Arthritis: Types, Symptoms, Causes, and Natural Treatments

Is arthritis causing you unbearable pain in your joints? You’re not alone! Living every day in pain is the reality of millions of people!

Arthritis is a group of inflammatory joint disorders characterized by pain, swelling, and stiffness. 

This debilitating condition doesn’t affect just your physical state but also your emotional well-being. Living with arthritis is a constant battle, where everyday tasks like walking, climbing stairs, or even holding a glass of water- feel like an impossible challenge. 

There are over 100 types of arthritis, and each affects people differently. Chances are, you might have one of the most common types of arthritis:

• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Psoriatic Arthritis
• Gout
• Lupus
• Fibromyalgia 

It’s important to recognize that behind every diagnosis is a unique story filled with pain but also resilience and determination to find relief. While natural treatments are often seen as complementary, in recent years homeopathic medicine is getting the recognition from science that they deserve.

In a study on herbal medicine and arthritis, Dr. Breanna Linder from the Presbyterian College School of Pharmacy, Clinton, SC, USA states “Herbal medications have shown the potential for safe and effective management of arthritis.”

At the Bay Clinic of Chiropractic, Panama City, Florida, we have an amazing team of experts who have dedicated their lives to helping people with natural treatments! In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about arthritis, from its symptoms and causes to effective pain-relieving treatments! 

Keep on reading to learn how to manage and treat arthritis- the natural way!

What Is Arthritis?

Arthritis is the inflammation of joints which leads to pain, stiffness, and limited mobility. The term “arthritis” is associated with many conditions with different causes but similar symptoms- joint inflammation.

In a 2023 study on the prevalence of arthritis in the US, Dr. Elizabeth A. Fallon from the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, CDC, states “Arthritis is a leading cause of activity limitations, disability, and chronic pain, and is associated with dispensed opioid prescriptions, substantially contributing to health care costs.”

People with arthritis are living life in constant pain, often with physical disability and other comorbidities, therefore we need to emphasize the importance of proper treatment, management, and prevention.

Types of Arthritis

Although arthritis is often associated with aging, it can affect people of all ages, including children. The causes, symptoms, and management vary depending on the type. More than 100 conditions affect the joints and surrounding tissues and cause arthritis. Here are the most commonly seen forms of arthritis:

• Osteoarthritis: Often called “wear and tear” arthritis because it involves the gradual breakdown of cartilage. Cartilage is the protective smooth tissue that lines joints and cushions the force of impact on the bones. Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis often caused by aging, joint overuse, previous injuries, and genetic factors.
  In a study on osteoarthritis, Dr. Rouhin Sen from Creighton University, Omaha, NE, USA, states “In the United States, it is estimated that 80% of the population over 65 years old has radiographic evidence of OA, although only 60% of this subset has symptoms.”  
• Rheumatoid Arthritis: Autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the joint cartilage, causing inflammation and joint damage. The exact cause is unknown but genetic and environmental factors may trigger it.
• Psoriatic Arthritis: An inflammatory form of arthritis that affects some people with psoriasis, a skin condition that causes red, scaly patches. It is an autoimmune response, often triggered by genetics and environmental factors. 
• Gout: A type of arthritis caused by the buildup of uric acid crystals in the joints, leading to sudden and severe pain. High levels of uric acid can happen due to diet, genetics, obesity, and certain medical conditions. 
• Lupus: Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)  is an autoimmune disease that can cause inflammation in many body parts, including the joints, skin, kidneys, and heart.  It can be caused by genetics, hormones, and environmental triggers, such as infections and sun exposure. 
• Fibromyalgia: A chronic condition characterized by widespread pain and tenderness in muscles, ligaments, and tendons, rather than the joints themselves. The exact cause is unknown but it may involve genetics, stress,  or traumatic events. It is often seen in people with other types of arthritis. 

What Are the Symptoms of Arthritis?

The symptoms of arthritis can vary depending on the type but generally include joint pain, stiffness, and swelling. Here are the most common symptoms associated with different forms of arthritis:

• Joint Pain: In a study on joint pain, Dr. Hans-Georg Schaible from the  University Hospital Jena, Germany states “Both inflammatory and degenerative diseases of joints are major causes of chronic pain” The most characteristic sign of arthritis- joint pain can be mild to severe and may worsen with movement or activity. It can affect one or multiple joints, often increasing in intensity over time. 
• Stiffness: Joint stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of inactivity, is a common symptom. People with rheumatoid arthritis often report stiffness that lasts longer than an hour upon walking.
• Swelling and Tenderness: Inflammation in the affected joints may cause visible swelling, making the joint feel tender or sore to the touch.
• Reduced Range of Motion: Arthritis can restrict the movement of affected joints, making it difficult to perform daily activities. This is often accompanied by a sensation of stiffness or “locking” in the joint.
• Warmth and Redness: Some types of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis and gout, can cause affected joints to fill warm and appear red due to inflammation. 
• Fatigue: Autoimmune types of arthritis, like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, often cause chronic fatigue, low energy levels, and a general feeling of being  “down”, especially during flare-ups. 
• Joint Deformities: In advanced cases of arthritis, particularly rheumatoid arthritis, joints can become deformed due to prolonged inflammation and joint damage. In a study on joint damage in RA patients, Dr. D. L. Scott from Kings College Hospital, Denmark Hill, London, UK states “Data suggests that joint damage progresses constantly over the first 20 years of RA.” 

What Causes Arthritis?

Arthritis can develop from various factors such as genetics, age, and lifestyle factors, and its exact cause often depends on the specific type of arthritis. Here are the most common causes:

• Genetic Factors: Family history plays a significant role in arthritis risk. Some forms, like rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis, tend to run in families. Genetic predisposition can influence susceptibility to joint damage, inflammatory responses, and autoimmune conditions.  For example, certain genes may increase the likelihood of developing rheumatoid arthritis.
• Age: Aging is one of the strongest factors for arthritis, particularly for types like osteoarthritis. As people age, joint cartilage naturally wears down, and the body’s ability to repair joint tissues decreases. Aging also increases the risk of other age-related changes, such as reduced muscle strength which further contributes to joint strain and potential arthritis. 
• Lifestyle Factors: Excess weight puts excess stress on weight-bearing joints, like the knees, hips, and spine which can speed up cartilage breakdown and increase the risk of osteoarthritis. Diets high in processed foods, sugar, and red meat can increase inflammation and can contribute to arthritis risk.  Lack of physical activity can weaken muscles around the joints, while high-impact activities can put additional strain on joints.
• Infections: Certain infections can lead to septic arthritis or reactive arthritis, where joint inflammation occurs following an infection. Bacterial, viral, or fungal infections can trigger septic arthritis by entering the joint, leading to pain and swelling. 

In a study on septic arthritis, Dr. Ifeanyi I. Momodu from Campbell University School of OM, NC, USA states “Septic arthritis is an orthopedic emergency that can cause significant joint damage leading to increased morbidity and mortality.”

• Autoimmune Disorders: In autoimmune arthritis, immune cells attack the synovium,  which is the lining of joints, resulting in chronic inflammation, swelling, and damage to the cartilage and bone. This type of arthritis is seen in lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and psoriatic arthritis. 

How is Arthritis Diagnosed?

To diagnose arthritis a medical professional uses a combination of examinations like medical history, physical exam, and imaging. Since there are over 100 types of arthritis, accurate diagnosis is essential to determine the best course of treatment. Here is an overview of the diagnosis of arthritis:

• Medical History: Your Healthcare provider will ask you about your symptoms when they began, and how they have progressed. They will also ask you about any family history of arthritis, joint injuries, lifestyle factors, and other health conditions.
• Physical Exam: They will examine your joints for signs of arthritis,  such as swelling, redness, warmth, and tenderness.  They will also assess your range of motion and check for muscle weakness or joint deformities.
• Imaging: These tests help assess the extent of joint damage, the type of arthritis, and whether the surrounding tissues are also affected. Your healthcare provider may order an X-ray, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), CT scans, and ultrasound.
• Lab Tests: Blood tests, such as Rheumatoid Factor (RF), and Anti-CCP,  detect markers for rheumatoid arthritis,  while ESR and CRP review inflammation. Urine acid levels can confirm gout and joint analysis can detect infection or uric acid crystals.

How to Prevent Arthritis?

Preventing arthritis involves adopting a healthy lifestyle that minimizes risk factors such as poor diet, lack of physical activity, and infections, associated with joint inflammation and damage. Here are key strategies to help prevent arthritis: 

• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Incorporate a balanced diet and regular exercise. Aim for sustainable weight loss if you are overweight. Focus on gradual changes rather than drastic diets.
  
  In a study on obesity and arthritis, Dr. Udhaya Nedunchezhiyan from Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia states “The leading cause of OA was believed to be overloading the joints due to excess weight.”
• Stay Active: Low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, or yoga can help you maintain joint function, flexibility, and muscle strength. 
• Avoid Injury: Joint injuries, such as strains, sprains, or fractures, can increase the risk of developing arthritis later in life. Use proper techniques during physical activity, wear protective gear, and ensure safe environments to minimize the risk of falls and injuries.
• Healthy Diet: A nutritious diet can help reduce inflammation and support overall joint health. 

Natural Treatments for Arthritis

Natural treatments for arthritis consist of science-based, yet natural approaches such as reducing inflammation and improving mobility by incorporating dietary changes, chiropractic care, natural supplements, herbal remedies, and low-impact physical activity.

While conventional medicine treats the symptoms of arthritis with pain medication, the holistic approach to medicine focuses on treating the root cause of the problem- solving not only one symptom but restoring balance in the whole system.

In recent years, research on holistic treatments for arthritis has made great advancements. In a study on natural medicines for rheumatoid arthritis, Dr. Xueling Liu from Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, China, stated “Natural medicines have many advantages, such as a wide range of biological effects and small toxic and side effects.”

In the section below, we will discuss the best natural treatments for arthritis.

Chiropractic Care

Chiropractic care is used to help manage arthritis symptoms by relieving pain, improving joint mobility, and reducing stiffness. Chiropractors use gentle, non-invasive techniques such as joint mobilization, soft tissue therapy, and ultrasound therapy to support and align the body’s musculoskeletal system, offering targeted relief for areas affected by arthritis. 

At the Bay Clinic of Chiropractic, Dr. Tony Salamay is an expert Chiropractor with years of experience and extensive knowledge of many types of arthritis. He and his team are dedicated to providing you with the best care that will get you pain relief and improve your overall health.  

Here are some techniques we can use to aid arthritis:

Joint Mobilization

Joint mobilization is a technique that involves slow, controlled movements to increase the range of motion in stiff joints. This technique is more gentle than traditional chiropractic adjustments and is ideal for arthritic joints. 

Gentle Joint Adjustments

Typically, joint adjustments are avoided in inflammatory types of arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis. For osteoarthritis, adjustments can reduce discomfort and pain. Chiropractors use gentle, low-force adjustments to help alleviate pressure on the nerves and other surrounding tissues while they avoid stressing the inflamed joint. 

Soft Tissue Therapy

Soft tissue therapy is a group of techniques such as massages, myofascial release, and trigger point therapy that chiropractors use to reduce muscle tension, improve circulation, and relieve pain. Soft tissue therapy can help reduce stiffness in the joints and ease discomfort.

Ultrasound Therapy

Ultrasound therapy uses sound waves to generate heat deep within tissues which helps reduce inflammation, improve circulation, and ease pain. Ultrasound therapy is particularly beneficial for arthritis because it promotes healing in deep tissues and supports joint function.

Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF)

PEMF uses electromagnetic fields to stimulate repair on a cellular level and reduce inflammation in arthritic joints. By enhancing circulation and encouraging regeneration of damaged cells, PEMF therapy can provide relief from chronic pain and improve joint flexibility.

Cold Laser Therapy

Cold laser therapy, also known as low-level laser therapy, uses focused light to reach deep tissues and reduce inflammation, pain, and swelling in joints affected by arthritis. Cold laser therapy can stimulate cellular repair and increase circulation, making it a useful tool for managing arthritis symptoms without invasive procedures.

Functional Medicine 

Functional medicine treatments for arthritis include identifying the root cause of the inflammation, joint pain, and degeneration and addressing it through natural, non-invasive treatments. At the Bay Clinic of Chiropractic, Dr. Tony Salamay is an expert Functional Medicine practitioner in Panama City, FL and is dedicated to solving your issues. 

To identify the reason for the inflammatory response, he uses functional testing such as bloodwork for nutrient levels, inflammatory markers, gut health tests, and hormone panels. By identifying the unique factors that contribute to your specific type of arthritis, Dr. Salamay can design a personalized treatment plan that addresses the condition from multiple angles such as optimizing the immune system, restoring hormonal balance, and supporting detoxification.

The functional medicine approach to treating inflammatory conditions like arthritis focuses on balancing the systems by incorporating anti-inflammatory nutrition, removing triggers through stress management, addressing gut-related inflammation, supporting detoxification, hormonal regulation, and the balance of the immune system.

Dietary Changes

Diet plays a significant role in managing arthritis symptoms, as certain foods can reduce or exacerbate inflammation in the body and contribute to arthritis. By incorporating specific foods you can lower inflammation which can help alleviate pain, improve joint function, and support overall health. 

Dr. Tony Salamay from the Bay Clinic of Chiropractic has a master’s in Human Nutrition and years of practical experience with patients just like you! He has helped many people with arthritis get pain relief with his personalized nutritional support and guidance. 

In the section below, we listed anti-inflammatory foods to eat for arthritis, and pro-inflammatory foods you need to avoid!

Foods to Eat for Arthritis

• Fatty Fish: Salmon, sardines, mackerel, and trout are high in Omega-3 fatty acids which have strong anti-inflammatory properties. Omega-3 fatty acids can reduce joint pain and stiffness, especially in rheumatoid arthritis.
• Leafy Greens and Colorful Vegetables: Vegetables like spinach, kale, broccoli, and bell peppers are rich in vitamins C and K, and phytochemicals. These foods are rich in antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress and protect cells from damage, and vitamin K also supports bone health. 
• Berries and Other Fruit: Berries, cherries, oranges, and grapes are packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, including anthocyanins and vitamin C. These fruits can reduce inflammation, and pain, and help support collagen production in joint cartilage.
• Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and flax seeds provide fiber, protein, and healthy fats that are beneficial for joint health.
• Healthy Fats: Olive oil and avocado oil are rich in anti-inflammatory compounds called oleocanthal which have similar effects to ibuprofen.
• Whole Grains: Brown rice, quinoa, and oatmeal provide fiber and essential nutrients. Fiber from whole grains supports gut health which can positively affect inflammation levels, and helps maintain a healthy weight which is important for reducing stress and joints.

Foods to Avoid for Arthritis

• Processed and Fried Foods: These foods are high in trans fats, sugars, and refined carbohydrates which increase inflammation. Regular consumption of processed and fried foods can worsen arthritis symptoms, contribute to weight gain, and increase oxidative stress.
• Sugary Foods and Beverages: Soda, candy, cakes, cookies, and sweetened drinks can trigger the release of inflammatory compounds which can cause joint pain and stiffness from arthritis. High sugar intake also spikes blood sugar levels which can lead to weight gain, adding pressure to the joints.
• Dairy Products: For example, whole milk, cheese, ice cream, and butter. For some individuals, dairy can increase inflammation and exacerbate arthritis symptoms, possibly due to the saturated fat content. Additionally, certain proteins in dairy may trigger joint pain in some people. 
• Foods High in Salt: Caned coups, processed meats, frozen meals, pickled foods, and sauces have excess salt that can lead to water retention, causing swelling in additional pressure on joints. Reducing sodium can help alleviate this swelling and decrease joint discomfort.
• Red and Processed Meats: Hot dogs, sausages, and deli meats contain saturated fats and advanced glycation end products (AGEs) which can promote inflammation. AGEs are compounds formed when meat is cooked at high temperatures and can worsen symptoms of arthritis. 
• Alcohol: It can increase inflammation, particularly in people with inflammatory arthritis. Excessive consumption may interfere with arthritis medication, affect immune function, and make symptoms worse. 

Low-Impact Exercises

Low-impact exercises are ideal for people with arthritis because they provide a gentle way to stay active without putting excess stress on the joints. At the Bay Clinic of Chiropractic, our amazing team can guide you and recommend ways to be active even if you have arthritis. 

By engaging in regular low-impact exercises, you can manage arthritis symptoms more efficiently, reduce stiffness, and improve joint function. The best low-impact exercises are those you’re comfortable doing and enjoy. 

With that in mind, here are our recommendations for low-impact exercises suitable for people with arthritis:

Walking 

It is accessible and doesn’t require special equipment which makes it one of the easiest ways to incorporate low-impact exercise into your daily life. It helps improve cardiovascular health, enhances joint mobility, and builds muscle strength. You can start with short walks on even surfaces, gradually increasing distance and time as comfort allows. 

Swimming and Water Aerobics

Exercising in water provides buoyancy which reduces pressure on joints while providing resistance to build strength. Water aerobics and swimming can help improve cardiovascular health, flexibility, and muscle tone without the impact on the joints.

Yoga or Tai Chi

Both yoga and tai chi improve balance, flexibility, and muscle strength while emphasizing mindfulness, controlled movement, and breathing. They are particularly beneficial for joint mobility, stress reduction, and promoting a sense of well-being. 

Supplements

Certain supplements can help support joint pain, reduce inflammation, and alleviate arthritis symptoms. Here’s a look at the commonly recommended supplements for arthritis:

Glucosamine and Chondroitin

Glucosamine and chondroitin are natural compounds found in cartilage, the tissue that cushions joints, and helps reduce inflammation, slow cartilage breakdown, and alleviate joint pain associated with osteoarthritis.

 Glucosamine supports cartilage repair, while chondroitin improves joint lubrication and flexibility. The typical dose of glucosamine for osteoarthritis is 500 mg three times per day. The daily dose for chondroitin is 1200 mg.  

Collagen

Collagen is a protein that provides structure everywhere in the body, including skin, bones, tendons, and joints. Collagen supplements can support joint health by improving cartilage integrity and reducing joint pain and stiffness. You can find collagen in the connective tissues of animals such as bones, skin, and cartilage. 

Natural sources are bone broth, fish skin, and gelatin. Daily doses vary from 2 to 20 grams of collagen peptides, usually taken in powder form. 

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Omega-3 fatty acids are essential fats that the body can’t produce on its own so you have to consume them in food. Omega-2s have anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce joint pain, stiffness, and swelling from arthritis. You can find them in fatty fish animal sources like salmon, mackerel, and sardines, as well as flax seeds, walnuts, and hemp seeds. The recommended daily dose of omega-3 fatty acids is 200 to 4000 mg. 

Herbal Remedies

Herbal remedies have been used for centuries to help alleviate symptoms of arthritis. Many herbs contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can support joint health and reduce pain. Here are our recommendations for herbal remedies for arthritis:

Ginger

Ginger is a flowering plant whose underground stem is used as a spice and as a herbal remedy in traditional medicine. Ginger contains anti-inflammatory compounds called gingerols and shogaols which may help reduce pain and inflammation in people who have arthritis. 

Studies show that Ginger can be effective in alleviating osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis symptoms by inhibiting the production of inflammatory markers. You can consume ginger fresh, dried, or in a powdered form. Ginger supplements are also available in capsules or extracts.

Turmeric

Turmeric is a commonly used spice. It has an active compound, curcumin, known for its strong anti-inflammatory effects.  Curcumin can help reduce joint pain and swelling in arthritis by inhibiting inflammatory pathways and reducing oxidative stress. 

Some studies suggest that curcumin can be as effective as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)  in relieving pain and inflammation. You can add it to food or beverages and it is also available in capsule or powdered form.

Boswellia

Boswellia, also known as Indian frankincense,  is derived from the resin of the Boswellia serrata tree and has a long history in traditional medicine. It contains boswellic acids which inhibit pro-inflammatory enzymes, thereby reducing inflammation, and pain, and improving mobility. Typically, it is available in resin, powdered form, or as capsules. 

Frequently Asked Questions

How Do You Get Arthritis?

You can get arthritis from various factors, including genetic predisposition, age, joint injuries, infections, and autoimmune diseases. Certain lifestyle choices, such as a certain lifestyle and being overweight, can also increase the risk of developing arthritis over time.

What Does Arthritis Feel Like?

Arthritis feels like joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and decreased range of motion. Symptoms may vary but commonly include warmth and tenderness in affected joints, flare-ups that can lead to significant discomfort,  fatigue, and reduced mobility,  which can impact your daily activities.

What is the Strongest Herb For Arthritis?

The strongest herb for arthritis is turmeric. Turmeric is considered one of the strongest herbs for arthritis due to its active compound, curcumin which has strong anti-inflammatory properties. It can help reduce pain, swelling, and stiffness associated with arthritis, improving joint function and quality of life.

How Can I Stop Arthritis From Progressing Naturally? 

To stop arthritis from progressing naturally,  focus on maintaining a healthy weight,  engaging in regular low-impact exercise, and consuming an anti-inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, healthy fats, lean proteins, and whole grains. Supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin may also help.

Conclusion

Arthritis is the inflammation in the joints that is caused by multiple factors such as age, genetic predisposition, infections, lifestyle factors, and autoimmune diseases. People who suffer from arthritis may experience symptoms such as joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. 

Conventional medicine treats arthritis with pain medications, without actually solving the underlying problems that cause the issue. For those who are tired of the unsuccessful treatments that leave you with pain and additional side effects, natural treatments are the solution for you! 

At the Bay Clinic of Chiropractic in  Panama City, Florida we have an amazing team, led by Dr. Tony Salamay an expert in Functional Medicine, passionate about solving the root of the problem naturally, without medication. 

Dr. Salamay has years of experience in treating patients just like you! By taking the time to take a thorough medical history, functional testing, and physical examinations he identifies the root of your problem. Then, he crafts a personalized treatment plan that is tailored to your unique needs, and guides you through every step of the way!

To schedule a consultation with Dr. Tony Salamay contact the Bay Clinic of Chiropractic in Panama City, Florida at (850) 785-9372 or info@thebaydoctor.com.

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