The experiences and practices of homoeopathic practitioners in the management of rheumatoid arthritis in KwaZulu-Natal

Abstract

Background Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a persistent autoimmune condition marked by joint inflammation, resulting in pain, swelling, and ultimately the deterioration of the joints. Although allopathic medication and physiotherapy are used to manage this condition, little to no research has been conducted in South Africa on the holistic approach that homoeopathic practitioners use to manage this condition. Patients with RA require prolonged treatment which comes with adverse side effects due to the multiple medications that are prescribed. In addition, these medications can be quite expensive. This has been one of the reasons why patients with RA frequently seek alternative treatment that has little to no adverse effects. The aim of this study was to explore the management and treatment practices that homoeopathic practitioners in the KwaZulu-Natal use to manage RA. Methodology The research methodology employed a qualitative, exploratory, descriptive approach that involved semi-structured interviews with 12 homoeopathic practitioners in the KwaZulu-Natal province, focusing on their treatment and management strategies for RA. Each semi structured interview was conducted at a location chosen by the practitioners for their convenience. The interviews were recorded, with each session lasting approximately 25 minutes and structured around the interview guide developed by the researcher. Purposive sampling was utilised. A pilot study was carried out to establish trustworthiness and also to validate the data collection tool. The researcher used qualitative thematic analysis to derive themes from the gathered data. Findings The findings of the study identified four themes: knowledge of rheumatoid arthritis, treatment approach used by homoeopaths in the management of rheumatoid arthritis, challenges in managing rheumatoid arthritis, and, outcomes of homoeopathic treatment. The findings of the study revealed that participants primarily use constitutional homoeopathic remedies which are chosen based on the patient's overall constitution and expression of symptoms. Adjunctive therapies employed include phytotherapy, gemmotherapy and biopuncture which contribute to inflammation reduction as well as detoxification processes. Additionally, vitamins and supplements are regularly prescribed to enhance joint health. Conclusion The study concluded that RA requires a multi-dimensional approach to treatment, with an emphasis on constitutional remedies tailored to individual patient symptom presentation. The incorporation of adjunctive therapies and lifestyle modifications illustrates the overall approach which focuses on alleviating symptoms and enhancing overall health.