There is no active research that shows there’s a cure for rheumatoid arthritis, but all is not lost. There are plenty of ways to reduce the discomfort of this condition that can also slow down the progression. Like a lot of conditions, a healthy diet, stress management, regular exercise, and a few other remedies can make living with rheumatoid arthritis easier. Things like over-the-counter medications can help with pain, inflammation, joint damage, and more. Here are some ways you can help relieve the pain while at home!
Exercise
Exercising regularly can be a great way to strengthen your muscles and increase your joint's range of motion. Don’t overthink the type of working out that will help as well! A brisk walk, swimming, and water aerobics are great for getting low-impact exercise.
For the sake of your joints, it’s also a good idea to avoid any high-impact sports that could over-work your joints and cause injury. Exercise will not only help strengthen muscles, but it will also help with sleep which leads to our next natural remedy, sleep!
Sleep
In general, sleep is the perfect remedy for anything, but it's especially important for those with RA. Sleep directly affects the level of pain in your body and your ability to move.
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Try your best to get a full 8 hours of sleep every night, if you are unable to get sleep at night napping is a great alternative.
Diet
Similar to sleep, a healthy diet is great for everything, but especially for those with RA. A diet filled with raw or lightly cooked vegetables with spices like turmeric and ginger is a great option.
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Mind Over Matter
When dealing with physical pain, it helps to build your mind up to a point of relaxation. This allows you to cope better with the symptoms. Mindfulness meditation entails being aware of your thoughts, emotions, and breathing. One thing that may get overlooked when it comes to RA is the emotional stress that can come with it. Practicing mindfulness can not only help reduce physical pain and also depression. Simply sitting still in one position while practicing mindfulness can go a long way.
Although it may be hard for someone with RA to sit in one position for an extended period, there can be modifications.
Get A Massage
A massage is great for RA even if you’re getting it done by a trained therapist, family member, or by yourself.
After just one month of massages, you will begin to notice reduced pain, increased range of motion, and more grip strength.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine that is used to help reduce pain. This practice is used to stimulate certain joints on the body by way of needles. This method can also effectively improve the pain caused by RA.
Although it can look intimidating, it is completely safe with little to no complications afterward. Unlike getting a massage, this practice can’t just be done by a friend. Make sure you get this treatment from a licensed professional.
Exercise & Arthritis: A Natural Remedy For Chronic Pain
Yoga
Yoga is a common practice and low-impact physical activity that can help stretch the body. Practicing yoga for up to a month can help improve mood, fatigue, and chronic pain caused by RA.
If needed, make modifications that will help minimize the stress that can be put on the joints. There are plenty of yoga tools like props that can help with poses if needed!
Fish Oil
These supplements are great for heart and skin health! Fish oil supplements are also great for any inflammation of the body. This works to delay the need for medication.
Check with the doctor to make sure these supplements won’t interfere with any other medications you may be taking.
