Physical Therapy/Diet
The goal of the physical therapy is to increase the flexibility and strength of the supporting structures in the spine to help bring support to the arthritic joints. The idea is by increasing the strength of the muscles surrounding the arthritic joint, the extra support will take the load off the joint, reducing pain. Aerobic exercises can also help to bring circulation to the joints and also build muscle strength.
The proper nutrition program and supplements can help immensely with the pain associated with arthritis. A single herb or food might not cure someone of their pain, but the proper diet can definitely help.
There are foods out there that are known to help suppress inflammatory diseases and ease the pain that many people suffer from. The foods that help with chronic pain are thought to do so by providing anti-oxidants and suppressing inflammation, factors thought to perpetuate the pain cycle.
Some of these wonder-foods include:
- Fish
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Nuts
- Low-fat dairy
- Tomatoes
- Turmeric, and many more.
Supplementation of vitamin K, D, and magnesium, and glucosamine chondroitin may also help in reducing pain and increasing joint stability. On the other hand, there are foods that promote inflammation, such as refined sugar and fried foods.
Medication
There are a variety of medications out that have their own associated risks and side effects. For moderate pain, the NSAIDs and Tylenol are often used. NSAIDs are known for providing more relief because they reduce inflammation, which is thought to bring on the symptoms of pain.
