Alternative Medicine Remedy for Arthritis Leg Pain

Arthritis is a disease involving pain and deterioration of the joints. There are many different types of arthritis, all of which can affect the legs. Many alternative remedies exist for treating leg pain caused by arthritis. Before choosing an alternative remedy, discuss it with your doctor to reduce the risk of unwanted side effects.

Herbal Remedies

• Willow bark is an herbal remedy traditionally used for treating pain. The active alkaloid, salicilin, is closely related to acetylsalicylic acid (aspirin). According to Web MD, willow bark may be effective in treating the pain caused by osteoarthritis. Willow bark can be taken in pill form or as a tea. The recommended daily dose for adults is 3 to 4 cups of tea made with 1to 2 tsp. dried bark, or 60 to 240 mg of standardized salicin in supplement form.

  Cayenne is another excellent herbal remedy for pain. It contains capsaicin---an alkaloid with potent pain-relieving properties. According to National Institutes of Health, 80 percent of patients treated with capsaicin cream experienced a significant reduction in osteoarthritis pain after only two weeks of use. To make a topical cream, add 1 tbsp. of cayenne powder to ½ cup of cocoa butter or lotion and mix thoroughly. Over-the-counter ointments containing capsaicin are also available in most grocery stores and health supplement shops.

  Other herbs with potential pain-killing properties include ginger, valerian root and Epsom salts, the latter of which can be added to a warm bath for their muscle-relaxing effects.

Acupuncture

• Acupuncture is a form of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) that involves inserting thin needles into areas of the body known as pressure points. According to Web MD, acupuncture is among the top doctor-recommended natural remedies for arthritis pain.

  Acupuncture is thought to work by triggering the production of endorphins---the body's natural painkilling neurotransmitters. As the needle makes contact with muscle, it causes an aching sensation that signals the brain to release endorphins. Acupuncture is most effective when used to treat chronic pain like that of arthritis.

Outlook and Lifestyle

• While alternative medicine can be effective in relieving arthritis pain in the legs, it is most effective when used in conjunction with a healthy lifestyle. Include in your diet plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables, which contain antioxidants and other healthy compounds. According to ABCNews.com, foods containing high levels of saturated fat can aggravate inflammation and should be avoided by people with arthritis.

  Aim for 30 to 45 minutes of gentle, weight-bearing exercise each day. Swimming, yoga and pilates are among the many forms of exercise recommended for arthritis sufferers. Because sleep is vital to the health of the immune system, getting at least 8 hours of quality sleep each night is recommended in any pain management regimen.

  Practicing healthy stress management techniques can also reduce overall pain and tension. Deep breathing, meditation and counting exercises can help fight stress when practiced frequently. Set aside time each day for relaxing activities, preferably 30 minutes prior to bedtime. Keeping a journal provides an excellent outlet for difficult emotions and can help track your progress in dealing with arthritis pain.