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      Arthritis supplements      Arthritis herbs   

    Conventional arthritis treatments

Lifestyle changes     Dietary changes in arthritis

Arthritis natural remedy commonly...

Includes the use of herbs & supplements, although, other alternative routes in addition to herbs and supplements may be used. 

Arthritis natural rememdy supplements include...

Glucosamine Sulfate - does not appear in significant amounts in most diets so supplementation is necessary. It provides the joints with the building blocks they need to repair damage caused by osteoarthritis or injuries. Studies have shown that Glucosamine produces better long-term results than NSAIDS(non steroidal antiinflammatory drugs) eg. ibuprofen, in relieving pain and inflammation.

MSM - is an organic form of sulfur found in fruits, vegetables, wheat germ, dried beans, milk, onion and garlic. It may be useful in inflammation and pain and may also be useful in fibromyalgia (another form of arthritis), tendonitis, carpal tunnel syndrome and TMJ (temporomandibular joint syndrome).

Boron - is a naturally occurring trace mineral and appears to increase absorption of

calcium, magnesium and phosphorous, all of which are important in bone formation and growth. Boron is found in many fruits and vegetables eg. raisins, prunes and almonds to name a few.  

Arthritis natural remedy herbs include...

Alfalfa    Boswellia     Cat's Claw    Flaxseed Oil

Turmeric   Yucca

Capsaicin Cream (from cayenne pepper) - when rubbed on the affected joint(s) relieves pain temporarily.

Tiger Balm - may temporarily relieve pain.

Conventional arthritis treatments

Usually include pain relievers since pain is the most common symptom. Pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol), aspirin and naproxen sodium (Aleve) are most commonly used. Also, NSAIDS(Non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs) of which Aspirin is a member are also used, however, these drugs are hard on the stomach and can cause stomach pain so taking them with food is recommended. Lately a new class of drugs has come out, COX-2 Inhibitors eg (Celebrex).These have fewer gastrointestinal(stomach&intestinal) side effects than NSAIDS. However, side effects that occur with all conventional medications affect patient compliance. Also, more commonly used is capsaicin cream, part of the Cayenne plant that closely resembles to bell peppers, jalapeños, paprika, and other similar peppers. Application to the affected joint(s) alleviates pain temporarily. Steroid injections administered by physicians, supportive devices, hot soaks, heating pads, physical therapy also alleviate pain.

Lifestyle changes in arthritis(consult your physician first before starting on any kind of an exercise program)

Weight loss will help in alleviating arthritic pain and reduce the risk of osteoarthritis developing. Exercises such as walking or swimming prove beneficial, especially swimming because the water buoyancy lessens the wear & tear on the joints while at the same time strengthening the muscles and joints. Some other exercises are

Range-of-motion exercises to help maintain normal joint movement, maintain or increase flexibility, and relieve stiffness.

Strengthening exercises to maintain or increase muscle strength. Strong muscles help support and protect joints affected by arthritis.

Aerobic or endurance exercises to improve cardiovascular fitness, help control weight, and improve overall well-being. Studies show that aerobic exercise can also reduce inflammation in some joints.

Dietary changes in arthritis (consult your physician first before changing diet)

Reduce fat in diet, minimal or no sugar and avoid vegetables such as tomatoes, white potatoes, eggplant and all peppers (except black pepper), these veggies include a substance known as solanine, to which some people are sensitive especially arthritis sufferers, this substance interferes with enzymes in the muscles and can lead to pain and discomfort.

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