Knee and Joint Pain – Natural Remedies
Arthritis sufferers often have to deal with severe knee and joint pain. Unfortunately, the medical establishment often convinces patients to rely on drugs or surgery for treatment. Alternative knee and joint pain treatments are widely available, however. If you do not wish to rely on medication, you can choose from several alternative methods such as dietary supplements, acupuncture, and exercise. You should consult your doctor before taking knee and joint pain supplements or starting an exercise regimen. He or she can let you know if there will be any harmful effects and recommend a more suitable knee and joint pain treatment if necessary.
Dietary supplements are designed to support joint health and treat underlying symptoms rather than targeting a specific condition or disease. Unfortunately, supplements will not provide quick knee and joint pain relief; they will, however, support long-term health and prevent your condition from getting any worse. The most effective knee and joint pain supplements usually include chondroitin, glucosamine, and MSM. Chondroitin stops the enzymes that break down cartilage, while glucosamine aids cartilage repair. These two are usually combined. MSM was hailed as the cure for arthritis, but researchers remain skeptical. Fish oil is another effect knee and joint pain supplement. The Omega-3 Fatty Acids found in fish oil reduce inflammation and support heart health.
Once widely dismissed, acupuncture is now a recognized medical procedure. Acupuncture uses strategically placed needles to block knee and joint pain signals from traveling to the brain. A normal course of treatment usually consists of two sessions a week for five weeks. Many arthritis sufferers experience immediate knee and joint pain relief, while others might have to attend all ten sessions. Many insurance carriers cover all acupuncture costs, so be sure to check before you begin treatment.
Exercise might not seem like a good idea if you are suffering from knee and joint pain, but it is actually one of the best ways to retain your flexibility and range of motion. The right exercise also stabilizes joints and strengthens muscles so that you experience less knee and joint pain. Stay away from high-impact exercises if you want to treat your arthritis, as these might only make your condition worse. Instead, consider yoga, tai chi, or swimming. These exercises are gentle, relaxing, and low-impact. Swimming in particular allows you to move freely without stressing painful joints. Water aerobics also tones muscles, reduces knee and joint pain, and strengthens your heart and lungs. Consult your doctor before starting your exercise plan.
