If the pain and stiffness of arthritis are affecting your daily life, you might be wondering about the range of treatments available, including natural remedies. In many cases, it may be possible to treat arthritis pain naturally.
When you think of natural arthritis pain relief, the first thing that may come to mind is supplements and herbal remedies — but there are other treatments for arthritis that most orthopedic doctors will recommend before surgery, including physical therapy.
Supplements and herbal medicine
According to the Arthritis Foundation, a variety of natural products may help with the pain and inflammation that comes with osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and other types of the condition. Some common supplements that may provide relief include:
- Cat’s claw
- Fish oil
- Flaxseed
- Glucosamine
- Melatonin
- St. John’s Wort
- Tumeric
- Valerian
Other supplements on the market may also help alleviate symptoms associated with arthritis. Learn more about the supplements and what dosages are recommended before you add any herbal supplements to your diet. Also talk to your doctor, ideally a fellowship-trained orthopedic specialist.
Physical therapy
Most orthopedic doctors will recommend physical therapy for arthritis as a first line treatment for pain, stiffness, loss of mobility and range of motion, and other symptoms. What could be more natural than a program of exercising and stretches to alleviate the symptoms of arthritis?
Orthopedic physical therapists create a programs to help improve movement and range of motion in the joints affected by arthritis. Age, fitness, affected joints and other factors will influence what plan makes sense for you, but proper movement and posture will be addressed in any regimen.
Other treatment methods — such as manipulation or hot and cold therapy — may also be used to ease symptoms. Your therapist may also provide advice on modifying your home or work environments to help with pain relief and improvement in joint function. Purchasing ergonomic furniture or cushioned floor mats, for example, help some who suffer from arthritis.
If you prefer natural arthritis pain relief, there are several options to pursue before you may want to try medications like cortisone or gel injections. Very few people with arthritis end up needing surgery. Talk to your orthopedic doctor about what will provide the maximum benefit and longest-lasting relief in your situation.
