Treatment-of-Arthritis.com

Non-Drug Strategies to Treat  Chronic Arthritis

Anyone who is dealing with this disease knows that the pain and inflammation can be severe at times.  There are some things you can do to help treat arthritis without the use of drugs.  Drugs often have severe side effects and the long-term effects of many drugs aren't known.

Hot and cold packs – For immediate relief of pain and inflammation of this disease there is nothing to beat these.  Using hot or cold packs helps improve the circulation to help the body fight inflammation.  Applying heat or cold also helps to reduce the inflammation, which is the source of the immediate pain. 

Massage for treatment of arthritis – A massage that pays special attention to the joints will help to get the circulation going and will gently warm the joints.  This warming will allow you to move the joints much more freely.  Moving you joints is important to keep them from becoming stiff. 

Diet – A healthy and well-balanced diet provides the fuel the body needs to perform at its peak.  A good diet can help to prevent and control many diseases and treat arthritis .  Pay particular attention to eating plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.  These contain nutrients that are known to help the body.  They are also high in antioxidants.  Antioxidants help the body by reducing the amount of free radicals.  Free radicals inhibit the cells from functioning normally and can cause the immune system to break down.

 Exercise – Get plenty of exercise to keep the joints limber.  Exercise is one of the most important factors in treating your arthritis. Plan a cardiovascular exercise program at least three days a week.  Choose activities that are easy on the joints and always use the proper shoes for the activity you choose to provide proper support. 

 Supplements – Take supplements to ensure that you are getting enough of the important vitamins, minerals or nutrients.  Some supplements are especially good for those with arthritis.  Omega-3 fatty acids, also known as fish oil, are one such supplement.  The substance is thought to help reduce inflammation and promote good joint health.  Another supplement for this disease is glucosamine.  Glucosamine is an amino sugar that is found naturally in the body's cartilage.  It is often paired with chondroitin.  Chondroitin is also found naturally in the body and protects cartridge as well as gives it elasticity. 

 You can find supplements at most pharmacies and health food stores as well as online.  There are special blends that are made just for treating specific diseases such as arthritis. 

 Herbal remedies – Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to help with certain diseases.  Today we know that scientifically there is good reason for their use.  Some herbs are used to treat pain and inflammation with good results.  Most herbal remedies are safe and have no side effects.  They come in capsules or tinctures as well as teas.  Some of the best herbal remedies for treating arthritis are cat's claw, devil's claw, cayenne and ginger root.  You may need to let herbs work for a few weeks to see results.  If you don't see any changes you may want to try another herb until you find one that works best for you.