Joint pain is a prevalent condition among older adults. It is mainly a symptom of degenerative illnesses like rheumatoid arthritis (RA). However, it can also stem from injuries to and the inflammation of different joints. Joint pain can occur in various places, including the knees, fingers, elbow, and wrists.
If you experience pain in your joints, it is vital to consult an orthopedist for a diagnosis and recommendations on proper joint care. There are numerous pharmaceutical drugs available for joint pain. However, most have a bevy of adverse side effects. As such, rheumatologists and physical therapists recommend using natural alternatives.
At Diamond Physicians, we offer custom direct primary healthcare to get patients the best medical solution for their condition. Here are a few lifestyle changes that should help ease the pain as well:
Eat more Omega 3 oils
Omega 3 fatty oils are highly recommendable for alleviating joint pain. According to studies, upping your intake of omega 3 oils can improve blood circulation, especially during your workouts. These oils contain anti-inflammatory properties and can prevent swelling and lubricate the joints. Blood circulation also improves ligaments, tendons and overall joint health.
Drink a cup of green tea
Taking green tea in the morning can help to soothe joint pain and inflammation. Both the Arthritis Foundation and Geisinger approve green tea as a powerful anti-inflammatory agent with real joint care benefits. It contains potent polyphenols, catechins, and antioxidants which all help to reduce inflammation.
Rub eucalyptus oil on affected areas
Eucalyptus oil is another common recommendation. It is highly effective in soothing swollen joints and overall inflammation in various parts of the body. Simply rub the oil on your skin in the affected areas to soothe joint inflammation. We also recommend using the oil with heat pads. You can also combine eucalyptus with topical CBD (cannabidiol) balms to relieve joint and back pain as well as migraines.
Consider anti-inflammatory herbs and spices
Herbs and spices can help improve joint health and reduce joint pain. Basil and oregano can relieve pain stemming from oxidation and free radical damage. Ginger, on the other hand, increases your blood flow and sooth various kinds of joint and muscle pain. Spices like chili pepper also contain anti-inflammation agents. As such, it is recommendable to include more anti-inflammatory herbs and spices into your diet. It could prove highly beneficial to your joint care.
Replace red meat and protein with fish and beans
Replacing your red meats with fish is an effective way of mitigating joint pain through diet. Red meat contains high cholesterol levels, which contribute to inflammation. It also has higher concentrations of saturated fats and can contribute to obesity. The extra weight is bound to take a toll on your joints. You can choose fish like salmon and sardines, which contain omega 3 and other essential fish oils. Beans and chicken are other alternatives that can adequately meet your protein requirements.
Other remedies
There are several other natural remedies available for joint care. These include:
- Walnuts and almonds
- Essential micro-nutrients like vitamin D
- Hot and cold therapy
- Turmeric
- Exercise, meditation and massage therapy
- Avoid gluten, alcohol and processed foods, as they will make your joint pain worse
These are just some natural remedies available. Come by Diamond physicals to find out the extent of your joint issues. We can offer more advice or write a prescription if appropriate.
At Diamond Physicians, we aim to come up with effective natural treatments to supplement our medical treatments. You can schedule an appointment or diagnosis test with one of our qualified physicians. Contact us to find out more about our joint care options in Fort Worth, Dallas and Carrollton.