Although there is no cure for osteoarthritis, a chronic degenerative disease of joints, the treatment can help to reduce the joint pain and improve flexibility and mobility of joints. It is very important to relieve osteoarthritis pain as it can restrict the mobility of joints and affect the quality of life. There are various treatment options for osteoarthritis pain relief such as medications, self-care measures, exercises, various therapies such as hydrotherapy, massage therapy, yoga and acupuncture, herbal remedies and home remedies.
Though medications are significantly effective for osteoarthritis pain relief, they can cause some side-effects. Hence, many people today prefer some home remedies which are equally reliable and effective. It is very important to start the treatment when the first signs of joint pain, stiffness or swelling appear.
As obesity is one of the possible causes of osteoarthritis, it is necessary to control your body weight and maintain the healthy weight. You can maintain the weight by some exercises and balanced diet. Healthy diet is an important factor in reducing the symptoms of osteoarthritis. Your diet should include plenty of foods which are low in fat and high in fibers, such as fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains and legumes including lentils, dried beans and peas. The diet should be rich in vitamin C and E, anti-oxidants and the essential fatty acids especially omega-3. The nuts, fish oil, vegetables, citrus fruits, the food rich in calcium and fish help to reduce the symptoms of osteoarthritis.
Some low-impact exercises like stretching exercises, strengthening exercises and fitness/ aerobic exercises are found to be beneficial for osteoarthritis pain relief. It helps to strengthen the muscles and joints and to improve the flexibility and mobility of joints. Exercise is also good for your overall health.
Application of heat or cold is also helpful for pain relief in osteoarthritis. Hot shower or heating pads are useful to relax the muscles and joints and reduce the stiffness. Application of ice or cold packs helps to relive pain by numbing the area.
Besides this, few modifications in your daily activities and life style may work a lot. Avoid the activities that can put stress on the joints of knees, fingers, hips or back. Select comfortable footwear which can properly support your body weight. Adopt some relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, guided imagery and muscle relaxation.
The home remedies for osteoarthritis include certain substances which can help to relieve pain and reduce inflammation of joints. Fish oil is a natural pain reliever and having anti-inflammatory action. Other remedies include combination of lemon juice and honey in a cup of warm water, half teaspoon of turmeric powder in warm water, alfalfa tea and radish juice.
Although the exact cause of osteoarthritis is not clear, it is supposed to be associated with the misguided immune response of the body. Hence, strengthening of immune system is a very important part of osteoarthritis treatment. The home remedies give relief from the symptoms of osteoarthritis as well as make the immune system strong.