Six natural remedies for treating osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a chronic, degenerative disorder that causes pain and inflammation the joints of the body. This type of disease has no cure, but it can be managed well with medical intervention comprising OTC painkillers, anti-inflammatory drugs, corticosteroids, and injections. However, apart from professional osteoarthritis treatments, you can take the help of several natural measures to deal with this condition. They are mentioned as follows

• Exercise and weight loss Certain types of exercises can help alleviate the stiffness of joints and pain. However, ensure the kinds of exercises you are planning on doing aren’t demanding. The best way to get this right is by consulting a physiotherapist who can guide you about the suitable workout methods to increase flexibility. Simple yoga and water-based exercises can encourage movement without straining the joints.
  On the other hand, if you are overweight, strive to shed some pounds as it will minimize the stress on your joints and help make osteoarthritis treatments more effective.
• Anti-inflammatory diet A wholesome diet will help you manage an ideal weight as well as make you more active. Design a diet which includes anti-inflammatory foods such as broccoli, low-fat dairy products, herbal teas, garlic, seafood (tuna, mackerel, salmon, etc.), citrus fruits, nuts, ginger, turmeric, etc. These foods are rich in essential vitamins and antioxidants. Also remember to refrain from consuming excessive amounts of refined sugars, alcohol, saturated fats, white bread, artificial sweeteners, etc. These tend to slow down the progress of the osteoarthritis treatment and worsen the symptoms by increasing the inflammation levels in the body.
• Hot or cold therapy An excellent natural remedy to gain short-term relief, hot or cold compression can reduce the pain and swelling in the joint area. Typically, warm compresses are ideal for easing stiffness whereas cold compresses can be used to assuage the pain.
• A warm bath with Epsom salt Epsom salt baths are offer relaxation from bothersome joint pain. This is because the magnesium in the salt helps reduce inflammation. These baths are safe, and you can take them two to three times a day.
• Analgesic creams You can apply over-the-counter topical creams that can help in numbing the pain. However, before using creams containing elements like capsaicin ensure that you seek counsel from your specialist.
• Get a massage A joint massage every week can help soothe the pain and relieve stiffness by increasing blood circulation. Although only hire professionals who have an experience in dealing with arthritic patients.