The Arthritis Alternative Medicine Difference
Conventional practitioners view arthritis as an incurable but manageable illness. As such, most of the treatment programs devised consist of a combination of sport exercise, rest and medication but rarely surgery or joint protection techniques. Drugs prescribed by physicians can relieve patients from some of the symptoms of arthritis but can have serious side effects. Corticosteroid injections can put a swift end to inflammations but also upset stomachs and can even cause ulcers. Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), another tack prescribed by most physicians, reduce pain but can also have serious side effects.
Not too surprisingly, when faced with the prospect of powerful drugs and major surgery, many arthritis sufferers wonder if alternative medicine can help. They rapidly discover what most holistic practitioners have been promoting: natural remedies can bring dramatic relief from arthritis, whether by changing one's diet, taking certain supplements and vitamins, or going on a regimen of herbs or homeopathic treatments.
THE DIETARY DIFFERENCE
Alternative medicine thinking is that some foods release a substance called histamine, causing inflammation in the joints and over the long run arthritis. Removing such "stressor" foods, such as meat, chocolate and alcohol, from one's diet will help in subsiding arthritis. Alternative medicine falls short in calling for vegetarianism when it calls for plenty of vegetables, fruits and grain products; and moderation in fat, cholesterol, sugar, salt and sodium.
THE SUPPLEMENTS CURE
Alternative medicine is an advocate of using natural products for relieving arthritis pain. One such nutritional supplement is glucosamine sulfate, which helps repair damaged joints and relieve arthritis symptoms. Other natural products for relieving arthritis pain include fatty acids, found in borage seeds and oil, black current and evening primrose. Doctor Atkins, the proponent of the famed Atkins Diet, urges arthritis patients to follow a regimen of natural supplements, consisting of antioxidant vitamins and minerals, to reduce inflammation, pain and other symptoms.
HERBS AND HOMEOPATHY: FAITHFUL HEALERS
For some treatments, herbs can provide an effective short-term relief. Turmeric and ginger can act as potent anti-inflammatory agents. Other herbs, such as comfrey and cayenne pepper, help soothe joints and muscle and thus relieve pain. Work with your herbalist to come up with the right regimen that suits your condition and preferences.
If you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis (one of the most common types of arthritis), then homeopathy can also provide effective treatment. For best results, consult your homeopath for an appropriate prescription.