| Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune and inflammatory disease in which the immune system attacks the joints. Treatment usually includes medications that slow the disease and prevent joint deformity, along with self-management strategies to reduce pain and disability. A variety of complementary health approaches have been studied to see if they can help relieve rheumatoid arthritis symptoms: Some psychological or physical complementary health approachesâsuch as relaxation techniques, mindfulness meditation, tai chi, and yogaâmay be beneficial additions to conventional treatment plans for rheumatoid arthritis. However, some studies indicate that these practices may do more to improve other aspects of patientsâ health than to relieve pain. Fish oil supplements may help to alleviate tender joints and morning stiffness in people with rheumatoid arthritis and reduce the need for pain medicine. Oils containing gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), such as evening primrose oil, borage oil, and black currant oil, may have some benefit in relieving rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, but only a few studies have been done on each oil. | 