(NaturalNews) Millions of people suffer from some form of arthritis. Since arthritis is commonly believed to be incurable, the standard medical response has been to simply prescribe medications to reduce the symptoms. This does nothing to heal the actual root of the issue, and only covers up the problem while potentially making other bodily functions worse.

However, the good news is that substantial evidence now shows that the pain and disability caused by arthritis can be alleviated, and even prevented through diet and alternative therapies.

Diet and nutrition

Dietary practices have a major impact on arthritis. In fact, if you eat the typical American diet, it is likely making your arthritis worse. Among the worst offenders for creating arthritic symptoms include:

- Hydrogenated and trans fats
- White flour and sugar
- Gluten
- Chemical additives
- Yeast
- Milk and dairy products
- Caffeine
- Alcohol
- Tobacco
- Phosphoric acid (large amounts found in soda)

A diet rich in fresh and organic fruits, vegetables, nuts and whole grains (gluten-free) is recommended, as they are richer in nutrients needed to fight destructive free radicals, promote skin and tissue health, repair bones, muscles and tendons, and promote bowel regularity. Try alkaline foods like green leafy vegetables, wheatgrass, aloe vera and cherry juice.

Herbal medicine

In addition to the foundational approach of diet and nutrition, herbs can also play a significant part in reducing inflammation often associated with arthritis. Some of the most recommended herbs for arthritis include:

- Turmeric
- Yucca
- Devil's claw
- Willow bark
- Green tea
- Boswellia
- Ginger
- Ginseng
- Reishi
- Skullcap
- Valerian
- Feverfew
- Stinging nettle

High-quality sources of these herbs taken on a daily basis with a proper diet can provide significant relief of arthritic symptoms.

Massage

Massage is one of the most important therapies for the treatment of arthritis. People with arthritis often experience prolonged muscle tension with poor blood circulation in muscle tissues, which can cause nerve and joint pain.

Massage helps break up muscular waste deposits that can cause pain as well as stimulate circulation in troubled regions in the body, which helps bring more oxygen and other necessary healing nutrients into the tissues and carry toxins away.

Arthritis sufferers should pursue a massage program of 2-3 times a week in the early stages, then once a week for several months, with a maintenance schedule of twice a month.

Chiropractic

Chiropractic is becoming a popular, drug free treatment for arthritis that has been proven to be highly effective. Certain cases of arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, are often false diagnoses with the symptoms actually caused by misalignment, or subluxation, of vertebrae and joints.

When this is the case, chiropractic adjustments can restore a full range of movement and free the body from pain. Manipulation can help arthritis by restoring proper movement and positioning of the joints. Balanced movement prevents "wear and tear" damage to joints, ligaments, and cartilage.

Acupuncture

According to Dr. William M. Cargile, past Chairman of Research of the American Association of Oriental Medicine, rheumatoid arthritis is a result of an autoimmune problem that prevents white blood cells from recognizing the joint surface as part of itself. He goes on to say that it reduces the aggressiveness of the body against its own tissues and enhances its recognition of the joint tissue. Also, by keeping the all the meridians balanced it keeps energy flowing smoothly and immunity strong, which is a major factor in managing rheumatoid arthritis effectively.

Other natural remedies to prevent and treat arthritis include bromelain, MSM, glucosamine, chondroitin, collagen, colloidal silver, arnica, pure water, and astaxanthin.

Learn more about treating arthritis from the first two sources below.

Sources for this article include:

http://www.healingthebody.ca

http://www.organiclifestylemagazine.com

Trivieri, Larry. Alternative Medicine: The Definitive Guide. Ed. John W. Anderson. 2nd ed. Berkeley, CA: Celestial Arts, 2002.

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About the author:
Derek Henry took a deadly health challenge that conventional medicine couldn't solve and self-directed a one-in-a-million health journey that found him happier and healthier than he had been in his entire life. As a result of this rewarding journey, he now spends his time writing, coaching, and educating thousands of people each month who want to enjoy similar results under their own direction.

Find out how you can reverse disease and thrive with a holistic approach.