Arthritis is painful and can quickly strip away much of a person’s mobility, and independence. However, there are simple things one can do at home to help ease joint pain and enhance their range of motion. Some suggestions involve health benefits of foods we eat, while others are simple lifestyle adjustments.
Drinks:
Raw Potato Juice – This is an effective home remedy for the treatment of either osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis. To make this juice, slice potatoes into thin strips and place in a large, cold glass of water. Let the glass set overnight. In the morning, dilute the potato juice with water and drink on an empty stomach. This remedy is best used in the morning.
Fruit/Veggie Juice – A juicer is handy for this type of recipe, as all fruits and vegetables are added raw. Mix green vegetable juice, like kale or spinach leaves, with carrot, celery, and red beet juice. This can be made up and drank at any point in the day and also offers a unique way to get that daily supply of fruits and veggies.
Pineapple Juice – Pineapple is a natural anti-inflammatory effectively reducing both swelling and inflammation. For relief, pineapple juice should be consumed in the morning on an empty stomach. However, you can drink additional glasses throughout the day if you like, though its anti-inflammatory properties may hold little benefit.
Lime Spa Water – Spa waters are refreshing and delicious. Lime juice holds high levels of citric acid, a natural solvent of uric acid found in arthritic joints. To make, simply squeeze the juice out of a lime and dilute with water. For best effects, drink in the morning on an empty stomach. If you wish, you can enjoy this beverage throughout the day, but the healing properties may not be beneficial.
Alfalfa Tea –Take 1 teaspoon of alfalfa seeds and add them to water. This beverage must be consumed at least 3-4 times daily and for a minimum of two weeks before results are noticeable.
Foods:
Garlic – A favorite spice among culinary enthusiasts it is also an ancient form of treatment for many medical conditions. Garlic is easy to access and is highly effective in the treatment of arthritis pain. Garlic holds anti-inflammatory properties and can be eaten cooked or raw to harvest those health benefits.
Banana – A great source of Vitamin B6, to harvest the benefits of the banana, one will have to go on a banana only diet for 3-4 days. The person can consume anywhere from 8-9 bananas a day and then return to their normal eating regimen. Remember to check with your doctor first if you have high potassium levels.
Curry – This bold, delicious spice contains intense antioxidant properties believed to reduce inflammation and pain. The spice works well with a variety of dishes, so incorporating it into a diet should be fairly easy.
Fish – Many types of fish are high in Omega-3 Fatty Acids. These fatty acids carry many health benefits and are useful for the treatment of inflammation in the joints. Some beneficial fish varieties include sardines, mackerel, rainbow trout, striped bass, salmon, and herring.
Lifestyle Modifications:
Keep Active – Simple, inexpensive, and completely practical. Simple exercises and movements can help keep joints loose or aid in reducing their stiffness. If you have been avoiding activity due to joint pain, you will feel a greater volume of it after being physically active. Don’t push it. Gradually work yourself up to an activity level that both you and your doctor feel is appropriate for your age, and condition.
Watch your Weight – Being overweight or obese puts added pressure on the joints. If you can shed the excess pounds you should feel some relief. Regular physical activity will help keep the weight off, while loosening joints and encouraging range of motion at the same time.
Epsom Salts – These salts were made to relieve aching joints and to reduce swelling. There is no better application than arthritis. Mix several large teaspoons into bath water and relax for a while. You can also create smaller soaks for the hands or feet in a small tub by mixing warm water with 2 tablespoons of the Epsom salts.
OTC Treatments – Analgesics such as Tylenol or Advil can provide temporary relief of symptoms. They can be highly effective if you are starting a new physical activity regimen and just need to get past the initial soreness. Remember to check with your physician to make sure an over the counter drug will not have negative effects when mixed with any other medications you may be taking.
All of these tips can be helpful, but everybody is different. What works for some may be ineffective for others, so speak with your doctor and decide which is right for you. In addition, there are many more home remedies available that are not included in the article. Do a little research and remember to always discuss any new remedy or exercise plan with your physician before beginning it.