Four Natural Approaches to Treating Arthritis

There are many alternative treatments and natural healing supplements available today for treating arthritis pain. Many of us choose to take the holistic direction, asking questions, reading publications, and searching the internet for answers to the question: what are the natural remedies available for treating arthritis pain?

Your physician may already prescribe alternative treatment and supplements to other patients. You can ask about diet, supplements, herbal approaches, and the other options available these days. These days most doctors are offering a more holistic treatment plan for their patients that include the non-traditional, western therapies.

Do you think that herbs are nothing more than flavoring agents in your spice rack? Think again. There are many herbs and spices that have healing qualities. There is turmeric, cayenne, feverfew, ginger, licorice, just to name a few. That bottle of aspirin, that’s really derived from white willow bark, and is an ancient remedy dating back to the days of Hippocrates.

Supplements are also used by many for their arthritis pain. Some of the more common supplements are glucosamine sulfate, chondritin sulfate, SAMe, fish oil, and borage oil. The type of supplement will vary depending on the form of arthritis you are treating.

If you are interested in supplementing your diet and arthritis treatment plan with herbs or supplements it is advised that you talk with you physician and even your pharmacist. Both are knowledgeable on the interaction between the supplements and any prescription meds you may be taking.

One of the oldest modalities known to us today is acupuncture. This method is commonly used for arthritis as well as other health issues, and most who try acupuncture as a part of their treatment program report that their pain has subsided. Acupuncture is a holistic, ancient Chinese treatment program known world-wide.

Diet should also be considered in the treatment of arthritis. Gout, for example, is an arthritic condition that is highly affected by diet. Vitamin C, folic acid, and NSAIDs are often prescribed for the treatment of this painful condition. The omega 3 fatty acids are often discussed as a natural anti-inflammatory.

Arthritis can be extremely painful and even crippling. Research continues in the treatment and prevention of arthritis. There are many steps you can take in your day to day living to reduce the impact of joint pain. Author Virginia L Porringer writes about arthritis and acupuncture for holistic and alternative methods.