5 All Natural Ways to Soothe Joint Inflammation

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So you suffer from arthritis or some other form of joint inflammation, but you are unable to take medication or undergo surgery to alleviate your pain.  What can you do?  This short article will provide you will 5 suggestions for cooling inflammation without the use of invasive measures.  As always, you should consult your doctor or physical therapist before making changes to any existing treatment program.  Enjoy and be well!

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1.   Black Cherry

Black cherry has long been suggested by health and wellness professionals to help decrease inflammation in joints.  This is partly due in fact to the amount of potassium it offers, which contributes to bone health.  In addition, black cherry offers the body essential nutrients with antioxidant properties which can also help lessen inflammation.  One thing to remember however, is that if consumed in the form of juice, juice concentrates, or in processed foods, black cherry can be highly caloric, potentially contributing to weight gain.  Talk to your health professional about the best ways to add black cherry to your diet.

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2.     Ice, Ice, Baby

Ice is an immensely helpful tool when looking for ways to naturally decrease joint (and muscle) inflammation.  By definition, inflammation is a heating of the joint and surrounding structures as a result of  blood being rushed to areas of dysfunction.  This is the body’s way of protecting and healing injuries.  Excess blood and heat in areas leads to stiffness and pain, called inflammation.  What better to battle excess heat, than something nice and cold?  Check back for tips on DIY ice packs and tools.

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3.  Hydrate

It is important to maintain balance within the body.  Drinking enough water will do just that.  A balanced body experiences little to no pain.  Water keeps the vital systems (like the endocrine, lymphatic, and cardiovascular) processing at optimum capacity, and aides the liver and kidneys in eliminating waste.  In addition, drinking enough water can help flush toxins out of the body, further contributing to a decrease in inflammation.

Plant-based and animal sources of Omega-3 acids

 

4.  Consume Essential Fats

Good fats like Omega-3 fatty acid can contribute to an overall decrease of inflammation in the body.  Two crucial ones, EPA and DHA can lessen joint pain.  Also, if you happen to be taking anti-inflammatory medication, omega 3 supplements can contribute to the effectiveness of your prescription.

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5.  Get a Massage

Getting regular massage will keep the body balanced and it’s joints lubricated and functional.  You will sleep better as well, and suffer less general anxiety through the day.  In a nutshell massage brings the mind and body to balance.  As stated previously, working to keep the body balanced and in optimal condition adds to it’s ability to repair weakened tissue, strengthen bone, eliminate toxins, all which will lessen inflammation.

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So there you have it!  5 all natural ways to soothe inflammation.  These are great tools to help you on your journey, just remember that while they are extremely helpful, they are no substitute for treatment from a professional.  Depending on the severity of your condition, and the reason for your inflammation, it may be wise to seek treatment for long lasting relief.  If you or someone you know are suffering, don’t wait, call us now at (828) 348-1780 to see if our physical therapists can help improve your quality of life.  Thanks for reading!

 

 

Christopher Taylor, PT

Chris Taylor is the Founding Physical Therapist at PHYSIO Physical Therapy and Wellness Asheville. He has been voted Best Physical Therapist in Western North Carolina every year by the Mountain XPress Reader Poll. His experience includes being a patient himself which deepens his understanding of each aspect of the rehab process. He has lived and worked in 11 states which contributes to the treatment style he has developed which breaks the mold. Become a better You today! #KeepAshevilleActive