Homeopathy in Osteoarthritis

Introduction

Osteoarthritis is one of the leading cause of disability worldwide. It is the growing cause of functional limitations and impaired quality of life because of the pain. As we grow older, we start experiencing pain in body joints may it be small or big joints along with swelling. Inflammation of the joints is known as arthritis. There are many types of arthritis. The most common are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. 

What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is generally a chronic, degenerative condition and can affect any joint of the body. Any small or big joint in the body can develop osteoarthritis but majorly affected are knee, hip, neck, back, hands and finger joints. Changes occur in the bones, ligaments, cartilages, muscles leading to osteoarthritis. The cartilage and tissues around the bones began to break up affecting the bone surface due to injuries on a regular basis. Tissue and the joint damage leads to self repair process but when damage exceeds and cannot be compensated back symptoms related to osteoarthritis develops.

What are the symptoms of Osteoarthritis?

People suffering from arthritis can experience

  • Pain (intermittent or continuous)
  • Tenderness
  • Stiffness in the joint (mainly in the morning)
  • Swelling
  • Decreased joint movement
  • In later stages, immobility due to deformities

Pain and stiffness in the joint does not always corresponds to the structural changes of Osteoarthritis.

What are the risk factors of Osteoarthritis?

Individual risk factors varies according to the joint site affected. Important factors that can cause osteoarthritis.

  • Age
  • Improper diet
  • Obesity
  • Decrease muscle strength
  • Injury
  • Lifestyle
  • Infections of the joint
  • At times it can also run in the family.
  • Women suffer more from osteoarthritis than men.

Role of Homeopathy in Osteoarthritis :

Homeopathy identifies the cause of pain. Homeopathic treatment will raise the level of immunity leading to lasting results. It will also check further deterioration of the condition. After taking homeopathic medicines, the pains will reduce in intensity, frequency and duration. The stiffness and swelling will reduce and the degree of functioning and mobility will greatly improve. Homeopathy treats constitutionally and according to the symptoms similarities. Some of the common Homeopathic remedies that are proven effective are Rhus Tox, Arnica, Bryonia, Kali Carb and many, Consult the homeopathic doctor or homeopath for best results.

Other Recommendations:

Along with the Homeopathic medicines also try the following

  • Maintain regular weight
  • Get regular moderate exercise
  • Wear comfortable shoes
  • During the pain first apply ice and then hot packs
  • Reduce weight if obese