“Pain is inevitable, suffering is optional.” – Hindu Spiritual
Alternative Pain Management for Arthritis Written by: Vanessa Laird|Naturopath|Calanna Pharmacy
Arthritis is an inflammatory condition that affects the joints. Many people often refer to it as the ‘wear and tear’ of normal aging and see it as an inevitable way of mature living. It is often caused by repetitive movement, past structural trauma, oxidative stress and obesity. Genetics also play a role in the development of arthritis however if appropriate measures are taken it can be prevented and managed.
At some stage in our life all of us have found getting up in the morning to be a difficult process. But for people suffering from arthritic conditions it can be painful and difficult to move. This does not only occur when rising but can last throughout the day, making quality of life restrictive and depressing.
Pain is a sensory and emotional experience that is often uncomfortable, debilitating and depressive. It is part of the body’s natural warning response to alert us that the body has become disturbed by excessive force, tissue damage or inflammation. Pharmaceutical pain reliever’s and anti-inflammatories are commonly used by many sufferers. Long-term use of these medications can cause digestive complaints, constipation and liver problems.
There are plenty of natural medicines available to help manage arthritis. Here are some complimentary medicines that can provide pain relief and restoration of damaged cartilage.
Glucosamine is commonly used to help rebuild what’s left of the damaged cartilage in between the joint. It usually accompanies chondroitin, which helps to attract water molecules into the joint to aid as a natural lubricant.
MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) is a sulfur compound that exerts natural anti-inflammatory properties. It also helps protect healthy cartilage from oxidative damage.
Omega-3 Fish oil is a fantastic food medicine to incorporate in an arthritic management plan. Omega-3 fatty acids exert a natural anti-inflammatory effect as well as helping to lubricate the joint to prevent bone on bone friction.
Bromelain is a dietary proteolytic enzyme derived from pineapples. It is an anti-inflammatory enzyme, which has demonstrated to inhibit and modulate prostaglandins (PGE2) that are responsible for pain. It can be therapeutically used for treating athletic injuries, arthritis, post operative tissue damage, burns, sprains and wound healing.
Boswellia and turmeric are also an excellent alternative to prescriptive anti-inflammatories. They can also be taken long-term and have additional help benefits such as reducing cholesterol and supporting the liver.
Pain associated with back aches, arthritis and other joint related injuries respond well to heat therapy such as heat packs and hot water bottles. Increasing the body’s temperature enhances circulation, which promotes muscle relaxation, increases mobility and reduces stiffness. 20min after applying heat treatment use a counterirritant such as cayenne cream (capsaicin) to help treat localized pain.
Essential oils such as lavender, rosemary, peppermint and thyme have been used effectively to alleviate pain and some exert mild sedative and anxiolytic properties to aid relaxation.
References
1. Bach, P. (2002). Prescription for Nutritional Healing. Avery Publishing Group, New York , USA
2. Bone, K. (2003). A Clinical Guide to Blending Liquid Herbs. Churchill Livingstone, QLD, Australia
3. Chevallier, A. (2000). Encyclopedia of Herbal Medicine. 2nd Edition, Dorling Kindersley Limited, Sydney , Australia
4. Osiecki, H. (2006). The Physician’s Handbook of Clinical Nutrition. 7th Edition, AG Publishing , Queensland , Australia
5. Osiecki, H. (2006). The Nutrient Bible.. 7th Edition, AG Publishing , Queensland , Australia
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