Joint pain can cause discomfort, pain and/or inflammation in any part of a joint. This pain can occur in cartilage, bone, ligament, tendons and/or the muscles. More frequently, joint pain is caused by having time-related ‘wear and tear’ osteoarthritis or inflammatory attack-autoimmune arthritis.
Local bulk food and health supplement store Nancy’s Nifty Nook has some valuable advice for those who suffer from joint pain.
About six million Canadians suffer from joint pain - this translates to approximately one in five people. Its symptoms can range from mild to severe and can drastically affect movement and the ability to function normally.
When the temperature drops during the winter months, tissues expand thus increasing the pressure and pain in the joints. Once this happens, the muscles tense up resulting in poor overall mobility and pain.
Nancy’s Nifty Nook can provide invaluable information that will help reduce joint pain frequency and severity for the short- and long-term.
For example, adopting a healthy diet such as the Mediterranean Diet can be effective in reducing joint pain. The diet consists of eating whole and plant-based foods such as fish and seafood, fruits and vegetables, nuts, legumes and whole grains. The Mediterranean Diet is low in red meat, high-fat dairy products, processed foods and refined sugar. Following this lifestyle provides access to good fats like olive oil and other foods high in omega-3 fatty acids
Certain foods can also trigger joint pain. Foods to avoid include dairy products, gluten-containing foods such as wheat, oats, barley, rye as well as nightshade fruits and vegetables including tomatoes, potatoes, bell peppers and eggplant.
A vegan or vegetarian diet may also be helpful for some individuals. It is important to remember that not all people respond the same way to these foods. Everybody is unique.
When it comes to supplements, Nancy’s Nifty Nook suggests natural products designed to provide pain relief and reduce inflammation due to arthritis. Supplements for joint pain can be divided into two main groups: supplements that provide pain relief and reduce inflammation and supplements that improve joint health and reduce joint damage and destruction.
The first group of supplements include turmeric or curcumin, Boswellia, Devil’s Claw, ginger, and white willow bark which is a natural form of aspirin. The second group of supplements include glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM and collagen.
For them to be effective, supplements must be taken regularly and for an extended period, sometimes eight to twelve weeks before the user will experience results.
Probiotics can also be an effective way to help improve the symptoms of arthritis. This may be especially beneficial for those who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, which is an autoimmune condition often associated with gastrointestinal inflammation, changes in intestinal flora and gut problems. Probiotics have been shown to decrease gut inflammation and modulate the immune system thus resulting in lowered levels of inflammation. Less inflammation means less joint pain.
Acupuncture is another effective natural treatment for joint pain. The practice of acupuncture, which targets specific areas of the muscles and joints, can stimulate the nervous system and alter pain perception. It may provide short-term pain relief and long-term reduction in inflammation and pain.
Simple yet effective changes in lifestyle can also significantly reduce joint pain during the winter months. Making sure to dress warmly, applying heat to sore joints, remaining active with gentle physical activity and ensuring a good night’s sleep can all help. Pain is often worsened with fatigue and poor sleep habits.
Do you suffer from joint pain and have questions? Drop by the store located at 152 Holland St. E in Bradford or call 905-775-7874.