At-home arthritis relief

At-home arthritis relief
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Arthritis is a group of painful joint inflammation conditions that cause symptoms such as swelling, stiffness and grinding joints. Managing and treating the symptoms of arthritis at home is possible, according to the following doctor-approved remedies.

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Put the fire of inflammation out with omega-3 supplements

Put the fire of inflammation out with omega-3 supplements
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“Research studies have shown that high-dose omega oils supplements containing EPA, DHA and GLA can help with arthritis pain, specifically by reducing inflammatory chemicals in the body.” — Dr Susan Blum, founder and director of Blum Center for Health and author of two books on arthritis.

Grill up a grass-fed steak

Grill up a grass-fed steak
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“Grass-fed or pastured meat has been shown in research studies to be significantly higher in omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce inflammation. In addition, grass-fed beef is high in creatine, which can increase muscle mass in people with rheumatoid arthritis, helping to increase mobility.” — Dr Ed Levitan

Take glucosamine chondroitin to rebuild joints

Take glucosamine chondroitin to rebuild joints
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“Glucosamine and chondroitin have been shown to improve the cartilage surface within the joint and reduce inflammation. Seafood and organ meats are rich food sources or you can get it in supplement form.” — Dr Megan R. Williams Khmelev, osteoarthritis specialist.

Taking these supplements are great, but here are 30 simple things you can do each day to boost your bones.

Pump up your immune system with probiotics

Pump up your immune system with probiotics
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“Having a healthy gut microbiome is the key to having healthy joints. You can support good gut bacteria by eating plenty of cultured foods, like kefir and yogurt, along with fermented vegetables like sauerkraut. In addition a high-quality probiotic supplement can help.” — Dr Susan Blum

Meditate to relieve stress

Meditate to relieve stress
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“Most autoimmune illnesses, of which rheumatoid arthritis is one, flare up under stress so stress management is huge. I start my patients on meditation apps, in addition to telling them the importance of taking personal time to relax, have positive self-talk, and calm the ‘monkey mind’.” — Dr Ed Levitan

Get some good vibes

Get some good vibes
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“Whole-body vibration may sound ‘out there’ but research shows that people with rheumatoid arthritis [who used it] showed sustained improvements in functional ability, had higher bone mass at the hip, and had less fatigue. People can use vibration devices at home to decrease pain directly; using cold or hot packs can add additional pain relief.” — Dr Amy Baxter

Feel the (chilli pepper) burn

Feel the (chilli pepper) burn
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“Capsaicin, the active ingredient in chilli pepper, can be used topically over symptomatic joints to help ease the pain. It works in varying degrees in different patients. But watch out, it does burn a little when applied!” — Dr Don R. Martin, rheumatologist

Spice up your diet with curcumin

Spice up your diet with curcumin
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“Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric, a deep yellow spice popular in curries. It possesses both anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic properties and has even been found to be as effective as some prescription arthritis medications, but without the side effects. Combination supplements usually work best. I recommend a high dose (4,000-8,000 mg) quality fish oil with curcumin as part of it.” — Dr Ed Levitan.

Here are over 30 things your doctor wishes you knew about arthritis.

Get some low-impact exercise

Get some low-impact exercise
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“Anything that causes mechanical stress on the joints can exacerbate arthritis symptoms. High-impact sports like running, football, or soccer can cause serious injury and contribute to arthritis. They are better replaced with low-impact exercises like cycling, swimming, or walking. In addition, exercise can help with weight loss, another factor that contributes greatly to arthritis.” — Dr Jordan Tishler

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