Some homeopathic solutions to arthritis pain

Most arthritis treatments don't target the cause, but rather help manage the pain. Some surgical procedures can offer relief, but long recovery times make them daunting. But if you try a homeopathic approach to health care with over-the-counter alternatives, you could help combat your arthritis before it becomes debilitating.

Arthritis comes in two forms. The most common is osteoarthritis, which is is the result of wear and tear on your joints.

Over time, cumulative damage can wear away the cartilage that protects the joints, leaving bone grinding on bone.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a less common autoimmune disorder that causes the immune system to attack the synovial membrane in your synovial joints. This can cause painful swelling and inflammation in these joints.

Before your arthritis advances to the point of needing a doctor's assistance, there are things you can do at home to help prevent the onset and slow the progression of arthritis.

Each type of arthritis benefits from a different regimen of supplements, since the conditions have different causes and effects.

These supplements help support joint health, regrow cartilage and combat inflammation.

1. Chondroitin. Chondroitin sulfate is one ingredient that helps improve elasticity in cartilage and control inflammation.
2. Glucosamine. Though available as a sulfate or hydrochloride, the hydrochloride form is easier to digest and lower doses offer the same benefit.
3. Green tea, ginger and turmeric. All three of these herbs have natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce arthritis pain.

Those who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis can often benefit from supplements designed to combat inflammation.

When they use supplements in conjunction with prescription medication, many patients manage their condition with lower doses of steroids and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

1. Omega-3 fatty acids. These fish oil supplements help with heart health and assist in lowering triglycerides. They can also help reduce the amount of morning stiffness that many with rheumatoid arthritis face.
2. Borage oil. This over-the-counter oil helps reduce swelling and tenderness in joints.
3. SAM-e. This supplement may help stabilize mood in addition to its analgesic and anti-inflammatory affects.

Supplements can help control arthritis symptoms and minimize dependency on drugs that can have major side effects.

However, a homeopathic approach to arthritis pain could involve supplements with serious side effects of their own. Some supplements may also interfere with prescription drug absorption.

So be sure to talk to your doctor about how over-the-counter solutions to arthritis symptoms could work for you.