How to Heal Arthritis
Arthritis, a rheumatic disease, causes stiffness and pain in the joints. The pain ranges from mild to severe, and the disease may potentially damage other organs, such as the eyes and skin. Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in America, affecting an estimated 46 million people, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Treatment to heal arthritis depends on many factors, including the type of arthritis present, the number of joints affected, the severity of pain and overall health.
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Instructions
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How to Heal Arthritis
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Engage in an exercise program approved by your doctor or physical therapist. Physical activity, when done properly, can increase flexibility, reduce pain and stiffness in the joints, improve muscle strength and increase energy, according to the Arthritis Foundation. Exercise will also assist with weight loss, which will reduce joint strain and help heal arthritis.
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Eat a healthy, balanced diet. While there is no special diet proven to heal arthritis, a diet high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains will help you maintain a healthy weight and provide you with the energy needed to heal, according to the Mayo Clinic.
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Take medication to relieve the pain of arthritis, improve mobility and reduce inflammation. The Mayo Clinic states that there are four primary types of medications used to treat arthritis: non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, steroids, disease-modifying antirheumatic medications and immunosuppressants. TNF-alpha inhibitors, anakinra, abatacept and rituximab are other medications currently available to help heal arthritis.
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Try heat or cold therapy to help heal arthritis and make pain tolerable. Heat therapy involves the use of microwaves, moist heat, or ultrasound to increase blood flow, flexibility and pain tolerance. Cold therapy works by numbing the nerves surrounding the arthritic joints, relieving inflammation and preventing muscle spasms.
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Use a brace or splint to support your weak and painful joints and give them time to rest and heal. Splints are used to completely or partially immobilize the affected joint, depending on your prescribed course of treatment. Splints and braces should only be used under the supervision of a doctor or therapist, as improper use can damage your joints and increase pain and stiffness.
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Get help with an assistive device, such as a cane or shoe insert. Canes can increase your mobility and reduce pressure on arthritic joints and shoe inserts can help relieve pain while walking. Other assistive devices include special tools to help with fine motor activities, such as closing zippers, opening jars and holding utensils.
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Undergo surgery to repair damaged joints, relieve pain, and restore function. According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), anthroscopic surgery, bone fusion, arthroplasty and osteotomy are the main types of surgery used to heal arthritis. Speak with your doctor to determine which surgical procedure is the most appropriate for your specific diagnosis.
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Ask your doctor about taking nutritional supplements to heal your arthritis and reduce your pain. The NIAMS states that a number of supplements may be beneficial to joint health, including SAM-e, DHEA, glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate.
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Relax and rest to heal arthritis and manage your pain. In addition to joint pain and stiffness, arthritis causes significant fatigue. For your condition to improve, you must listen to your body and rest when needed. Take frequent breaks, and sleep when you are tired. Hypnosis, deep breathing and guided imagery are excellent at reducing stress and helping with pain control.
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Tips & Warnings
NIAMS recommends an exercise regime that includes a balance of range-of-motion exercises, stretching and aerobic exercises to help heal arthritis. Making changes to your home can help you live safely with arthritis. Install grab bars in your shower, use a seat while taking a shower, raise the height of your toilet seat and rely on assistive devices to ensure your safety and comfort.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration warns that taking NSAIDs for long periods of time may cause serious side effects, including an increased risk of heart attack and stroke, gastrointestinal irritation and bleeding and kidney damage.
