Osteoarthritis is the most common condition affecting the joints. With more than 27 million cases diagnosed in the United States, osteoarthritis is one of the most damaging long-term conditions that significantly reduce the range of movement. Even though osteoarthritis can affect any joint, it is most likely to affect the knees, hips, or lower back. This condition is caused by the gradual deterioration of the cartilage that covers the end of each bone. The result is bone pain and joint damage.
Exercise
It is one of the best things you can do for your joints, provided it is done in the right way. Exercise promotes endurance and strengthens the muscles around the joint. In the long term, exercise improves mobility and can lead to weight loss. To benefit from exercise, perform aerobic exercise for 30 minutes a day five times a week. Training can include activities such as biking, running, or swimming. You can also perform a range of motion exercises for at least 30 minutes daily. It’s important to avoid high-impact activities that may further damage the joints or cause another injury.
Weight Control
Being overweight is detrimental to healthy joints because it places massive amounts of pressure on the knees and hips, therefore causing a worsening of osteoarthritis or similar conditions. That’s why one of the easiest ways to manage your symptoms is to control your weight. Losing weight can also slow the progress of arthritis and its related symptoms. Even if the loss is modest – for example between 10 to 20 pounds – the effects can be highly positive. To lose weight, it’s important to maintain a healthy and balanced diet and get plenty of exercises. Processed foods should be kept to a minimum.
Cold or Heat Compresses
Thermotherapy is widely acclaimed as one of the most efficient ways to treat osteoarthritis as well as joint pain. This form of therapy uses heat or cold to relieve symptoms. Thermotherapy has a long history in the treatment of many ailments, and arthritis certainly isn’t an exception. For acute pain, ice is especially effective, but for chronic conditions, heat is more useful. For many, thermotherapy is a cheap and readily available treatment option that can be used in different situations. Heat and cold pads can be purchased at your local pharmacy and are portable, making them an ideal treatment option.
Massage Therapy
Massage therapy has been proven to be a useful element in a successful treatment plan that reduces pain and slows the progress of osteoarthritis. Frequent trips to the masseur can help minimize the extent of the pain, as well as control other symptoms such as swelling and inflammation. Another significant benefit of massage therapy is increased blood circulation, which leads to healthier skin and body tissue. Massage therapy can also be performed at home by using soothing strokes with olive oil or coconut oil. Other oils may also be used. If symptoms don’t improve, consult your doctor.
Water-based Exercise
One of the most interesting ways to treat osteoarthritis is by performing regular water-based activities. This form of exercise is proven to be useful by many experts. For example, the American College of Rheumatology says that water-based exercises don’t place too much stress of pressure on the joints as land-based exercise does. We recommend finding a program that employs a heated pool that allows the patient to gradually increase the intensity of the exercise. The long-term benefits of water-based exercise include increased mobility, improved self-esteem, and less pain. Remember to consult your health specialist before beginning any exercise routine.
Epsom Salt
It is a popular treatment for many forms of arthritis, including osteoarthritis. Epsom salt is a wonderful remedy because it is rich in magnesium, which helps to reduce pain and swelling, amongst other symptoms. Also, Epsom salt baths are relaxing for the mind, contributing to improving mental and spiritual well-being. To use Epsom salt for the treatment of osteoarthritis, add 1 to 2 cups of Epsom salt to warm bath water. Then, soak in it for around 30 minutes. Epsom salt baths can be taken a few times per week or whenever necessary. If you have kidney problems or diabetes, you shouldn’t use Epsom salt.
Ginger
One of the best natural remedies for osteoarthritis is ginger. Ginger has a high concentration of vitamins and nutrients that are useful in fighting against osteoarthritis. Also, consuming ginger provides benefits for the immune system as well as healthy skin. Osteoarthritis patients often state that ginger is especially useful in treating joint pain. Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that block COX-2, a component in the body that causes you to feel pain. You can drink ginger in other teas or make it into a tea itself. Or, you can turn it into a paste and massage it directly onto the affected area.
Turmeric
Turmeric is a popular treatment option for many people who suffer from osteoarthritis. What makes turmeric compelling is its ability to reduce pain as well as inflammation. In some cases, it can even slow the progression of the disease. Turmeric contains a substance known as curcumin that has anti-inflammatory properties. It also provides an antioxidant-rich boost to your immune system. To use turmeric, mix one teaspoon of dried turmeric powder into a glass of warm water and mix an equivalent amount of honey into the mixture. Drink it twice a day until the pain subsides.
Fenugreek
Not commonly known, but it is an efficient and cheap treatment for osteoarthritis. These seeds contain an abundance of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that reduce pain as well as swelling. Furthermore, the seeds are rich in other minerals that contribute to healthy bones and joints. To use fenugreek seeds, soak one teaspoon of dried fenugreek seeds in water overnight. In the morning, discard the water and consume the seeds. You may also drink fenugreek powder mixed with water two to three times a day.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is an age-old remedy for the treatment of osteoarthritis. Popular for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant components, cinnamon has proven to be one of the most effective plant-based treatments for osteoarthritis. Its many benefits also include improved mobility and bone joint, as well as reduced muscle stiffness. Cinnamon is also very versatile and can be a great addition to many different dishes, such as porridges, smoothies, and soups. One of the easiest ways to consume cinnamon is to mix one teaspoon of cinnamon powder with water and honey. Alternatively, you can apply the cinnamon paste directly to the affected area for quick pain relief.