According to a recent CDC study, a whopping 1 in 4 people will encounter some form of arthritis in their lifetime.1 For those who have endured the slow ache of this disorder you will understand just how uncomfortable it can be to live with. But with advances in modern technology and treatment options you can now breathe a sign of relief as there is hope to overcome this condition.
Osteoarthritis being the most common form can be developed by anyone, its a form of degenerative joint disease and mostly effects the major bone structures of the body. Its important to understand the signs and symptoms of Osteoarthritis which you can learn more about by searching online.
The Osteoarthritis Warning Signs
The warning signs of osteoarthritis are pain in the joints, stiffness, and restricted movement. It can often be mistaken for other conditions because it doesn’t always present itself as a clear symptom. It may also be more severe in some situations than in others. The most common symptoms of osteoarthritis are joint pain, stiffness, and restricted movement. The joint pain is usually a dull ache and not a sharp, stabbing pain. Osteoarthritis can occur at any age but is most common in the 60s.2
People tend to most notice the beginning of the dull ache when the body is cold, especially in the morning or when outside in cold weather. A simple rule of thumb is if it hurts when you move it, there’s a good chance it’s not arthritis as its a continuous dull ache even when stationary.
Treating Osteoarthritis, There is Hope
1. Over the Counter Medications: There are many over the counter medications to treat arthritis pain. Steroid medication like cortisone, be patient with this medication as they require more time for the body to build up a tolerance making symptoms come and go in the future. Speaking with your doctor will allow open dialogue on the best over the counter medicines available for you.
2. Try a Sea Salt Soak: Over the counter bath salts are known to have a soothing and relaxing effect on the body. You can add 1/2 cup of epsom salts(a natural pain reliever) to your bath water and soak for 20 minutes. Epsom salts can be purchased at most pharmacies.3
3. Follow an Anti-inflammatory Diet: A growing number of arthritis patients are turning to the anti-inflammatory diet to attack their symptoms. The foods that we eat may be causing inflammation in our body and growing evidence reveals common allergies such as gluten or excessive plant oils can contribute to inflammation.
Eating foods high in Omega 3 fatty acids like Salmon, Mackerel, Sardines, Free Range Eggs, Grass Fed Meat, seasonal berries, dark leafy greens and extra virgin olive oil can dramatically effect inflammation levels in the body. Mediterranean diet is a great sample for eating a low inflammation lifestyle.4
4. Relaxation and Meditation: A great deal of research has shown that relaxation can release the tension and stress from the body which can help ease both pain and stiffness in joints, muscles, etc. Also, deep breathing exercises are another way to stimulate blood circulation to the muscles, bones, skin tissues and nerves to relieve pain in a more rapid manner.
5. Keep Moving and Stay Active: While most people with Osteoarthritis usually have joint pain and some movement limitations, many with the condition say they feel better and experience less symptoms overall when they keep moving. In fact, exercise is considered one of the most important and longstanding treatments for degenerative joint disease. We’ve all heard the old saying, “Move it or lose it.” In other words, the more you strengthen and stretch your body parts, the better intact they’ll stay into older age.
Trying lower impact exercises like bike riding, walking, yoga, swimming and even a trip to the sauna can effectively help with pain management and symptoms of Osteoarthritis.
An Online Search Can Help You Find Your Personal Remedy
Narrow down the correct pathway for you treatment against osteoarthritis, from prevention techniques to treating symptoms you can find all the latest research.
- https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/basics/osteoarthritis.htm
- https://www.hopkinsarthritis.org/arthritis-info/osteoarthritis/signs-and-symptoms/
- https://healthyy.net/arthritis/how-epsom-salt-can-help-in-arthritis
- https://www.byrdie.com/mediterranean-diet-meal-plan
