Home Remedies for Arthritis Symptoms

Arthritis is an inflammation of the joints and is a chronic condition. When the condition is in the advanced stages, it can cause the joints to become deformed and the patient to experience weakness and deterioration in the joints.
The symptoms of arthritis are joint pain and inflammation, specifically when moving or performing an activity with the joint. Home remedies can help to relieve these symptoms along with proper medical attention.

Massage Treatments

Massaging the painful and inflamed joints can bring immediate relief for those suffering from arthritis symptoms. Massage the painful joints with warmed olive oil. Juniper, lemon and cypress can help to improve circulation in the affected joints s well. Also, use lavender, chamomile and rosemary to reduce inflammation. Castor oil is an effective oil to use as an arthritis massage treatment. Massaging arthritic joints with hot vinegar is another home remedy that has worked for many people. Rub the vinegar into the joints before going to bed every night.

When massaging with oils, make sure that the oils are warm to avoid causing more pain in the inflamed joints. The body should be kept warm at all times during any such massage treatments.

Supplements and Diet

Omega 3 fatty acids are an effective anti-inflammatory treatment and should be included in the diet to fight the painful effects of arthritis inflammation. Aim to take ten grams a day of omega 3 fatty acids from food sources or supplements. Cold water fish are a good source, as are fish oil supplements that are made from cold water fish. Calcium, vitamin C and zinc are important supplements to help reduce the pain and inflammation of arthritis. Powdered or fresh ginger in the diet every day is also used. Any amount between 6 and 50 grams of ginger is effective, but it will vary from patient to patient. Start with a small amount of ginger t and increase the amount until you feel relief.

Some herbs can counteract the effects of prescription medications. Discuss the herbs you plan to use with your doctor to work together on your arthritis treatment plan.

Weight loss and maintaining a healthy, well-balanced diet are also important for the relief of arthritis symptoms. Being overweight will only put more strain on the joints and give you more pain.

Exercise

Exercise is another remedy that can be used to manage the pain and inflammation of the disease. Many people believe that exercise is impossible for patients with arthritis, but it actually provides many healthy benefits for those suffering from joint pain. Weight loss is the first benefit that can be obtained with regular exercise. Along with reducing body weight, increased flexibility and muscle strength will help support the joints.

Patients who are suffering from painful arthritis should consult with their doctor before starting any exercise program. Start slowly and gradually build up strength and endurance. Swimming and water activities are a good beginning for building muscle without straining the joints. Water activities are a good choice for arthritis patients because water allows your body to be buoyant and relieve the stress on joints from standing, etc.