Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease wherein the body's cells attack themsleves, resulting in cartilage degradation, deconstruction of the bone and joint lining and even a breakdown of internal organs. While holistic treatments have been proven to slow the effects of arthritis and help patients manage their symptoms, many physicians report that it is unwise for a patient to treat arthritis with holistic measures alone. But when added to a traditional therapy regimen, holistic treatments may increase the quality of life for a patient suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.
Hydrotherapy as a Holistic Treatment
A recent study performed by Arthritis Care determined that hydrotherapy is especially beneficial to patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. In the study, 139 patients who suffered from chronic rheumatoid arthritis were randomly prescribed hydrotherapy, seated immersion in water, land exercise and progressive relaxation. Patients attended two 30-minute sessions a week for four weeks, and physical and psychological evaluations were completed before, during and after treatment. Patients who attended regular hydrotherapy sessions reported that their joint tenderness had improved significantly, and women reported an improved range of movement in their knees. Hydrotherapy patients also had the greatest outlook on their ability to manage their symptoms after three months without treatment.
Acupuncture as a Holistic Treatment
Acupuncture, a traditional practice in Chinese medicine wherein needles are inserted into the body to relieve pain, is also believed by some patients to relieve the pain caused by arthritis. Studies have reported that acupuncture may help to relieve the joint pain associated with osteoarthritis, though little is known about its effectiveness with rheumatoid arthritis. Recently, several small studies have been conducted, but the findings were inconclusive due to faulty testing procedures and a small experimental group. Nonetheless, holistic physicians report that acupuncture has minimal side effects, and very few complications have been reported to the FDA.
Mind-Body Techniques as Holistic Treatments
Mind-body therapies rely on the connection between health and disease in the mind, including emotions, the immune and nervous systems and the body as a whole. Many mind-body techniques are ancient healing traditions, while others have emerged only recently. Meditation, tai chi, relaxation techniques and spirituality are all examples of mind-body techniques. In a 2002 study, 25 different experiments were completed to measure the effectiveness of mind-body treatments on rheumatoid arthritis. The physicians noted that mind-body practices led to significant improvements in rheumatoid arthritis joint pain, disability and patients' overall psychological state. The treatments helped patients cope with their condition and increased their ability to manage their personal situations. These therapies were especially effective for people who had only recently been diagnosed.
Food as a Holistic Treatment
Many holistic physicians report that eating special foods may help minimize joint pain in patients who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. Blueberries, cherries and hawthorn berries in particular serve as rich sources of flavonoids, including proanthocyanidins, a powerful antioxidant that assists in stabilizing collagen and membranes within the body and minimizing inflammation within the joints. Some physicians claim that Boswellia, an Ayurvedic medicine, also relieves patients' suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. In a double-blind study, the supplement, which can be found in most vitamin stores, proved beneficial to joint pain and stiffness, and patients also reported improved joint function. Scientists believe that the herb acts as an anti-inflammatory, like the conventional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Ginger is also considered to help patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. In a study completed by Indian scientists, 28 patients were given three to seven grams of ginger daily. Within two months, over 75 percent of patients reported at least some relief from joint pain and swelling. Drinking ginger tea also serves the same function.
Warning:
Although many of the holistic therapies for arthritis are advertised heavily and based on convincing testimonials, it is essential to determine whether any legitimate scientific research has been done on the therapy plan. In addition, before beginning a holistic regimen, it is essential for patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis to speak with a doctor with significant conventional medical training. The patient should also be meeting with a rheumatologist regularly to minimize and track any underlying damage to the joints and bones.
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