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Dr. Jared Hanson ND, LAc is a doctor of naturopathic medicine and acupuncturist practicing in New York City. He specializes in chronic diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis.To schedule an appointment with Dr. Hanson at his New York City (Manhattan) location, e-mail drjaredhanson@gmail.com or call 917-607-5035.

Natural Treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Acupuncture for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Acupuncture can be a powerful tool in the natural treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. In Traditional Chinese Medicine arthritis is called a bi syndrome and is thought to be the result of an External Pathogenic Factor. For rheumatoid arthritis that external factor is Heat, as evidenced by the redness and warmth that characterizes the joints in rheumatoid arthritis. Acupuncture points are generally selected with the goal of dispersing Heat. Heat is considered an excess condition in Traditional Chinese Medicine and because acupuncture excels at treating excess conditions, relief can be surprisingly rapid when treating RA with acupuncture.

Homeopathy for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Homeopathy is also an effective tool when treating rheumatoid arthritis naturally. Homeopathic remedies are selected on an individual basis, so there is no specific homeopathic remedy for RA, but a remedy chosen for an individual with RA can have a profound effect on their health. Typical characteristics about an individual’s symptoms - such as how weather affects the joint pain or what time of day symptoms are better or worse – are used to pick a single homeopathic remedy that will treat rheumatoid arthritis holistically.

Diet for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Perhaps the most important dietary intervention for patients who want to treat rheumatoid arthritis naturally is to avoid eating vegetables in the nightshade family. These include tomatoes, potatoes, peppers and eggplants, as well as tobacco products. Avoiding these completely can often drastically reduce symptoms. It is also important to rule out allergies to other foods and to eat a whole foods diet. Animal fats in the diet should be replaced with vegetable oils like olive oil and patients should make sure to get adequate fiber.

Nutritional Supplements for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Perhaps the two most important supplements for patients with rheumatoid arthritis are fish oil, which is anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidants. If patients have been taking steroid drugs then it is also important to take an adrenal support formula. Certain herbs have anti-inflammatory compounds that make them quite useful in the natural treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Many of these, such as turmeric and ginger, are also culinary spices.