First, it is worth remembering that arthritis groups a group of diseases that cause pain and inflammation of the joints. According to information published by the non-profit organization Arthritis Foundation, there are about 100 types of arthritis and, in the United States alone, about fifty million adults and three hundred children suffer from one of these disorders.
The best known forms of the disease are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The first is a degenerative disease that is characterized by the wear of the cartilage that protects the ends of the bones and allows them to be cushioned. Meanwhile, rheumatoid arthritis is immune in nature, since the immune system mistakenly attacks the joints and generates uncontrolled inflammation.
In all cases, it is essential to go to the professional and receive a diagnosis, since the choice between one treatment or another depends on it. However, at a general level, we can try some complementary therapies that can serve as support to improve symptoms and prevent complications. We invite you to discover them!
Natural Therapies for Arthritis Symptoms
Natural therapies for arthritis symptoms have been accepted in the medical community as a complement to reduce pain and improve the mental health of patients affected by this disease. According to a review published in Pain Management Nursing, these types of therapeutic options, combined with conventional medicine, can increase the quality of life of patients.
Specifically, they are useful for strengthening joints, reducing stiffness, improving balance and, in turn, managing stress, anxiety and other emotions linked to the impact of the disease. We don't even have to wait to develop the disease to practice them. Included within a healthy lifestyle they can serve as preventive measures.
1. Tai Chi
One of the natural therapies that have become popular for its effects on arthritis is nothing more and nothing less than Tai Chi. This discipline of oriental origin incorporates slow and gentle movements that help increase balance, flexibility and muscle strength.
According to a publication in the journal Plos One, 12 weeks of tai chi were shown to be beneficial in reducing pain and stiffness in patients with osteoarthritis. Furthermore, it also helped them improve their physical function. The ideal thing is that we practice it with the help of a teacher or expert on the subject.
2. Yoga
Although yoga has become popular as a practice of spiritual balance, the truth is that it also has interesting therapeutic potential. In fact, it has come to be considered a form of physical exercise. One type of yoga, known as Iyengar yoga, can support the treatment of arthritis.
Specifically, this pose focuses on correct anatomical alignment and uses props to support the body. After several sessions, it helps relieve stiffness and inflammation. A study published in the medical journal The Clinical Journal of Pain is proof of this.
According to the research conclusion, "a brief Iyengar yoga intervention may be a feasible and safe complementary treatment for young people with rheumatoid arthritis." Specifically, it improves quality of life, reduces pain and fatigue, and has benefits on mood.
3. Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a form of Chinese medicine that, in the West, has been used to complement the treatment of various conditions, including arthritis. It involves inserting small, thin needles through the skin at specific points on the body.
This, as detailed by data collected in the International Journal of Integrative Medical Sciences, could help relieve chronic pain, including that caused by osteoarthritis. This is because it helps activate the body's natural pain relievers by stimulating the nerves and improving blood flow.
4. Therapeutic massage
Applying therapeutic massages to muscles and joints can promote blood circulation and relaxation. For this reason, they are often considered a complement to reduce pain caused by arthritis. However, they must be applied by a professional.
In a study published in the medical journal Pain Medicine, participants received a Swedish massage and reported improvement in knee osteoarthritis symptoms and overall quality of life. Other previous studies have also reported these effects, although more research is still necessary.
Like other therapies, the application of massages also helps to control stress, tension and mood. In addition, they can be supported with the use of some essential oils that enhance these effects.
Natural therapies are complementary
The management of diseases such as arthritis is complex and requires professional intervention. However, the use of natural therapies is often accepted as research supports their effects in managing pain and emotional symptoms. However, it is important to use them with the help of professionals on the subject, as bad practice can be counterproductive.
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