There’s no cure for rheumatoid arthritis (RA), but treatments can help you manage symptoms. Experts advise speaking with a rheumatologist to determine the best medications for your individual condition.

Even if you take pharmaceutical drugs, a variety of natural, holistic, and complementary ways may help treat your RA. I’m very aware of these holistic methods because I use many of them myself.

Here are my top 10 favorite natural ways to combat RA symptoms and live a lifestyle of wellness while I cope with RA.

Essential oils and aromatherapy have been used since ancient times, often to soothe symptoms of conditions like RA.

I find lavender works well for relaxation. Peppermint and eucalyptus help me with pain relief. I’ve tried garlic oil because it’s thought to have antibiotic properties and ginger oil because it’s thought to reduce inflammation.

Another essential oil-based product I rely on is Deep Blue Rub, a topical pain relief salve.

Always be mindful of how you use essential oils. Pay attention to any instructions or warnings on the product’s package, and consult an expert or the manufacturer when in doubt.

Some oils shouldn’t be ingested or used topically. Many are designed for use in an aromatherapy diffuser. Typically, I use oils topically and aromatically for my own needs. Topically, they often help with pain. Aromatically, they help relax me and improve my mood.

While research suggests there are health benefits, the FDA doesn’t monitor or regulate the purity or quality of essential oils. It’s important to talk with a healthcare professional before you begin using essential oils and be sure to research the quality of a brand’s products. Always do a patch test before trying a new essential oil.

Floatation therapy, or sensory deprivation therapy, is a newer natural health treatment. During a session, you float atop warm salt water in a pitch-black and soundproof “pod.” The idea is that it:

  • relaxes your mind and body
  • releases muscle tension
  • takes pressure off your joints

I can say only good things about it. My husband — a personal trainer and American Ninja Warrior competitor — just went last week and is also a fan. Many people in my Arthritis Ashley online community have also commented on the benefits of floating.

It’s wonderful but proceed cautiously if you’re claustrophobic like me. It takes some getting used to — but I get bad muscle spasms, so I’m all for anything that may relieve some tension!

Cryotherapy and ice baths might sound uncomfortable, but they may be good for people with musculoskeletal chronic pain and inflammatory conditions such as RA. Cryotherapy was first invented with people with RA in mind.

During a cryotherapy session, you step into a cryosauna tank filled with liquid nitrogen. Your body is exposed to temperatures below –200ºF (–128.9ºC). Yes, you read that correctly! The lack of moisture, dampness, humidity, or wind makes the cold temperature more tolerable.

You’re mostly nude, save for:

  • undergarments
  • socks
  • mitts
  • gloves

This is done ideally for 2 to 3 minutes, or for however long you can tolerate it. I lasted for fewer than 2 minutes the first time and closer to 3 minutes the second time.

The idea behind cryotherapy is to put your body into “repair” mode as part of your natural fight-or-flight process. You’ve probably heard you should ice a swollen joint or an injury. This method applies that same anti-inflammatory cooling concept to your whole body.

To me, cryotherapy was far more pleasant than an ice bath — and I liked it better than cold Pittsburgh winters! I don’t know how much it worked, but I definitely left feeling refreshed and invigorated, like I could conquer the world.

I drink multiple cups of tea daily, including chamomile or Sleepytime tea at night to help me relax before bed. I can’t go without my tea!

Many people who live with RA choose:

Some companies even make “arthritis-friendly” or “joint comfort” herbal teas.

Acupuncture is an ancient remedy that has stood the test of time. It’s a part of traditional Chinese medicine but has also made its way into Western medicine.

During a session, an acupuncturist uses very thin needles on certain points of your body. Usually, the needles aren’t inserted very deeply. Each point coordinates with a:

  • body part
  • system
  • organ

The needles are thought to balance out or interrupt the flow of good and bad energy in your body, also known as your body’s chi (or qi).

Acupuncture is somewhat related to the practice of acupressure. (They’re cousins of sorts.) While modern-day science hasn’t confirmed that acupuncture works as a treatment for RA, some doctors recommend it.

It isn’t clear why, but some people with RA report feeling better after acupuncture or acupressure treatments.

I absolutely love it and recommend it — so long as you go to a certified practitioner. For me, it isn’t scary or painful. I visualize it releasing toxins and allowing “good vibes” to soak into my body! I definitely feel like it helps with pain, stress, and overall health.

The notion of chiropractic for RA is a tricky one — and it isn’t for everyone.

Some rheumatologists and people with RA advise against seeing a chiropractor, while others are fine with it. I like it in moderation, but some people don’t. It’s up to you and your doctor to decide if it’s a good option.

Most chiropractors advise against chiropractic treatments during an RA flare-up, especially on your neck. I do engage in treatments, but not on my neck because I had neck surgery in 2011.

I find that mild chiropractic work in moderation and for maintenance purposes is a great source of pain relief for me.

I can usually tell when my body needs a chiropractic tune-up. If you decide to try this option, speak with your doctor first. If your doctor approves, find a reputable chiropractor.

For me, physical therapy (PT) is a godsend. In the past, exercise was off-limits for people managing RA. Nowadays, it’s wholly embraced by most doctors.

Like many people living with RA, I feel better with moderate activity. A mild exercise regimen, along with PT as needed, helps keep my joints mobile and my muscles strong and nimble.

PT is also important after some types of surgeries. I had my knee replaced in September 2017, and I still look forward to going to PT 3 times per week, for 2 hours or more per session.

I do 1 hour of hydrotherapy in the pool — including a cool aqua treadmill — and then about 1 hour on land. This includes weight-bearing and range-of-motion exercises.

I wish I had started PT back in middle school when I was first diagnosed! PT has inspired me to want to keep moving.

I don’t know how I would manage without my monthly 90-minute deep tissue massage. Many people with RA find various types of massages helpful. As with chiropractic work, massage should be done only as tolerated.

Different types of massages include:

  • hot stone massages
  • relaxing spa-like massages
  • trigger point massages
  • deep tissue massages
  • and more

You could get a massage at a spa or salon, a physical therapist’s office, or a chiropractic clinic.

I have a monthly membership to a massage and wellness center and go to the same massage therapist each time. This routine is important for my self-care with RA.

I use both infrared heat therapy and LED light therapy. Both options use different types of heat and light to reduce inflammation in your body. A good ol’ microwavable heating pad can do the trick, too!

If you’re looking into infrared heat therapy, I use and recommend Thermotex products.

Biofeedback and meditation go hand in hand. CDs, podcasts, and apps can help anyone learn how to meditate. Some even cater to those with chronic pain.

Through biofeedback and pain management meditation, I’ve learned how to shift my focus away from pain.

It helps me ease stress and anxiety. I’ve tried guided meditation via a CD that my neurologist recommended for pain management. I’ve also used a Muse brain-sensing headband. Both are worth a try, in my opinion.

I prefer a mix of traditional and natural approaches to my health. I believe that an integrative and translational, whole-person approach of mind, body, and spirit is best. A nutritious diet is also very important for a healthy lifestyle while living with RA.

Consult with a doctor or an expert before trying natural or home remedies to manage your health and RA. The options I’ve discussed can generally be used with prescription medications, but it’s still a good idea to check.

Sometimes you have to rely on trial and error, along with sound medical advice, to see what works for you. Once you find what works, all the time and effort spent on your journey to wellness should be worth it.

Editor’s note: This story was originally published on February 2, 2018. Its current publication date reflects a new medical review.

Ashley Boynes-Shuck is a published author, health coach, and patient advocate. Known online as Arthritis Ashley, she blogs at arthritisashley.com and abshuck.com, and writes for Healthline.com. Ashley also works with the Autoimmune Registry and is a member of the Lions Club. She’s written three books: “Sick Idiot,” “Chronically Positive,” and “To Exist.” Ashley lives with RA, JIA, OA, celiac disease, and more. She resides in Pittsburgh with her Ninja Warrior husband and their five pets. Her hobbies include astronomy, birdwatching, traveling, decorating, and going to concerts.