Non-drug Approaches to Managing Arthritis

About 12% of the US population suffers from osteoarthritis, a degenerative and often painful joint problem. The hallmarks of the condition are chronic inflammation in the joints that occurs when the cartilage that cushions them wears away. It manifests itself in stiffness and joint pain that, over time, can become disabling.

Standard treatment recommendations may include losing weight, maintaining physical activity, physical therapy, drugs to manage pain (which include NSAIDs and steroid injections) and in some cases surgery.

The non-drug approaches are gaining in popularity, even among doctors, as they offer significant symptom relief without any side effects. If you suffer from osteoarthritis, here are some things you can try.

Lose Weight

This can have a large impact on the amount of pain that you feel. Less weight means less stress on the joints. And losing weight has a multitude of other health benefits as well.

Stay Active

Regular movement helps maintain the flexibility of the joints. You need not be forcing yourself to run or walk. Try low impact exercise such as tai chi, yoga or swimming. Or take a water aerobics class. The important thing is to keep the joint moving.

Hot/Cold Therapy

Nothing too complex here. Long, warm showers in the morning and a heating pad at night can ease stiffness. Joint pain and swelling are often relieved by use of an ice pack or cold compress.

Diet and Nutrition

You knew I would get around to this. But the truth is that, while not a quick fix, your diet can have a significant positive effect over time.

The Omega-3 fatty acids in fish oil have been shown to reduce joint stiffness and pain. Another helpful fatty acid is GLA (gamma-linolenic acid) that is found in the seeds of certain plants such as hemp, primrose and black currant. You can buy the oils of these seeds as a supplement.

Turmeric, the yellowish spice that is a staple of Indian and southeast Asian foods, contains curcumin, a chemical that has been shown to reduce inflammation. You would have to consume an awful lot of turmeric to get a dose of curcumin that has been shown to be therapeutic, but what can it hurt to add this tasty spice to your food?

There are many herbal supplements on the market that claim to reduce joint pain. Their effectiveness is not necessarily proven although many offer anecdotal evidence. Buyer beware. Do your research. And if you are taking any medication for anything, arthritis or otherwise, check with your doctor or pharmacist before adding any supplement to your routine. (Even mine!)

With arthritis, as with any disease or health condition, you will do best if you take control, use a variety of traditional and alternative therapies and keep a positive and determined attitude.