Conquering Arthritis Pain

Sixteen million Americans suffer from osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is one of a hundred different kinds of arthritis. It is caused by the degeneration of the cartilage lining the joints. These people rely mostly on aspirin, ibuprofen, and other anti-inflammatory drugs to ease their pain. These drugs do not treat the underlying condition, and the pain may worsen with time and age.

The daily use of nutritional supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin help to control pain, increases joint mobility and helps to repair the damage done to joints. These supplements can be found in most stores that have a vitamin department, in health food stores, pharmacies and herb and vitamin stores.

As crazy as it may seem, when arthritis makes your joints ache all over it is probably time to get up and get moving. The Hospital For Special Surgery, located in New York City did a study with one hundred people who had arthritis in the knees. They put half on a walking program, the other half did not participate in any exercise at all. After eight weeks, the walkers reported less pain and less dependence on medication.

Did you know that celery seed contains at least twelve compounds that have anti-inflammatory effects? This makes celery a possible natural treatment for arthritis pain. You can simply take celery seed in extract form, available in most herb shops and health food stores, or you can eat your way to less pain. Just four stalks of celery a day should do the trick. My personal vote would be for the extract. I can't imagine eating one celery stalk.

One study performed at Case Western Reserve University's School of Medicine indicates that green tea may prevent the onset of arthritis and reduce pain. Antioxidants found in green tea possess anti-inflammatory properties. Starting the day with a cup of hot green tea could do a world of good.

Do not overlook the vitamin D. Recent studies have shown that people who have arthritis may be deficient in vitamin D. Some foods rich in vitamin D are, milk, salmon, and sardines. If you are not getting enough vitamin D in your diet, take a supplement.

You might do well by spicing up your life a little by using more onions and garlic on your sandwiches and burgers and other foods. These two foods are high in sulfur. Sulfur absorbs toxins which may be irritating joint tissue.

For a little warm comfort, give yourself a healing wrap. Begin with a towel suitable in size for the affected area. For example, to ease the pain of an aching wrist use a hand towel. Soak the towel in a bowl or basin of hot water, wring out excess and wrap it around your wrist. Lie back and relax letting the damp heat ease your pain. Repeat the process when the towel cools.

As an arthritis sufferer, I highly recommend walking which seems to be the best medicine for me, along with vitamin D, glucosamine and chondroitin supplements. Please, if you suffer with arthritis try one or all of the remedies mentioned above, or a combination until you find a formula that works for you.

Resources:
The World's Greatest Treasury of Health Secrets
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