Joint pain: 3-day cure

Have your knees been complaining lately? For nearly two-thirds of us, the answer is yes! That’s because springtime’s rainy days, changing temperatures and even allergies can cause inflammation flare-ups that trigger aches. Thankfully, experts say these na

this stretch

Keeping your muscles and ligaments flexible by regularly stretching your back and legs will reduce your joint pain by 45% in six weeks, say researchers at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway. Feeling great right now? Daily stretching could cut your risk of future stiffness and joint pain by 67%. To do: Sit on the floor with your legs extended. With hands on your shins gently pull yourself forward. Hold for 30 seconds; release. Repeat three times daily.

Take “eggshells”

Eggshell membranes are packed with compounds that dial down inflammation and nourish joints, explains Jason Theodosakis, M.D., author of The Arthritis Cure. Indeed, recent studies suggest a daily 500-mg. dose of natural eggshell membrane (NEM) could cut your joint pain by 72%! Try: Natural Factors NEM (Vitacost.com). Note: Check with your doctor before supplementing.

Try coconut massages

Coconut oil contains a rare group of healing compounds— called medium-chain fatty acids (Mcfas)—that absorb easily through skin. And when MCFAS get into your tissues, they block the production of pain-triggering hormones called prostaglandins. No wonder British researchers say gently massaging tender joints with a dab of coconut oil—ideally, for at least two minutes twice daily— cuts pain and stiffness by as much as 53% in three days.

Sip mango smoothies

Mangos contain an orange pigment (betacryptoxanthin) that cuts joint stiffness and pain by 46% if you enjoy three cups weekly, suggests research in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. Explains study coauthor Deb Symmons, M.D., this colorful nutrient is a natural, side effect–free antiinflammatory and painkiller. Tip: Frozen works just as well as fresh! — Brenda Kearns