Here are 5 home remedies for you to try to relieve your osteoarthritis pain:

1. Eating osteoarthritis-friendly foods

Research shows that there are foods you can incorporate into your diet which can help alleviate inflammation caused by osteoarthritis. A Mediterranean diet is also recommended as they contain healthful fats such as olive oil and nuts, along with fish, yogurt, whole grains, fruits and vegetables which have anti-inflammatory properties.  

2. Staying active and maintaining a moderate weight

Exercising your already sore joints may seem counterintuitive, but will actually be helpful for you in the long run. They will strengthen your muscles and prevent further joint damage caused by osteoarthritis. The best types of exercise improve flexibility, use slight resistance, are low impact, and offer an aerobic element. Examples include: biking, tai chi, yoga, swimming, and even walking. 

3. Hot and cold compress

If your joints are feeling stiff from your osteoarthritis, a hot compress such as a warm towel can help soothe the stiff joints and relax the muscles in the surrounding area. On the other hand, cold compresses such as a cold towel can help numb the sharp pain and reduce inflammation caused by your osteoarthritis.

4. Epsom salt baths

As epsom salt breaks down into magnesium and sulfate when placed in water, soaking in a warm bath with the epsom salt can help ease stiff and painful joints caused by your osteoarthritis. These baths are safe to take for 30 minutes at a time as often as you’d like, using up to 3 cups of epsom salt in a bath of warm water.

5. Osteoarthritis topical ointments and creams

If you’ve tried oral over-the-counter (OTC) medication such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen, you may have considered the alternative which is topical ointments and creams. They are known to contain anti-inflammatory medications or other pain relievers to help numb the pain you may experience caused by your osteoarthritis. They are especially effective when applied to areas near the skin surface, such as your knees. 

Looking for more information on how to stay active and manage your Osteoarthritis symptoms?  Helping my Arthritis offers current education and treatment options around first and second-line physiotherapy for hip and knee osteoarthritis patients around Surrey, Delta, and Vancouver BC. With the recent growth in telehealth options, we are able to now offer osteoarthritis management programs to patients living anywhere in BC! Reach out today to learn more about how to help your arthritis, call 604-306-0127 or email to consult with Nadine Plotnikoff, the physiotherapist behind Helping My Arthritis.