Home Remedies For Osteoarthritis: Procedure, Recovery, Risk & Complication

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common forms of arthritis and occurs as a result of the breakdown of cartilage in joints. This causes friction among the bones and they rub against each other leading to excruciating pain. It is more common among women and if not treated in time can lead to other disabilities and replacement surgeries. You can undertake these home remedies for easing out the pain and controlling wear and tear.

1. Hot and Cold Compresses:

   Joint pains can be best managed by both hot and cold compresses. A hot compress can be used to reduce pain and stiffness and a cold compress can contain the inflammation and curtail the swelling. To make use of this therapy wrap a hot water bottle in a towel or a cloth. Keep them in the affected joints for about a minute or two. Give some gap in between and repeat the procedure for about 10 to 15 minutes.

   To make a cold compress wrap up a few ice cubes in a thin towel or cloth and repeat the above process. You can use them daily for the best results.

2. Massage Therapy:

   Massaging the affected areas will also help reduce the severity of the pain. It also manages your blood circulation and can have a soothing impact on the affected muscles. To massage either opt for professional therapy or if you are doing it at home, please ensure that you are in a relaxed environment. Use olive oil or warm coconut oil in the joints and massage the areas in round circular motions. Use the therapy as needed.

3. Apple Cider Vinegar:

   Apple cider vinegar has anti-inflammatory and alkaline-forming properties that can help in reducing the pain caused by the stiffness in the joints. They also help in getting rid of the toxins accumulated in the joints. To make the best use of it, mix a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar and a few drops of honey in a glass of warm water. Drink it twice daily before having your meal. Alternatively, you can use it to massage your joints by mixing 1 tablespoon of organic apple cider vinegar and a few drops of extra-virgin olive oil.

4. Turmeric:

   Adding turmeric to your diet is one of the most beneficial home remedies for Osteoarthritis. You can take turmeric by adding half a spoon of turmeric to warm water. Turmeric is anti-inflammatory in nature, it helps to reduce the inflammation in the joint cartilage and helps to reduce the joint pain.

5. Epsom salt:

   Epsom salt contains magnesium which helps to reduce joint pain. It provides relief from reducing inflammation. You can use 2 cups of Epsom salt in bath water and soak for 30 minutes. It will help to reduce pain.

6. Green Tea:

   Green tea possesses anti-inflammatory properties which help to reduce inflammation and pain. As per the report from Arthritis research green tea has been reported to increase cartilage protection.

7. Ginger:

   Ginger helps to reduce arthritis pain. Ginger helps to reduce inflammation by secreting some chemical substance that has anti-inflammatory properties. You can take grated ginger with your salad or you can add 1 tablespoon of ginger to warm water and drink it.

8. Fish Oil:

   Fish oil contains essential fatty acid which helps to reduce inflammation in the joint. Fish oil also reduces the pain in the joint by enabling proper cartilage movement. You can take 1000mg of fish oil capsule when you are suffering from arthritis.

9. Vitamin D:

   Vitamin D consumption helps to reduce the degeneration of joints. Vitamin D protects cartilages present between joints from degeneration which results in the prevention of osteoarthritis.

Summary: Osteoarthritis can be treated by hot and cold compress, massage therapy, Epsom salt solution. Take Vitamin D, Apple cider vinegar, fish oil, green tea, ginger. Add turmeric to your diet.

No, there are no side effects when using these natural home remedies for osteoarthritis. But always ensure that you follow the guidelines with care.

• Try using unfiltered natural apple cider vinegar, as it would be more effective.
• When using the cold press method, use treated and pure water.
• The massages should also be done with precision so that they don't cause any harm.
• In case of any discomfort, pain, nor if the condition worsens, consult a doctor.

Summary: Despite being effective, certain home remedies have some side effects which vary from person to person, so choose your home remedy only if you are not allergic or sensitive to the particular substance. Do not use any home remedies in excess as it may be harmful to health.

Undertaking heavy chores or exercising after such home remedies can be harmful. If you hurt yourself in any way, rest and call for medical help.

• Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated and your joints supple all the time.
• Consult with your doctor regarding proper exercise techniques and adhere to them.
• It is safe to continue using the home remedies even after the symptoms subside.

Summary: Follow the guidelines. Stay hydrated. Take Vitamin D, fish oil. If there is no improvement in the condition it is highly recommended to consult your doctor.

Joint conditions recover depending on the severity levels and also your age. Difficult or more painful cases can take some time to recover. But after undergoing these treatments, you will usually feel some improvement in your joints. But remember that in many cases, the condition might not be completely curable. The pain can be however kept under control with these simple remedies.

Summary: The time of recovery depends on the severity levels and age of the person. It takes a long time to get cured and in many cases, it is not completely curable.

No, the results of these remedies are not permanent, but they can keep joint pain under control and improve your movement and flexibility. Osteoarthritis worsens as one age. Hence make sure that with the first signs of aging, some of the home treatments are followed. Take the right kind of exercise to ensure that your joints are always active and healthy.

Remember that your joints support your entire body as well as your posture. Since these treatments are safe on your skin, you can keep applying them even after you recover in the short run.

Summary: No, the result of the home remedies for osteoarthritis is not permanent. These remedies can reduce joint pain and improve joint flexibility. Try to do the exercises which keep your joint movement active.

To avoid implementing these therapies in the wrong way, consult a doctor to understand the reasons behind your condition. Ask him or her for advice before undergoing the treatments. Always check if you are allergic to certain substances like vinegar, before trying it on your skin. If the symptoms do not go away with such home remedies, seek medical help immediately.

Summary: Yes, take training or expert assistance from a doctor before using these remedies to know the underlying condition before using these home remedies.