As the weather changes, people suffering from inflammatory conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis tend to experience more pain and sometimes more swelling in their joints as well. The morning stiffness tends to get a little worse as well. Based on Traditional Chinese Medicine, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are classified as “ Bi syndromes” and tend to be effected by weather elements – particularly cold and humid temperatures. Here are a few naturopathic treatments you can try at home for arthritis that might provide some relief to your joints and bones.
1. To do have a diet that is free of the night shade family vegetables – this includes egg plants, peppers, tomatoes and potatoes. These vegetables tend to worsen inflammation, particularly in people who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. A complete avoidance for a while would be ideal. Inflammation in the body can be measured by testing various indices such as CRP, ESR and CORTISOL through your naturopathic clinic.
2. Try to maintain a diet that is gluten free and dairy free. This may help in reducing the pain and inflammation in the joints. An overload of different foods in the body, particularly allergens such as wheat and dairy can exacerbate symptoms of arthritis. Inflammation could be effected by food allergies and intolerances you have but are not aware of. You can test these using food allergy/ intolerance blood tests.
3. Mild exercise and stretching in rooms that are a little warmer and more humid may provide relief as loosening up stiff joints. The warmth will loosen and relax muscles, which in turn will release some joint tension. One of the reason why people tend to wake up stiff is because of lack of proper circulation in the body, leaving hands and legs quite stiff on waking. Improving circulation is a great way to reduce stiffness and joint pain. Mobility is great for improving circulation as is massage and acupuncture.
4. Massaging joints with warming oils – such as mustard, castor oil, peanut (if tolerated), rosemary and thyme may also be beneficial in improving circulation and reducing pain related to osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. If you are suffering from osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, talk to your naturopathic doctor and see what the best natural treatment option for you would be to be pain free.
By: Sushma Shah, Doctor of Naturopathic Medicine, at the Nature’s Intentions Naturopathic Clinic.