Mostly, joint pain, also known as arthralgia, is caused by an arthritis condition, such as gout, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, reactive arthritis, or septic arthritis. Arthralgia and stiffness can also occur due to injuries, overuse of the joint, dislocation of the joint, broken bones, sprains, strains, fractures, or motion disorders. Some underlying medical conditions, like bursitis, osteomyelitis, osteoporosis, sarcoidosis, tendonitis, certain infections, systemic lupus erythematosus and leukemia, can also contribute to the pain and stiffness in the joints.
It can range in intensity, from a mild pain to continuous, intense pain. Even a small amount of pain is enough to interfere with your day-to-day functions. It can considerably limit the range of motion of the affected joint and make you unable to carry out your daily activities. Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications are usually used to treat arthralgia and stiffness. However, most types of joint pain can easily be treated at home. Below are some simple, but effective natural ways on how to relieve joint pain and stiffness naturally.
Exercise is one of the best pain relievers for arthritic pain. It helps reinforce the muscles around the painful joint, strengthen the bones, and increase the flexibility of the joints. People with arthritic pain are recommended to perform range of motion and strengthening exercises to reduce their joint pain and stiffness. Low-impact aerobic exercises like walking, swimming, and biking can also provide relief from your arthritic pain. You doctor can help you determine the appropriate exercise for you.
However, if your arthralgia is due to an injury, give rest to the joint. Apply an ice pack to the affected joint for fifteen to twenty minutes several times a day. A warm bath can also help you get some relief from your joint pain and stiffness. Otherwise, place a hot towel or heating pad over your affected joint. Heat relaxes sore muscles, increases blood circulation to the area, and improves the range of motion. Do not apply heat if the skin over the joint is injured.
Tea made from papaya seeds is noted to be an effective cure for arthralgia and stiffness. Take this tea several times a day to get rid of your arthralgia. Ginger tea is also a good option in how to relieve arthralgia and stiffness naturally. Drinking a cup of warm milk mixed with a teaspoon of turmeric power can also reduce joint pain and stiffness. Take some garlic cloves, crush them to a paste, apply it over your affected joint, and wash it off after a few minutes. Another way to reduce joint pain and stiffness is to deeply massage the affected area using massage oil.
Diet is also important in how to relieve joint pain and stiffness naturally. Make sure that you consume the recommended dosage of calcium everyday. Increase the ingestion of vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin B6, and omega-3 fatty acids. A daily intake of glucosamine and chondroitin supplements can be beneficial to lessen joint pain and stiffness. Try to stay away from high-carbohydrate foods and refined sugars.
