Effective Home Remedies for Arthritis

Characterized by painful inflammation of the joints, arthritis can have a limiting impact on a person’s functionality. Fortunately, medical treatments can help ease symptoms and improve function for many individuals. Home remedies can also prove quite effective at managing symptoms in a natural and holistic manner. Here are a few remedies to consider if you experience pain and stiffness related to arthritis.

Anti-Inflammatory Foods

Certain foods can have an anti-inflammatory effect on the body, including joints inflamed by arthritis. Accordingly, foods containing omega-3 fatty acids could alleviate inflammation and potentially relieve symptoms of arthritis. Foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids include:

  • Salmon and other fatty fish
  • Soybeans
  • Chia seeds
  • Flaxseed
  • Walnuts
  • Spinach

Along with adding these foods to your diet, you can also take a supplement containing omega-3 fatty acids.

Heat and Cold Therapy

Heat and cold treatments can ease arthritis symptoms in two distinct ways:

  • Heat Therapy – The application of heat improves the circulation of blood in the affected area, which relieves muscle aches and eases joint stiffness.

 

  • Cold Therapy – Cold treatment decreases blood circulation for reduced swelling and diminished pain.

You can rotate between these treatments for maximum relief of symptoms. However, exercise caution when applying hot and cold treatments to the skin, as burns and irritation can result if you’re not careful. Additionally, cold treatments should never be used for longer than 20 minutes per session.

Physical Activity

Low-impact exercises keep the joints flexible without damaging them. Low-impact activities, such as walking, swimming, and biking, can also help you maintain a healthy weight when performed for at least 150 minutes each week. Be sure to speak with your doctor prior to starting a new exercise regimen to ensure the routine is suited to your current state of health. And if you’re new to exercise, it’s best to start slow and gradually increase activities to avoid overexertion.

Manage Your Health With the Help of DrOwl

While effective, home remedies can’t take the place of medical care when it comes to conditions like arthritis. With DrOwl, you’ll have easy access to your complete healthcare history, including medical records from a wide range of providers. Patients have a right to their own medical records, and we ensure complete understanding of complex information with a convenient Patient Snapshot. Contact us today for more information on our telehealth app and how it works.