Rheumatoid arthritis: reducing inflammation and addressing underlying triggers
The pain and swelling of rheumatoid arthritis can affect more than just your joints. Functional medicine looks beyond symptom management, addressing immune system triggers and underlying inflammation to help improve quality of life.
Treat rheumatoid arthritis naturally
Are you looking for a natural way to treat your rheumatoid arthritis? The page covers:
At Melbourne Functional Medicine, we’ll work with you to reduce the pain, inflammation and restriction of rheumatoid arthritis through our award winning approach to healthcare.
What is rheumatoid arthritis?
Understanding your condition
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition mainly affecting the joints. The body’s own immune system attacks cells in the fluid and tissues of the joint capsule causing inflammation and the breakdown of cartilage, bone and ligaments. This can result in pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints, affecting mobility and day-to-day tasks, and can be debilitating. Rheumatoid arthritis is most common in the hands, wrists, feet, ankles and knees.
What is rheumatoid arthritis?
Understanding your condition
Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition mainly affecting the joints. The body’s own immune system attacks cells in the fluid and tissues of the joint capsule causing inflammation and the breakdown of cartilage, bone and ligaments. This can result in pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints, affecting mobility and day-to-day tasks, and can be debilitating. Rheumatoid arthritis is most common in the hands, wrists, feet, ankles and knees.
Rheumatoid arthritis natural treatment
Rheumatoid arthritis can be treated effectively with natural evidence-based treatment strategies, such as those that our functional medicine-trained naturopaths provide. Reducing pain, improving the immune system response, and reducing triggers and inflammation can all be achieved with natural herbal medicines, supplementary nutrients, dietary changes and lifestyle medicine. Our rheumatoid arthritis functional medicine practitioners use effective and holistic treatment strategies personalised to suit you.
What are the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis?
Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms develop over weeks or months, with fatigue and stiffness commonly showing as early symptoms. Symptoms can vary from day to day, with flares of more intense pain, fatigue, and inflammation occurring.
Symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include:
- Heat and swelling at the joint site
- Joint pain and stiffness in the morning or after resting, lasting for more than 30 minutes
- Three or more sensitive areas, and swollen joints, simultaneously
- Pain with pressure in the legs and arms
- Symmetrical symptoms – the same joints on both sides of the body are affected, which are typically the small joints of the hands, wrists, feet and ankles
- Large joints such as hips and knees can be affected less commonly
- Rheumatoid nodules formed at pressure points e.g. elbows, knuckles, lower leg and spine, ranging from a pea to a mothball in size
- Deformity of joints, often to fingers and hands
- Symptoms in other parts of the body such as lungs or eyes
- Persistent flu like symptoms, mild fever and fatigue
- Loss of appetite and weight loss
Rheumatoid arthritis can affect people at any age, but usually occurs between 30-60 years of age, and affects women more than men.
Reduce your rheumatoid arthritis naturally
What causes rheumatoid arthritis?
The causes of autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis are still not entirely clear, however emerging evidence shows that most cases arise from a combination of genetic and epigenetic factors.
People with a genetic predisposition towards rheumatoid arthritis can trigger the condition, as a result of exposure to risk factors, such as:
- Smoking (a strong risk factor)
- Viral, bacterial or parasitic infections
- Dysbiosis of the gut microbiome
- Mucosal inflammation
- Systemic inflammation
- Environmental exposures to dust (silica) or air pollution (particularly high exposure such as a workplace)
- Diets high in red meat, sodium and iron
- Obesity
- Low Vitamin D intake/levels
- Low omega-3 fatty acid consumption
- Low dietary antioxidants
- Hormone changes (especially early menopause, PCOS and pre-eclampsia)
- Dental disease and other sources of inflammation
These factors have been associated with rheumatoid arthritis and may contribute to the ‘turning on’ of specific genes that trigger the development of rheumatoid arthritis.
A link between food reactions and rheumatoid arthritis exists, which the following foods being common triggers for rheumatoid arthritis flares:
- Wheat
- Corn
- Soy
- Dairy
- Sugar
- Citrus fruits
- Tobacco
- Coffee
- Animal protein, especially red meat
- Vegetable oils (except extra virgin and cold-pressed pure seed and nut oils)
- Nightshade vegetables (which may inhibit collagen repair needed for joint healing in some people)
Rheumatoid arthritis treatment – the conventional approach
The conventional approach to rheumatoid arthritis treatment in Australia involves diagnosis and treatment to reduce the impact of symptoms. Your doctor may first require blood tests to look for signs of inflammation, and specific rheumatoid arthritis antibodies in tests such as:
- Anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide or anti-CCP
- Rheumatoid factor (RhF)
- C-reactive protein (CRP)
- Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)
- Antinuclear antibody (AA)
Not all people with rheumatoid arthritis will test positive for antibodies, so your doctor may also require X-rays to look for the degree of joint damage. If it is suspected that you have rheumatoid arthritis, you will most likely be referred to a specialist rheumatologist.
There is no conventional treatment cure for rheumatoid arthritis, however, your doctor may prescribe medications, such as:
- Non steroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
- Disease modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs)
- Biological DMARDs
- Corticosteroid injections, or medicines
Unfortunately, all of the above medications have side effects, may cause further complications or additional symptoms, and do not address the causes and contributing factors.
Your doctor may also prescribe exercise, as a way to keep muscles and joints strong and flexible. Surgery may be considered in severe conditions where there is loss of function or joints are very painful.
Many people seek more natural treatments like the functional medicine approach to avoid unwanted side effects of medications, and improve their symptoms and quality of life by addressing the root cause.
What is the best diet for rheumatoid arthritis?
The best diet for rheumatoid arthritis is one that is tailored specifically to what you require. No two people are exactly alike, and each person will have different triggers that may not be limited to food. It is important not to exclude any whole foods that are not triggering, as this can lead to nutritional imbalances, which can make symptoms worse.
Generally, an anti-inflammatory diet is recommended for anyone with an autoimmune condition as inflammation is a common factor. In addition, the following foods are often included in a personalised rheumatoid arthritis diet plan:
- Wild-caught oily fish – such as sardines, mackerel, herrings, anchovies and salmon
- Fresh, whole, unprocessed fruits and vegetables
- Turmeric, ginger, green tea
- Extra virgin olive oil (shown to be equivalent to ibuprofen as anti-inflammatory)
- Berries, nuts and seeds
- Green juices and smoothies, reducing the acidity of tissues
Having the guidance of a nutrition expert who understands the nutritional requirements of autoimmune conditions, especially in rheumatoid arthritis, will help create a dietary food plan for your specific set of circumstances.
Rheumatoid arthritis natural treatment – the functional medicine approach
Functional medicine is well-placed to treat chronic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. As a holistic healthcare modality, your functional medicine rheumatoid arthritis practitioner will first take a detailed case history to identify the triggers and other contributing factors that may be aggravating your condition. In your initial 4-hour consultation, your practitioner will investigate:
- Your family history and genetic predispositions
- Your personal medical history from birth
- Your environmental exposures, at home, work and leisure
- Diet and lifestyle
- Stress and mood health
- Hormonal health
- History of medications
- Digestive health
With this information, your practitioner will have a greater insight into which body systems are affected and design a personalised treatment plan. Your evidence-based treatment plan will include dietary modifications to remove any food intolerances, allergies or sensitivities, and any foods that are triggers for pain and inflammation. Your diet plan would include anti-inflammatory foods that provide specific nutrients to support your body. This multi-pronged approach will be designed to reduce triggers, improve joint healing, and address other factors contributing to pain and inflammation.
Your treatment may include the following strategies:
Reducing systemic inflammation, which contributes to flare-ups:
- Including improving gut microbiota species make-up and diversity with probiotics, dietary fibre and supplemental prebiotic fibres
- Ensuring any dental/oral inflammation is being treated
- Treating any signs of intestinal hyperpermeability (also known as leaky gut) to reduce inflammation and further allergic reactions
- Treat other conditions that may exacerbate symptoms, e.g. diabetes, hypothyroidism, lupus, etc.
- Improve digestive and liver function to ensure elimination of any toxins or irritants that might be contributing to inflammation
Reducing pain and inflammation with herbal and supplementary medicines such as:
- Curcumin – a powerful anti-inflammatory, which down-regulates proinflammatory cytokines (chemical messengers that promote inflammation)
- Corydalis – herbal pain relief
- California poppy – herbal pain relief, sleep aid
- Devils claw – pain relief
- Omega 3 fatty acids (Fish oil) – reduces pain and inflammation
- Vitamin D, Zinc, Selenium, glutamine, and glucosamine – all required for healing and immune function
Modulating immune reactivity with herbal and supplementary medicines, such as:
- Cat’s claw, curcumin, echinacea, baical skullcap
- Mushroom extracts, such as maitake, shiitake, reishi, cordyceps, P. linteus
Reducing fatigue and supporting the nervous system function (particularly, with corticosteroid use) with herbal and supplementary medicines such as:
- Withania and/or rhodiola
- Magnesium
Lifestyle practices to promote weight loss, for stress resilience and promote mobility, such as:
- Gentle daily exercise, walking – particularly in nature, yoga, tai chi, stretching
- Meditation and mindfulness
- Vagal nerve stimulation techniques such as singing, gargling, yawning, and laughing
In our signature, personalised program, your functional medicine practitioner will guide your treatment. At the same time, your health coach will support and empower you to make the changes necessary to reduce pain and inflammation and improve your health and quality of life.
Ready for a personalised, natural functional medicine treatment?
Our unique model of care was designed with you in mind. Find out how, then book a call today
Frequently
Asked
Questions
Is rheumatoid arthritis hereditary?
Yes. The genetic susceptibility to develop rheumatoid arthritis can be inherited, but carrying these genes does not guarantee you will develop the condition.
As is often said, “the genes load the gun, and the environment pulls the trigger.” Environmental factors such as smoking, air pollution, viral infections, poor diet, allergies, or other exposures can influence whether the condition is expressed.
By minimising triggers and supporting immune resilience through lifestyle and nutrition, you may reduce the risk of those genes being switched on and developing rheumatoid arthritis.
What is the best natural treatment for rheumatoid arthritis?
The best natural treatment for rheumatoid arthritis begins with identifying your personal triggers, which may include:
- Smoking or alcohol
- Allergen exposure
- Infections (e.g., gum disease, dental abscess, viruses, bacteria)
- Dietary triggers or food intolerances
- Gut flora disruptions (IBS, SIBO)
- Poor or suboptimal diet
Once triggers are identified, the next step is to reduce, treat, or eliminate them, while applying strategies that reduce inflammation and support healing, such as:
- Curcumin (from turmeric): anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-modulating
- Ginger: in food or tea, to reduce inflammation
- Green tea: anti-inflammatory with antibacterial and antiviral properties
- High-quality fish oil (rich in Omega-3 fatty acids): shown to modulate inflammation and reduce pain
For long-term relief, working with a functional medicine practitioner who understands rheumatoid arthritis can provide a personalised treatment plan tailored to your overall health needs.
What is the difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis?
Osteoarthritis (OA):
- Caused by wear and tear that damages the joints over time
- More common than rheumatoid arthritis
- Often affects large joints such as the knees or hips
- May occur in only one joint or on one side of the body
- Pain is typically worse after activity or at the end of the day
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA):
- An autoimmune condition, where the immune system attacks the joint lining (synoviocytes), leading to damage of cartilage, tendons, and bone
- More commonly affects the small joints of the hands, wrists, feet, and ankles
- Usually symmetrical (appearing on both sides of the body)
- Characterised by morning stiffness and pain that often improves with movement
- Pain and inflammation can flare, often triggered by factors like specific foods, allergens, stress, or environmental exposures (e.g., mould, exhaust fumes, silica dust)
Can you treat rheumatoid arthritis naturally?
Yes. Rheumatoid arthritis can be supported naturally by reducing pain and inflammation while modulating immune function. This often involves herbal and nutritional therapies, such as:
- Curcumin: anti-inflammatory and antioxidant
- Corydalis and California poppy: for pain management
- Devil’s claw: for joint support and inflammation reduction
- Omega-3 fatty acids (from quality fish oil): to modulate inflammation
- Vitamin D, zinc, selenium, glutamine, and glucosamine: nutrients important for healing and immune balance
Equally important is identifying your personal triggers, as they vary from person to person.
At Melbourne Functional Medicine, a functional medicine practitioner will work with you to uncover underlying causes and reduce inflammation through a personalised treatment plan, while a health coach helps you implement changes with clarity and confidence.
Is there a natural treatment for rheumatoid arthritis in Melbourne?
Yes. At Melbourne Functional Medicine, we offer a program dedicated to supporting people with rheumatoid arthritis through a personalised and holistic treatment plan.
Your functional medicine practitioner will work with you to create a tailored approach that addresses underlying triggers and supports immune balance, while your health coach helps you put these changes into action so you can move toward lasting relief and better wellbeing.
What are usually the first signs of rheumatoid arthritis?
The first signs of rheumatoid arthritis can vary from person to person. Fatigue and joint stiffness, especially in the morning or after periods of rest, are the most common early symptoms. Some people may also notice swelling, tenderness, or warmth in the small joints of the hands, wrists, or feet.
Who can treat rheumatoid arthritis naturally?
Rheumatoid arthritis can be supported naturally by working with functional medicine or naturopathic practitioners who take a holistic, personalised approach.
These practitioners:
- Identify triggers such as food intolerances, allergies, gut imbalances, and environmental exposures that may contribute to flares
- Address inflammation through diet, lifestyle, herbal medicines, and targeted nutrients
- Support energy and overall wellbeing by treating fatigue and other related symptoms with natural strategies
This approach focuses on reducing pain, restoring balance, and helping you manage rheumatoid arthritis beyond symptom relief.
Is rheumatoid arthritis considered a disability in Australia
Rheumatoid arthritis can be disabling because of the joint pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility it can cause, particularly in severe cases. However, according to the Department of Social Services, it is not classified as a permanent disability in Australia.
That said, if your symptoms significantly affect your ability to work or carry out daily activities, you may be eligible for financial assistance such as the Disability Support Pension or other government payments.
For up-to-date details on eligibility and support, visit the Services Australia website.
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