Stiff joints. Pain. Limited range of motion. Arthritis can really put a damper on your ability to enjoy daily activities.

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Why Not Just Use Painkillers?

Many doctors encourage the use of over-the-counter or prescription anti-inflammatory medications and pain killers. While these provide relief, they also can have undesirable side effects.

In general, painkillers are rough on your liver and have been associated (when used regularly and/or in high dosages) with serious side effects such as stroke, heart attack and aneurysms. (Click here to learn about the strong FDA warning issued in 2015 about the link between painkillers and increased risk of stroke and heart attacks.)

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Recommended Natural Arthritis Remedies

As a holistic doctor focused on wellness solutions that positively affect your health on a macro level, Dr. Doyle encourages his patients to try to the following natural arthritis remedies first (assuming they do not interact with medications you are currently taking for other conditions – always check with a doctor first) and to use painkillers sparingly.

• Alternate heat and cold. Take long hot baths and/or use a heating pad (not at the same time, of course!) to alleviate stiffness. Use cold packs to reduce inflammation.
• Try acupuncture. Acupuncture stimulates natural pain relief and directs healing energy to your aching joints.
• Take fish oil and gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) supplements. These supplements naturally reduce inflammation, loosen stiff joints and lower pain.
• Consume turmeric. This golden spice is delicious and has anti-inflammatory properties. Drink turmeric tea or how chocolate with turmeric, or add turmeric to dishes like curries, chili or stir fry dishes. (If you take blood thinners or are on medication for diabetes, turmeric may increase the effectiveness of those medications, so consult your doctor if appropriate.)
• Try herbal supplements of boswellia, bromelain, devil’s claw, ginkgo, stinging nettle or thunder god vine; all of these herbs are touted as effective arthritis treatments. Before trying any herbal treatment, always check with a doctor to ensure these supplements won’t negatively interact with any other drugs you currently take.

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Steps You Can Take to Improve Arthritis Symptoms

In addition to natural remedies, you can make lifestyle changes that will improve your arthritis.

• Manage your weight. Excess weight aggravates arthritis. Click here to learn more about weight loss support and essential components of successful weight loss plans.
• Stretch daily. Stretching improves flexibility and increases blood flow to joints and muscles, stimulating natural healing.
• Treat yourself to a massage. Massage improves blood flow, reduces swelling and stimulates natural painkillers in the body.
• Get in the pool. Water aerobics and/or swimming helps reduce inflammation while getting your blood moving.
• Meditate daily. People who meditate report experiencing less pain. Read more here.

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Interested in Huntersville Acupuncture for Arthritis Pain Relief?

Call us at 704-947-7272 to arrange an appointment with Dr. Doyle or just stop by our office. You may be surprised at how much your arthritis symptoms can improve when you make lifestyle changes, use acupuncture for pain relief and try a few natural treatment options. We look forward to helping!