The Ultimate Gift Guide for those who suffer with joint pain

This is what we all know when it comes to aiding joint pain – exercise, weight loss and good nutrition! Altering your lifestyle to meet these criteria can be tricky, and there is nothing quite like the New Year to think about changes like these.

So why not get things started with some Christmas gift inspiration? Click the links to go directly to the product to buy online…

1. Krill oil supplements 

Krill oil is a supplement that contains omega-3 fatty acids called EPA and DHA. Antarctic Krill are tiny crustaceans which contain a substance called Astaxanthin, which is a very potent anti-oxidant that gives them their red colour. This supplement has an effect of reducing inflammation, particularly for people who suffer from knee pain.

My personal recommendation is Superba Krill Oil, as they are a UK-based company which uses a sustainable means of harvesting the krill.

2. Probiotics

Our gut is home to friendly bacteria, of which we should have many different species. We should consider these as friendly co-workers, as opposed to harmful bacteria, and to nurture and feed them wisely.

If you live on a diet of processed foods (breakfast cereal and bread are included in the processed food category, sorry folks!) then you will have a reduced number of friendly bacteria. Less of the good guys means that the bad bacteria can colonise the gut wall, causing it to become inflamed and susceptible to the toxins that harmful bacteria secretes.

The best way to improve your healthy gut bacteria is to eat fermented foods, such as natural yoghurt with culture, unpasteurised cheese, sauerkraut (avoid pasteurised), kimchi or drinking Kefir or apple cider vinegar.

If you really cannot tolerate a dose of fermented food daily, then try taking capsules to start with.

3. 1:1 Pilates or Yoga sessions

If you are suffering from aches and pains, then you need to move more and build up your muscle strength. Having a one-on-one yoga or Pilates lesson can get you on the right path. The more we move and the stronger you get, the less problems you will have.

Not sure where to go for lessons? This website is great for finding classes near you: www.pilatesnearyou.co.uk.

Or you can join our very own exercise group on Facebook here: www.facebook.com/groups/551172978588403.

4. Massage

A good place to start with this one is to massage your partner, however most couples I hear from say they do a few minutes of massage and then complain of sore hands. The solution? A lovely pot of massage cream! This will help to reduce friction and make it easier for the masseur(use) and more enjoyable for the recipient.

At Not Just Backs, we use Songbird massage wax which is available to buy from us in small pots for £8 each. This wax is made specifically for those with aches and pains, as it contains arnica and a mix of natural ingredients, including black pepper, to help with pain.

For a great stocking filler, you could also consider Spiky Massage Balls for just £4.50. These are applied in circular motions for a firm massage and help to improve circulation, stimulate muscles and ease tension. Both of these products can be purchased at our Exeter Street and Tisbury practices.

5. Osteopathy gift vouchers

Before trying any of the above, you may want an expert’s opinion on what is causing your pain and recommendations on the best treatments for your body.

Well I’ve got some great news – gift vouchers are now available to buy! Plus, if you are recommending a friend or loved one, you can use your ‘refer-a -friend’ voucher to get money off: www.notjustbacks.com/referral.

It’s the most wonderful time of the year… but not necessarily the most health conscious. Which is why it’s also a great time to treat your family and friends to something that will benefit them.

If you want to know more about the treatments discussed in this blog, do give us a call on 01722 512 043.