Natural Help For Osteoarthritis

Natural Help For Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, and is usually progressive, resulting in severe pain and disability. The joints commonly involved are the knees, neck, back, hips and fingers. Symptoms include pain, inflammation and decreased range of motion.

Helpful Supplements

MSM or Methylsulfonylmethane is a natural sulfur based supplement that relieves pain and also contributes to the maintenance and repair of cartilage and joints. The dosage must be gradually increased until pain relief is achieved. The usual dose is 5 to 30gm daily in divided doses with meals. The pain killing effect may develop in days, weeks or months, depending on the severity of the problem.

Glucosamine Sulphate is a naturally occurring component of joint cartilage. Studies to date indicate an effect similar to non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAID's like motrin). It may also help rebuild cartilage. Takes 4 to 6 weeks to work. Dosage 1,500 to 3,000mg daily in three divided doses with meals.

Cod Liver Oil containing 10,000IU's Vitamin-A and 400IU Vitamin-D and flax seed oil 1 to 2 TBS daily.

Niacinamide in dose of 900mg to 3,000mg is excellent for pain. For doses of over 1,500mg seek doctor's supervision.

Buffered Vitamin-C in high doses has an anti-inflammatory effect. Vitamin-E has antioxidant characteristics and is synergistic with Vitamin-C.

Bromelain (sulphur containing proteolytic enzymes from the stem of the pineapple plant) 125mg to 450mg three times daily on an empty stomach can reduce joint swelling and increase mobility.

Diet

Avoid nightshade foods for four to six weeks (tomatoes, eggplants, potatoes, peppers).
Elimination diet to find food allergies.
Cold water fish such as mackerel, herring, salmon and sardines.
Drink plenty of pure water.
Eat red and blue berries like cherries, blueberries or drink 4 ounces of black cherry juice daily.

Herbs

Devil's Claw, conflicting study results, may be useful.
Yucca an extract from the desert yucca plant reduces swelling, pain and stiffness in one double blind study.
Topical Cayenne Pepper applied to joints relieves pain.
Sea Cucumber extract as homeopathic or capsules approved in Australia for arthritis.

Physical Therapies

Swimming and Isometrics.
Heat Treatments including hot castor oil packs.
Hydrotherapy, hot and cold alternating packs.
Acupuncture very useful for pain and swelling.

Lose weight – diet and exercise plans