Arthritis is a painful and degenerative condition caused by the inflammation of one or more of the joints. Younger people suffer from arthritis, although because it gets worse or comes on with age, we tend to associate arthritis with elder people.
Many suffering with arthritis are typically prescribed common treatments like anti-inflammatory drugs like over-the-counter ibuprofen or a stronger prescription. Arthritis sufferers are also cautioned to keep their weight down, exercise and stretch to relieve pressure on the joints. Hot/cold therapy includes taking warm showers or baths to help with stiffness and using cold compresses for pain
But according to the Mayo Clinic website, those who suffer from arthritis can also be dealing with depression, and sometimes treating the depression can lessen the arthritis pain. Anti-depressants offer one route for treating depression, but the following non-traditional remedies and therapies have been shown to have positive effects for arthritis sufferers who might also be dealing with depression:
Mindfulness
Mindfulness is the meditative practice of looking inward to non-judgmentally notice emotions, sensations, and thoughts as they pass through your body and mind. Mindfulness can bring deep relaxation by focusing on the breath and help you to see more clearly how emotions and thoughts are affecting you daily, which can help with depression and even managing physical pain.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is the ancient Chinese art of inserting very small needles into specific areas of the body to redirect energy flow. It is thought that the needles release stuck energy, allowing it to flow more freely through your body. Acupuncture also works directly with inflammation and a practitioner can prescribe Chinese herbs along with needle treatment to help with arthritis pain and depression.
Supplements
Dr. Jyoti on JustAnswer explains that there are a large number of supplements that are recommended for arthritis, but the following supplements have some science backing their effectiveness:
Glucosamine
Chondroitin
Avocado Soybean Unsaponifiables (ASU) – made from avocado and soybean oil.
Dried Ginger Extract
Curcumin—found in the spice turmeric, but also can be purchased at higher strengths.
What works for one person dealing arthritis doesn’t necessarily work for the next. Counselors and doctors can offer individualized plans to tackling your arthritis pain.
