7 Ways To Alleviate Arthritis
Arthritis is a condition characterized by painful inflammation and
stiffness in the joints. According to the Centers For Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC), 52.5 million U.S. adults suffer from either arthritis,
rheumatoid arthritis, gout, fibromyalgia, or lupus1. If you have arthritis, you should try the
following tips to alleviate your symptoms.
#1) Maintain a Healthy Weight
The first step in reducing the pain and inflammation of arthritis is
to manage your weight. Individuals who are overweight will experience more
arthritis flareups, and with worsening symptoms. The excess weight places
pressure against the already inflamed joints, causing additional pain and
stiffness.
#2) Take a Joint Supplement
Whether your arthritis is minor or severe, you should get into the
habit of taking a daily joint supplement. Glucosamine and chondroitin
are powerful compounds which have been proven to alleviate the symptoms of
arthritis. These two compounds are building blocks of cartilage, and taking a
supplement containing them will protect strengthen your own body's cartilage
while subsequently protecting your joints.
#3) Exercise
It's difficult to stay active when the slightest movements cause sharp
pain shooting through your joints. However, you must learn to cope with the
pain so your arthritis symptoms will subside. Studies have shown that regular, low-impact
exercise (e.g. walking or swimming) will reduce the pain and stiffness
associated with arthritis.
#4) Meditate
You might be surprised to learn that meditation can alleviate
arthritis pain and discomfort. The National Institute of Health (NIH) even
published an article on its website, citing meditation as being an effective
form of treatment for people with joint pain.
#5) Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for good health, but they are
particularly beneficial for people suffering from arthritis. Omega-3s
strengthen and protect the joints, which in turn alleviates the symptoms of
arthritis. Wild-caught fish is an excellent source of omega 3s, as well as
extra-virgin olive oil.
#6) Massage Therapy
While most people seek massage therapy for its stress-reducing
benefits, it's also known to help fight arthritis. Massaging the joints
affected by arthritis reduces swelling, stiffness and even pain, giving the
individual greater freedom of movement.
#7) Acupuncture
Even acupuncture can help to alleviate the pain and discomfort of
arthritis. This centuries-old practice involves the placement of fine needles
to restore the body's flow of energy (Qi) and stimulate its self-healing
mechanism. When performed by a licensed acupuncturist, it can strengthen the
joints and ward off arthritis.
Give me a call today to learn how you can get back on track to better
health!
Bishara Wilson, L.Ac., MSTOM, C.SMA
New York Sports Acupuncture
(888) 375-5444
1. http://1.usa.gov/1awEzzE
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