Approximately 10 million people in the UK are suffering from arthritis, which manifests itself with painful joints and other uncomfortable symptoms. Arthritis pain can be treatable with surgeries and medication. However, according to the Arthritis & Rheumatology journal, glucosamine and chondroitin, two of the most used medicines for arthritis, have been shown to not fully relieve knee osteoarthritis pain over a four year period, acting no better than a placebo drug.
For those looking for alternative or additional methods to treat daily joint pain, here are five natural, non-surgical solutions that could help relieve arthritis symptoms.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is a great way to reduce inflammation and painful joints. Whether it is used in cooking or massaged into the skin, studies have shown that the compound oleocanthal can prevent the pro-inflammatory COX-1 and COX-2 enzymes, producing a similar effect to ibuprofen. A study published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry in 2015 found that oleocanthal had a significant impact on chronic and acute inflammatory processes.
Fish Oil
Fish body/liver oil is another way to reduce joint pain. The omega-3 essential fatty acids help control the immune system and reduce joint inflammation. Fish liver oil contains vitamin D, which is efficient in maintaining healthy joints. According to Arthritis Research UK, evidence has shown that fish body oil can help relieve the painful symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
See also: Supplements for Stronger Bones
Ginger
Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and can be ingested as a tea, eaten or taken as a supplement to reduce symptoms of osteoarthritis. Ginger contains salicylates, which turns into salicylic acid when in the body and can prevent certain prostaglandins, which can ease pain and discomfort. Trials conducted by Arthritis Research UK have shown that when compared to a placebo drug, ginger has reduced pain significantly and overall osteoarthritis related symptoms were reduced also.
Capsaicin
Capsaicin, a compound taken from chilli peppers, works as a painkiller by reducing a pain neurotransmitter in the body called Substance P. A study published in 2014 by the National Centre of Biotechnology Information (NCBI) found that capsaicin ointment treatment applied to joints is effective in reducing pain for up to 20 weeks for people suffering from osteoarthritis. Several other studies have found that when compared to a placebo drug, capsaicin has shown over 50 per cent reduced pain for osteoarthritis patients.
Braces
If you find that you still experience uncomfortable or painful joints, braces can be useful for relieving day-to-day pain. Braces can come in all shapes and sizes and are particularly effective with knees, as they allow ligaments to heal and relieve kneecap pain, according to the Arthritis Foundation.
See also: Arthritis and Painful Joints
Read more on Celebrity Angels about Dr Hilary Jones’ advice on arthritis and painful joints.
