Aching Joints

My joints ache and I find moving around is becoming a problem. Are there any herbal remedies that might help to bring relief?

Dr Sarah Brewer Answers

Your doctor can confirm whether or not your symptoms are related to one of the many types of arthritis. On the herbal front Devil’s Claw root extracts can help to relieve rheumatic or muscular pain, and are often used to improve general aches and pains in the muscles and joints.

Eat plenty of fruit, vegetables and saladstuff for the antioxidants that help to damp down inflammation – aim for at least five a day, and preferably eight to ten servings. Omega-3 fish oils are also important to reduce joint pains and stiffness. Aim to eat two to four portions (of 140g each) of oily fish such as sardines, pilchards, mackerel, herrings, salmon or fresh (not tinned) tuna, two to four times a week. An omega-3 fish oil supplement is also a good idea. Glucosamine is especially helpful for osteoarthritis as it supplies building blocks needed for joint repair, and to make the joints’ oil (synovial fluid) more cushioning.