Chronic joint pain is one of the most common reasons for visits to medical professionals and disability. Knee pain, hip pain, ankle pain, shoulder pain, elbow pain and wrist pain can come from a number of causes including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, tendonitis, injury, or other reasons. This can be some of the most uncomfortable pain, affecting our mobility and ability to do daily tasks and work.
The approach to chronic pain usually involves multiple healing modalities for management. Conventional medicine is not always able to manage chronic joint pain successfully and safely, and special medicine is usually employed to help with chronic joint pain. This can include acupuncture, homeopathy, botanical supplements, physical medicine, or nutritional and dietary therapy.
Numerous studies and empirical evidence have shown the effectiveness of acupuncture for the treatment of chronic and acute joint pain. Acupuncture is the insertion of fine needles into specific points on the body that have been shown to reduce joint pain. Research has shown that the stimulation of these acupoints can release natural chemicals in our body that can reduce pain, such as endorphins, enkaphalins, neurotransmitters, and neurohormones.
Homeopathy may also help chronic joint pain. It is a very safe therapy that can even be used with children and in pregnancy. Homeopathic Rhus toxicodendron may be helpful for joint pain that becomes better the more you use the joint. Ruta graveolans is indicated for tendon and ligament joint pain. Arnica montana is the most commonly used homeopathic remedy for acute joint pain.
Some botanical supplements have shown favorable results for treating chronic joint pain. Turmeric has been shown to decrease inflammation and help with joint pain. Boswellia, also known as Frankincense, is known as the joint herb and has been shown to decrease pain and inflammation. Ginger is also an effective herb for the treatment of joint pain and inflammation.
Physical medicine can also help with the management of chronic joint pain. Research has demonstrated quite well the effectiveness of chiropractic, osteopathy, massage therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy and exercise therapy for pain relief and rehabilitation. Hydrotherapy may also relieve chronic joint pain by decreasing inflammation and pain in the body.
There are a number of nutritional supplements that may help with chronic joint pain, including glucosamine sulphate, chondroitin sulphate, niacin, zinc, folate, selenium, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12. Manganese has also been shown to help with joint pain and healing, particularly post-surgically.
One must avoid food incompatibilities that may be associated with their joint pain. This may include identifying food intolerances, allergies, or sensitivities. The daily intake of water should be increased to help reduce pain. Also, one should eat an anti-inflammatory diet, which will include fresh fruit and vegetables, whole grains and legumes and decreased amounts of processed, fried, fatty foods.