Alternatives for Arthritis Relief?
Conventional medicine has little to offer people with osteoarthritis pain beyond pain-relieving anti-inflammatory drugs - and these can cause gastrointestinal problems. That's why many people with osteoarthritis turn to alternative medicine for relief. The Arthritis Foundation endorses several alternative remedies for arthritis pain. Contact them at 1(800) 283-7800 or www.arthritis.org/ for more information on the remedies described below - or talk to an alternative-minded health professional. HERBS & SUPPLEMENTS *Cayenne - This herb, commonly found in "heat" creams, is rubbed onto the skin around painful joints. *Evening primrose, borage and fish oils - Taken orally, these oils can act as anti-inflammatories. *Ginger - An anti-inflammatory herb that comes in many forms: fresh root, candied, tea and powder (in capsules). *Glucosamine sulfate - This supplement can reduce joint pain and improve mobility. *Green tea - An anti-inflammatory, it comes in beverage or supplement form. *SAM-e - Taken orally, it improves joint mobility, and eases pain and depression. TECHNIQUES/THERAPIES *Alexander, Feldenkrais and Trager therapies - Exercise/ movement techniques. *Massage - Relaxation therapy. *Meditation and prayer - Helpful to our mental wellbeing. *Yoga, tai chi and qi gong - Gentle Asian exercises that can help improve flexibility, balance and even strength. OTHER POSSIBLE REMEDIES These supplements and therapies relieve arthritis pain for some people. However, the Arthritis Foundation reserves judgment pending scientific study results. *Acupuncture - A Chinese therapy using small needles placed at specific points on the body to relieve pain. *ASU (avocado/soybean oil) - These supplements reduce pain and may promote cartilage growth. *Boswellia serrata - Commonly used in India, this supplement can reduce pain and inflammation. *Chondroitin sulfate - This supplement is often taken in combination with glucosamine sulfate. *DMSO - An externally applied solution. (MSM is an oral supplement derived from it.) *Homeopathy - A therapy using minute doses of substances that in larger amounts would cause illness in healthy people. *Magnet therapy - Small magnets placed on or near painful joints. *Type II collagen - A supplement that may help renew cartilage.
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Posted: Sun Feb 06, 2005 1:28 am
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