloves
Most arthritis patients prefer wearing compression gloves during the night to prevent the pain from shooting up and disrupting their sleep. Unlike splints, tight-fitting gloves relieve pain without completely immobilizing the wearer. They might also be able to improve other discomforts on the hands or knees. Further research is required to prove the exact benefits of this remedy and their extent. Compression gloves, socks, or covers can be found for most joints affected by arthritis and are convenient to use.
One must visit a doctor immediately after noticing the symptoms of arthritis since this is a chronic ailment that can be hard to manage. In severe cases, health experts may recommend treatment options besides home remedies to manage the pain and other troublesome symptoms.
