By the year 2040, an estimated 78.4 million adults will have doctor-diagnosed arthritis, according to a study by the CDC. Modern medicine has progressed exponentially in helping us treat arthritis, a joint disease that affects the way we go through our daily lives yet unfortunately has no cure. Luckily, there are a number of natural remedies to consider when looking for alternative medical treatment for arthritis.
Daily Aerobic Exercise
There’s no reason for arthritis to get in the way of a healthy active lifestyle. “Lifestyle changes can moderate autoimmunity, and other strategies can help you control the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis,” says Dr. Weil, M.D., a medical practitioner for the last thirty years. He recommends swimming as the best form of aerobics, which is accessible through classes at your local gym. Other forms of low-impact exercise includes cycling, walking, and using an elliptical machine. Not only will a daily exercise routine improve your joints and muscles, it will be beneficial to your health and happiness as well. If you feel any discomfort after light physician-approved activity, socks specialized for arthritis can help with swollen, tired feet.
Change Your Diet
A low-protein, high-carbohydrate diet will do wonders for those struggling with arthritis. Many don’t look to their food intake as a way to treat arthritis, but luckily there are many diets that can help. Anti-inflammatory diets are essential to lessen inflammation in the joints. Experts recommend three to four ounces of fish, twice a week, due to their anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acids, as well as other foods rich in nutrients such as olive oil, nuts and seeds, and endless fruits and veggies.
CBD Oil
Cannabidiol, or CBD oil, is a naturally-derived anti-pain, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant treatment that can help relieve arthritis pain. While research on CBD oil is ongoing, scientists have found encouraging evidence of it’s essential acids acting as a natural remedy for many diseases. A recent study in the European Journal of Pain used topical CBD on lab rats with arthritis and found a significant drop in levels of pain and inflammation. “For many with a lifetime of experimenting with different products, CBD oil can be a new solution. We would encourage anyone trying something new to speak to a professional they trust,” says Marc Lewis, editor at Remedy Review.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin Supplements
When it comes to joint care, consider glucosamine and chondroitin your new best friends. These nutritional supplements can help treat pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. “Glucosamine sulfate is thought to help with cartilage formation and repair. Some laboratory tests show that glucosamine sulfate may help protect joint cartilage by limiting breakdown and helping to build up levels of cartilage,” explains Thomas E. Hyde, DC, a professional chiropractor. “Chondroitin sulfate is part of a protein molecule that helps give cartilage its elastic properties and is thought to have an anti-inflammatory effect, which can help to reduce the painful swelling in the joints that occurs when the exposed bones in the joint rub together.” Many patients find at least an 8 to 10 percent improvement in their muscle pain when taking supplements. For best results, Dr. Hyde recommends combining nutritional supplements with other treatments. An anti-inflammatory treatment, like Osteo Bi-Flex Joint Care, may help speed up results so you can continue to live a happy, healthy pain-free life.
Vanessa Bermudez is a contributing writer for Remedy Review based in Brooklyn, New York. She is the co-founder and editor of Modern Girls, a collaborative digital space featured in Girl Gaze Project and Teen Vogue.
