Mailbag: Top Natural Solutions to Ease Arthritis Pain
By
Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Posted November 5, 2024
“My concern is arthritis. What kind, I don’t know, but it was a fast-onset type. It started in my shoulders and quickly moved to my hands, where my knuckles are now swollen and hurt.
It seems to be getting worse. I don’t have any energy, no appetite, and am very stiff and sore everywhere.
I am a female who is 75 years old. I really don’t want to take prescription drugs. I believe there are natural solutions to most health problems. Can you help?”
– All Natural but Aching
Dear Aching,
I completely understand your preference for natural solutions. Why take drugs if they’re not necessary?
And, as I often explain to my patients, there are indeed several drug-free approaches that can help ease arthritis symptoms.
However, I also warn those same folks that getting a proper diagnosis for any rapid onset and quickly progressing conditions is vital.
That said, the following are the top natural arthritis solutions I recommend to my own patients…
- Anti-inflammatory diet: Focus on inflammation-fighting meals rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like fatty fish), antioxidants (colorful vegetables), and spices like turmeric and ginger. And avoid inflammation triggers like excess added sugars and vegetable oils.
- Herbal anti-inflammatories: Boswellia, turmeric (curcumin), and Devil’s Claw are natural anti-inflammatory herbs that can reduce swelling, ease aches, and reduce arthritis joint pain.
- Essential fatty acids: Fish oil or plant-based omega-3 supplements can help reduce inflammation.
- Glucosamine and chondroitin: Consistently using this potent pair of natural supplements supports joint health and can ease arthritis aches and pains.
- Acupuncture: Studies show acupuncture can help folks manage arthritis pain.
- Gentle exercise: Low-impact activities like swimming or tai chi help maintain joint flexibility and ease aches.
- Hot and cold therapy: Alternating hot and cold treatments can help manage arthritis pain and stiffness.
- Epsom salt: Bathing or soaking with Epsom salts may help reduce inflammation and ease muscle tension.
- Natural Topicals: Arnica gel and capsaicin cream can provide localized joint relief.
- Stress reduction: Practices like meditation and deep breathing can reduce the stress that can trigger arthritis symptoms.
When battling arthritis, it’s always a good idea to consult a naturopathic doctor or a rheumatologist open to integrative approaches. They can provide a proper diagnosis and help patients develop a comprehensive treatment plan that may include natural and conventional medicine methods if necessary.
Remember to stay hopeful. Arthritis is a complex disease, but many people find significant relief through a combination of natural therapies. Finding the right mix may take some time, but with patience and persistence, your quality of life can soar.
P.S. This tiny troublemaker ramps up arthritis pain. Discover FIVE ways to fight back!
Written By Dr. Scott Olson, ND
Nearly 25 years ago, failed mainstream medical treatments left Dr. Olson in constant pain – and his health in ruins. And that’s when he did something REVOLUTIONARY. He began his career in medicine – and dedicated his life to uncovering the true, underlying causes of disease.
Through his innovative medical practices in Tennessee and Colorado, Dr. Olson has helped cure countless seniors from across America of arthritis… heart disease… diabetes… and even cancer. All without risky prescription drugs or painful surgeries.
View More Free Articles
50-Cent Nutrient Puts the Brakes on Aging
Scientists discovered a remarkable “anti-aging” solution hiding in plain sight. It isn’t some exotic compound from a remote rainforest or an expensive laboratory creation. It’s a nutrient you can find at any pharmacy for less than the cost of a cup of coffee. The trouble is, most seniors aren’t getting enough of it, which researchers...
The Hidden Brain Risk Lurking in Your Living Room
If you’re reading this while settled into your favorite chair, you might want to consider standing up… New research uncovered something that might surprise you. Sitting too much can literally shrink your brain. But it gets worse… We all know being sedentary isn’t good for our health. However, researchers at Vanderbilt University uncovered something alarming....
“Biohack” Your Life Like a Billionaire?! Here’s How
You’ve probably seen the headlines about the billionaire who spent millions on “biohacking” to try to make himself younger. He measures hundreds of biomarkers and pops dozens of pills daily. And he’s undergoing experimental treatments that cost more than most folks’ houses. It may have left you wondering if regular people like you and I...
Do THIS Daily to Improve Strength, Flexibility, and Endurance
For any couch potatoes out there… I have some exciting news. If you’ve been avoiding exercise because you hate the gym or don’t have the time, that might be about to change. A groundbreaking study reveals how a few simple moves, done daily in your own home, could dramatically improve your fitness—even if you’ve skipped...
Mailbag: A Post-Prostate Cancer Blueprint for a Better Recovery
“My son just got his prostate removed because of cancer. He is doing well and recovering. My question is there any information you can forward with regards to his lifestyle? Are there things he should not eat, things he should be eating, is social drinking a risk, any vitamins that should be on his list?...
The Stroke-Boosting Threat Lurking in YOUR Arteries
We want to take a moment on this Memorial Day to honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our nation. Their courage, dedication, and selfless commitment to protecting our freedoms will never be forgotten, and their legacy lives on in the country they helped preserve. I’ve warned you...
20-Minute AM Hack Will Revolutionize How You Wake Up
If you feel like you’re in a fog for the first hour after your alarm goes off, you’re not alone. Mornings can be rough. That groggy, disoriented feeling isn’t just annoying—it’s a real physiological phenomenon called “sleep inertia.” And it can drag on for up to two hours after waking, even if you’ve had a...
Weekly Habit QUINTUPLES Your Cancer Risk
Everyone knows that sugar-sweetened sodas aren’t going to win any nutrition awards. That’s not news. But now, a disturbing new study suggests these soft drinks hide a deadly secret. A regular soda habit could do far more damage than just expand your waistline or raise your diabetes risk. The new research reveals these sugary treats...
Unlikely Duo Naturally SLASHES High Blood Pressure
Some things just naturally belong together—such as peanut butter and jelly, salsa and chips, or two peas in a pod. But there’s an unlikely pair that researchers say could do wonders for your heart health. A comprehensive new study from the University of Surrey has revealed that compounds found naturally in tea and chocolate can...
The Surprising Link Between Jaw Tension and Anxiety
Ever catch yourself clenching your jaw when you’re stuck in traffic or waiting for an important phone call? Well, it might tell you something important about what’s happening “upstairs.” Turns out, that jaw tension isn’t just annoying—it’s a direct hotline to your anxiety levels. And most of us don’t even realize we’re doing it. I’ve...