Homeopathy and Degenerative Arthritis

This article will covers a chronic joint condition: degenerative arthritis (osteoarthritis). Signs and symptoms will be discussed and a variety of homeopathic remedies will be listed that may help people experiencing this condition. Because homeopathy is individualized to each person, various indications will be offered for each homeopathic remedy mentioned.

Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis that results from the breakdown and eventual loss of the cartilage of one or more joints. It is the most common form of arthritis and arises from normal wear and tear on the joints. It usually impacts the larger, weight-bearing joints of the body, such as the knees and hips, but can also affect the wrists, fingers, and spine, for example.

Osteoarthritis usually develops very slowly over time. Its exact cause is unknown, but is generally associated with the aging process. People who are obese, are diabetic, or have had mechanical injuries to joints are at a greater susceptibility for having osteoarthritis.

Signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis include:

• Joint soreness, aching, and/or stiffness


• Joints are worse in the morning, and/or changes in weather


• Edema (fluid accumulation)


• Dull pain


• Joint deformity


• Crepitation (clicking or crackling) of the joint upon movement


• Decreased range of motion


• Joint instability


• Increased pain while joint is in use

Earlier detection of osteoarthritis will help aid the patient with a greater chance of having longer-term health of the joints. Avoiding injuries or re-injuries to joints will also help prevent future osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis is believed to be incurable. That said, the first course of action for relief would be to live at a healthy weight, if obesity is a factor. This is especially the case if the legs or spine is impacted by the osteoarthritis. Additionally, homeopathic remedies can be helpful for people experiencing osteoarthritis. In general, degeneration of the joint is slowed and inflammation is held at bay.

In homeopathy, treatment is individualized to the person experiencing the signs and symptoms. Rather than treat each case the same, unique expressions of symptoms are considered, both mentally/emotionally, as well as physically. In homeopathy, health is viewed as a condition of the entire individual, rather than in terms of specific symptoms from isolated locations of the body.
Below is a list of homeopathic remedies that may be helpful for people experiencing osteoarthritis. Their indications are listed next to the corresponding homeopathic remedy.

Calcarea Carbonica: This is the main remedy for people experiencing degenerative joints, osteophytes (bone spurs), and calcifications. Worse in the cold, damp weather and/or exertion.

Calcarea Flourica: One of the main remedies for people experiencing exostosis (formation of new bone on the surface of the bone), calcifications, and spinal curvature. The person is generally worse from the heat, but the joints feel worse from cold.

Calcarea Phosphorica: A good remedy for people experiencing degeneration in joints of the spine. Worse from drafts, the wind, and changes in weather.

Natrum Sulphuricum: Degenerative arthritis, especially affecting the left hip. Worse in the damp weather, in the morning, or ascending stairs.

Kali Carbonicum: Degenerative arthritis with aching or stitching pains. The person feels stiff and tight all over the body. Worse at night, especially 2-3 AM; in the cold and damp weather; and from drafts of air.

Bellis Perennis: Post-traumatic arthritis ("Railway spine"). Worse from the cold, especially from a sudden chill, or from getting wet. Better from heat and rubbing.

These homeopathic remedies are typically the most frequently used for people experiencing osteoarthritis. This list is not comprehensive, though. Please consult a qualified homeopath for further information and to receive the most proper care.

In this article, I outlined the definition of osteoarthritis and its signs and symptoms. A brief list of homeopathic remedies were listed with their specific indications for use. Thank you for your time in reading this article!

Sincerely,
Noel Peterson

Disclaimer: This information is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to treat, diagnose, or cure disease. If you have questions about your health, please consult a physician.