Arthritis is such a burden. It affects 1 in 5 Americans, and as of now there is no known cure. I'm only 27 and I've started feeling the effects of arthritis in certain areas of my body. Sure, you can use prescription drugs to ease the pain temporarily, but these can be costly and can lead to certain side effects. So why not take a safer, more alternative approach by using arthritis remedies at home. I'm going to share with you a few things that have worked for me over the past few years.

Seriously, Move Around a Little

Now this is probably pretty obvious, but I've found that certain (and free) arthritis remedies at home in the form of basic to moderate exercise can work wonders for your body. Do not underestimate yoga. Yoga can vastly improve flexibility while at the same time decreasing joint pain. I've also found that doing yoga just once a week improves my overall mental attitude (and I can only do the beginner moves). If yoga isn't your style, how about hydrotherapy? I used to take my grandmother to the local rec center and swim around with her in the shallow end. Just using slow, basic movements she reduced flare ups in her shoulders and lower back. Even doing some basic arm and back stretches when getting out of bed in the morning can be beneficial.

Sifting Through the Pantry

A few nifty arthritis remedies at home (in the panrty):

1. 3 tbsp of flax seed daily (I cook with it)
2. 1/2 tsp cinnamon and 1tbsp honey added to your morning drink
3. Raw potato juice (if you can stomach it)
4. Chewing candied ginger
5. Using 5 grams ginger daily (again i cook with it)
6. Applying warm vinegar/olive oil to the problem area
7. Get a juicer. I can't preach this enough. My mother got me one last Christmas and now I swear by it. There are so many benefits to juicing its ridiculous and I'm amazed more people don't do it. For arthritis, you can add whatever fruits and veggies you enjoy, just make sure to include pineapple, papaya, ginger and coconut cream

Counting Sheep to Fall Asleep

One of the worst times my lower back and hip arthritis likes to conveniently "flare up" is right as I'm in the process of falling asleep. A few arthritis remedies at home that have worked for me:

1. Lie on the floor next to a bed or couch and put your legs on the couch. Don't use pillows or any form of cushioning. Move your butt as close to the couch as possible and relax.
2. Using a heating pad on the problem area 10-20 minutes before bedtime
3. Putting a pillow between your legs (if you sleep on your side)
4. Investing in a Tempur-Pedic mattress. While this isn't really a cheap remedy, this is an investment in you

In all, there are many arthritis remedies at home you can use, I have just covered a few that have worked for me. Hopefully you can benefit from some of these as well.