Natural Pain Relief For Arthritis
Arthritis can be a debilitating condition that’s hard to manage. But there are several natural pain relief solutions, from small changes at home to more aggressive interventions with your doctor’s assistance.
Applying heat to painful joints can reduce inflammation, reduce swelling and provide comfort from pain. Warm, moist compresses soaked in hot water also work wonders on sore muscles.
Dr. Martin recommends taking glucosamine andchondroitin supplements as they may reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis, as well as help maintain joint health. Additionally, adding these substances to your diet will not only protect and cushion your joints but may even aid in their maintenance.
A topical cream containing capsaicin, the compound found in chili peppers, may reduce some of the pain caused by arthritis. It does this by decreasing levels of a compound which sends pain signals to your brain.
Physical activities can help your arthritic joints move, provide strength and support, as well as reduce fatigue that often comes with chronic pain. But it’s essential to select the right kind of exercises – ones which build muscles around the joints without putting too much strain on them.
A gentle massage can help ease your arthritis pain. Make sure the therapist knows where the discomfort is located and does not use scented products that could irritate the skin.
Many herbal supplements contain anti-inflammatory agents to reduce arthritis pain. Boswellia serrata (Indian frankincense) has been demonstrated to reduce inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, while ginger, feverfew and willow bark extract help with stiffness. Depending on your doctor’s prescription, you can take these herbs daily or add them to meals.