Doctor K: Alternative therapies mixed on RA

Thu., March 26, 2015

Anthony L. Komaroff Universal Uclick

DEAR DOCTOR K: I have rheumatoid arthritis. Medications have helped, but only up to a point. Can you discuss alternative therapies that might help to further relieve my discomfort?

DEAR READER: Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a long-term disease in which the body’s immune system attacks healthy tissue lining the joints. This causes swelling, pain, redness and stiffness in joints throughout the body. Drug treatments slow the effects of the disease, but alternative approaches can also help to reduce inflammation and relieve pain. Talk to your doctor before you try any of these.

• Acupuncture may relieve pain by releasing endorphins. The few studies of acupuncture for RA have had mixed results.

• Meditation. At least one study found this type of meditation helped people with RA cope with pain.

• Biofeedback helps you monitor and control your body’s responses. Some evidence suggests this may be helpful for pain relief in people with RA.

• Relaxation training includes the technique of tensing certain muscles and then relaxing them. Relaxation training has been studied for RA, with mixed results.

• Tai chi involves moving continuously through a series of motions. Some small studies have not shown tai chi to improve joint pain, swelling or tenderness in people with RA. However, it did improve mood, quality of life and overall functioning.

• Yoga. Some small studies have found that yoga improves physical function and helps relieve tender and swollen joints. People with RA should practice yoga cautiously to avoid placing too much stress on joints.

• Fish oil. Omega-3 fatty acids, the primary fat found in cold-water fish (such as salmon, tuna, herring, sardines and mackerel), have anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have found that fish oil supplements may help with tender joints and stiffness. They may also reduce the need for nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). However, fish oil supplements may increase the risk for bleeding, especially in people who take medications to prevent clotting.