Arthritis, a term used to refer to a variety of joint pain and joint disease issues, is something that affects more than 50 million people in America. According to the Arthritis Foundation, there are over 100 different types of arthritis and related conditions, and the health problem is one that affects people of all races, ages, and sexes (although it’s more common in older people and in women). Furthermore, arthritis is one of the leading causes of disability in this country. 

If you’re one of the millions of people currently battling this health problem, you’re no doubt looking for ways to combat it and deal with its symptoms. Your healthcare practitioner has probably prescribed you medication to halt the progress of the disease or limit the pain you feel, but it’s worthwhile also looking into natural ways to cope. 

Thankfully, there are many different treatment options worth trying. Different things work for different people, so if the first few things you test out don’t give you much relief, be sure to try others – you never know what will work best for you.

Massage

Many arthritis sufferers turn to massage. For those who find the technique useful, it seems it helps with pain management and can sometimes improve range of motion. Rubbing joints increases blood flow to affected areas and eases sore muscles causing pain due to arthritic flare-ups. In addition, since massage is a soothing activity, it helps to reduce the stress and tension that comes with living with arthritis. 

There are many types of massage on offer, and clinicians in day spas, physical therapy centers, and other treatment rooms, so you may need to try multiple types and people to see what works for you and your type of arthritis. However, since arthritic joints are sensitive, it pays to book with masseuses who have specific experience in treating people with arthritis. 

You may also need to use more caution with massage if you have severe osteoporosis, varicose veins, high blood pressure, eroded joints, or are exhibiting signs of an inflammation flare (e.g. a skin rash or fever).

Hydrotherapy 

Spending time in the water, in a heated pool, may also be of benefit Hydrotherapy involves completing special exercises in a warm pool, usually under the supervision of a trained physiotherapist or other practitioner with specialist experience in the area. 

Hydrotherapy exercises tend to be relaxing and are focused on slow, controlled movements. The treatment can be used to help increase strength or range of movement. The buoyancy of the water helps support body weight, which relieves some pressure on joints, plus the activity can also help to relax sufferers and improve mood.

CBD 

A more recent addition to the list of treatment options people for arthritis is CBD. Cannabidiol, most commonly referred to as CBD, is one of the compounds found in the cannabis plant. It’s a non-intoxicating compound, meaning users don’t get the “high” usually associated with marijuana, however it can cause some drowsiness. For more information about CBD and how it’s processed, head to https://weedmaps.com/learn/dictionary/cbd/.

Some people with arthritis find CBD helps with symptoms like pain, insomnia and anxiety, although there aren’t rigorous clinical studies available yet to scientifically confirm this. The Arthritis Foundation recommends that people who wish to try CBD should start with a low dose, and increase in small increments weekly as needed. It’s also important to buy from reputable suppliers so you know batches are tested for purity, safety, and potency by independent laboratories. 

Nerve Stimulation

Another therapy type suggested for the treatment of arthritis is nerve stimulation. Most commonly used by chiropractors and physical therapists, TENS – transcutaneous electrical stimulation – involves placing small electrodes on affected parts of the body to deliver an electromagnetic current through the skin. This form of electrical stimulation helps to relieve pain for some, and is believed to work best on osteoarthritis. 

Acupuncture 

You may also want to test acupuncture. This ancient Chinese medicine strategy is said to be helpful for people with osteoarthritis and some other forms of arthritis. Acupuncture practitioners insert thin needles through the skin at acupressure points on the body to stimulate nerves, muscles, and connective tissue. This can improve blood flow, which in turn helps to reduce pain. Some arthritis sufferers find that acupuncture also improves function in affected areas.

Some other natural treatment options you might like to add to your list are tai chi, yoga, changing to anti-inflammatory diets, increasing your consumption of Omega 3 and Omega 6, and using hot or cold compresses or alternating between the two. 

All the options listed above should be used in consultation with your doctor. Also, be careful that they don’t interfere with medication you’re taking for arthritis or any other health concerns. 

It’s worth trying natural solutions as they often not only reduce pain and improve movement, but also make it easier to manage stress and other mental health challenges that come from having to deal with a chronic health issue.