What are the natural treatments for arthritis?

Watch as Naturopathic Doctor and Licensed Acupuncturist Dr. Peter Bongiorno suggests some natural treatments for arthritis.

 

Natural remedies can dramatically decrease most kinds of arthritis pain and improve function. This is especially important because arthritis medications unnecessarily kill over 16,500 Americans yearly (mostly from bleeding ulcers). Those with arthritis pain should begin with the following supplement program to heal joints.

The first four nutrients help joints to heal and rebuild. The last two decrease inflammation. Give the program six weeks to work.

• A good multi-nutrient supplement each day.
• Glucosamine sulphate 750 mg 2x day.
• Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) 2,500 mg/day.
• If osteoporosis is present, add calcium each day.
• Take a mix of willow bark, Boswellia (frankincense) and cherry. This (and the fish oil below) can help turn off inflammation.
• If you have inflammatory arthritis (red, swollen joints, as in rheumatoid arthritis) add fish oil (1 teaspoon 2-3 times a day for six weeks, then once a day).

The above supplements can be taken with your prescription pain medications. If you are on the blood thinner Coumadin, however, consult with a holistic physician before taking these or any herbals.

If you have rheumatoid arthritis, the inflammation is often being triggered by your body fighting a hidden infection, and I recommend that long term antibiotic treatment with Minocycline (Minocin - a tetracycline antibiotic) be added.

Walking (in a pool, if it is too painful on the ground) is good exercise for arthritis below your waist. If you have decreased flexibility, put heat on the affected joints (herbal "beanbags" that can be heated in the microwave are very good for this). After 5-10 minutes in the heat, slowly and gently move the joints (as able) to reclaim your full range of motion. Do this 2-3 times a day until your joints are limber.

If symptoms persist despite these treatments, look for and treat food allergies with a special form of acupressure called "NAET" (Nambudripad's Allergy Elimination Technique).