Arthritis

BACKGROUND

Natural remedies can dramatically decrease most kinds of arthritis pain and improve function. This is especially important because arthritis medications unnecessarily kill over 16,500 Americans yearly (mostly from bleeding ulcers). Those with arthritis pain should begin with the program to heal joints discussed under Treatment.

TREATMENT

Natural remedies can dramatically decrease most kinds of arthritis pain and improve function. This is especially important because arthritis medications unnecessarily kill over 16,500 Americans yearly (mostly from bleeding ulcers). Those with arthritis pain should begin with the following supplement program to heal joints. Take them for 6 weeks. You will be amazed at how much better you feel and, although you should stay on a multi-nutrient powder forever, if you want you can lower the dose of the other treatments (as able).

Recommended Supplements

The first 4 nutrients help joints to heal and rebuild. The last 2 decrease inflammation. Give the program 6 weeks to work.

Multi-nutrient powder

Consume a daily dose of a good multi-nutrient powder (see Energy Revitalization System).

Glucosamine sulfate

Glucosamine Sulphate 750 mg 2x day.

MSM

MSM 2,500 mg/day.

Calcium

If osteoporosis is present, add calcium.

Willow bark and Boswellia

Take a mix of willow bark, Boswellia (frankincense) and cherry. This (and the fish oil below) can help turn off inflammation.

Fish oil

If you have inflammatory arthritis (red, swollen joints, as in rheumatoid arthritis) add fish oil (1 teaspoon or 3 capsules 2-3 times a day for 6 weeks, then once a day).

Medications

The above supplements can be taken with your prescription pain medications. If you are on the blood thinner Coumadin, however, consult with a holistic physician before taking these or any herbals.

Minocycline (for infections)

If you have rheumatoid arthritis, the inflammation is often being triggered by your body fighting a hidden infection, and I recommend that long term antibiotic treatment with Minocycline (Minocin — a tetracycline antibiotic) be added.

Exercise

Walking (in a pool, if it is too painful on the ground) is good exercise for arthritis below your waist. If you have decreased flexibility, put heat on the affected joints (herbal "beanbags" that can be heated in the microwave are very good for this). After 5-10 minutes in the heat, slowly and gently move the joints (as able) to reclaim your full range of motion. Do this 2-3 times a day until your joints are limber.

Other Therapies & Advice

Acupressure (for food allergies)

If symptoms persist despite these treatments, look for and treat food allergies with a special form of acupressure called NAET.

Related Information

Arthritis — A 6 Week Program to Help Heal Your Achy Joints

NAET (acupressure technique for treating food allergies)