Arthritis is a term that is widely used to describe many conditions that affect the musculoskeletal system. There are different types of arthritis: osteoarthritis, which is caused by wear and tear on the joints, and rheumatoid arthritis, which is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the body’s joints.
The most common type is osteoarthritis, and symptoms can include pain, swelling in the joints, and stiffness that affects the range of motion of the joints. These symptoms can also be the same if you have rheumatoid arthritis, so it can be confusing. Other symptoms you may suffer from as a result of the first group mentioned above can be loss of sleep, weight gain, and even gastrointestinal problems often due to medications you may be taking to treat arthritis symptoms. Some things you can do to help relieve some of the pain, swelling, and stiffness naturally will also help relieve those secondary symptoms.
You must remember that diet has a major impact on your health. Weight gain can be a side effect of arthritis, as pain can hinder your activity levels, so it’s important to try to stay active. Eating lots of fruits and vegetables and limiting meats, grains, and dairy can help. Food sensitivities can play a role in arthritis, so be aware of what your allergies are and what sensitivities can cause inflammation in your body. Obviously, if you have a flare-up of arthritis not long after certain foods, you need to eliminate those foods.
Exercise will help decrease weight gain and increase circulation and flexibility in your muscles, making them stronger. However, the type of exercise is important, as running and lifting weights will only serve to increase pain. Exercise should be light to moderate, such as tai chi, aquatic exercises such as hydrotherapy, aerobics, or swimming. A heated pool will comfort your joints. Walking is good too, especially short walks throughout the day at times that are right for you. Yoga is also great for joint mobility, but be sure to consult with a trained teacher, especially if your condition is severe.
Massage can be a great way to relieve pain and swelling. Try some aromatherapy oils for pain relief. Some good suggestions are 2 drops each of ginger, juniper, and black pepper added to 10 ml of carrier oil such as grapeseed or jojoba. Gently massage around sore joints to relieve stiffness and inflammation. Alternatively, you can use 2 drops of lavender, rosemary, and chamomile added to 10 ml of a carrier oil and massaged into the painful area for pain relief. Also, a nice warm bath with Epsom salts, common salt and / or essential oils will be comforting and help induce sleep.
There are also a variety of herbs and spices that can help treat arthritis. Some of these are ginger root, turmeric, and boswellia. Talk to your naturopath about which natural treatments are right for you. Don’t self-medicate through Google or your local health food store. Natural health care is not just about buying a bottle of supplements on a shelf. It takes years of study to get it right.
