1)
First,
investigate infection(s), thyroid dysfunction, diabetes, etc. as underlying
causes.
2)
Play
an “ACE”: Vitamins A, C, and E are powerful antioxidants and free radical
scavengers. Increase Vit. C gradually to 3-5+ grams, A to 25,000 units, E to
1200 units
3)
Add
high omega-3 supplements (fish oil or flaxseed oil or evening primrose oil: 6
grams per day to get relief, then 4 grams per day maintenance.) Buy fresh, USP
grade, best quality, with high EPA, DHA. Refrigerate to prevent rancidity.
4)
Limit
consumption of processed foods, sugar, salt; bacteria thrive in a sugary
environment
5)
Avoid
alcohol, caffeine, nicotine, cocoa (note: Restless Leg Syndrome is linked to
cocoa)
6)
Try
herbals such as boswellia, bromelain, garlic, ginger, turmeric, valerian,
devil’s claw, white willow bark, St. John’s Wort, and homeopathic remedies such
as arnica and Rhus. tox.
7)
Apply
topical creams: camphor, menthol, DMSO rather than reaching for a pill
8)
Identify
food allergens and avoid them (IgG and IgE blood tests are most accurate)
9)
Drink
plenty of fresh water (divide body weight by 2 = number of ounces needed daily)
10)
Try
a juice fast or mild detox routine once per month
Eliminate environmental allergens (plants, dust, mold, mildew, household chemicals)
12)
Try
acupuncture, acupressure, massage, chiropractic alignment, physical therapy
Reduce stress through guided imagery, meditation, short naps, a relaxing hobby
14)
Use
a slant board twice/day for 15 minutes to release toxins, oxygenate blood
15)
Exercise
in warm water (swimming, brisk walking, aquarobics)
16)
Lose
weight to reduce pressure on weight-bearing joints (hips, knees, ankles)
17)
Try
gentle stretching exercises (yoga, tai chi, Pilates, Callanetics, etc)
Don’t sit for more than an hour. Tight muscles lead to spasms. (Magnesium can relieve)
19)
Practice
deep breathing: inhale through nose 4 counts, hold 7, exhale through mouth 8
20)
Re-learn
correct posture: sitting, standing, walking (Alexander, Egoscue Methods)
21)
Bend
the knees to pick up low objects; bending from the waist strains your back
22)
Invest
in good shoes and a supportive mattress
23)
Avoid
high-impact sports and activities likely to produce joint trauma
24)
Look
on the bright side and cultivate a sense of humor; “laughter is the best
medicine”
25)
Remember
that good health starts with good nutrition – you are what you assimilate!
*****************************
Dr. Poehlmann is the author
of Rheumatoid Arthritis: The Infection Connection, available at
Amazon.com and major bookstores, or click here to order now.
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