Coping with Arthritis Pain, Naturally

When dealing with the daily pain that arthritis brings, whether it be mild or severe, it is often an experience we wish to delete. Unfortunately, since our bodies do not work that way, we must find alternatives to dealing with the pain. Arthritis is the inflammation of the joints that cause stiffness and pain. Osteoarthritis, is the most common type, which can get worse with aging by the wear and tear over the years. The good news is that there are ways to improve joint movement and reduce pain by taking natural and healthier approaches.

Losing weight can significantly impact the pressure that is put on the joints and muscles from day to day. Extra weight puts more pressure on your feet, knees and hips. When reducing this stress on your body it will increase mobility, reduce stress on the joints and prevent future injuries in the future.

Exercise is beneficial to your body in several ways, losing weight is not just one of them. For arthritis suffering patients, there are activities such as aerobics and swimming that can loosen the tension and create more flexibility. It is a great alternative to weight-bearing activities such as running that can often create more damage.

Water relief is also a great way to take care of arthritis pain. Hot and cold treatments work wonders for your body by relieving pain and reducing stiffness in the joints and muscles. Hot showers, electric blankets and heating pads are all great tools to use. Cold gels, ice packs and even a pack of frozen vegetables can be great for joint pain.

Supplements of the right fatty acids can be extremely healthy for your body and arthritis pain! Omega-3 fatty acids and gamma-linolenic acid or GLA can reduce pain. Fish oil supplements and seeds from certain plants can provide this nutrients such as fish oil, primrose, borage, hemp and black currants. Another great ingredient to add to your meals is Turmeric, which is a yellow spice that is used in many Indian dishes. This spice contains an ingredient called curcimin that reduces inflammation.

Physical Therapy is always an option to reduce joint stiffness and pain as it release the tension, lifts inflammation off the muscles and creates more flexibility and movement. Whether receiving massages or seeking help from a physical therapist, it can work wonders for your body.

If all else fails, there are always options to receive acupuncture to the specific painful spots in your body or take medication to deal with the pain. Seek professional help from your doctor to see what the best options are for you. Control your arthritis, don’t let it control you.