Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease that affects the joints in the body, causing pain, stiffness and swelling.
This condition occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks healthy tissues in the body, causing inflammation in the joints and other parts of the body. Although there is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, there are multiple alternative therapies available that can help manage its symptoms.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture, an ancient Chinese therapy, involves the insertion of thin needles at specific points on the body. This traditional therapy has been widely used for managing chronic pain conditions, including rheumatoid arthritis.
According to a study carried out in 2016, acupuncture was found to be an effective alternative therapy for managing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. The study showed that patients who received acupuncture treatment for seven consecutive days experienced a significant reduction in pain and stiffness compared to those who did not receive the therapy.
Massage Therapy
Massage therapy is another effective alternative therapy for managing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. It involves the manipulation of soft tissues in the body to promote relaxation, improve circulation and reduce muscle tension.
Massage therapy also helps reduce pain and stiffness in the joints caused by rheumatoid arthritis. According to a study conducted in 2013, massage therapy was found to be effective in reducing pain and improving the range of motion in the joints of patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Yoga
Yoga is a mind-body therapy that involves the practice of physical postures, breathing techniques, and meditation. This therapy has been found to be effective in reducing pain and inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis.
Yoga helps improve the range of motion, flexibility, and strength of the muscles and joints. A study conducted in 2014 found that practicing yoga regularly led to a significant improvement in pain, fatigue, stiffness, and overall well-being of patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Herbal Supplements
Herbal supplements have been found to be effective in managing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. Some of the herbs that are commonly used to manage the condition include ginger, turmeric, and boswellia.
Ginger has anti-inflammatory properties that help reduce pain and inflammation in the joints. Turmeric contains a chemical compound called curcumin, which has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Boswellia, also known as Indian frankincense, has been found to be effective in reducing pain and inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis.
CBD Oil
CBD oil, a non-psychoactive extract from the cannabis plant, has been found to be an effective alternative therapy for managing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.
This oil contains natural anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties that help reduce pain, stiffness and inflammation in the joints. A study conducted in 2017 found that CBD oil helped reduce pain and inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis in animals.
Chiropractic Care
Chiropractic care is a non-invasive therapy that involves the manipulation of the spine and other joints in the body to reduce pain, promote healing, and improve overall health.
This therapy has been found to be effective in managing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. A study conducted in 2014 found that chiropractic care helped reduce pain and improve the range of motion in the joints of patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Dietary Changes
Dietary changes can be an effective way to manage rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. An anti-inflammatory diet that includes fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, fish, and lean protein can help reduce inflammation in the body, including the joints.
Eliminating processed foods, sugar, and high-fat foods can help reduce inflammation and pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis. According to a study conducted in 2013, dietary changes can help alleviate the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Vitamin D Supplements
Vitamin D supplements have been found to be effective in managing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. This vitamin plays a crucial role in bone health, immune function, and reducing inflammation in the body.
A study conducted in 2013 found that vitamin D supplements helped reduce pain and inflammation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Exercise
Exercise can be an effective way to manage rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. Low-impact exercises such as walking, swimming, and cycling can help improve strength, flexibility, and endurance of the muscles and joints.
Exercise also helps reduce pain and stiffness in the joints caused by rheumatoid arthritis. According to a study conducted in 2015, regular exercise can improve physical function and reduce pain in patients with rheumatoid arthritis.
Conclusion
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune inflammatory disease that affects the joints in the body, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. There are multiple alternative therapies available that can help manage its symptoms.
Acupuncture, massage therapy, yoga, herbal supplements, CBD oil, chiropractic care, dietary changes, vitamin D supplements, and exercise can be effective ways to manage rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. It is important to consult with a medical professional before starting any alternative therapy to ensure it is safe and effective for you.