Arthritis which literally means joint inflammation is a debilitating disease for over 40% of those over 65 years of age. In addition women are more prone to arthritis than men. However people of all ages including children can develop arthritis. Associated with joint inflammation and sometimes excruciating pain, arthritis requires lifestyle changes.

Conventional Therapy with NSAIDs
Generally Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) such as Vioxx and Celebrex are prescribed for arthritis pain. However these drugs while providing symptomatic relief sometimes have serious side effects as a result of which drugs like Vioxx and Bextra have been removed from the market. Even aspirin in high dosages can cause gastric toxicity and other more serious complications such as Tinnitus (ringing in the ears), liver inflammation and kidney damage. Aspirin also interferes with blood platelets and in some rare cases can cause severe bleeding.

In light of such side effects, arthritis may best be managed by physical therapy and natural remedies.

Traditional Herbs
Some herbs are very well known for use in joint conditions in traditional sciences such as Ayurveda. Boswellia and Ashwagandha taken together have been known to provide excellent benefits. Rumalaya Forte - an ayurvedic herbal formulation is also considered very beneficial and helps to rebuild connective tissue. Moreover these herbs are completely safe and have no side effects when taken as per prescribed dosage. In fact one of our customers has said that Rumalaya Forte and Gel are the only products that work for her mother

Exercise Therapy
Gentle exercise is an important means of keeping joints mobile and strengthening them. Exercise choices can be walking, yoga, swimming and tai chi. These are all gentle, low impact exercises that help in stretching as well as making muscles and joints strong.

Paraffin Wax Therapy
Paraffin wax treatment is also useful in controlling arthritis pain. Wax is melted to a certain degree of temperature. Then the aching hand or feet is dipped into the melted wax in a way so as to form a layer of such coating over the dipped areas of the skin. As the dipped parts are removed from the solution, the wax begins to dry and has a cooling effect. Dip again after the wax dries over your feet or hands and pull out like before thereby lending giving a double coat to the area under stress or pain. You can get a home wax kit or go to a spa or salon that offers this treatment

Hot and cold therapy
Hot and cold therapy which involves the alternative application of hot and cold packs to the aching joints are also useful in relieving pain. It is important that the packs not be applied for more than a few minutes at a time.

Weight management
Reducing weight is also important in providing relief from inflammation and pain. Less weight means less pressure on joints

Copper therapy
While scientific studies do not support evidence of any benefits, many arthritis sufferes have reported pain relief by wearing copper bracelets. Copper is an important trace mineral in our bodies that helps in the formation of red blood cells. It is believed to remove impurities of joint sores when worn externally.

You may also be interested in reading on

5 Natural Pain Relief Methods - Relieve Pain Naturally

Arthritis - Symptoms, Causes and Herbal Remedies

Gout - Symptoms, Causes and Herbal Remedies

Bursitis - Symptoms, Causes and Herbal Remedies

Synovitis - Causes, symptoms and Herbal remedies

Tendonitis - Causes, symptoms and Herbal remedies

Knee osteoarthritis and Obesity

References:

The Handbook of Diseases

The Medical Advisor - The complete guide to Alternative & Conventional Treatments

Pubmed.org

Himalaya Herbals Company

Arthritis Foundation

Arthritis Pain Foundation



Herbal remedies for Joints & Muscles

Boswellia
Pure herb which promotes joint mobility

Rumalaya Forte
Relieves occasional pain, ensures joint health

Ashwagandha
Relaxes and Eases joints & muscles