Naturopathic Treatments For Rheumatoid Arthritis

The function of the immune system is to protect the body against foreign cells such as viruses and bacteria which can cause illness.

In people with autoimmune conditions, the body mistakes cells belonging the body for foreign invaders and because of this case of mistaken identity the body starts to attack itself.

Today we will take a closer look at one of these conditions, rheumatoid arthritis, as well as some natural solutions for autoimmune conditions.

Keep reading to learn more.

What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition in which your body’s immune system attacks your joints, resulting in redness, soreness, and stiffness.

The condition causes damage to the lining of the joints, resulting in bone erosion and joint deformity.

Although it primarily affects the joints, it can also damage other body systems including the heart, blood vessels, skin, eyes, and lungs.

Symptoms Of Rheumatoid Arthritis

Symptoms which may indicate rheumatoid arthritis include:

• Fatigue
• Fever
• Low appetite
• Warm, swollen, and tender joints
• Stiffness of the joints

What Causes Rheumatoid Arthritis?

The precise cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, however, there are factors which can develop the risk of developing the disease.

Some of these risk factors include:

• Age: Although it can occur in individuals of all ages, rheumatoid arthritis tends to develop in middle age
• Sex: Women are at higher risk
• Genetics/family history of rheumatoid arthritis
• Smoking: Smokers are more likely to develop the disease, and also tend to have more severe cases
• Obesity: Overweight individuals have a higher risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis
• Environmental factors: exposure to some substances such as silica or asbestos can increase the risk

Naturopathic Treatments For Rheumatoid Arthritis

At this point in time, there is no known cure for rheumatoid arthritis.

There are, however, a number of natural solutions which can be used to help manage the condition and provide relief for its symptoms.

Let’s take a closer look at some natural ways to provide treatment for rheumatoid arthritis.

1. Eat An Anti-Inflammatory Diet

One of the biggest factors which can contribute to our health is the food we eat every day.

If you suffer from an inflammatory disease such as rheumatoid arthritis, choosing foods which fight inflammation and improve joint health can go a long way to helping manage your symptoms.

Some foods to include in an anti-inflammatory diet are:

• Tuna, herring, salmon, mackerel, and other fish high in healthy fats
• Whole grains
• Beans
• Nuts and seeds
• Fruits and vegetables
• Olive oil
• Green tea
• Nightshade vegetables, such as tomatoes, eggplant, and red bell peppers

Additionally, foods to avoid if you have rheumatoid arthritis include:

• Fried foods
• Grilled meat
• Sugars
• Refined carbohydrates
• Gluten, especially in individuals who have gluten sensitivity
• Preservatives and MSG
• Alcohol in excess

2. Stay Active

If you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, exercise can help to relieve joint pain and stiffness.

A study in the Journal of Aging Research found exercise improved overall function in rheumatoid arthritis patients, and argues for its inclusion in routine treatment.

Some exercises which can help relieve the pain of rheumatoid arthritis include:

• Walking
• Stretching
• Tai chi and yoga
• Pilates
• Exercise done in water, which can help reduce the impact on joints
• Cycling
• Strength training

3. Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese medicine treatment which has gained widespread use for providing treatment for musculoskeletal conditions.

It is believed acupuncture can help modulate pain transmission when endorphins and neuropeptides are released as the acupuncture needles are inserted in the skin.

4. Supplement With Curcumin

Curcumin is the main ingredient in turmeric, and a member of the ginger family.

It has been shown to be effective at reducing tenderness of the joints, and is generally safe and well tolerated for use in most patients.

Curcumin can also help with stress and anxiety, which is why I mentioned it among other adaptogenic herbs in my article on coping with COVID-19 anxiety for nurses.

5. Supplement With Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to be useful against autoimmune diseases.

In one 2005 study showed study participants who took omega-3 oil supplements had improvement of their symptoms over the placebo group.

Book An Appointment With Dr. Sheila Dyer

Are you experiencing pain due to rheumatoid arthritis, or another autoimmune condition?

Is inflammation making everyday life difficult?

Have you tried everything to manage your condition, and are tired of living with pain and discomfort?

I’m Dr. Sheila Dyer, ND, a naturopathic doctor in Toronto, and I want to help.

I can work with you to help create a treatment plan tailored to your individual needs and situation.

Contact me today for more information or to set up a consultation.