If you are one of the more than 30 million Americans with osteoarthritis (OA), the most common form of arthritis, you have probably considered treatments in addition to medications to relieve pain . Approximately 40% of people who have arthritis have tried complementary or alternative therapy such as acupuncture or yoga, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Finest Nutrition Glucosamine Chondroitin, Caplets 120 ea
"When conventional medicine fails for the relief of arthritis pain , many people suffering from this disease look for alternative methods," says Dr. Marvin M. Lipman, MD, chief medical advisor at Consumer Reports. "Not only is there little evidence to support many of these treatments, but some are not even regulated."
Medications that affect your senses
Is there any that is useful? "These do not have a radical effect," says Dr. Richard Panush, MD, a professor at Keck School of Medicine at the University of Southern California. " Some at most may have small effects in some circumstances for some people."
3 that could help
Massage. A review of the studies published in the scientific journal Mayo Clinic Proceedings suggests that massage therapy can relieve the pain and stiffness of OA of the knee. Researchers in one study recommended a weekly 60-minute session with a certified massage therapist. (Look for one at amtamassage.org .)
Tai Chi. The Chinese exercise with its slow and rhythmic movements demonstrated in a review of 54 studies of 2015 that it slightly reduces the pain of arthritis. But it was less effective than aerobic and strengthening exercises. (Get more information on americantaichi.org .)
Yoga. A review of 17 studies published in the journal Musculoskeletal Care found that yoga reduced the pain of OA. Our experts recommend avoiding Bikram (hot yoga) if you have joint problems. The heat can make you feel like you can stretch more than you should, which could further damage your joints.
Acupuncture. Research suggests that this traditional Chinese therapy, which includes inserting thin needles into the body at specific points, reduces the discomfort of OA for some people. One theory is that it can trigger the release of hormones that inhibit pain, called endorphins. Or maybe it could provide a placebo effect, helping you to feel better without a medical reason. Make sure you receive the treatment with a certified professional. (Look for one in mx.nccaom.org/findapractitioner.aspx. )
And 3 therapies that you should avoid
Chiropractic manipulation. Some research suggests that the "realignment" of the spine by a chiropractor can relieve some of the general pain in the back and neck. But a 2012 review, published in the journal Rheumatology, found no evidence that therapy effectively reduces the pain of OA.
Dietary supplements. Some people use supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin (often together) or fish oil for joint pain. So far, studies have shown that glucosamine and chondroitin are not more effective than a placebo.
High doses of fish oil can relieve joint pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis, an autoimmune condition. But its effect on OA is not clear. In addition, fish oil supplements can cause side effects such as diarrhea and stomach pain. And dietary supplements are not well regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), so you can not be sure that the one you're taking contains what the label says.
Homeopathy. The principle behind homeopathy is that some highly diluted substances can cure the disease. For example, rhus toxicodendron , made from poison ivy, has been touted as a treatment for OA. But Lipman says there is no good evidence to support the use of homeopathic remedies for arthritis or for any other condition.
Low-fat diets, do they really work?
3 smart strategies
Lose weight if you need it. Work to lose extra pounds. Excess weight puts extra pressure on the ankles, hips and knees, which can severely increase the pain of arthritis.
Do the right type of exercise. Activities that strengthen muscles, improve your range of motion and increase your cardiovascular activity can help. In addition to tai chi and possibly yoga, consider a regular walking or swimming program. Learn more about the right exercises for arthritis at arthritis.org/ living-with-arthritis / exercise.
Talk with your doctor. If you decide to try an alternative therapy, it is advisable to inform your doctor in advance that you can refer you to a trusted professional in the area. Your doctor can also tell you about any potential danger or if there could be interactions with your regular medication.