Winter is here, and along with it comes an especially challenging time of year for those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis (RA). The change of season has often been named as a culprit when it comes to increased discomfort in RA patients.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease characterized by chronic inflammation of the joints, and at times, surrounding tissue and organs. In more serious cases, the disease can lead to the destruction of cartilage, bone and ligaments.
In addition to the medication prescribed by your doctor, the following remedies may prove helpful in cold weather. Always consult with your physician before beginning any of these remedies.
Home Remedies:
1. Apply Heat and Cold – Alternate between applying warm and cold treatments to affected areas of the body. For example, take a warm to hot shower or bath for 15 minutes followed by use of a heating pad. You may also want to try a system that involves soaking your joints in warm water for four minutes before switching to cool water for four minutes.
2. Stabilize – Before going to bed, gently wrap the affected area in a flannel or bandaging. Just be sure not to apply the wrap to a point where it is too tight.
3. Relax – Try a combination of techniques such as hypnosis, deep breathing, guided imagery and muscle relaxation to reduce stress, which also helps to alleviate pain.
Lifestyle Remedies:
1. Stretching – These are the easiest of exercises and consist of holding different joint and muscle groups for periods of one to 30 seconds. Stretching is best known for increasing flexibility.
2. Tai Chi – This type of gentle exercise is a great supplement to RA therapies. The slow, fluid movements combined with the deep breathing exercises of Tai Chi help to relieve stress and ease pain.
3. Incorporating Aerobics – Moderate exercise can help to strengthen the muscles around joints and doubles as a preventative measure when it comes to cardiovascular health. If you are a beginner, start with a light routine of walking or swimming. Always consult your doctor to discuss which type of routine would be best for you. Check out some of these joint-friendly fitness routines for RA patients.
As with any treatment, natural or otherwise, it is always best to check with your physician to safely and effectively find a plan that will work best for you.
Sources:
Medicine.Net – Rheumatoid Arthritis: http://www.medicinenet.com/rheumatoid_arthritis/article.htm
Mayo Clinic – Rheumatoid Arthritis: Lifestyle and Home Remedies: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/rheumatoid-arthritis/DS00020/DSECTION=lifestyle-and-home-remedies
Mayo Clinic – Rheumatoid Arthritis: Alternative Medicine: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/rheumatoid-arthritis/DS00020/DSECTION=alternative-medicine
Web M.D. – Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) Exercise Slideshow: Joint Friendly Fitness Routines: http://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/slideshow-rheumatoid-arthritis-exercises
Web M.D. – Rheumatoid Arthritis and Exercise: http://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/guide/exercise-and-rheumatoid-arthritis
Natural-Home Remedies.com: Natural Home Remedies for Arthritis: http://www.natural-homeremedies.com/homeremedies_arthritis.htm