You may think a new remedy worked because you took it when your symptoms were going away. Arthritis can improve after you do or take something that you believe will help. This is called the placebo effect. The power of positive thinking may cause you to feel better. This improvement usually lasts only a short time.
Studies show that about one-third of the people taking a placebo improve.
This happens even when people take sugar pills. Scientists think the body releases certain chemicals that promote this positive effect. Some aspects of arthritis treatment can also encourage you to turn to unproven remedies. For instance, treatments vary for each type of arthritis. They work differently on every person.