Extra virgin olive oil, the least refined type, is pressed mechanically rather than processed with heat or chemicals that change its properties. It contains biologically active compounds – such as the polyphenols, oleocanthal, oleuropein, hydroxytyrosol and lignans – that have been linked to reduced joint damage in RA.
Patients who suffer from arthritis are trying anything to relieve those stiff and aching joints. Some have even tried spraying sore joints with WD-40 as they would to fix a squeaky, door hinge. But this folk remedy is not proven to work and may even be harmful.
WD-40 Does Not Help Arthritis
Due to the myth that WD-40 helps arthritis, the WD-40 company website includes the following statement regarding the myth (amongst other cool myths, legends and facts)… Fact: This popular headline, appearing at least once a year in the tabloids, is completely FALSE.
Dr. Oz and his collaborator, clinical aromatherapist Jane Buckle, PhD, recommend using 15 drops of an essential oil, such as lavender, chamomile or eucalyptus, diluted with 1 oz. (2 Tbsp.) of a “carrier” or neutral oil, such as almond, avocado or jojoba, dabbed directly on the skin.
An alternative to pills, Voltaren gel is a topical analgesic that targets pain directly at the source to deliver nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine for powerful arthritis pain relief. Voltaren is clinically proven to relieve joint pain, reduce stiffness, and improve mobility.
Voltaren Osteo Gel 12 Hourly is effective for osteoarthritis pain management. It is an over-the-counter anti-inflammatory, kind of like osteoarthritis pain management in a tube. An alternative to pills, Voltaren Osteo Gel 12 Hourly is an effective, on-the-spot osteoarthritis relief option.
VO: Voltaren contains an effective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicine which is clinically proven to relieve arthritis joint pain. With 4-times-a-day use, you may start to feel relief within a few days. You should feel significant pain relief within 7 days of continuous use.
According to the Arthritis Foundation, a person with arthritis should limit the following: Omega 6 fatty acids: Several oils, such as corn, safflower, sunflower, and vegetable, contain high levels of these acids.
For an anti-inflammatory diet, the best choices for oils are olive oil or another cold-processed oil that's high in monounsaturated fats, and flaxseed oil for the omega-3 fats.
Coconut oil has been known to provide some relief to those suffering from arthritis due to its anti-inflammatory properties. It can be used as a topical application or ingested orally. Applying it directly to the area of pain can help reduce inflammation as well as help lubricate and strengthen the joints.
Regular exercise, a healthy diet, nutritional supplements, and joint injections may all help improve or increase synovial fluid and decrease joint pain and inflammation.
Exercise can provide significant relief because it increases water in your synovial fluid and sends lubrication to the joints. The synovial fluid is also spread evenly during exercise because joint movement pushes the fluid around to reach places in the joints that it may not normally reach.
Some people also include specific anti-inflammatory foods in their diet to manage their symptoms. However, supporters of apple cider vinegar believe that it contains anti-inflammatory properties that can help with arthritis symptoms, including pain and swelling, in the same way that medication does.
Drinking enough water can keep your joints lubricated and help prevent gout attacks. Start your day with a glass of water, and drink at least eight glasses per day as the recommended daily amount.
Treat yourself to some bath salts. Bathing in magnesium sulfate crystals (Epsom salts) may boost your magnesium levels – a mineral that is important for bone and heart health.
Some people believe that apple cider vinegar contains anti-inflammatory properties that would aid in the symptoms of arthritis, however, this has not been proven in humans. There is not enough evidence to show that apple cider vinegar is an effective treatment for any symptoms relating to arthritis.
Bananas and Plantains are high in magnesium and potassium that can increase bone density. Magnesium may also alleviate arthritis symptoms.
Unlike most fruits, avocados are a good source of vitamin E, a micronutrient with anti-inflammatory effects. Diets high in these compounds are linked to decreased risk of the joint damage seen in early OA. Studies also show eating avocados daily increases “good” HDL cholesterol and lowers “bad” LDL cholesterol.
Who Should Not Use Voltaren Gel? Your provider might tell you not to use Voltaren at all. For example, you should not use Voltaren: If you have any heart issues or are at risk for adverse events such as heart attack and stroke.
Symptoms of overdose/swallowing may include: severe stomach pain, change in the amount of urine, slow/shallow breathing. Lab and/or medical tests (such as blood pressure, complete blood count, liver/kidney function) should be done while you are using this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments.
For osteoarthritis of the hands, elbows, or wrists using Voltaren® 1% gel: Adults—Apply 2 grams (g) to the affected skin areas four times a day (a total of 8 g each day). However, the total dose should not exceed 32 g per day over all affected joints. Use the enclosed dosing card to measure the appropriate dose.