Arthritis is a general term for more than 100 types of joint pain or joint disease. However, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the two most common types of arthritis. Common arthritis joint symptoms include swelling, pain, stiffness and decreased range of motion.
These symptoms can greatly diminish a person’s quality of life by making even simple tasks trying.
Unfortunately, there’s no cure for arthritis, but there are many treatments that can help to alleviate symptoms.
Research has found a number of natural remedies that reduce the inflammation associated with arthritis.
Stinging nettle, which can be processed into supplements, dried, freeze-dried or cooked, appears to boast anti-inflammatory properties.
READ MORE: Best supplements for arthritis: The top three supplements to help ease painful joints
In another study, taking a supplement that contained stinging nettle extract significantly reduced arthritis pain.
Additionally, participants felt they could reduce their dose of anti-inflammatory pain relievers because of this capsule.
General tips to help you manage your arthritis
If your arthritis is painful, you may not feel like exercising. However, being active can help reduce and prevent pain.
According to the NHS, regular exercise can also:
- Improve your range of movement and joint mobility
- Increase muscle strength
- Reduce stiffness
- Boost your energy.
What is the optimal type of exercise for arthritis?
A growing body of research supports the benefit of aerobic and strengthening exercise in alleviating arthritis, according to a literature review.
It suggested that the intensity level of the aerobic exercise should be moderate to hard and exercise be performed three times weekly for a duration of 30 to 60 minutes.
Any type of exercise which makes you breathe deeper and faster can be aerobic.
Examples of low-impact aerobic exercises that are easier on your joints include walking, bicycling and swimming.
Exercise also aids weight loss, which is crucial for managing arthritis symptoms.
The NHS explains: “Too much weight places excess pressure on the joints in your hips, knees, ankles and feet, leading to increased pain and mobility problems.”
To help you maintain a healthy weight and alleviate your arthritis symptoms, it’s very important to eat a healthy, balanced diet, says the health body.
Your diet should consist of a variety of foods from all five food groups.
These are:
- Fruit and vegetables
- Starchy foods – such as bread, rice, potatoes and pasta
- Meat, fish, eggs and beans
- Milk and dairy foods
- Foods containing fat and sugar.