Are Alternative Therapies for Joint Pain Right for You?
Natural remedies and alternative therapies are gaining popularity among osteoarthritis patients. Many people with arthritis look to complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to help relieve the pain, stiffness, stress, and even depression that accompany their condition. In fact, the Arthritis Foundation reports that two-thirds of people with arthritis have tried alternative therapies.
While some alternative therapies have little scientific evidence to demonstrate their effectiveness, many have been the subject of multiple research studies.
• Acupuncture: Research has demonstrated that acupuncture, which uses fine needles inserted at precise points on the body, provides pain relief and improves function for people with osteoarthritis of the knee. And it serves as an effective complement to standard care.
• Tai Chi: A traditional style of Chinese martial arts, tai chi features slow, rhythmic movements to induce mental relaxation and enhance balance, strength, flexibility and self-efficacy. Long-term studies have demonstrated that regular tai chi can improve pain, physical function and health-related quality of life in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. Some improvements have been shown to last up to 48 weeks.
• Yoga: Yoga poses involve a combination of stretching, breathing and mental relaxation. Studies have demonstrated that yoga is effective for reducing pain, morning stiffness, anxiety, blood pressure and pulse rate in people with osteoarthritis of the knee.
• Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS): Using low-voltage electrical current for pain relief, TENS therapy has shown to relieve pain and improve knee function in small studies of patients with osteoarthritis of the knee.
• Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM): An organic sulfur compound found naturally in fruits, vegetables, grains, animals and humans, MSM improves symptoms of pain and physical function without major side effects in osteoarthritis patients.
• Glucosamine and Chondroitin: Chondroitin is a component of human connective tissues found in cartilage and bone, and glucosamine is a major component of joint cartilage. In a meta-analysis of OA patients taking these two supplements combined, researchers observed significant improvements in joint function and a lessening of pain and inflammation.
As the research shows, some CAM therapies for osteoarthritis of the knee can be effective. However, even alternative therapies have side effects, and individuals will respond differently to treatments. Be sure to talk with your physician before starting any new treatment regimens to determine which type is best for you and your osteoarthritis.
Copyright © www.orthopaedics.win Bone Health All Rights Reserved
