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Guide to Arthritis Pain

From Carol & Richard Eustice,
Your Guide to Arthritis.
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About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by Kate Grossman, MD

Part 9 of 10 - What Alternative Therapies May Relieve Arthritis Pain?

Alternative Approaches

Many people seek other ways of treating their disease, such as special diets or supplements. Although these methods may not be harmful in and of themselves, no research to date shows that they help.

  • Some people have tried acupuncture, in which thin needles are inserted at specific points in the body.
  • Others have tried glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate, two natural substances found in and around cartilage cells, for osteoarthritis of the knee.

    • Wait And Investigate

    Pain can be so distressing that a person is willing to do almost anything in an attempt to halt the agony.

  • The Lure Of Unproven Remedies
  • Awareness Is Key To Alternative Treatments

    Inform Your Doctor

    It is important to inform your doctor if you are using alternative therapies. If the doctor feels the approach has value and will not harm you, it can be incorporated into your treatment plan. However, it is important not to neglect your regular health care or treatment of serious symptoms.

    Natural Treatments

    Some alternative or complementary approaches may help you to cope with or reduce some of the stress of living with a chronic illness.

    Alternative and natural treatments have gained popularity and serve as a complement to traditional therapies. Some alternative treatments get little respect regarding their efficacy, compounded by warnings for potential drug interactions and side effects.

  • Alternative / Natural Treatments - Test Your Knowledge
  • Are Natural Remedies Useful For Arthritis?

    1. Part 1 of 10 - What is Arthritis? What is Pain?
    2. Part 2 of 10 - How Many Americans Have Arthritis Pain?
    3. Part 3 of 10 - What Causes Arthritis Pain? Why is Arthritis Pain So Variable?
    4. Part 4 of 10 - How Do Doctors Measure Arthritis Pain?
    5. Part 5 of 10 - Your First Doctor Visit for Your Arthritis Pain, What Happens?
    6. Part 6 of 10 - Who Can Treat Arthritis Pain? How is Arthritis Pain Treated?
    7. Part 7 of 10 - Treatments for Short-Term Pain Relief
    8. Part 8 of 10 - Treatments for Long-Term Pain Relief
    9. Part 9 of 10 - What Alternative Therapies May Relieve Arthritis Pain?
    10. Part 10 of 10 - How Can You Cope With Arthritis Pain?

    << Previous | Next >>

    Updated: February 25, 2007
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