Taking a natural approach to living
with arthritis allows you to address not only the symptoms of arthritis, but
also the factors that cause them! While there are many drug-free ways to treat
arthritis, to follow is an overview of seven key components of a natural
arthritis remedy.
1. Diet
Food can have a big impact on your
arthritis symptoms, for better or for worse. There are several aspects to
eating to fight inflammation that causes arthritis pain, all centered around a
diet rich in whole, antioxidant-rich foods. While a balanced eating plan full
of produce, whole grains and lean protein can go a long way toward helping you
live well with arthritis, certain foods are especially potent natural inflammation
fighters; for instance, foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (such as salmon) can
actually help to “turn off” the body’s inflammatory response.
2. Exercise
Physical activity is a key part of a
natural arthritis remedy; it can reduce arthritis pain and improve flexibility,
not to mention the role that it plays in maintaining a healthy weight (a
pain-preventing factor in and of itself). Different types of exercise provide
different benefits: range-of-motion exercises alleviate stiffness and increase
flexibility; strength training builds the muscles that support your joints;
aerobic activity increases your cardiovascular health and stamina; and practices
such as yoga and tai chi reduce pain, as well as improve flexibility, strength
and balance.
3. Herbal Remedies
Herbs have been used for thousands
of years for their healing properties, and a number of herbal remedies have
been used to effectively treat arthritis. These include ginger, turmeric and
Indian frankincense (Boswellia serrate).
4. Chiropractic Care
As practitioners who prevent and
treat disorders of the musculature system, chiropractors are key players in
a natural arthritis remedy. Chiropractic care can help those with arthritis
improve their range of motion, as well as prevent further joint damage,
decrease pain and support the body’s ability to heal.
5. Massage
Massage can not only increase range
of motion and decrease arthritis pain; it can also help you sleep better and
alleviate stress (both side effects of pain). Both massage by a qualified therapist
and self-massage can be beneficial (and enjoyable!) parts of a natural
arthritis remedy.
6. Stress Management
Stress and pain go hand in hand, as
pain can both increase stress and be the result of stress. Breaking this
vicious cycle is critical to keeping arthritis symptoms in check. Getting enough rest is an important component
in slashing stress, as are exercise and taking part in activities that relax
you. Progressive muscle relaxation, breathing exercises, journalism, pursuing a
hobby and playing with a pet can all be effective stress-reducing strategies.
7. Acupuncture
Acupuncture has can serve as
powerful part of a natural arthritis remedy. By inserting thin needles into
specific points of the body, this alternative therapy can correct
the balance of energy and prompt your body to release pain-reducing chemicals
called endorphins.
You’re not powerless in reducing or
even eliminating your arthritis symptoms, and you don’t have to resort to drugs
to reap these benefits. A natural arthritis remedy does exist, and these seven
factors are key players.
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