Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, is a chronic and progressive arthritic condition that leads to permanent joint damage. There are various symptoms of RA include pain, swelling, and stiffness, usually in the hands, feet, shoulders, and knees, as well as painful inflammation. There are various factors that trigger RA including obesity, age, family history with the disease, and gender, with it occurring more often in women than men. Traditional remedies include the use of pills and injections.
Those that are looking for a more natural RA home remedies may use rest, exercise, plant-based, and fish-based oils, eliminating stress, and the use of heat and ice:
1. Rest
Something that helps counteract the effects of the disease is to get more sleep at night. The perfect amount of sleep can differ, but there is a constant. Those suffering must get at least 8 hours of sleep at night. Another important task is a simple one. Just taking a nap can act to reduce its effects. Even sleep during the day can help care for the disease. One important piece to try would be to meditate. This relaxes the body and mind and relaxes the muscles strained by the disease. This can allow them to stay fresh and not be tense.
2. Gentle exercise
Another thing to do that can help cope with the disease is to stretch and gently move the body. Exercise allows the muscles that are tense to loosen and become more flexible, while also preventing the muscles from stiffening in the long run, prolonging the time until the disease becomes dangerous. Another thing one can do is to increase the range of motion with exercise. The key is to use low-impact exercises (i.e., walking, yoga, swimming, etc.).
3. Plant oils
Plant-based oils such as olive oil, safflower oil, sesame oil, and more can be infused into dishes as very effective pain and inflammation fighters for RA. Try using plant based oils for cooking and baking as alternatives to butter and margarine. Other sources of plant based fats can be found in avocados, nuts, and seeds.
4. Fish oils
Like plant based oils, fish oils can also infuse many recipes while helping RA patients naturally lubricate joints and strengthen muscles. Fish oils can be incorporated into the diet in fatty cuts of fish like tuna, mackerel, and salmon. It is best to check with the doctor prior to starting any new diet.
5. Avoid stress
Another technique that can be used to aid in fighting arthritis is deep breathing. This also relaxes the muscles and prevents aches and pains. As several other methods, it can prolong the time between flare-ups. Guided imagery is also an effective tool to reduce stress. Massage also act as a barrier to arthritis by relaxing muscles and improving blood flow and flexibility.
6. Heat and cold
Alternate ice and heat applied at regular intervals where the stiffness lies can reduce the swelling, relieve the pain of RA, and relax muscle spasms.
