The remedies for rheumatoid arthritis generally depend upon the severity of the disease. Some of the most commonly prescribed remedies for rheumatoid arthritis include anti-inflammatory medications, steroids, and pain medication that may prescribed or obtained over the counter. Heat therapy is another one of the home remedies for rheumatoid arthritis (RA).
Some patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, which causes immobility, joint pain, and inflammation, may undergo physical therapy. These programs may vary and are typically prescribed by a physician. There are several exercises that may be considered remedies for rheumatoid arthritis. For rheumatoid arthritis affecting the hands, the physical therapist may recommend doing hand exercises that can be continued at home. For joint problems affecting the knees, leg exercises with a specialized ergometer may be used.
The use of heat is another option and one of the remedies for rheumatoid arthritis. This may include the use of heating pads or warm towels to circulate blood flow to the affected part. Alternately, applications of ice may be used if the doctor feels this may help.
Alternative medicine is sometimes used as one of the rheumatoid arthritis remedies, and this typically involves natural treatment. Biofeedback and acupuncture are sometimes used to treat the symptoms of RA. Biofeedback involves attaching electrodes to the patient. Acupuncture applies extremely small and thin-tipped needles at various pressure points where the patient feels pain or inflammation.
In many cases where inflammation is not extreme, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may be used to treat RA. These may be purchased over the counter and should be used a directed. NSAIDs may also help with pain associated with the disease.
Surgery is one of the last options, often reserved for more severe cases of rheumatoid arthritis. In cases of extreme deformity of hands or feet, for example, reconstructive surgery may be performed. This type of operation is typically performed by an orthopedic surgeon who may reconstruct areas of the body that have lost function. The main objective is to restore function and flexibility to the affected joint or tissue.
Diet may play an essential role for a natural plan to manage painful symptoms of RA. Eliminating foods high in sugar, which has been known to increase inflammation in some individuals, is one action that can be taken. Limiting foods that have a high content of saturated fat may help as well. Consuming more fresh fruits and vegetables may be other remedies for rheumatoid arthritis. Vitamin and herbal supplements may also be considered natural remedies, although the beneficial effects for patients with RA are not known.