Arthritis Alternative Treatment Options

Arthritis is a painful inflammation of the joints that can be debilitating and lessen the quality of life from people afflicted with the condition. There are many types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis, rheumatism, fibromyalgia and gout. Pain management is an important part of treatment for arthritis. People who are not helped by medications for arthritis pain may decide to turn to alternative treatments.

The Mayo Clinic website lists some of the alternative and complementary practices that may help. Mainstream doctors are becoming more open to discussing alternative options, but since most alternative treatments have not been tested extensively in clinical trials, it is difficult to assess their success rate in helping relieve the pain of arthritis.

Treatments that may help relieve the pain of arthritis in its early stages include weight loss, healthy diet, pain medications, proper body mechanics, good posture, comfortable shoes and assistance devices (cane, walkers) to take the pressure of the joints.

Following are some of the most common alternative program that may offer arthritis relief, including acupuncture, ginger, glucosamine and chondroitin, magnets, Tai Chi and yoga.

Acupuncture is becoming increasingly popular for treatment of medical conditions. In acupuncture, tiny needles are inserted into the skin at specific points. The theory is that the needles redirected the blocked energy to relieve pain.

Ginger is an ancient remedy that may be helpful to treat arthritis pain. The ginger plant is best known for cooking, but has been used as a remedy for Native American and Asian cultures for centuries.

Glucosamine and Chondroitin are nutritional supplements that many people have reported success with, even though studies have been mixed. People who are allergic to shellfish should not take glucosamine.

Magnets placed around the affected join may relieve some arthritis pain, although how this may work is not clear.

Tai Chi and Yoga are gentle exercises and stretches that are combined with deep breathing that relieve stress and condition the muscles. A qualified therapist can help with proper movement in a class. Take care not to try any movements that cause pain the in joints.

Regular exercise may help to strengthen muscles and may help to stimulate cartilage growth. High impact sports should be avoided, as they stress the joints. Recommended exercise include range of motion, strengthening exercise and aerobics. A physical therapist can offer instruction on proper movement and body mechanics.

A healthy diet that includes antioxidant vitamins C and E may be protective. Calcium and Vitamin D are recommended for strong, healthy bones.

Information in this article is not intended as medical advice. If you have questions about a medical condition please consult a physician.

Resources:

Mayo Clinic website

WebMD

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