It is estimated that some 350 million people around the world suffer from arthritis – a condition that causes pain, stiffness, and inflammation in your body’s joints. While arthritis can make everyday life uncomfortable, there are things you can do to minimize its effects.

Here are five of our favorite at-home remedies to alleviate joint and arthritis pain:

  • Epsom Salt Soak. Epsom salt has been used for generations to relieve joint pain. You can pour some in a large bowl of warm water and soak your hands or feet, or opt for a full-body treatment in your bathtub.

  • Take the Right Supplements. Certain supplements have been proven to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can reduce pain and stiffness in your joints. The best supplements for this are magnesium, Bosweilla, and glucosamine sulfate (glucosamine hydrochloride is not as effective).

  • Turmeric & Ginger Tea. Turmeric and ginger are both natural anti-inflammatories, and can be mixed together in a tasty tea that also has healing properties. Simply combine ½ teaspoon of each in 2 cups of hot water and add honey to taste.

  • Homemade Cayenne Pepper Gel. Cayenne pepper contains a compound called capsaicin, which can be used as a topical pain reliever. Slightly heat up ½ cup of coconut oil and mix in two tablespoons of cayenne pepper powder. Apply the gel on the affected area for 20 minutes, three times per day.

  • Exercise. When you suffer from joint pain, the last thing you want to do is get up and move around, but that’s exactly what you should do. Low-impact exercise can strengthen muscles around your joints, lubricate joints, and help you lose weight, which means less pressure on your bones and joints.

If these at-home remedies fail to alleviate your joint pain, it’s time to seek professional help. If you live in Fairfield County, look no further than Orthopaedic Specialty Group to help you feel like yourself again.