Winter is often a time many clients express discomfort, aches and pains, due to conditions such as Rheumatism or Arthritis. Both of which are more common than we may be aware.however something we are all aware of, is that arthritis and rheumatism are often associated with affecting joints and the connective tissues of these joints. These conditions together, are due to wear and tear of the joints and a wearing down of the cartilage which we need, to protect, provide absorption of shock and allow our bones to have ease of movement. As this cartilage wears, joints stiffen, weaken and can become painful to move. There are many variations of the two conditions however generally speaking Rheumatism causes aches and pains in the joints, whereas arthritis also affects the joints with pain and in some more severe cases, causes restriction too. There are two types of arthritis which are commonly referred to as ‘OA’ and ‘RA’, both of which are prone to flare-ups.
OA or Osteoarthritis, can often attribute to wear and tear, or simply due to ageing of the skeletal system. Whereas Rheumatoid-arthritis, which is inflammatory in nature, often begins by affecting the smaller joints in hands and feet, before other areas of the body. It is usually symmetrical in its presentation too, therefore afflicting both sides of the body which can be incredibly uncomfortable and debilitating for some. It can, in more severe cases cause deformities, which may be visible in the form of nodules under the skin, around the site of the affected joint. Adding to the discomfort and despair many individuals face on a daily basis, living with this condition.
There are several reasons why joints can be affected, such as:
- A highly acidic diet – such as frequent/ over consumption of alcohol, sugar, white flour, dairy and red meat, all of which are inflammatory
- The work which the individual does/has done such as heavy labour, lifting or being on their feet for extended periods of time. As well as consideration of exposure to chemicals and a build up of toxicity
- Chronic emotional stress, which spikes cortisol, resulting in inflammation
- Hormonal drugs, particularly for women who are also more likely to develop arthritis (as well as be on such forms of treatment eg; HRT, contraceptive etc.)
- Obesity
- Sedentary lifestyle and a lack of exercise
- Autoimmune disease
Homeopathy offers many different approaches for treatment of such presenting complaints and in particular, has proven very successful with supporting conditions of the joints. I would also consider the importance of the miasmatic connections (such as the things we are more predisposed to through family history etc. ) Including autoimmune diseases and the symptoms which are presenting alongside their joint pains. Whilst not excluding how a client may feel emotionally as a result of such manifestations.
Using various prescribing techniques for this physical pathology to support each symptom is another method, which may be a helpful way to give clients some relief from their condition and find ways of managing the flare ups, with the use of accurate remedies for their specific needs.
As part of therapeutic prescribing there are many solutions such as single remedies, tissue salts and even combinations of remedies which can support you. Here are just a few homeopathic remedy suggestions, which may help conditions such as rheumatism and arthritis, as well as any additional symptoms and sensations they bring.
Apis
Apis supports swelling, inflammation and heat, as well as symptoms such as burning or stinging pains and swellings with oedema. This remedy is helpful for those who are better for cold. Such as those who find relief putting their hands in cold water, for example.
Bryonia
Worse for movement, worse for touch and worse in the morning, with inflammation of synovial membranes. Bryonia suits clients who feel better for pressure, who may present with arthritis affecting their back and experience stitching pains.
Ledum
Ledum is a remedy that has an infinity with joints, heels, tendons, eyeballs and ankles, with the appearance of the skin may be blueish and mottled. A supportive remedy for those who find they have painful parts which may feel cold and chilly. Constitutions broken down by alcohol (consuming too much) and a tendency to sprained ankles are also well supported by Ledum. Symptoms often start in the feet and travel upwards, often initiating in the ball of the big toe.
Pulsatilla
A great remedy for changeable symptoms which move around. Clients who may benefit from Pulsatilla, will feel better for gentle motion and slow walking. There may also be a numbness of their affected joints.
Rhus – Tox
Stiffness and soreness when first moving, yet improves with continued movement, Rhus -Tox is a popular remedy renowned for helping those with ailments and afflictions of the joints. This remedy in particular is often used over longer periods of time, to support the aches and pains associated with clients conditions and in many instances, replacing pain killers. The individuals who would benefit from Rhus – Tox, are those who feel much worse in cold and damp weather (therefore requiring this remedy in the winter but able to take a break during the summer). There is also a marked restlessness at night when in bed and a desire to stretch. Again, there is a connection and need for movement and feeling better for moving with this remedy.
I would really encourage anyone who has either early signs of arthritis/ rheumatism or has been coping with the condition for a while, to give homeopathy a try. Due to the non-toxic support it can give you on a daily basis, without stopping or relying too heavily on NSAIDs (non steroidal anti inflammatories, the usual prescribed therapies for such cases) or any other pain killers, which often have huge side effects. Homeopathy stimulates our own healing mechanisms – therefore may alleviate and help to maintain your overall health regardless of your condition, alongside the appropriate lifestyle adaptations too.
If you would like to find out more about how homeopathy may support you, please contact me for a free discovery call. I look forward to hearing from you soon!
