Arthritis is a group of painful and degenerative conditions marked by inflammation in the joints that causes stiffness and pain. Osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis, gets worse with age and is caused by wear and tear over the years.
Doctors traditionally treat arthritis with anti-inflammatory medications and painkillers. However, some medications cause side effects, and a natural approach to pain relief is becoming more popular. Remember to consult your doctor before trying these natural remedies.
1.Hot and cold therapy:
Simple hot nad cold therapy can make a world of difference when it comes to artritis pain. Long hot showers or baths escpecially in the mornings, helps ease stiffness in your joints. Use an electric blanket or moist heating pad to keep your joints loose
Cold treatments are best for relieving joint pain, swelling, and inflammation. Wrap a gel ice pack or a bag of frozen vegetables in a towel and apply it to painful joints for quick relief.
2.Include the right fatty acids in your diet:
Everyone needs omega-3 fatty acids in their diet for optimum health. These fats also help your arthritis. Fish oil supplements, which are high in omega-3s, have been shown to reduce joint stiffness and pain.
Another fatty acid that can help is gamma-linolenic acid, or GLA. It’s found in the seeds of certain plants such as evening primrose, borage, hemp, and black currants. You can also buy the oils of the seeds as a supplement. However, be sure to check with your doctor before taking them.
3.Consider Herbal supplements:
There are many kinds of Herbal supplements in the market that claim to reduce joint pain. Some of the Herbal touted for arthritis pain are:
- Boswellia
- bromelian
- devil’s claw
- ginkgo
- stinging nettle
- thunder god vine
Always talk to your doctor before trying a new supplement to avoid side effects and dangerous drug interactions
4.Get a massage:
According to the Arthritis Foundation, regular massaging of arthritis joints can help reduce pain and stiffness and your range of motion. Work with a physiotherapist to learn self-massage, or schedule appointments with a massage therapist regularly.