8 Best Natural Remedies for Arthritis Pain Relief

Arthritis is a term used to describe a range of conditions that involve inflammation and pain in the joints. Those with arthritis experience chronic pain throughout their bodies, which can hinder or prevent physical movements in severe cases. The two main types of arthritis are rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis (OA), each with their own distinct causes and symptoms.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic condition, which triggers a variety of symptoms throughout the body. This autoimmune disease occurs when the immune system unknowingly attacks healthy joint tissue. On the other hand, osteoarthritis occurs when degradation of the cartilage causes bones and joints to rub against each other. This leads to friction, inflammation, and damage in the long term.

Fortunately, there are numerous treatments and remedies for arthritis pain relief. You may also take medications or undergo surgery based on the severity your condition. Before beginning any treatment or trying any natural remedy, be sure to consult with your chiropractor for professional advice. This is especially crucial for people with underlying allergies or medical complications.

Check out these eight best arthritis remedies for pain relief:

1. Massage therapy for arthritis pain

Massaging your joints and muscles regularly can provide arthritis pain relief. Massage therapy is believed to lower the production of the neurotransmitter substance P, which is associated with arthritis pain. Similarly, it can help to reduce a stress hormone called cortisol in your body. In addition, a massage helps to boost serotonin levels, which improves your overall mood.

The massage therapy works best with ongoing sessions over an extended period. Ideally, you can book a weekly appointment with a professional massage therapist to ensure consistent treatments. Regular massages will result in reduced pain, increased range of motion, and better grip strength in the affected limb.

2. Acupuncture for arthritis pain

Acupuncture is an ancient medical treatment native to the Chinese. It involves inserting needles into specific points of the body. Practitioners claim that acupuncture works by restoring balance and rerouting in your body. This technique may be instrumental in reducing arthritis pain.

While not enough evidence is available to confirm its benefits, arthritis comes with a low risk of harm. If you use this treatment, be sure to consult a certified and licensed acupuncturist.

3. Hot or cold treatment for arthritis pain

Hold and cold treatments are effective in reducing arthritis pain. Heat therapy soothes aching muscles and stiff joints while boosting circulation. The most popular method of heat treatment is placing a hot water pad on the targeted body area. You may also apply warm paraffin wax on aching joints, or simply start your day with a warm shower to relieve stiffness.

Cold therapy numbs pain, reduces swelling, and restricts blood vessels, which in turn slows down circulation. These treatments include using a cold pack, submerging the painful joint in a bucket of ice water, or wrapping an ice pack in a towel. However, the cold therapy treatments should be limited to a maximum of 20 minutes at a time. It is important to monitor the skin closely and stop these treatments if any injury occurs.

4. Aquatic therapy for arthritis pain

Aquatic exercises are beneficial remedies for arthritis pain relief. The resistance provided by water helps to increase the intensity of exercises. In addition, the buoyancy provides support for body weight, while reducing the pressure on your joints.

Older adults and other individuals who participate in an aquatic exercise program will benefit from reduced arthritis pain in the short term. They may also experience improved range of motion, reduced body fat, better coordination, and a higher overall quality of life. For ongoing arthritis pain relief, 40-60 minutes of a doctor-approved aquatic exercise program is recommended three times each week.

5. Eucalyptus for arthritis pain

Eucalyptus is a widely used natural remedy for arthritis pain relief. Extracts of eucalyptus leaves are a common ingredient in topical remedies for relieving arthritic pain. The leaves contain tannins, which reduce pain and swelling caused by arthritis. To maximize their effects, follow up this treatment with a heating pad. You may also try eucalyptus aromatherapy to treat arthritis symptoms.

6. Meditation for arthritis pain

Mindfulness is a type of meditation where you focus your attention on what is being experienced in the current moment. Mindfulness-based stress reduction programs can help to manage any stress and pain that compromise the immune system. This type of meditation also relieves arthritis symptoms, including pain, swollen and tender joints, and early morning stiffness. Improvements are often reported immediately after the program, lasting up to six months.

7. Best foods for arthritis pain

Dietary choices play an important role in people with arthritis pain. A diet rich in whole foods, vegetables, and fresh fruits will boost your immune system and overall health. Plant-based diets also provide antioxidants, which reduce inflammation in your joints.

However, there are certain foods to avoid for arthritis. Any meals with saturated fats, processed foods, added sugar and salt, or red meat may trigger inflammation. These types of diets can also cause other health conditions, including heart disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Be sure to monitor your dietary intake closely to avoid aggravating arthritis symptoms.

8. Weight loss and arthritis pain relief

Your body weight is a major contributor to the pain related to arthritis symptoms. Extra weight adds more pressure on the joints in your feet, hips, and knees. This causes the cartilage to break down rapidly, aggravating your arthritis condition. Any sudden weight loss may also be a cause for concern, as losing too much weight is sometimes an early sign of arthritis.

Losing weight is strongly recommended for people with arthritis in combination with obesity. Your doctor can prescribe a target weight for you, designing a program that will get you to a healthy threshold. Managing your weight will reduce the pressure exerted on the joints, decrease pain, improve mobility, and prevent future injuries.