Arthritis symptoms: Painful swelling, inflammation, and stiffness in the fingers, wrists, arms or legs occurring in the same joints on both sides of the body, usually upon wakening.

Aromatherapy: Lavender, Juniper, Thyme, Rosemary,  Eucalyptus, Camomile, Ginger and Lemon.

Homeopathy: Bryonia  – eases joint pains which are worse for movement. Rhus tox - joint pains ease off after gentle exercise. Pulsatilla - joint pains move from one joint to another. Caullophyllum - where joints of fingers and toes are affected.

Vitamins/Minerals: Increase intake of Vitamins A, C and E – B complex vitamin 3 times a day, Vitamin D, Calcium, Copper (taken orally or worn as a bracelet and Vitamin B5.

Food: Adversely affected by saturated fats. Positively affected by bromelain, curcumin, fish/fish oil, ginger, olive oil, squash and turmeric.

Reflexology: Reflexes to areas affected – hip, knee, shoulder, spine etc. Zone-related areas. Reflexes to adrenals to reduce inflammation. Reflexes to thyroid and parathyroid – for calcium balance. Reflexes to intestines, kidneys – to improve elimination. Reflexes to pituitary – for hormone balance. Reflexes to solar plexus – for relaxation and pain relief.