Arthritis is caused by inflammation of the joints and is often accompanied by pain, swelling, stiffness and redness. Symptoms can be as mild as a minor aching or as severe as an extreme deformity. In addition to medication and exercise, there are natural ways to relieve arthritis pain and inflammation.
Bodywork
Massage therapy can be used to treat the pain and stiffness of arthritis, stimulate production of pain-killing endorphins in the body, decrease stress hormones, and improve sleep and immune function. Look for a massage therapist who has experience helping people who suffer from arthritis. Some elements of massage may not be helpful for arthritis sufferers.
Acupuncture and acupressure are both ancient Chinese practices used to relieve pain. Acupuncture uses needles to stimulate certain points on the body called meridians or channels. In acupressure, the practitioner uses fingers in place of needles. Benefits include the release of endorphins and anti-inflammatory properties. Find a practitioner that is licensed and certified.
Diet
Proper nutrition can help your body handle the symptoms of arthritis. Saturated fats increase the body's inflammatory response, causing more joint and tissue inflammation. Healthy diet guidelines from The University of Washington say that a person should eat a variety of foods, maintain an ideal weight, avoid too much sugar, sodium, fat and cholesterol, eat foods high in starch and fiber and moderate alcohol intake. A good variety of food should include bread and cereals, fruits, vegetables, poultry, fish, lean meats, dried beans and low-fat dairy.
Food sensitivities can also worsen symptoms. There is a rare form of arthritis that is actually caused by wheat products (sprue). Gout can be negatively affected by excessive amounts of alcohol, broth, gravies, sardines, anchovies, kidneys, liver and sweetbreads.
Supplements
S-adenosylmethionine (SAMe) is a chemical that occurs naturally in the body. SAMe is prescribed in Europe for depression and arthritis pain and inflammation. When SAMe is taken by mouth, it is not efficiently absorbed into the body. There are no large, well-controlled studies for the medication. Side effects include gastrointestinal distress or incidents of extreme agitation. This is an expensive supplement that should be taken under the guidance of a medical professional.
Glucosamine sulfate is a nutrient with anti-inflammatory properties that has significantly less toxicity that nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen. Glucosamine sulfate can also help prevent further loss of cartilage, especially in osteoarthritis. Glucosamine sulfate can delay or prevent the need for joint placement when taken on a long-term basis.
Fish oils contain omega-3 fatty acids and can help alleviate pain and joint tenderness in patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. Benefits may take several months to be noticeable. Possible side effects of taking fish oils include gastrointestinal distress.
Vitamins A, B1, B3, B6 and E can lead to increased flexibility and may help prevent arthritis. Boron is a mineral that aids in the body's absorption of calcium. Take 6 mg of boron a day.
Tags: Glucosamine sulfate, anti-inflammatory properties, arthritis pain, arthritis pain inflammation, gastrointestinal distress