Millions of Americans suffer from arthritis pain each year. Taking pain killers isn’t always the answer and often doesn’t provide a long-term solution. Instead, many people turn to natural solutions to create a more holistic treatment plan. Here are five options to try for joint pain and discomfort.

Mitigate Arthritis Aches With These 5 Natural Methods

1. Acupuncture

Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that focuses on relieving blocked qi or stuck energy from over 2,000 points on the body. Extremely thin needles are gently placed in the skin to improve this energy flow and decrease pain. Some people turn to acupuncture to alleviate chronic pain by stimulating endorphins to limit the unpleasant sensation. 

2. Chiropractic Adjustments

Arthritis can restrict your range of motion, making it tough to do everyday tasks like using silverware, washing your hair, or tying shoelaces. Chiropractic adjustments realign the joints, improving blood flow and reducing inflammation within the body. Work with a chiropractor to get spinal adjustments that will improve your nerve function, increase your range of motion, and reduce pain. Chiropractors also provide massage therapy to improve blood flow and loosen tight muscles.

3. TENS Unit 

TENS units use electrical pulses to shut off the brain’s messaging system and stop the signal that says you’re in pain. To use one, attach the small adhesive butterflies to the painful area and set the frequency and intensity of the feedback. Then, the TENS unit will pulse, vibrating around the affected area and stopping the pain.

4. Temperature Therapy

When you’re experiencing arthritis aches, consider using temperature therapy to reduce the inflammation. Taking hot baths or showers may help whole body aches while targeted treatments like heating pads can better address localized symptoms. Use cold packs or bags of frozen vegetables for 10-minute intervals if heat doesn’t provide relief.

5. Exercise

People with arthritis often want to limit their movements to ease the pain. However, this can worsen the symptoms. Instead, take part in physical activities every day to lubricate the joints, strengthen the muscles, and improve flexibility. Regular exercise is one of the most effective, long-term solutions to reducing arthritis pain.

Those dealing with arthritis symptoms should contact Midway Pointe Chiropractic in Lorain County, OH, to learn about their available treatments. Dr. Schaffer has provided chiropractic services in the area for over 18 years including diagnosis, spinal analysis assessments, x-rays, adjustments, and massage. Call the Elyria-area team at (440) 324-2040 or visit the website for more information on their techniques to address low energy, joint pain, headaches, and other health issues.