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Arthritis, whether due to age or injury, is an extremely painful disease. The image-guided injections of viscosupplementation offered by Arthritis Knee Pain Centers are exceptionally successful in relieving the pain and stiff joints associated with arthritis, especially when coupled with some natural lifestyle changes.
It can be a daily struggle to manage the pain and stiffness associated with arthritis, but there are natural remedies that can help alleviate your discomfort without the need for complicated medical terminology.
Here are nine practical and everyday approaches to managing arthritis effectively.
Until recently, arthritis sufferers were prescribed painkillers and anti-inflammatories to relieve arthritis pain. While these medications certainly do help, long-term usage leads to other health problems. This includes things like stomach ulcers, chronic indigestion, and headaches. Relieving arthritis pain naturally is a much better option since there are few side effects.
The Problem with Traditional Medications
Traditionally, arthritis sufferers have been prescribed painkillers and anti-inflammatories to combat their symptoms. While these medications can provide temporary relief, they often come with a host of undesirable side effects.
Long-term usage can lead to issues such as stomach ulcers, chronic indigestion, and headaches. As a result, more and more individuals are turning to natural solutions to address their painful and inflamed joints.
1. Shed Extra Pounds
Losing weight is top of the list for a good reason: it has the most significant effect on relieving joint pain, especially in the knee. Carrying extra weight puts more stress on joints already damaged by arthritis, weakening them further and increasing the associated pain.
To put it into perspective, every pound of extra weight equates to four pounds of additional stress on your knee joints. Imagine the difference it can make for someone who is ten, twenty, or even fifty pounds overweight.
The Connection Between Weight and Joints
Understanding the connection between weight and joint pain is essential. When you carry excess pounds, it forces your joints to work harder, weakening them over time. This added stress contributes to the deterioration of joint cartilage, which exacerbates arthritis symptoms. Therefore, if you’re overweight, losing even a modest amount of weight can have a substantial impact on your joint health and overall well-being.
2. Choose the Right Type of Exercise
Exercising is a great way to relieve arthritis pain naturally since it works and is free as long as it is done right. The emphasis here is on “right.” Low-impact exercises like water aerobics, swimming, cycling, rowing, and yoga will strengthen the muscles around the joints without causing further damage to the bones.
Walking is also the “right” exercise, provided you’re wearing shoes with cushioning and support to reduce the impact on your knees on hard surfaces.
High-impact exercises like jogging and running should be avoided because they’re incredibly stressful on knee joints and don’t relieve knee pain.
Related video: How much exercise you need daily
The Benefits of Low-Impact Exercise
Low-impact exercises are gentle on your joints while providing the necessary movement to keep them healthy.
Water aerobics and swimming, for instance, allow you to work your muscles without the jarring impact of activities like running.
Low-impact exercises are gentle on your joints while providing the necessary movement to keep them healthy. Water aerobics and swimming, for instance, allow you to work your muscles without the jarring impact of activities like running.
Yoga helps improve flexibility and can reduce the stiffness often associated with arthritis. Even a daily walk, when done correctly, can contribute significantly to your overall joint health.
The Importance of Proper Footwear
Wearing the right shoes is crucial when it comes to exercise. Properly cushioned and supportive footwear can minimize the strain on your knees and reduce the risk of injury.
Investing in quality shoes designed for your chosen activity can make a significant difference in your comfort and joint health.
3. Incorporate Omega-3 Fatty Acids Into Your Diet
Omega-3 fatty acids are excellent for overall health, and research shows that arthritis joint stiffness and pain are significantly reduced if it’s part of a daily diet.
To relieve arthritis naturally, using a diet, eat tuna, sardines, salmon, walnuts, cashews, hazelnuts, and plant oils all contain omega-3 fatty acids.
If you find it challenging to include foods containing omega-3 fatty acids in your daily diet, then taking a seed oil supplement, like flaxseed oil or hemp oil, is an excellent alternative to help relieve arthritis pain. Try our specially formulated fish oil supplement with up to 3x the absorption rate of other brands and no gross fish burps.
Related video: 3 Healthy snacks to relieve joint pain
The Omega-3 Powerhouse
Omega-3 fatty acids are known for their anti-inflammatory properties, which can be especially beneficial for those with arthritis.
These healthy fats can help reduce inflammation in the body, including in the joints. Adding omega-3-rich foods to your diet or taking supplements can provide a natural and sustainable way to manage arthritis discomfort.
A Convenient Supplement Option
Supplements like flaxseed oil or hemp oil are readily available and offer a convenient way to incorporate omega-3 fatty acids into your daily routine. These supplements are easy to take and can provide a consistent source of these beneficial fats, even if you don’t regularly consume fish or nuts.
4. Harness the Power of Turmeric
Turmeric, a mild spice used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine, has shown promise in managing knee pain from osteoarthritis. While it may not strongly reduce inflammation, it’s a safe option to explore as it has no harmful side effects. Plus, it can add a delicious flavor to your curries and other dishes.
The Healing Potential of Turmeric
Turmeric contains an active compound called curcumin, which has demonstrated anti-inflammatory properties. While research on its effectiveness for arthritis pain is ongoing, many people have reported improvements in their symptoms after incorporating turmeric into their diets or taking turmeric supplements.
Easy Ways to Enjoy Turmeric
Adding turmeric to your meals can be as simple as sprinkling it on roasted vegetables or mixing it into soups and stews. It’s a mild spice, so it won’t ruin the taste of your food. You can also find turmeric supplements if you prefer a more concentrated form. While results may vary from person to person, it’s a flavorful and low-risk addition to your arthritis management strategy.
Turmeric has been used in Ayurvedic medicine for centuries to treat a variety of ailments. A study by NIH found that while there isn’t strong support that turmeric reduces inflammation, it may “control knee pain from osteoarthritis as well as Ibuprofen did.”
5. Embrace Massage Therapy
The Arthritis Foundation recommends regular massage to relieve arthritis pain, reduce stiffness, and increase the range of motion. You can either learn self-massage techniques from a physical therapist or schedule regular visits to a massage therapist for significant improvements in your arthritis symptoms.
The Benefits of Massage
Massage therapy can provide immediate relief for sore and tense muscles. For arthritis sufferers, massages can help increase blood flow to affected areas, reduce inflammation, and release built-up tension. Additionally, the soothing and relaxing nature of massages can contribute to an overall sense of well-being.
Self-Massage Techniques
Learning self-massage techniques from a physical therapist can empower you to manage your arthritis pain independently. These techniques can be simple to perform and can be incorporated into your daily routine for ongoing relief.
6. Find Comfort in Ice Packs
Arthritis pain, as well as inflammation, can be relieved by applying a gel ice pack to the painful area. If you don’t have a gel ice pack, a packet of frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel will do just as well.
Ice packs provide quick relief to a painful arthritic knee and can be applied as often as needed with no adverse side effects.
The Cooling Effect of Ice Packs
The application of cold to the affected area can help reduce inflammation and numb the pain associated with arthritis. Ice packs can also help ease the discomfort of swollen joints, making it a valuable tool in managing arthritis symptoms.
Easy Ice Pack Solutions
Using a gel ice pack is convenient, but in a pinch, a bag of frozen peas or corn can work just as effectively. Wrap the frozen package in a thin towel to avoid direct contact with your skin and apply it to the painful area for 15-20 minutes at a time.
7. Explore the Hot/Cold Method
If you find that cold on its own isn’t working to relieve arthritis pain, consider alternating between ice packs and heat. Heating pads and long, warm showers or baths can help keep your joints loose and reduce pain. This is especially true for morning stiffness.
The Therapeutic Power of Heat
Heat therapy can be particularly beneficial for arthritis sufferers. It helps relax muscles, improve blood circulation, and reduce joint stiffness. Many individuals find that the application of heat provides a soothing and comforting sensation.
Using Heat Safely
When using heating pads or warm baths, be mindful of temperature to prevent burns or skin irritation. Use a moderate heat setting, and always place a cloth or towel between the heat source and your skin to avoid direct contact. Heat therapy can be a valuable addition to your arthritis management routine, especially during colder months when stiffness tends to worsen.
8. Consider Herbal Supplements
Herbal supplements are a controversial treatment to relieve arthritis pain naturally: some arthritis sufferers get significant relief, while others report no change in knee pain relief.
Herbs that are believed to reduce joint pain are boswellia, bromelain, devil’s claw, gingko, stinging nettle, and thunder god vine. If you are going to try a herbal supplement, choose one that has some or all of these herbs.
The Herbal Approach
Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to address various health issues, including arthritis. While scientific evidence on their effectiveness can vary, many people have found relief by incorporating herbal supplements into their daily routine. It’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any herbal regimen to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Exploring Herbal Options
Each herbal remedy mentioned offers unique potential benefits. For example, boswellia is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties, while devil’s claw may help with pain relief. It’s essential to research and consult with a healthcare provider to determine which herbal supplements may be most suitable for your specific arthritis symptoms.
9. Find Peace Through Meditation
One final way to relieve arthritis naturally is to try meditation. There is a direct link between stress and inflammation. An NIH study found that meditation and other relaxation techniques reduced stress and that as stress reduced, so did the inflammation, swelling, and pain associated with arthritis.
At the very least, meditation and relaxation techniques help you to cope better with arthritis pain and life in general.
Related video: Meditation is a superpower
The Mind-Body Connection
Meditation is a practice that focuses on calming the mind and reducing stress. When stress levels are elevated, the body often responds with inflammation, which can exacerbate arthritis symptoms. By incorporating meditation into your daily routine, you may be able to create a more harmonious balance between your mental and physical well-being.
A Path to Inner Calmness
Meditation and relaxation techniques offer a holistic approach to managing arthritis pain. They can improve your mental resilience, enhance your ability to cope with discomfort and contribute to an overall sense of inner calmness and well-being.
In Conclusion
A Path to Inner Calmness
In conclusion, managing arthritis pain naturally is not only possible but also beneficial for your overall health. Combining these natural remedies with image-guided fluoroscopy injections of viscosupplementation offered by Arthritis Knee Pain Centers can significantly enhance your pain relief.
These natural approaches are a healthier alternative to over-the-counter or prescription painkillers, and they can improve both your physical well-being and your overall outlook on life.
A Note on Image Guided Viscosupplementation Injections
It’s important to mention that image-guided fluoroscopy viscosupplementation injections are covered by Medicare and most insurances, making them an accessible option for many arthritis sufferers.
By following these natural remedies and seeking the right medical guidance, you can take control of your arthritis pain and enjoy a better quality of life. Embrace these everyday solutions, tailor them to your needs, and discover the relief and comfort they can provide on your journey to managing arthritis naturally.
