Ways You Can Relieve Joint Pain Naturally

Joint pain is a common complaint that is characterized by discomfort, soreness, and aches around a joint. In most cases, it may not need hospitalization, but if not managed, it can lead to debility. Aside from injury and illness, the other probable cause of joint pain is inflammation. Arthritis is inflammation of the joints and is one of the most common causes of joint pain.

There is still no cure for arthritis. Medications are only undertaken to reduce the symptoms, especially the pain. But because arthritis can be so persistent that its symptoms may not disappear with a few medications, taking arthritis drugs can lead to other uncomfortable conditions which can include nausea, vomiting, anemia, headache, and abdominal pain. Prolonged use may result in edema, which can indicate kidney damage.

With these side effects of arthritis medications, alternative ways are now becoming more popular in treating joint pain because they do not cause side effects, yet they are effective.

Here are some natural remedies for joint pain:

Sweat It Out

Individuals with arthritis may shun physical activities because they are afraid that it may trigger the return of the pain. It is a wrong presumption. Exercise is good for joint pain because it strengthens muscles that support joints. It also triggers the release of endorphin, one of the happy hormones which are known for its pain relief properties.

Fiber-Rich Foods Help

Fruits and vegetables help with arthritis because they can reduce body weight. Fiber-rich foods also feed on good bacteria in the gut that release substances that fight inflammation. When looking for fiber-rich foods, consider those that are rich in phytonutrients such as carrots and oranges as they are fully packed with carotenoids, a powerful antioxidant.

Try Turmeric

Turmeric has an active substance called curcumin. It is a powerful anti-inflammatory agent that can be excellent for inflammation of the joints. You can take turmeric in many ways, like adding it to some dishes, primarily to curry recipes. You can also have turmeric smoothies or tea.

If you are one of those who find the taste of turmeric offensive, you can buy curcumin supplements instead of powdered turmeric. Just make sure that the supplement you are buying does not contain preservatives that can negate its benefits.

Apply Heat Therapy

Heat can distract the brain from the pain. It can also ease the discomfort as blood flow is increased to sore muscles. Heat also loosens stiff joints. Washing the part with warm water or a hot bath can help ease the pain. You can also use a heating pad or warm wrap.

Cold Therapy Also Works

A cold compress to the painful joint can interrupt pain signals by slowing down nerve impulses. It can also decrease swelling.

Mobilize Joints

Debility from painful joints may occur when there is prolonged inactivity because of the pain. To counter this, do some mobilization on affected joints. This may be possible if one of your upper extremities are not affected. Do some stretching also even if you are in bed. These techniques can help you from getting contractures which can cause you more pain on movement.

Get Enough Sleep

Quality sleep promotes healing. This should encourage you to find ways so your normal sleeping pattern will not be distracted. You can try essential oils that can induce sleep, or moving your bed where you will not be disturbed by light and sounds. Go to bed and wake up at the scheduled time.

Yoga

Many individuals with joint pain are turning to yoga for its many beneficial effects. When done regularly, it can reduce pain and improve joint range of motion. It also lowers stress and tension which can induce sleep. With yoga, arthritic individuals can exercise gently which reduces stiffness on joints.

Go for Massage

Therapeutic massage can be very effective in joint pain management. Some arthritis may trigger pain on palpation alone. In this case, you may go for a massage after a bout with arthritis. This will help prevent stiffness and promote joint flexibility. Massage increases blood flow to the affected area which reduces the pain. It also relaxes the mind and the whole of your body.

You can also try hydrotherapy, paraffin wax, and acupuncture. They are all excellent ways to reduce the pain that you are undergoing.

Managing joint pain naturally is undoubtedly safer than taking medications. With all the natural remedies out there, you can surely find the one that is effective in your case. You can combine all the above methods or select what is convenient for you.