World Arthritis Day: Living with Arthritis: Taking Action, naturally!

World Arthritis Day, observed annually on October 12, shines a light on the daily challenges faced by millions of people living with this type of chronic illness. Did you know:

·         Arthritis encompasses a wide range of inflammatory and degenerative joint diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis?

·         According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 528 million people worldwide live with osteoarthritis, making it one of the leading causes of disability globally?

·         In Canada, arthritis affects 6 million people, more than half of whom are under the age of 65. Women are particularly affected. It is the most common chronic illness, causing pain, loss of mobility, isolation, and mental health issues. Forty percent (40%) report activity limitations, and 80% live with another chronic condition?

Key facts:

• Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. It primarily affects joints such as the hips, knees, feet, and spine, and rarely appears before the age of 40.

• Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory disease that often affects the hands, wrists, and feet. It typically develops between the ages of 40 and 60, but can begin in early adulthood or even in childhood. It is 2 to 3 times more common in women than in men.

• Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammation of the spinal joints, which develops gradually and causes stiffness and pain in the back, chest, and hips.

How to relieve joint pain, including symptoms associated with different types of arthritis?

Maintaining a healthy weight, balancing exercise, rest (including relaxation), and sleep, using thermotherapy (heat or cold), adopting a balanced diet, and turning to complementary approaches (such as supplements, acupuncture, massage therapy, etc.), as well as mind-body practices like tai chi or yoga are all strategies that can help relieve arthritis symptoms.

Arnica montana and Devil’s Claw: A Powerful Duo for Joint Pain Relief

Two plants known for their beneficial effects on joint health — Arnica montana and the Devil’s Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) — can be particularly helpful.

• Arnica montana, a perennial plant native to the mountainous regions of Central Europe, has been used for centuries to relieve muscle and joint pain, inflammation, bruises, and bumps. It helps reduce local inflammation, improve circulation, and soothe pain, with no major side effects when used properly.

• The Devil’s Claw (Harpagophytum procumbens), native to Southern Africa, is valued for its effects on chronic pain. Recognized by both the World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) for relieving minor joint pain, its roots are rich in harpagoside, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties confirmed by clinical studies for arthritis and osteoarthritis.

Expert Insight

As explained by Dr. Christiane Laberge, a retired family physician:

“We know that arthritis is a systemic inflammatory condition that must be managed medically with anti-inflammatory drugs and substances that promote remission. However, during flare-ups, turning to complementary solutions for relief is appropriate. Ingredients such as Arnica montana and Devil’s Claw, when used topically, are effective and rarely unsuitable for most individuals. In the case of osteoarthritis, moderate exercise, weight reduction when needed, and a Mediterranean diet have shown symptom improvement. Topical relief is also recommended as part of a combined approach.”

Homeopathy Can Also Help

Arnicare® Flex: Boiron’s Expert for Joint Pain

Always focused on meeting the needs of patients, Boiron innovates with Arnicare®Flex*, the latest addition to the Arnicare topical range. This new formula combines the benefits of mother tinctures of Arnica montana and Harpagophytum (Devil’s Claw) — two 100% naturally-sourced medicinal ingredients known for their virtues on joints.

Arnicare Flex is effective for the temporary relief of symptoms associated with arthritis pain in adults. It can also be used to relieve joint pain related to osteoarthritis in adults, as well as minor trauma to tendons and ligament injuries (such as mild sprains and strains) in adults and children aged from 10 years old.

Free from non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs), menthol, camphor, and fragrance-free, its light cream texture is pleasant, non-greasy, and quickly absorbed. Additionally, its ergonomic cap makes the tube easy to open and close — even during arthritis flare-ups!

In Conclusion

World Arthritis Day highlights the importance of better understanding this condition and offering appropriate solutions. In line with its mission, Boiron provides homeopathic options, such as its Arnicare line, including Arnicare®Flex, to support patients in their daily lives and promote their well-being — naturally!

*This homeopathic medicine may not be suitable for everyone. Always read the label and follow the directions for use.