I was diagnosed with Osteoarthritis two years ago. I’ve been trying to find ways to manage it since then. It seems like I will be fine one day and then in pain the next.
I would like to find a few natural treatment methods that help so I don’t have to resort to prescription medication.
Carl
Dear Carl:
Arthritis can be a big pain for adults! According to the CDC, arthritis is the leading cause of disability. Medications can offer relief but, as you experienced, anti-inflammatories can create uncomfortable side effects.
Here are a few to consider:
- Exercise: Our natural instinct when a joint is swollen and causing us pain is to rest. Research shows, however, that muscle-building exercises help to support damaged joints. The Arthritis Foundation recommends combining aerobic exercise with range-of-motion and flexibility exercises. Yoga, Pilates and Tai-Chi can all help reduce swelling, decrease pain and improve mobility.
- Lose Weight: Studies have shown that being overweight has serious impact on arthritic joints. The impact on your knees is equivalent to 1-1/2 times your bodyweight. So carrying twenty extra pounds around with you puts thirty extra pounds of pressure on your knees.
- Inflammation-Fighting Foods: Processed foods and a diet high in sugar can increase inflammation throughout the body making arthritis symptoms worse. Opt for fruits, vegetables and whole grains instead. The Arthritis Foundation also has a list of foods you can add to your diet to help fight arthritis inflammation.
- Alternate Heat and Cold Therapy: You can also use a combination of hot and cold therapies to help manage symptoms. Cold packs can help to reduce swelling, while heat can help relieve pain.
I hope these suggestions bring you relief, Carl!