Treatments for arthritis that lack the clinical data of more heavily studied treatments like prescription medications and surgery, or those less commonly prescribed or delivered by a medical doctor, are often termed 'alternative' or 'natural' remedies. Some alternative arthritis treatments do provide relief from pain, inflammation and other arthritis symptoms for some arthritis sufferers and some do have scientific evidence to support their efficacy. However, most healthcare professionals agree that more research is needed and advise patients to be cautious – and to discuss any of these treatments, which may be helpful in conjunction with conventional medicine, with their doctor.

Listed below are peer reviewed articles on alternative arthritis treatments

There are many types of cold packs that may be used for cold therapy for arthritis pain and inflammation. Here are 3 of the most common and how to use them.
Reiki healing and acupuncture, two alternative treatments that focus on optimizing the flow of energy in the body, may be incorporated into integrated medicine treatment of arthritis pain.

Preliminary studies show glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate to be safe to use for patients who are non-diabetic or on blood thinners. Common side effects may include nausea and diarrhea

An integrative medicine approach to managing arthritis pain may include a combination of Western medicine and several alternative treatments, including acupuncture, Reiki, dietary changes and supplements, and more.

Hands-on therapies such as massage therapy and chiropractic treatment may be helpful in treating arthritis symptoms as part of an integrated medicine approach.
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