Hoping to sidestep these unpleasant effects, many people turn to natural remedies. Here are seven that may be effective for you. Read more...
- Tai chi. The movements in Tai chi are slow and gentle, which makes the exercise perfect for arthritis patients. Early studies have found that Tai chi helped RA patients improve muscle function and stiffness, as well as reduce pain and stress levels. Numerous studies have agreed that exercise always helps, but Tai chi combines movement with focus, helping to not only improve joint function, but relax the body as a whole, which helps reduce pain.
- Acupuncture. Several studies indicate that acupuncture is a good option for those with arthritis. One from China found that both traditional and electrical acupuncture reduced tenderness in patients with RA, and another from Germany found that acupuncture helped patients with OA to feel less pain and stiffness, and to enjoy improved joint function.
- Magnets. A Harvard University study found that people with knee OA who wore a sleeve containing a high-powered magnet over the affected knee reported greater pain relief after four hours than those wearing a placebo knee sleeve. Other studies have been inconclusive. Magnets are said to work by stimulating the release of the body’s natural painkillers and increasing blood flow to the tissue. Many arthritis sufferers report that magnetic therapy is helpful. You can read more about it in the research reports of William Philpott, M.D., called “Magic of Magnetic Healing—The Real Magic Bullet.”
- Ginger. Some studies have found evidence that ginger helps relieve arthritis pain. Japanese researchers note that red ginger (Zingiber officinale var. Rubra) is regularly used in Indonesian traditional medicine as a painkiller for arthritis. Other studies have found ginger to be comparable to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, as it also inhibits Cox 1 and Cox 2 enzymes related to pain. Ginger extract also helps inhibit inflammation, and has been found in studies to relieve muscle pain. Try fresh ginger on foods, ginger tea, and ginger supplements of 30-500 mg daily.
- Sam-e. A naturally occurring chemical in the body, Sam-e has been found in many studies to treat pain, stiffness, and joint swelling, while improving mobility and rebuilding cartilage. Clinical studies have found the supplement to work as well as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). A U.S. study found that it took longer to take effect, but when it did, it was as effective as Celebrex in reducing pain and improving joint function. Recommended doses are 400–1,200 mg per day—check with your doctor to avoid potentially dangerous interactions with other medications.
- Omega-3 fatty acids. The Mayo Clinic states that foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce RA pain and stiffness. A 2011 study found that omega-3 in fish oil could substantially and significantly reduce the signs and symptoms of OA, as well as slow the progression of the disease. An earlier study also indicated that omega-3s can improve symptoms of RA, helping patients to rely less on NSAID pain relievers. Recommended dose is about 2,000 mg of omega-3 supplement 3 times a day, or one tablespoon of flaxseed oil a day.
- Capsaicin cream. Capsaicin is an active compound in hot peppers, and when applied topically, has shown to help relieve the pain of arthritis. A 1991 study found that capsaicin cream was a safe and effective treatment for arthritis, reducing pain for most participants. A more recent study found that applying 0.0125% concentration capsaicin-containing gel over the knee three times a day for four weeks gives more pain relief compared to a placebo. Those with sensitive skin, however, should try just a small amount first, as some patients reported burning and stinging at the application site.
Source: Renegade Health
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