Treatments for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Although we recommend natural treatments for rheumatoid arthritis on this site, it’s important to make sure you notify your health care advisor or rheumatologist before starting any new treatment, natural or otherwise. Some natural treatments for rheumatoid arthritis are contra-indicative with prescription medications, which may create a dangerous situation. Also don’t stop taking your prescription medication, as doing so could make your symptoms worse.
If you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, you know what it feels like to live with stiffness and pain in your joints and muscles. Rheumatoid arthritis, also called RA, is an inflammatory autoimmune disease that causes pain and swelling. Rheumatoid arthritis tends to effect more men than women and the onset typically starts in middle age.. RA tends to target the wrist and fingers, although it can hinder the function of any joint in the body.
Most people with rheumatoid arthritis undergo a standard variety of treatments to ease pain and help restore joint function. Medications may include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, biological response modifiers and corticosteroids. Patients with RA may also try physical therapy, modified exercise programs and therapeutic devices such as splints. Proper rest, diet and reducing emotional stress can also ease symptoms.
Alternative therapies can be useful in treating pain and inflammation. Mind-body methods such as meditation, relaxation and tai chi are popular treatments. Patients may also try fish oil, which contains omega-3 fatty acids. Acupuncture and balneotherapy, bathing in heated tap or mineral water, may also be effective in easing symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Some RA sufferers also try a special diet to help ease pain and inflammation. Vegetarian, vegan and Mediterranean diets are often the diets of choice, as well as fasting. However, people tend to burn out on the strictness of these diets over time, and can alsp put themselves at risk for nutritional deficiencies.
Patients should be careful not to abandon conventional medicine for alternate therapies. Alternate therapies could interfere or interact with one’s medical treatment. It’s important to consult your physician before starting any alternative remedies for rheumatoid arthritis.
For the full article, visit Lifescript.com, a women’s health web site.
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Hello,
arthritis is now become a very serious disease….we should take some major steps for the recovery of these patients…..
Hey I have found some great information about rheumatoid arthritis clinical trials. Participating in a clinical study is an alternative form of treatment which has been helpful for people who haven’t responded well to traditional treatment. There is a clinical research facility in Birmingham, AL which is just starting a new rheumatoid arthritis clinical trial.