Before getting into Arthritis causes and natural remedies, let’s see what actually Arthritis is. Literally translated as arthritis is joint inflammation. The term “arthritis” is frequently used to refer to any condition that affects the joints, despite the fact that joint inflammation is a symptom or indicator rather than a precise diagnosis. Where two bones touch, like in your elbow or knee, are joints.
There are more than 100 different types of arthritis, with different causes and treatment methods.
Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of arthritis in the United States. Other common types include:
- rheumatoid arthritis (RA)
- psoriatic arthritis (PsA)
- gout
Although they frequently occur gradually, arthritic symptoms can also strike quickly. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) typically strikes people between the ages of 30 and 50. However, it can have an impact on kids, teenagers, and young adults.
Osteoarthritis (OA) often manifests itself at the age of 50 or 60, but some studies have found radiographic evidence of OA in women as young as 40. Additionally, it frequently affects those who are overweight.
Symptoms of arthritis can include:
- Pain, redness, heat, and swelling in your joints.
- Trouble moving around.
- Fever.
- Weight loss.
- Breathing problems.
- Rash or itch.
These symptoms may also be signs of other illnesses.
Arthritis Causes
Numerous forms of arthritis lack an identified etiology. Researchers are investigating how lifestyle and genetics (heredity) interact to cause arthritis.
Your risk of developing arthritis may increase due to a number of factors, such as:
Injuries – They can cause joint damage that can bring on some types of conditions.
Infection – Bacteria, viruses, or fungi can infect joints and trigger inflammation.
Sex – Most types of arthritis are more common among women, except for gout.
Age – Over time, your joints tend to get worn down. That’s why the risk of developing arthritis, especially osteoarthritis, goes up with age.
Genes – Certain types of arthritis run in families. Conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, and ankylosing spondylitis, for example, are linked to certain genes.
Excess weight – Obesity increases wear and strain on weight-bearing joints and raise the risk of arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis.
Work – Some jobs that require heavy lifting or repetitive motions can put stress on the joints or injure them, which can result in arthritis, especially osteoarthritis. For instance, you may be more prone to developing osteoarthritis if your job requires you to frequently bend and squat your knees.
Natural Remedies For Arthritis
A healthful, balanced diet with appropriate exercise, avoiding smoking, and not drinking excess alcohol can help people with arthritis maintain their overall health.
Foods To Avoid In Arthritis
Some foods may be best avoided by those who have arthritis.
Solanine, a substance found in nightshade foods like tomatoes, has been associated with arthritic pain in several studies. Although there are conflicting results from studies on these veggies, some patients claim that their arthritis symptoms improve when nightshade foods are avoided.
Physical therapies
Doctors will often recommend a course of physical therapy to help patients with arthritis overcome some of the challenges and to reduce limitations on mobility.
Forms of physical therapy that may be recommended include:
- Warm water therapy: exercises in a warm-water pool. The water supports weight and puts less pressure on the muscles and joints
- Physical therapy: specific exercises tailored to the condition and individual needs, sometimes combined with pain-relieving treatments such as ice or hot packs and massage
- Occupational therapy: practical advice on managing everyday tasks, choosing specialized aids and equipment, protecting the joints from further damage, and managing fatigue
Also read 9 Best Anti-Inflammatory Foods>>>
Natural therapies
There are numerous natural therapies for various forms of arthritis. There is some evidence that turmeric may be helpful, but additional research is required to validate its efficacy.
Other herbs and spices have also been suggested for RA, although more research is still required. Turmeric, ginger, black pepper, and green tea are a few of them.
Turmeric, ginger, and garlic are just a few of the herbs and spices that may be purchased online as supplements. Anyone considering adopting natural treatments for any form of arthritis should first consult a physician.
Physical therapies
Doctors will often recommend a course of physical therapy to help patients with arthritis overcome some of the challenges and to reduce limitations on mobility.
Forms of physical therapy that may be recommended include:
- Warm water therapy: exercises in a warm-water pool. The water supports weight and puts less pressure on the muscles and joints
- Physical therapy: specific exercises tailored to the condition and individual needs, sometimes combined with pain-relieving treatments such as ice or hot packs and massage
- Occupational therapy: practical advice on managing everyday tasks, choosing specialized aids and equipment, protecting the joints from further damage, and managing fatigue
Diet To Follow
There is no specific diet that treats arthritis, but some types of food may help reduce inflammation.
The following foods, found in a Mediterranean diet, can provide many nutrients that are good for joint health:
- fish
- nuts and seeds
- fruits and vegetables
- beans
- olive oil
- whole grains