Arthritis leads to inflammation and pain in joints and bones. Although it is more common in old people, it can affect almost anyone at any age. Long-term medications and lifestyle changes can surely help ease the discomfort caused due to arthritis.
However, there are certain remedies that you can try at home to get relief from this condition. Check below some of the remedies that may help:
Lose weight
Weight management is an important part of taking care of arthritis symptoms. Extra calories lead to more pressure on knees, feet, and joints which ultimately causes more pain and inflammation in these areas. By reducing weight you can decrease the pain, improve mobility and prevent damage to the joints in the future.
Exercise is must
Exercise offers multiple benefits. Apart from helping you lose weight, exercise also gives more flexibility to your joints and strengthens muscles around the joints. You should start with low-impact exercises initially like cycling, walking, water activities, swimming, and tai chi.
Acupuncture
It is an ancient Chinese medical therapy in which needles are inserted into the body at specific points. The practitioners of acupuncture believe that in this way they can reroute the energies and restore their balance in the body. While there are several studies that support this claim, it has not been scientifically approved. Acupuncture is a low-risk therapy but it is advisable that you carry out this treatment at a certified and licensed acupuncturist clinic.
Herbal supplements
Many herbs and herbal supplements have been found to be effective in reducing joint pain. Some such herbs include thunder god vine, stinging nettle, devil’s claw, ginkgo, bromelain, and boswellia. However, many times these herbs and herbal powders are not sold by registered sellers and hence you need to be sure about the quality, safety, and purity of these supplements. It is better to consult your doctor before you start taking these supplements.
Warm showers and ice packs
One of the most effective and easiest ways of getting relief from arthritis-related inflammation and pain is cold and hot treatment. In the heat treatment, the joints are bathed in warm water for a long time to reduce stiffness and increase mobility. You can use a moist heating pad or electric blanket to ease the discomfort.
You can also take cold treatments for getting relief from inflammation, joint pain, and swelling. Take a bag of frozen vegetables, or a gel ice pack and wrap it in a towel. Apply it to the painful areas for immediate relief. Never apply the ice on the skin directly.
Disclaimer: This piece of article is for basic information purposes only. It's always advisable to consult a doctor for any type of health issue.