Arthritis is a debilitating disease that affects millions of people in America. Besides the traditional treatments there are alternative treatments including reflexology for osteoarthritis.

Wondering what exactly reflexology is? It's a treatment that applies pressure to specific points on the base of the foot. Each pressure point corresponds to an area of the body. Reflexology is used to treat illness, relieve stress, reduce pain, and even prevent illness.

Arthritis is used to describe inflammation of a joint or joints. There are more than 100 different types of arthritis with osteoarthritis being the most common. There are a variety of treatments that are used depending on the severity of the arthritis. If you think you may have arthritis you should see your doctor.

1. Joint stiffness when you wake up that seems to disappear later
2. Stiffness lasts more than 6 weeks
3. Your joint pain does not respond to aspirin, ice packs, or heat.
4. Joints become hot, swollen, red, and painful.
5. Your joints are still swollen after taking aspirin or ibuprofen
6. You have chills and fever

There are a variety of alternative treatments other than reflexology.

1. Acupressure
Is a treatment that works on pressure points. It can help reduce inflammation and pain. Treatments are quite different for thin and heavier set patience. Acupressure treatment that is based off of acupuncture but is a less invasive treatment.
2. Flower Remedy
Moist warm treatments tend to work better than dry treatments such as an electric heating pad. Apply a warm compress for 20 minutes every four hours to help relieve stiffness and the pain.
3. Imagery
This is an alternative treatment that takes a bit of practice. You start by picturing your joint paint and giving it a color, shape, and size. Then you transform that into a liquid and let it flow down your leg to your foot.
4. Juice Therapy
Did you know drinking two glasses of black cherry juice each day can reduce your pain. Fresh is best but not always an option. It is high in anti oxidants that help reduce inflammation.
5. Massage
Can help ease pain and reduce inflammation. Use a light massage oil or vegetable oil to help your hands glide better. Do not massage the joint directly instead massage around it.
6. Nutritional Supplements
A dosage of 500 milligrams of Glucosamine sulfate three times a day helps reduce inflammation and pain. Selenium at 500 international units twice a day is also recommended. Your multivitamin should include the full line of minerals. Your regime should also include 1800 milligrams of fish oil every day.

There are a variety of alternative treatments. This only touches on your options. Some are simpler while others are more complex. You can try as many or as few of these treatments as you like. Remember to always discuss treatments with your doctor before beginning.

Reflexology for osteoarthritis is a simple treatment that's worth trying. You've got nothing to loose and plenty to gain. Wouldn't a little simple relief be great?