Monday, July 4, 2011

Manage Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms Naturally

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that usually affects the smaller joints in the hands and feet. The disease is most common in women between the ages of 40 and 60, and it causes swelling in the joints along with symptoms like fever and fatigue. Gradually, this type of arthritis can erode the bones and lead to painful joint deformity. There are many methods available to treat pain and inflammation and to help ease your discomfort.








Instructions


1. Build an exercise plan to strengthen the muscles around your joints. Tai chi is an excellent option for rheumatoid arthritis sufferers, because is combines gentle movements with deep breathing, allowing you to reduce stress while renewing power to your joints.


2. Use a heat/cold therapy to alleviate pain and inflammation brought on by the disease. Soak the joints in warm water for four minutes and then cool water for one minute, repeating the process for 30 minutes at a time. This should help to relax the muscles and soothe your joints.








3. Try a diet rich in fruits and vegetables. According to ArticleHealthandFitness.com, a diet rich in fruits and vegetables and low in animal fat can help relieve arthritis symptoms. PodiatryChannel.com even suggests that a vegetarian diet can make you "feel better overall."


4. Ask your doctor about glucosamine supplements; this type of amino sugar can repair cartilage that has been damaged by rheumatoid arthritis.


5. Try fish oil supplements and plant oil supplements to relieve stiffness and pain. Fish oils and plants oils, including evening primrose, black currant and borage, can help with morning stiffness in particular.


6. Prepare a meal with thunder god vine. The root of this plant has been used in traditional Chinese medicine to help with autoimmune disorders and inflammatory diseases.

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