Managing psoriatic arthritis (PsA) naturally is something many people explore, either alongside or instead of traditional medications. There are several approaches that may help ease symptoms β though it's always worth checking with your doctor before starting anything new.
Here are some natural strategies that may help:
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Managing psoriatic arthritis (PsA) naturally is something many people explore, either alongside or instead of traditional medications. There are several approaches that may help ease symptoms β though it's always worth checking with your doctor before starting anything new.
Here are some natural strategies that may help:
- Exercise β Low-impact activities like yoga, tai chi, swimming, and walking can reduce joint pain and stiffness, improve sleep, and lower stress. Aim for around 30 minutes, at least five days a week.
- Hot and cold therapy β Heat helps loosen stiff joints, while cold can reduce inflammation and pain. Experiment to find what works best for you.
- Diet changes β An anti-inflammatory, gluten-free, or low-carb diet may help some people. Focus on fresh fruits and vegetables, and limit sugar, fat, and salt.
- Weight management β Even a 10% weight loss if you're carrying extra weight can significantly reduce PsA activity and improve how well treatments work.
- Acupuncture β Both the American College of Rheumatology and the National Psoriasis Foundation recommend this for managing PsA symptoms. A MyPsoriasisTeam member shared, "I go to acupuncture, which has worked the best for me."
- Massage therapy β Can help ease joint pain and tension.
- Apple cider vinegar β Diluted with equal parts water, it may help soothe inflammation when applied to affected areas. Avoid using it on open wounds.
- Supplements β Vitamin D, omega-3 oils, and turmeric are used by some people with PsA. Always check with your doctor before adding supplements, as they can interact with medications.
- Stress reduction β Meditation, gentle movement, and complementary therapies can help manage stress, which is a known trigger for PsA symptoms. It's worth noting that natural remedies are generally not FDA-approved and may not have been tested in large clinical trials. Some can have side effects or interact with medications, so always loop in your healthcare provider before trying something new.
July 27