Joint pain, which is also known as arthralgia, can either be inflammation or discomfort that occurs in one or multiple joints in the body. Joint pain is commonly associated with conditions like arthritis, which has to do with inflammation in the joint. Joints are what allow us to move and joint pain can occur in the knees, hips, elbows, or shoulders. Joint pain can either stem from a medical condition, an injury, or an infection, and commonly affects children, adults, or the elderly.
What Causes Joint Pain?
The most common cause of joint pain is arthritis, either osteoarthritis (OA) or rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Joint pain usually occurs in the joints that are most frequently used, for example, the wrists, hips, knees, elbows, or shoulders. While this is a common cause, other things like injuries, overuse, ligament or tendon tears, or even bone breaks or fractures.
Natural Remedies
Weight Loss
Weight loss is an effective, although not necessarily the easiest, way to diminish joint pain. Eliminating processed foods, sugar, alcohol, salt, meat, dairy, and genetically modified foods from your diet is a good way to start. Solely eating plant-based foods is great way to lose weight and get you the proper nutrients you need. It’s also important to get the right amount of omega-3 fatty acids. Adding turmeric to your dishes can help because it has anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce swelling or inflammation in the affected joint. Accompany your diet with easy workouts that don’t put too much stress on the joints (biking and swimming are great options).
Acupuncture
Many people with joint pain find that acupuncture aids their symptoms. While it doesn’t work for everyone, it can help to relieve pain and inflammation in the affected joint(s) by promoting healthy circulation in the affected area(s).
Hot & Cold
Using hot and cold treatments can dramatically affect how your joints feel. Hot showers and baths, especially in the mornings, help ease the stiffness in the joints. Applying an ice pack to the affected joint can also help reduce pain. If you have a hot pad or hot water bottle, alternating from hot to cold treatments can help benefit you.
Massages
Similar to acupuncture treatments, massage therapy can be beneficial for joint pain because massages help move the fluid in the body and loosen the joints. Massages also help people with joint pain establish a better range of motion.
Epsom Salt Baths
Taking Epsom salt baths can help naturally relax the body and provide relief from joint pain. If the pain is in your ankle, elbow, or wrist, you can make a mini bath using a large bowl of warm water and 1/2 cup Epsom salt. Mix the salt in the water and soak the affected joint in the bath for about 15 minutes.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar can be a helpful remedy for joint pain because it helps remove toxins from the sore joints and affected tissues. It also has the added plus of helping to alkalize the body, which is especially great for those with arthritis. Mix about 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in with a glass of water and drink this once or twice a day before your meals. You can massage apple cider vinegar onto the affected joint for topical healing.
