Effective and Natural Way to Treat Rheumatoid Arthritis

Before we divulge into the several ways of treating Rheumatoid Arthritis, we should know what it is. Let us know it first.

What is rheumatoid arthritis?

This is a long-term disorder that slowly but steadily affects different parts of the body. Mainly joints, skin, eyes, hearts, lungs, and blood vessels are involved. Rheumatoid arthritis is an auto-immune disorder where the white blood cells attack their own tissue.

In this disorder, the lining of joints is affected leading to local damage, pain, and swelling. This eventually leads to bone erosion and joint deformities. It is a chronic disease where patients suffer from frequent flare-ups and periods of remission.

Primarily only the small joints are affected, especially the joints of fingers and toes. Gradually as the disease progresses, other joints also get affected. These could be wrists, knees, ankles, elbows, hips, and shoulders.

Cure for Rheumatoid arthritis

There is no permanent cure for Rheumatoid arthritis. It’s a lifelong progressive disease with multiple flare-ups now and then. Nowadays new types of medications, therapies, and surgeries have improved treatment options. These new therapies and surgeries have helped patients in a tremendous manner.

These methods help prevent slow down or prevent the progression of the disease. There are some home remedies that you can try to get rid of this disease. However, if you still face pain and swelling, please consult a doctor.

Home remedies for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Stretching

Stretching the muscles around the affected area can provide relief for those suffering from RA. Simple stretches and strengthening exercises can ease the pain.

It is always advised to consult a physiologist or a doctor for the exercises. In some cases, the exercises if not done properly can harm and increase the pain in the affected area.

Exercises

Along with stretching exercises, those suffering from RA could indulge in low-stress forms of exercise.

Swimming and cycling are some low-stress exercises that you can perform. These forms of exercise do not stress the joints. Some other low-stress exercises are tai chi, yoga, and Pilates. These workouts strengthen the joint muscles, reduce weight, and improve overall body weight.

Heat and cold

People found relief after applying heat or cold packs to their joints. Patients may use an ice pack or heating patches over the affected area.

Note: Never put ice directly onto your skin. Wrap the ice cubes in a towel and apply it to the affected area.

Adequate rest

Rest is required for people suffering from RA. But it doesn’t mean that these people will adopt a sedentary lifestyle. A balanced lifestyle with little movements every now and then is needed. As we all know excess of anything is bad.

Managing stress

Research shows that stress may exacerbate the symptoms of RA. Mental and physical stress may lead to an increase in RA. This is especially found in women.

Some things that a person can do to manage stress are:

• yoga
• meditation
• massage
• acupuncture
• biofeedback
• tai chi

Diet IQ

A plant-based diet can boost patients with RA and improve overall health. A vegan diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds reduces inflammation and pain. Any discomfort related to RA is also relieved.

Fish oil

Omega 3 fatty acids remove inflammation, pain, and overall health. Fish oil especially found in cold-water fish contains high amounts of omega 3. You can take fish oil supplements every day along with anti-inflammatory medications.

Turmeric and curcumin

Curcumin is a compound found in turmeric and has anti-inflammatory properties. You can add turmeric to make herbal teas for yourself. You could also take curcumin supplements as well.

Probiotics

Yogurt and pickles are rich in probiotics. Probiotics can be taken as supplements. Taking probiotic supplements every day for 2-3 months could reduce the inflammation and pain of RA. They also improve digestive health and supplement immunity.

Spices

Spices like cinnamon, pepper, garlic, and ginger can help with joint pain and disease progression. These spices contain polyphenols, which are compounds that help in reducing degenerative changes in the cells.

Support groups

Support groups comprise people who are also suffering from Rheumatoid arthritis. They know how life can be difficult for those suffering from this disease. They form a group and support each other. and also share their experiences and provide insight on how to cope with this disease.

This can help cope with symptoms and reduce anxiety around day-to-day life with the condition.

Are vitamins beneficial in Rheumatoid arthritis?

Vitamins like A, C, D, and E reduce the risk of RA development or symptom flare-up. Research also shows that vitamin D essentially plays an important role in controlling autoimmune disorders.

Things to look out for

If you are looking for supplements, you should consult a doctor. Some supplements might interfere with your other medications.

A variety of natural remedies exist which can be used to ease the pain associated with RA. These remedies range from making dietary changes and exercising to taking OTC prescriptions. You could also practice mindfulness and reduce stress.

Some remedies may work better for some than others. You have to try various methods in consultation with your doctor to see which method suits you.