Hand Pain From Arthritis Joints

Your hands are involved in almost every activity that you do and degenerative arthritis is highly likely to impact you at some time in your life. Everything you do, during your waking hours, involves the use of your hands. There are very few jobs that do not require strength and/or dexterity in the hands, whether it be a surgeon or a bricklayer.

Everyday jobs in the house, such as cooking, cleaning and particularly D-I-Y, can be a real concern if you have pain and stiffness in your hands. If your grip is weak or insecure, there is definite danger in the kitchen, with hot liquids and heavy utensils.

INFLAMMATION: is defined as a localized reaction of tissue to injury, infection or irritation,and that is the cause of the pain, stiffness and swelling in your joints. Inflammation symptoms certainly include pain and stiffness and may also show redness and swelling and, in some serious cases, distortion of the joint We commonly think of inflammation as the painful element of arthritis.

TREATMENT: is designed to relieve pain and restore function. Anti-inflammatory or other analgesic medication, with or without food supplements, such as glucosamine and/or chondroitin, may be of benefit in relieving pain.

You must take care not to over-use anti-inflammatory drugs. Arthritis sufferers with other medical conditions may find these drugs can have adverse reactions and exacerbate these other conditions, resulting in heart attacks, strokes or intestinal bleeding. An alternative way to get the anti-inflammatory effects is to use a cream or lotion to rub on the joint and therefore avoid ingesting the drug. This is best applied at bedtime. (See comments below on anti-inflammatory foods)

Heat treatment, either in the form of warm wax or paraffin baths, or by heat from a radiant health lamp may provide alleviation from the pain but it won't cure the condition. It is important to sustain motion in the fingers and use the hand as successfully as possible.

Plunging the hand in hot water, followed by cold water or ice and repeating the process will improve the circulation and bring temporary relief. A cortisone injection can often provide relief of symptoms, but does not cure the arthritis.

Surgery is a last resort, when the pain has become too great or where the stiffness and lack of movement has rendered the hand unusable. Sometimes the surgeon will decide to fuse the joint, by inserting a screw or a plate, which will unfortunately curtail the movement in that joint.

Depending on the patient and the severity of the operation, it can take a long time to recover from this operation. I had this operation on my right wrist and it was six months before I could hit a golf ball.

DIET: You can do a great deal to reduce your arthritis symptoms by eating a sensible diet.

Many foods have strong anti-inflammatory properties, including vegetables, fruits, herbs and spices. Ginger and turmeric are particularly good.

Fish oils, which contain two Omega 3 fatty acids, called EPA and DHA, are vital in keeping us in top form, particularly when it comes to heart and joints. Oily fish, such as sardines, tuna, mackerel and salmon are an important part of your diet, to provide Omega 3 oils, or an alternative to fish is cold pressed flax seed oil.

Foods containing a lot of animal fats are best avoided, together with preservatives and sugar. Processed foods and ready meals contain high levels of saturated fats. Processed meats such as lunch meats, hot dogs and sausages contain chemicals such as nitrites that are associated with increased inflammation and chronic disease.

Reduce smoking, which reduces the amount of oxygen in the tissues.

Pay attention to the Body Mass Index (recommended between 20 and 25) as an indication of your optimum body weight.

Minerals, vitamins and antioxidants are vitally important. Vitamin E combined with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids has been shown to reduce the severity of the arthritis and reduce the pain. Fruit and vegetables are a fundamental component of a healthy diet, because they contain a rich supply of antioxidants.

Vitamin D is not present in many foods. It plays a crucial part in helping the body absorb calcium, which is necessary for bone strength and in fighting osteoporosis. So, it's a good idea to take vitamin D supplements, but an even better idea is expose your skin to sunlight daily (always with caution), in order to force your body to produce more vitamin D.

EXERCISE, however painful and distasteful, is essential if the disease is not to get progressively worse. If you don't keep your fingers moving, the stiffness and pain will surely get worse. Just going about your daily household tasks will ensure you get some movement but some specific exercises each day will improve flexibility. Just washing your hands in a basin of hot water will help to increase the circulation and reduce the pain.

HOUSEHOLD AIDS: There is a great and varied selection of devices to help you cope more easily in the home.

One small tool removes pills from various pill packs and collects them in the handle.

A key turner has a curved built in handle to fit yale or mortice type door keys, providing extra leverage.

You can buy a tool, with a long handle, which fits over most types of tap and will give you much more leverage with little effort.

Special Pencil and Pen Grips make writing more controllable.

Wearing oedema gloves during the night may bring comfort and relief from the pain. They provide gentle compression which acts to reduce swelling and the pain of arthritis in the wrists and hands.

A handiplug consists of a standard three pin plug base with a looped handle to facilitate removal.

Mounted table scissors can be operated by the pressure of one hand depressing the "T" shaped handle. Once pressure is released, the scissors open automatically.

Most telephone companies supply phones designed especially for customers with weak or stiff fingers and easy-to-operate light switches are also available.

Arthritis Pain Relief - Can Topical Creams Really Help?

Topical remedies tackle mild arthritis pain.

If your arthritis pain is mild and you don't take oral pain medication every day, rubbing a topical pain reliever on the bothersome area can be a good alternative. Following are the most widely used topicals.

Counterirritants mask arthritis pain by stimulating the nerves to produce a slightly uncomfortable warm or cool sensation. That distractts you from the more intense joint pain. These products may contain menthol, camphor, eucalyptus oil, or oil of winter green. Brand names include Icy Hot Chill Stick, Ben Gay, and ArthriCare. These products cause a temporary redness of the skin and work best on joints near the surface, such as fingers, elbows, and knees.

Topical NSAID's contain salicylates, chemical cousins of aspirin, and relieve pain the same way oral NSAID's do. Their effects, however are restricted to the surface and avoid some of the problems associated with oral NSAIDs. Topical NSAIDs include Aspercreme, Sportscreme, and Myoflex. People who are allergic to aspirin or who take medications that interact adversely with aspirin shouldn't use a topical NSAID because a bit of it is absorbed into the bloodstream.

Capsaicin. The topical pain relievers Zostrix and Capzacin-P contain capsaicin, the chemical that gives hot peppers their bite. Capsaicin lowers levels of substance P, which relays pain impulses to the brain and is involved in inflammation. Capsaicin-based products must be applied three or four times a day for up to several weeks before their benefits are noticeable. Burning, stinging, and redness often occur in the first days of treatment, but then subside.

Do's and don'ts of topicals: Be sure to wash your hands after applying any topical pain reliever. Avoid contact with broken or irritated skin and the eyes, nose, and mouth. If severe irritation develops, stop using the product immediately. Some products warn users not to apply a bandage or heat to the treated area. Don't use a topical medication just before a workout, as perspiration can cause the skin to absorb too much of it.

Three Reasons Why Spinal Arthritis Is More Difficult To Treat Than Hip or Knee Arthritis

The joints of the spine are called facet joints. They are located on both sides of the spine at every level up and down the spinal column all the way from the skull down to the sacrum.

Each of these joints combines to allow humans an incredible range of motion of the spines, permitting bending and twisting to an exceptional degree. Unfortunately though, each of these joints has cartilage and it has the potential for arthritis either due to age with loss of cartilage or trauma with damage to cartilage and subsequent arthritis pain.

Spinal arthritis is more difficult to treat than that of an extremity such as the hip or the knee. Here are the three main reasons why this is the case.

1. The number of joints in the spine is much higher. When you're dealing with hip or knee arthritis, there is one on each side. When you're dealing with spinal joints, there is one on each side at every level. Each of them is prone to developing arthritis and pain. even though the joints are considerably smaller, arthritis at any one facet joint can cause just as much pain as arthritis in a knee or a hip joint.

Typically when a person develops arthritis in a facet joint, he or she has arthritis in multiple facet joints which would need to be treated. Figuring out which is causing the pain and treating appropriately is much more difficult in a spinal arthritis situation than for the hip or knee.

2. Figuring out the source of the pain is more difficult. Even the best trained spine doctors who are board-certified can only tell people 50% of the time exactly why their back hurts. This is one of the shortcomings of back pain treatment, that the world of modern medicine is simply farther along when it comes to hip or knee arthritis than for that of the spine.

What this means is that if a pain management doctor does an injection into one of the facet joints of the lumbar spine, it may relieve part of a person's back pain, but a decent amount of the time they will still have significant residual pain. Pain management doctors have developed some more specific techniques to delineate the source of a person's pain, including facet joint injections and medial branch blocks as diagnostic tools. This will continue to improve, however, currently it makes spinal arthritis more difficult to deal with than that of the hip or knee.

3. Surgical outcomes for spinal arthritis treatments are not as good as that of total joint replacement for the hip or knee. Out of all the surgeries done for quality-of-life in the world, total hip and total knee replacement are in the top five overall. They are unbelievable game changers when it comes to decreasing pain and increasing function.

The same cannot be said for surgery for spinal arthritis. Although artificial disc replacement has been in existence since 2004, it has not been shown to be as good of a procedure as extremity joint replacement. In addition, there is no FDA approved procedure for replacing the facet joints in the back of the spine. What this means is that if a person undergoes surgery for facet arthritis, it will involve a spinal fusion. Satisfactory results after these treatments are in the 50 to 75% range, whereas knee replacement surgeries are typically over 90% satisfactory with outcomes.

The hope is that with modern medical techniques advancing, diagnosing the exact areas of spinal arthritis will become more exact and the results will be better with surgery. For now, nonsurgical pain management treatment is actually very good at reducing pain. it just takes more diagnostic tools and thought-provoking maneuvers to make sure the proper levels are being treated with the appropriate procedures.

Arthritis Prevention And Relief

About 50 million people in the U.S. have some form of arthritis. Arthritis is a general term that means inflammation of the joints and is often accompanied by symptoms such as redness, swelling, stiffness, and pain.

There are more than 100 types of arthritis with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis being the most common. Causes vary depending on the type of arthritis. However, in all arthritic conditions, the degeneration of joints involves some ongoing biochemical processes which negatively alter the metabolism that is essential for maintaining healthy joints.

Common Forms Of Arthritis

Here is a brief explanation of some frequently diagnosed forms of arthritis:

Osteoarthritis (OA), also known as degenerative arthritis or wear-and-tear arthritis, is the most prevalent type of arthritis affecting over 20 million Americans. OA is the degeneration of the cartilage within a joint. The synovial fluid that keeps the joint lubricated and cushioned is typically reduced as well, eventually leading to abnormal bone changes. OA is the most common form of arthritis. It is not a systemic condition and does not spread throughout the body. It affects only the joint(s) where the deterioration has occurred, of which most common are the knees, hips, spine, hands, and toes.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic inflammatory disease which manifests itself in multiple joints of the body, especially the fingers, wrists, feet, and ankles. It primarily affects the lining of the joints (synovial membrane), leading to erosions of the cartilage and bone and sometimes, joint deformity. RA may also affect nearly every other part of the body. It is an autoimmune disease, which means the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the healthy tissues. RA usually affects joints on both sides of the body equally and is often associated with fatigue and prolonged stiffness after rest.

Gouty arthritis is a defective metabolic disease of uric acid crystals depositing in the smaller bones of the feet and is usually accompanied with acute pain. Uric acid is a metabolic product of fructose and purines (nitrogen compounds) found in meats and organ meats.

Juvenile arthritis refers to all types of arthritis that occur in children.

Adkylosing spondylitis affects the spine. Due to inflammation, the bones of the spine grow together.

Fibromyalgia affects the muscles and attachments to the bone. It is most commonly found in women.

Infectious or septic arthritis is infection of one or more joints caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi. In some cases, infectious arthritis can occur as a manifestation of Lyme disease, which is transmitted through the bite of an infected deer tick.
Psoriatic arthritis is a form of inflammatory arthritis that is associated with the autoimmune skin disease called psoriasis.

Systemic lupus erthematosus (lupus) is an autoimmune disorder that can inflame the skin, joints and connective tissues, kidneys, brain and other organs throughout the body.

Causes Of Arthritis

The causes associated with inflammation of the joints depend on the form of arthritis. They may include:

Age: The older you are, the more likely you are to develop arthritis, especially osteoarthritis.

Autoimmunity: Rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and lupus arthritis are examples of autoimmune disorders in which the body's tissues are attacked by its own immune system.

Heredity: Scientists have discovered that the genetic marker HLA-DR4 is linked to rheumatoid arthritis, and HLA-B27 to ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis. Although having the gene doesn't mean that you will absolutely get this form of arthritis, you can if the conditions are right.

Infections: Some forms of arthritis are the result of bacteria, viruses, or fungi that can either cause the disease or trigger it in susceptible people. Lyme arthritis comes from bacteria transmitted by the bite of a deer tick. Rheumatoid arthritis may be triggered by a virus in people with a certain genetic marker.

Metabolic abnormalities: Gout, which affects mostly men, is the result of a defect in body chemistry, and in this case, the metabolism of uric acid.

Overuse: Repetitive motions can put tremendous strain on joints. Sustaining an injury to a joint further increases the odds of developing osteoarthritis in that joint.

Eat Right To Beat Joint Inflammation

Check for food sensitivities

Researchers found that rheumatoid arthritis and many other autoimmune disorders are highly related to food sensitivities, one of which is gluten. Gluten is a protein composite found in grass-related grains such as wheat, rye, barley, spelt, and kamut.

When the immune system misidentifies certain foods as "foreign", chemicals are released from immune cells to destroy these "invaders". As a result, tissue inflammation and damage occurs.

Overtime, food sensitivities compromise the integrity of the gastrointestinal lining and lead to a condition called "leaky gut syndrome", whereby molecules that are usually too large to exit through the gastrointestinal lining escape to the bloodstream, causing systemic inflammation and in some cases, joint destruction.

If you have autoimmune-related arthritis, you should get a blood test, such as the Mediator Release Test (test for IgG, IgM, C3, C4), for food sensitivities. You can contact me if you need to do this test. Once you have determined your reactive foods, abstain from eating them for 3-6 months. The best way to be sure that a reactive food is safe again to eat is to challenge it by having it three times a day for three consecutive days. If no adverse symptoms appear, you are no longer sensitive to it.

More Omega-3, Less Omega-6

Cyclooxygenase or COX is an enzyme your body produces that regulates prostaglandins, which are mediators and messengers. There are two different COX enzymes - COX-1 and COX-2. COX-1 is an enzyme that regulates prostaglandins that maintain the health of your stomach and kidneys. COX-2 is an enzyme created when there is inflammation.

When you take a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen to treat pain and inflammation, it inhibits the production of COX-2, hence, reducing pain and speeding up the recovery. However, one of the side effects of NSAID is that it also inhibits COX-1. Since COX-1 keeps your stomach lining healthy and affects blood clotting, NSAID has the tendency to cause stomach irritation and ulcers.

Fortunately, there is a non-drug way to cut down your inflammation. Researchers learned that COX-2 enzymes become more active and cause more inflammation when you take in too much omega-6 fatty acids relative to omega-3 fatty acids in your diet.

Omega-6 fatty acids are abundantly found in corn, cottonseed, safflower, soybean, sunflower, and vegetable oils. Beware that many processed foods, snack foods, deep fried foods, and restaurant foods are prepared with such oils, so you want to keep consumption of these products to a minimum.

Foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids are fatty, cold-water fish such as Alaskan salmon, anchovies, sardines, and herrings and meats from grass-fed animals. Numerous studies have shown that omega-3 fats are remarkably effective in combating inflammation-related disorders, including arthritis.

Lastly, you should never use canola oil although it has been marketed as "heart-healthy" and is higher in omega-3 and lower in omega-6. The reason is that canola does not come from a natural plant but instead, the genetically engineered rapeseed plant. What's more, a recent study indicates that canola contributes to vitamin E deficiency, a vitamin that's essential for a healthy heart.

Eat Your Vegetables

Have generous servings of organically grown vegetables every day. They are low in sugar and full of antioxidants which help reduce tissue damage from inflammation.

However, when you have arthritis, you should avoid the nightshade vegetables (eggplant, all kinds of peppers, white potatoes, and tomatoes). They contain a substance called solanine, to which some people are highly sensitive. Solanine interferes with enzymes in the muscles and may cause pain and discomfort.

Other Nutrients For Joint Health

Astaxanthin

• Belongs to a group of natural pigments in the carotenoid family. Sea creatures with a red or pinkish color such as salmon, lobster, shrimp, and crab get this color from a diet of krill and other small organisms that eat astaxanthin-rich algae and plankton.


• Research found that astaxanthin is the strongest natural antioxidant known. It is many times more potent than vitamin C, E, beta-carotene, lutein, or pycnogenol. However, you need a higher concentration than what you normally get in seafood to reap the benefits.


• Astaxanthin is a very effective remedy for joint pain from osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.


• If you have arthritis, start with 2 mg a day and gradually build up to 8-10 mg a day. Make sure your astaxanthin supplement is derived from marine algae and not synthetic.

Vitamin D

• Cartilage loss, one of the distinctive signs of osteoarthritis, is associated with low levels of vitamin D. If you have joint pain due to osteoarthritis, get a blood test for your vitamin D level. The optimal is between 50-70 ug/ml.

Glucosamine

• Provides joints with the building blocks they need to help repair the wear-and-tear on cartilage.


• Takes a few months to build up enough to see a benefit. If you have arthritis, you need to take up 2-3 grams a day.


• Many glucosamine supplements come with chondroitin or MSM (methylsulfonylmethane). Studies on the effectiveness of chondroitin and MSM have been inconclusive.


• Glucosamine supplements are always attached to salt. If your body is sensitive to salt, you should be careful with it.


• Most of the glucosamine on the market is derived from shellfish. If you are allergic to shellfish, you should avoid it.


• Some studies found that glucosamine may raise blood sugar levels in some people. If you are diabetic, you should be very cautious.

Concentrated tart cherry juice

• Most effective for gouty arthritis. Drink several tablespoons per day.

Exercise To Keep Joints Healthy & Flexible

Exercise is a must when you have arthritis. It helps build muscles, increase joint flexibility, and improve your general sense of well-being. If you have not been exercising regularly, start slowly and build up to higher activity levels to prevent injuries. Avoid intense activities that may strain the affected joint(s).

Your goal is to keep moving and commit yourself to regular exercise that includes these three types of activities:

• flexibility exercises (such as stretching, tai chi, yoga)


• weight training to strengthen surrounding muscles that support and protect the joint(s)


• aerobic exercises (such as walking, swimming, stationary cycling)

If you have significant pain with movement, you should consider working with a physical therapist or qualified personal trainer who can develop a safe and effective workout program for you.

Lose Weight If You Are Overweight

One of the benefits of exercise is its ability to help you achieve and maintain your ideal weight. Arthritis rates are more than twice as high in obese people as those who are normal weight. If you are overweight or obese, you have a higher risk of developing osteoarthritis. Each additional pound of body weight increases the compressive load over your knee by roughly four pounds. Fat cells also produce cytokines which are proteins that encourage inflammation. The more fats cells you have, the more inflammation in the body.

How to Cure Arthritis Naturally Using Herbal Remedies

Arthritis is a chronic disease that means the inflammation of your joints. At first all the body suffers some effects and some of the joints might become deformed. The patient remains handicapped and weakened. This disease usually appears in the elderly and inflammation that affects the bones and the joints is its distinctive feature.

There are over 150 types of types of arthritis and in all cases bones and joints are affected. Osteoarthritis, gout and rheumatoid arthritis are the most frequent types of arthritis.

Arthritis Causes

Cold climate and damp, severe jolt, trauma of an accident or bad falls are the most common causes of arthritis. Unfortunately there are many other factors that can cause this awful disease.

Another factor is joint instability. A recurrent or severe joint injury can be provoked by an intense physical activity, by an excessive overweight. Practicing sports like basketball, athletics, and so on can lead to this disease, too.

Hormonal factor is another cause. This factor is more common at women than at men. The explanation is simple: women suffer serious hormonal changes during the menopause.

The environmental factors are very important when it is about arthritis. The persons that live in damp conditions are very exposed to this kind of disease. Stress is another factor. During the stressed periods, the immune system of the body becomes weaker and the arthritis can occur. More on, stress can disturb the hormonal balance of the body provoking this disease. Other factors are psychological factors, food allergy nutrient deficiency.

Herbal Remedies

Juniper, Rosemary, Dilute Garlic, Sassafras, Lavender, Thyme, or Sage oils are some of the herbals used successfully in arthritis treatments. These oils are mixed with olive oil and used to massage the affected joints. For example mix 1 part of Juniper oil or of Sassafras oil with ten parts of olive oil and make a gentle massage of the affected joint.

Hot vinegar can be also used to get an immediate relief. The aching joints are rubbed gently with hot vinegar every evening, before going to bed.

It is well known that dandelion leaves have diuretic effects that increase the kidneys output, while the dandelion roots are liver tonic and mild laxative that are able to enhance the bowel movement and to prevent arthritis.

Essential oils like Cypress, Juniper and Lemon have tissue-cleansing properties and they are used to improve circulation around the affected joints. Due to their anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties Chamomile, Rosemary and Lavender are often used in arthritis treatments.

Powder four peeled pieces of garlic with 2 grams of Sprague and dip them in thirty grams of mustard. Hit them slowly and massage your aching joints every day.

Mix 10 grams of camphor with 200 gram of mustard oil and pour them in a bottle. Close the bottle with a tight cork and expose it to the sun light. After the camphor has dissolved massage the joints daily.

You can also use 6-50 grams of powdered or fresh ginger to reduce the effects of rheumatoid arthritis. Or you can use Epsom salt in the bathing water. In this case Omega-3 fatty acids can be of a great help, too. 10 grams taken daily can reduce joint inflammations. Another effective treatment is castor oil used in the massage of the aching joist.

The traditional Indian herb called Boswellia, Rumatone Gold Oil with its anti-inflammatory proprieties; Rumatone Gold Capsules are other recommended treatments in arthritis diseases.

The Best Relief From Arthritis Pain

Arthritis means inflammation in the joints. Inflammation gives rise to pain, swelling, redness and increase in the temperature of the local area. This is of several types.

Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis, Gouty arthritis, Juvenile Rheumatoid arthritis (JRA), Arthritis after Rheumatic fever- to name a few.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is by far the most common arthritic disorder involving human being. By default, arthritis is referred to Osteoarthritis.

Knee or hip arthritis has affected more than 100,000 persons in the United States leading to so disablement that they are unable to move across the rooms. Even they are not capable to go to toilet. The basic reason behind OA is destruction of the articular cartilage of the joint spaces (the cartilaginous material that covers two ends of the bones forming a joint).

Rheumatoid arthritis occurs after bodily response to certain types of infection. It is a host-infection type reaction. RA (Rheumatoid arthritis ) factor gets increased in the body. The joints are mostly affected giving rise to pain and deformity.

There is deposition of Uric acid crystals in the joint spaces in Gout.

All the types of arthritis cause pain in the joint. And to get relief from arthritis pain, the following procedures are followed by the doctors. In the infants and adolescents, the specific type of arthritis occurs what is called JRA. JRA is genetically determined. Rheumatic fever also causes some specific types of joint deformity.

Reduction of weight- Osteoarthritis causes destruction of the articular cartilages. And if the person suffering is overweight, there will be more loss of cartilaginous tissues.

So the first and foremost criterion in virtually any kind of arthritis is reduction in the load of the joint. Weight reduction by various methods is very much helpful to achieve this. Only 24% of the patients suffering from the report that they are involved in some kind of physical activity. But sedentary lifestyle also increases the risk of other diseases like Diabetes, Hypertension, and Coronary Artery Disease etc.

For this reason, doctors prescribe some form of free hand exercise initially to reduce weight in the patients suffering from Arthritis. Gradually, the amount and the magnitude are increased.

Pain relief from arthritis [http://www.arthritissymptoms.org/arthritis-pain-relief.htm] with Thermal modalities- hot fomentation is one of the commonest and age old treatment modalities. Various forms of hot fomentation techniques are available in the market. Hot water bath is the best method in regard to patient compliance.

Patient education- for effective pain control among the patients suffering from Arthritis, reassurance, encouragement, proper guidance towards useful pain relief and recommendations regarding actions to unload the arthritic joint may become fruitful in a comprehensive pain relief from it.

Medication- first line drug for any type of pain in the body is NSAIDs (Non Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drug). Drug therapy for arthritis is only palliative. Arrays of NSAIDs are available in the market. Still the first generations Paracetamol, Ibuprofen, Nimesulide, Diclofenac or the combination of these are prescribed by the doctors.

Modern Selective COX-2 selective inhibitors have proved their efficacy for successful pain control. Intra-articular injection of steroids is helpful to suppress the arthritic pain for a prolonged period of time although this is an invasive procedure.

Intra-articular injection of Hyaluroran is beneficial to relieve Osteoarthritis.

Different Types of Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment

Rheumatoid arthritis is a serious autoimmune disorder that causes widespread inflammation in the body, primarily in the joints, but it can also affect organs and tissues. There is pain and swelling in the affected area that can sometimes lead to deformity in more serious cases. This incurable disease is often debilitating, so there are a number of treatments available to help people cope with the disease:?

• DMARDs-Most patients who suffer with rheumatoid arthritis use drug treatment to manage the disease to help reduce the inflammation and discomfort. Disease anti-rheumatic drugs or DMARDs, are used to slow down the effects of joint damage on the bones and cartilage. This type of treatment has been available for several years and can sometimes prevent damage in the early phases of the disease and bring more advanced cases into stages of remission.


• Anti-inflammatory drugs-There are a couple of drugs that are often used to help to reduce the inflammation in the joints, tissues and organs, which come in the form of steroid or non-steroid treatment. Steroids are a strong medication that is very effective in reducing painful inflammation. This type of drug must be carefully taken to reduce the possibility of serious side effects if it is not taken or prescribed. Non-steroid drugs are such things are NSAIDS that are prescribed in appropriate dosages to control the pain and reduce inflammation.


• Biologics-This is a newer form of treatment that is composed of genetically engineered proteins from human genes that targets the parts of the immune system that cause inflammation. The medication is often prescribed when other treatment options have not helped to slow the progression of the disease. The medication is administered in the form of an injection or intravenous infusion, but must be carefully monitored by a specialist because it can cause other serious health conditions.?


• Physical and Occupational Therapy-Some people choose to try exercises to reduce the pain and inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis. An exercise regiment can be used to strengthen weak, painful joints as well as help disabled patients to find ways to manage the painful symptoms. Occupational therapists can work with rheumatoid arthritis patients to give them the tools needed to carry out their everyday activities as best they can.

The different kinds of rheumatoid arthritis treatment give patients a number of options to choose from as they consult with their specialist. Every treatment option has its advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to weight the options as they pertain to each unique case. Although rheumatoid arthritis cannot be cured, it can be managed with an effective treatment.

Arthritis Go Away

If you are reading this article, chances are you or someone you know is dealing with pain associated with arthritis. If that is the case, then it is also likely that you have been scouring the web in search of ways to alleviate these sometimes debilitating symptoms. Even though there is no cure for it, there are many ways of either minimizing the flare ups or even stopping them before the pain can escalate.

Let us go over some types of arthritis, the symptoms, and some effective tactical approaches to a more pain-free life. The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis does not involve inflammation, it`s more of a degenerative joint disease. The weight bearing joints in particular simply wear out over time. This type of arthritis doesn't just afflict older people, it can be common among athletes as well. Baseball and tennis players (this sport is especially hard on the knees and elbows), golfers, pianists, and typists are susceptible to osteoarthritis due to specific repetitive and straining movements. But this type of arthritis can also develop as a result of an injury or trauma to an area which can ultimately cause the onset of osteoarthritis even years after the injury.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a more severe form of arthritis whereby knuckles and joints are visibly inflamed and can in extreme cases appear deformed. People who suffer from this type of insidious arthritis endure countless episodes and flare ups and painfully stiff joints. It has been shown that rheumatoid arthritis is a related to lupus which is characterized as an auto immune disease where the body is actually attacking itself.

Let us consider some proactive strategies that go beyond the conventional medicines and may likely increase their effectiveness as well. Many people are turning to mineral supplements to strengthen and perhaps regenerate bones and bone cartilage. Deficiency of these minerals can even lead to the eventual onset of arthritis. Some minerals that are linked to good bone health maintenance are: boron (a trace mineral), of course calcium (I prefer calcium citrate or coral calcium), magnesium (which balances calcium), zinc (which helps bone growth), copper (which helps to strengthen connective tissue), germanium (an antioxidant that helps with pain relief), and sulfur (which helps maintain ligaments, cartilage, collagen, and tendons). Some people swear by high quality liquid glucosamine and even use it for their pets suffering from arthritis.

I like the idea of helpful foods in dealing with combating arthritis. Omega 3 fatty acids found in fish and also fish oil capsules have been shown to be an effective anti inflammatory. Some of the fish that are high in these omega 3`s include: striped bass, anchovies, bluefish, herring, mackerel, sable, salmon, shark, sardines (eat the ones with the bones in for even more calcium), brook trout, and white tuna. Other inflammation reducing foods include asparagus, garlic, onions, pineapple, and cabbage. There are also foods to avoid that aggravate inflammation. On your no no list, put: eggplant, tomatoes, peppers, potatoes, wheat and foods high in gluten, corn, beef, pork, eggs, dairy, fried foods, and sugary processed snacks. This might seem like a long list at first, but finding substitutes after a while might not turn out to be that difficult and will be worth it too.

There`s a lot of helpful herbs in dealing with arthritis, too many to list here. Just to skim the surface, I`ll mention celery seed. This spice and seasoning contains almost 2 dozen anti inflammatory compounds. Fresh ginger root, long known throughout Asia as being helpful to people with both osteoarthrits and rheumatoid arthritis is readily available. It reduces inflammation by blocking cyclooxygenate or the cox enzyme which kick starts joint swelling. In contrast to COX-2 medications (such as Celebrex and Ibuprofen), ginger root does not cause stomach irritation - but actually protects the digestive tract by increasing the blood flow which serves to control stomach acid. Two other herbs containing anti inflammatory properties which can be swallowed in capsule form or applied as a cream are Boswellia (also great for sprains and muscle strains) and Cayenne pepper whose active ingredient is capsicum. Use this cream sparingly as there can be a slight stinging sensation. A bath with Epsom salts has both anti inflammatory and anti arthritis compounds which can be absorbed through the skin. It also makes a very soothing and delightful bath.

A basic and common sense approach to everyday coping with arthritis is simply to protect your joints. By that I mean - do not remain in any one position for an extended period of time. A ten minute stretching routine should be done every day to keep limber and warm up the muscles and tendons. This will help to prevent muscles and tendons from becoming strained. Regular exercise can also reduce joint pain and stiffness. Exercising in water can make your routine that much easier. I hope my research on this topic has provided some new insight and hope for you. If it has, pass it along to someone else who could use the information. You can also have a peek at my site (see bio box) which further explores this topic.

Exercise Is for Arthritis Sufferers

Exercise is the easiest way to treat disease and stay healthy overall. While more Americans are getting exercise in their spare time, one group that needs exercise is barely moving. Despite the known benefits of exercise for arthritis, patients still do not exercise. The lack of physical activity due to pain or a fear of worsening the symptoms might be the reason. Many people may not know where or how to begin. Exercising improves function in arthritis patients. Yet findings show that 53% of arthritis sufferers are less likely to exercise than others.

In the last several decades, the Americans who do not exercise has gone up considerably. Likewise, so has the percentage of obese people. This number has gone up 25% since 1999. Most people do not exercise even in their leisure time. In order to keep the rates of leisure time activities alive, we need more programs that are proven safe and affective for adults. When in doubt, walk. Walking at a moderate pace for at least twenty minutes collectively, in a given day is the best way to stay healthy and away from pain. Plus, it costs nothing. It can be fun. Go to a physical therapist for help if you want or need specific exercises for your condition..

Twenty-Seven million people suffer from arthritis in the United States alone. An estimated 50 million adults have arthritis throughout the world. Arthritis is a disease that causes joint pain and swelling. It occurs when the cartilage between the moving joints wears away. This causes the bones to grind together and cause pain, swelling and stiffness. Bone spurs, which are extra bones that form to correct the problem, can also be a problem. This can lead to pain and inflammation.

Although arthritis can affect any joint, the weight-bearing joints are more often affected. The most likely areas are the feet, knees, hips and spine. There is no single known cause. Many factors can lead to someone developing arthritis. Old age is the primary risk factor. Previous injury to a joint a contributor. Diabetes, being over weight, ligament damage and inflammatory diseases can cause a flare up.

As we get older, we all have aches and pains we never had before. Keep active, no matter how hard it seems. You will find your health will improve and your aches and pains will be less. Arthritis is not comfortable but you can help yourself by staying active. Exercise and especially dancing can really help.

Arthritis Advice That All People Should Read

Arthritis symptoms should not be taken lightly. They can appear anywhere in the body and at any time in the course of your life. The impact is felt in the bones and joints and causes high levels of pain which impede daily activities.

Lose weight to slow the effect arthritis has on your knees. Every extra pound that you are carrying in excess weight puts undue stress on your joints. Extra stress leads to extra pain and accelerates deterioration. Lose some weight to stay away from arthritis pain from here on out.

Never neglect the joints. If you suffer from arthritis, the smallest of tasks can be rather painful and difficult. Instead of lifting a heavy object, you should attempt to slide it across the counter top or floor. You might also ask another person to help. Protecting yourself from further discomfort and pain is important in day-to-day tasks, and can go a long way in helping you feel better with arthritis.

It is possible that you could benefit from a professional counselor who is trained with emotional issues involved in arthritis. Enduring the chronic pain associated with arthritis can make you emotionally exhausted. Make sure to look for a counselor who is familiar with the particular emotions related to arthritis and the constant pain.

You must be pro-active while creating therapy for your arthritis. There are so many sorts of arthritis. This means that treatments and even symptoms can vary widely from patient to patient. You should be well-educated as to what options are out there so you can make the best choice for you.

Avoid carrying too much weight. Women tend to be prone to developing arthritis in their shoulders. Lugging around bags that rest on your shoulders can create pressure that leads to inflammation and swollen joints. For times when you need to carry a large number of items, consider using a backpack that will distribute the weight over a larger area.

Plan for the future! Since arthritis pain can flare at any time, you want to be prepared to work around it. Make arrangements that allow you to rest between strenuous tasks, and always have an alternative available in case you are unable to complete an activity.

Exercise can help you deal with arthritis, but you need to know if you are having a flare-up due to it. Exercise is for keeping your joints healthy and flexible, not fighting arthritis pain as it occurs. Don't do your workout routine if your joints currently are giving you trouble.

Fight back against your arthritis with every fiber of your body! By working more to keep arthritis at bay, your treatments can be more effective. Don't stop doing what is necessary to reduce the pain.

While it is important to guard the joints already affected with arthritis, it is equally important to guard the other joints in your body as well. Arthritis can spread throughout your body. That is why it is important that you do not put too much stress on your healthy joints as well.

Ask your doctor's advice regarding using heat and/or cold therapy on your joints. Ice packs and heating pads, or soaking in hot or cold baths can be very soothing and minimize the swelling, stiffness and pain of arthritis. Using both in conjunction by alternating can help reduce the pain, but do not abuse this cure.

Put it on top of your thigh and press down on it with your other hand. This helps you avoid using sensitive fingers to grip the clippers, and makes the fingernail-clipping task much easier.

If arthritis causes you deep, exhausting pain, treat it with heat. For arthritis sufferers, applying heat to aching joints and muscles is more effective than a cold pack. When pain is fatiguing you need warm packs, as it will help you to gain energy as well as relieving the pain.

Remembering these tips can help someone become a pro track runner, while still dealing with arthritis. You never want to let arthritis get you down mentally or physically. There are items that can help you manage or fight of the pain and condition. Keep your head high and your eyes on the horizon.

Arthritis - Facts and Helpful Tips

The colder months of the year can be miserable for sufferers of Arthritis. The cold and damp can play havoc with joint mobility, causing inflammation and pain. If you suffer from this condition you are far from alone. The information that follows will hopefully provide you with some useful tips to help you get through the winter months with less pain.

The Statistics

• Arthritis and Rheumatic disease affect around 8 million people in the UK


• More than 3 million people have a significant disability


• Osteoarthritis - the most common joint disorder in the UK affects more than one million people.


• It affects 10 - 25% of people aged over 65


• Around 600,000 people have Rheumatoid arthritis


• Arthritis and rheumatic disease are the most common causes of long-standing illness, and account for one fifth of all visits to the doctor.

The Facts

The term "Arthritis" means damage or swelling of joints. Joints are the points where 2 bones meet. The ends of bones are covered by a thin layer of gristle or cartilage, which acts as a shock absorber when you put weight on a joint.

Cartilage is the tough, rubbery coating you can see on the ends of chicken thigh bones. It cushions the joints and ensures a smooth motion.

Joints are surrounded by a membrane called the Synovium, which produces a small amount of thick fluid called Synovial Fluid. This nourishes the cartilage and keeps it slippery. The Synovium has a tough outer layer called the Capsule, which stops the bones moving too much. Ligaments on both sides keep bones firmly in place. These are thick, strong bands usually just outside the Capsule. Tendons are also on both sides and attach muscles to bones. They keep the joint in place and help to move it.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the end result of a number of different episodes of damage to the joint over a period of time. Genetic inheritance may play a part with some people. Being overweight, injury to the joint and repeated minor pressures on the joint, e.g. some sports or occupations involving repeated kneeling or lifting, can also cause this condition.
Osteoarthritis usually occurs at the knee (more common in women), the hip (equally common in men and women), the spine, and in the hands, especially at the base of the thumb and in the fingers. Osteoarthritis can produce a mild ache to crippling pain, when Total Hip Replacement or Knee Replacement may be indicated.

In severe osteoarthritis, the cartilage can become so thin that it no longer covers the bone ends. The bone ends touch and start to wear away. The loss of cartilage, the wearing of the bone, and the bony spurs at the edges can change the shape of the joint. This forces the bones out of their normal position and causes deformity.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory, auto-immune disease where the body turns against itself. Normally, inflammation is our immune system's response to fighting bacteria, viruses etc. In the case of rheumatoid arthritis the tissues and joints are attacked, which damages the cartilage, bones and sometimes the ligaments and tendons, too. When this happens the joints become unstable and deformities can occur.

Rheumatoid arthritis is more common in women and usually occurs between the ages of 40 to 60 but can appear earlier. It can also be hereditary in some families.

With rheumatoid arthritis the symptoms can come and go unpredictably. Sometimes physical exertion, an illness, or an emotional experience may trigger a 'flare up' but other times there may be no obvious cause.

Helpful Tips

Information and education - knowing how and why arthritis occurs can help to slow down or prevent further deterioration.

Weight management - being overweight puts further stresses on the joints, particularly the knees and hips. A reduction in weight can make a significant difference.

Exercise - aerobic exercise where the individual raises their heartbeat, sweats and becomes breathless is good for the whole body and can help in the management of weight. It may also increase general well being. Local strengthening exercise is particularly useful in arthritis of the knee. By strengthening the quadriceps muscle on the front of the thigh, pain can be reduced and balance and stability can be improved, therefore lessening disability. A physiotherapist can teach the exercises.

Frequent breaks in activities - it is sensible to have frequent breaks when gardening or doing housework to avoid mechanical stress.

Sensible footwear - a good training shoe for arthritis of the hip or knee is designed to absorb any impact when walking. Shoes should have a thick sole, no raised heel, a broad forefoot and soft uppers.

Drug therapy - no drugs are totally safe but Paracetamol is usually the first painkiller to try. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Ibuprofen may be the next choice but they have the potential to cause side effects, especially stomach problems, and may interact with other drugs. NSAIDs can inhibit repair of the joint.

Natraflex - a natural, herbal balm containing Boswellia, Capsaicin and MSM has been shown in trials to be effective in over 75% of people with arthritis and is available from Health Food Shops or the internet.

Diet - Nutritionists recommend that we eat a diet which is 80% alkaline and 20% acid. Instead, most people eat the opposite. Acidic bodies also cause calcium to be leached out from the joints, making the condition worse.

Foods that should be avoided

• Alcoholic drinks


• Caffeine-Coffee, Tea, & Chocolate


• Packaged or processed food with artificial additives


• Chinese food (contains Monosodium glutamate)


• Dairy products


• Eggs


• Refined flour


• White sugar


• Salted foods


• Fried foods


• Burnt, charred or rancid food


• Animal proteins-red meat


• Foods containing nitrates


• Citrus fruits


• Aubergines


• Tomatoes

Foods that may help Arthritis sufferers

• Yams


• Celery


• Sea vegetables e.g. seaweed, kelp


• Garlic and onions


• Pineapple -contains the enzyme Bromelain


• Bananas


• Apples, pears and paw paws


• Water - at least 2 litres of filtered water each day


• Herbal tea


• Rice milk


• Oats, oatcake biscuits


• Rice cakes (with no added salt)


• Brown rice


• Millet


• Flax seed or linseeds


• Linseed oil


• Cider vinegar


• Tuna, mackerel and sardines


• Nuts and seeds (make sure they are not mouldy) - Brazil nuts, almonds, hazel nuts, cashew nuts (not peanuts), sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, sesame seeds (Tahini paste)


• Dried fruits


• Pulses -lentils and beans


• White meat -chicken, lamb, and game


• Herbs -basil, coriander, and ginseng

Any allergens or food intolerances should be identified to reduce the load on the immune system, particularly with Rheumatoid arthritis sufferers. Milk, yeast, eggs, grains and citrus fruits are the common foods that cause intolerance (see list of foods to avoid, above).

Fish oils are recommended to help lubricate the joints and therefore reduce the damage. MSM (methylsulphonylmethane) has also been found to reduce degeneration of the joints and can be taken orally or as a skin cream. Glucosamine is also recommended by Rheumatologists as it speeds up joint repair.

Doctors practising in nutrition recommend taking a multi-vitamin and multi-mineral supplement each day, which provides the daily values of all essential vitamins and minerals.

By understanding the facts about arthritis and following these simple diet and lifestyle recommendations, you can help to control or even reduce the symptoms of this common disease.

Rheumatoid Arthritis - Cause Hidden, Treatment Ignored

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most common of several autoimmune diseases that primarily affect the joints.

It is characterized by abnormal inflammatory responses that damage the synovial lining of the joints and other tissues. Components of the immune system mistakenly identify normal body tissues as potentially harmful organisms and attack them causing substantial collateral damage.

This results in joint pain, swelling and permanent damage to joint cartilage and the underlying bone. Other parts of the body such as the blood, nerves and heart may also be affected in severe cases.

Moreover the conventional drugs used in the treatment of RA often cause as many health problems as the disease itself. Bone marrow and immune suppression, liver toxicity, osteoporosis and stomach ulcer are some of the common side effects produced by these drugs.

While antibiotics also have potential side effects, they are generally fewer and milder than those associated with the conventional drugs used in the treatment of RA.

TYPES OF INFECTIONS CAUSING RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Most scientists agree that infections initiate the abnormal inflammatory response seen in RA patients. The theory is that the immune system reacts to an infection of some sort and then becomes confused between the antigens on the pathogenic organism and similar antigens on normal body tissues. The conventional view is that the infection is only a transient trigger of the autoimmune response and not a persistent factor underlying its chronic progression.

However, countless studies have shown that there are indeed a number of chronic, "hidden" infections underlying RA. Some of the pathogenic organisms have been found in the joints of RA patients but mostly these low-grade infections occur in areas such as the genito-urinary tract, mouth or intestines. They work indirectly from these areas by sustaining the aberrant inflammatory response so characteristic of RA.

Mycoplasma, chlamydia, E.coli, and proteus are all bacteria that are capable of causing the low-grade, asymptomatic urinary tract infections that underlie RA.
Porphyromonas gingivalis is a bacteria that causes gingivitis and periodontitis and also has a strong assoc
iation with RA.

Although lab tests often confirm the presence of one or more of these infections, negative results do not preclude an infectious cause of an individual's disease.

Because many of the infections underlying RA are so difficult to find, even those patients who do not have positive lab tests should be treated with antibiotics.

ANTBIOTICS USED TO TREAT RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

For many years the mainstay of antibiotic treatment for RA has been minocycline or other tetracycline antibiotics such as doxycycline. These of antibiotics are still very useful as they also have anti-inflammatory properties and stimulate the regeneration of damaged joint cartilage.

However many bacteria have developed resistance to the tetracyclines and it is now common practice to use combinations with other antibacterials such as azithromycin, clindamycin, metronidazole, levofloxacin and others.

RESULTS OF ANTIBIOTIC TREATMENT FOR RA

Patients may notice improvements in their symptoms anywhere from days, weeks or months, depending on how long they have the disease. They must also expect to remain on the antibiotics for several months to over a year until full remission occurs.

Information from doctors who have used this treatment for many years show that at least 80% of patients benefit from this relatively simple therapeutic modality.

WHY IS THIS EFFECTIVE TREATMENT NOT WIDELY AVAILABLE

There are two reasons for the delay in getting this "new" treatment more widely accepted:

Firstly there is the research "time-lag effect" ? the period it takes from the time a new medical discovery is made until it is accepted and implemented by the majority of doctors. This interval may be over 20 years long.

Secondly, in spite of extensive evidence that certain organisms are associated with RA and other autoimmune diseases, no one specific organism has been shown to be responsible for this group of diseases. This is because autoimmune diseases comprise a spectrum of overlapping conditions that can be caused by several types of microbes located in various parts of the body.

REFERENCES

1. Effects of clarithromycin in patients with active rheumatoid arthritis, Curr Med Res Opin. 2007 Mar;23(3):515-22

2. Levofloxacin treatment in patients with rheumatoid arthritis receiving methotrexate, M Ogrendik, South Med J. 2007 Feb;100(2):135-9.

3. Single-blind randomized trial of combination antibiotic therapy in rheumatoid arthritis, Gompels LL, Smith A, Charles PJ, Rogers W, Soon-Shiong J, Mitchell A, Dore C, Taylor PW, Mackworth-Young CG. J Rheumatol. 2006 Feb;33(2):224-7.

4. Treatment of early seropositive rheumatoid arthritis: Doxycycline plus methotrexate versus methotrexate alone. O'dell JR, Elliott JR, Mallek JA, Mikuls TR, Weaver CA, Glickstein S, Blakely KM, Hausch R, Leff RD, , Arthritis Rheum. 2006 Feb;54(2):621-7. University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha.

5. Treatment of early seropositive rheumatoid arthritis: a two-year, double-blind comparison of minocycline and hydroxychloroquine. O'Dell JR, Blakely KW, Mallek JA, Eckhoff PJ, Leff RD, Wees SJ, Sems KM, Fernandez AM, Palmer WR, Klassen LW, Paulsen GA, Haire CE, Moore GF - Arthritis & Rheumatism 2001 Oct;44(10):2235-41

Rheumatoid Arthritis - Its Signs, Symptoms and Pathophysiology

Rheumatoid arthritis presents with signs and symptoms that are distinguishable from other forms of arthritis. The classical signs it presents make its diagnosis easier and also enables the medical personnel to prescribe the right drugs for its treatment.

The signs and symptoms of this disease therefore include the following:

1. The onset is gradual
2. Stiffness of joints
3. Transient muscular pain
4. Numbness and coldness of extremities
5. Redness, soreness and swelling of some joints
6. Malaise and fatigue
7. Weight loss
8. Subcutaneous nodules over bony prominences
9. Joints of the fingers and toes are first affected. Joints of the elbow, wrist and shoulder later become affected
10. Fingers may become spindle shape with patient unable to make a firm grip
11. Muscular atrophy as a result of lack of use of the muscles
12. Anaemia (aplastic anaemia)
13. Patient appears undernourished and chronically ill
14. There are periods of remissions and relapses

Pathophysiology of Rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis passes through four stages. The first noticeable stage is the inflammation of the synovial membrane (synovitis), causing congestion and oedema.

The next stage is the formation of pannus. A layer of inflammatory tissue forms in the joint capsule. Fibroblasts, leucocytes, lymphocytes, plasma cells and other materials multiply from the synovial membrane leading to a pannus tissue which invades the cartilage and slowly replace it with tough fibrous tissue.

The disease progresses to the next stage otherwise known as fibrous ankylosis. This involves the conversion of the articular cartilage of the joint into fibrous tissue thereby inhibiting motion of the joint. The final stage is the bony ankylosis. In this stage, the bones of the joint fuse together thereby making mobility impossible.

Treating Your Rheumatoid Arthritis the Natural Way

Rheumatoid arthritis is not just a minor discomfort; this is an actual autoimmune disease that attacks the joints and causes chronic and constant inflammation. This inflammation can also be found in other areas of the body including vital organs. An autoimmune disease is when the bodies own immune system attacks its own systems; in rheumatoid arthritis there are antibodies in the blood that then target their body's own tissues and joints.

Rheumatoid Arthritis is called a collagen disease because it occurs throughout the body's connective tissue. The symptoms vary with the stage of the disorder. At first, those affected complain of fatigue and feeling sore, achy, and stiff. People may eventually find themselves unable to move their limbs fully without trouble because of swelling, inflaming and immobilizing of the joints.

For those who have this disease, it's important to realize that it is progressive but sometimes a patient can go for extended periods of time without any symptoms or attacks. Even though your body may not be experiencing the pain of rheumatoid arthritis you of course still have the disease and need to pay attention to your diet and other lifestyle choices to keep yourself pain-free as much as possible.

It was once thought that there were certain foods that caused or prevented rheumatoid arthritis but more research in this area has proven this notion to be false. Tomatoes do not seem to cause flare-ups and fish oils do not seem to lessen the inflammation either. Once you realize the cause of this condition, that it's an actual disease that cannot be controlled and is not a condition brought on by diet, you can then treat it properly. Many have found that addressing the inflammation of rheumatoid arthritis is best. Taking acetaminophen such as Tylenol helps most patients. Some tetracycline drugs also seem to have the same effect.

Addressing the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis is also important over and above any medication you may take. Many have found that humidifier in their living and working space is important, as this added moisture keeps the joints fluid and healthy. Proper and regular exercise is also important as this too keeps the body flexible and increases circulation around the joints. However, it's important to choose exercises that don't put any stress on the joints, such as swimming or using an elliptical machine. Running can sometimes make rheumatoid arthritis even worse as the pounding on the feet, ankles, and knees can be very painful.

It may be necessary to make some accommodations for the pain of rheumatoid arthritis and so that the condition is not aggravated. Raised toilet seats are helpful, as are risers under the bed and firmer chairs and couches. Some find that using wrist and finger splints can also cut down on inflammation as well.

Getting recommended physical therapy is also important in keeping the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis at bay. Follow your doctor's advice and keep yourself active and be sure to do the exercises recommended by your physical therapist and you should be able to manage your symptoms while waiting for a cure.

Some common vitamins and over the counter products may help with the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis diseases such as:

Vitamin C is essential for defending the body against pollution and infection. It enhances the immune system. Aids in growth and repair of both bone and tissue by helping the body produce collagen. Vitamin C's collagen-producing properties make it a prime candidate for arthritis treatment.

Green Tea Extract contains natural antioxidant compounds known as polyphenols useful in fighting tumors as well as helping prevent and treat rheumatoid arthritis.

Rutin acts synergistically with Vitamin C to help maintain a healthy immune system.

Glucosamine Plus provides cartilage nutrition for healthy joints and is an anit-inflammatory.

Chondroitin Complex works together with Glucosamine to block the action of cartilage-damaging enzymes and promotes the healthy flow of water and nutrients into cartilage-producing cells.

M.S.M maintains the development of the body's protein by forming flexible disulfide bonds between certain amino acids and in maintaining the strength of connective tissue.

Always consult your doctor before using this information.

This Article is nutritional in nature and not to be construed as medical advice.

What Other Diseases Masquerade as Rheumatoid Arthritis? Part 2 - The Infectious Group

While rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most common form of inflammatory arthritis, the diagnosis is not always easy to make. The reason is that there are more than 100 different kinds of arthritis. Most of them involve inflammation. When a patient goes to a rheumatologist to get a diagnosis, there is a process of elimination in order to arrive at the proper diagnosis. This process of elimination is called "differential diagnosis."

Differential diagnosis can be a difficult undertaking because so many forms of arthritis, particularly inflammatory forms of arthritis look alike. Generally it is helpful to divide the differential diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis into two groups. The first group are the non-infectious diseases to consider and the second group are the infection-related conditions.

In part 1 of this article, I discussed the non-infectious causes of arthritis that need to be considered when assessing a patient with possible rheumatoid arthritis. In this article I will discuss those types of arthritis that are directly or indirectly due to infections.

Many infections can present with arthritis due to either direct inoculation of a joint (either from the outside or from a bloodstream infection) or due to autoimmune reactions. In many instances, infections lead to acute single joint arthritis; however, in some cases, chronic single or multiple joint arthritis can be present.

Missed infections can lead to significant complications; therefore, it is important to have a high index of suspicion for infection in any patient presenting with acute or chronic arthritis.

Here are some examples:

Gonococcal arthritis is an infection due to the organism that causes gonorrhea (N. gonorrhea). It usually affects a single joint (in 90% to 95% of cases). Symptoms include:

o Joint pain that migrates (jumps around) for 1 to 4 days;

o Pain in the hands/wrists due to inflammation of tendons;

o Sometimes a single joint can be inflamed;

o Fevers;

o Skin rash;

o Burning on urination;

o Lower abdominal pain.

The diagnosis of gonorrhea is made by taking the history and by culture or DNA polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis of areas of possible infection, including the throat, genitals, and anus. Since the organism that causes gonorrhea is difficult to grow, it can often be missed on culture. Gonococcal arthritis can usually be distinguished from rheumatoid arthritis (RA) by clinical presentation, blood tests, and cultures.

Lyme disease is a bacterial infection due to the spirochete Borrelia burgdorferi. It presents with a skin rash, swollen joints and flu-like symptoms, caused by the bite of an infected tick. Symptoms may include:

o A skin rash, often resembling a bulls-eye; the rash may be more widespread, though;

o Fever;

o Headache;

o Muscle pain;

o Stiff neck;

o Numbness and tingling

o Bell's palsy

o Swelling of knees and other large joints.

The diagnosis of Lyme disease is typically made by blood tests. Standardization of Lyme tests has improved greatly in the last few years. If chronic single joint arthritis develops, joint fluid analysis or joint tissue biopsy may be necessary for diagnosis. Lyme arthritis can usually be distinguished from RA by clinical presentation and blood testing.

Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) is an inflammatory disease that may develop after an infection with Streptococcus, the bacteria that causes strep throat and scarlet fever. The disease can affect the heart, joints, skin, and brain. Symptoms include:

o Fever;

o Arthritis (mainly affecting the knees, elbows, ankles, and wrists);

o Skin rash and skin nodules;

o A peculiar movement disorder, called Sydenham's chorea;

o Epistaxis (nosebleeds);

o Heart problems;

o Abdominal pain;

ARF is diagnosed by history, physical exam, and blood testing for antibodies against streptococcus. ARF and RA can have similar clinical features including arthritis and nodules. But, ARF can usually be distinguished from RA. For instance, rash and migratory arthritis (arthritis that moves from joint to joint) are unusual in RA. Blood tests are also useful for making the distinction.

Bacterial endocarditis (BE) happesn when bacteria from the skin, mouth or intestines enter the bloodstream and infect the heart valves and heart lining. Symptoms include fever, chills, and other flu-like symptoms as well as unexplained weight loss and weakness. Diagnosis is made by blood cultures and ultrasound imaging of heart valves. Rheumatoid factor can be elevated in endocarditis, so it is not useful for distinguishing BE from RA.

Arthritis may be a symptom of many viral illnesses. The duration is usually short. Clinical features in adults include:

Joint symptoms occur in up to 60%. Joint pains are more common than true joint inflammation. The joint pains usually don't last long. They are symmetric, and affect small joints of the hands, wrists, knees, and ankle joints. Morning stiffness and swelling can be present. A rash may be present

The most common cause of viral arthritis is probably Parvovirus B19.

Diagnosis of viral arthritis is usually made by blood testing.

RF testing is not helpful in distinguishing between hepatitis C infection and RA because RF levels can be elevated in patients with hepatitis C. However, in these situations, testing for anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) can be useful since these antibodies are not significantly elevated in hepatitis C infections.

The Top Rated 10 Natural Arthritis Remedies

Organic and natural arthritis treatment plans are increasingly being used to minimize, and sometimes actually wipe out, arthritis signs and symptoms. If you are tired of taking arthritis pain prescription drugs and worry about their detrimental effects on the body, start thinking about adding effective natural treatment options to your arthritis treatment program. The following are the most effective arthritis super stars of holistic painfulness and inflammation assistance.

Glucosamine is one of the nation's best selling dietary supplements and is a widely accepted natural supplement for arthritis. Glucosamine is a naturally developing amino sugar generated by the body and is a necessary building block of cartilage, joint fluid and other connective tissue. The quantity of glucosamine formulated by the body lessens with age. To avoid cartilage deterioration, it is preferred to supplement with glucosamine at the very first signs of arthritis.

Yucca is reputed to lessen harmful toxins around and within joints, thus reducing inflammation. One review revealed that yucca decreased joint problems and rigidity in fifty percent of the arthritic people. Other studies demonstrate that yucca can diminish head aches, improves blood flow and lowers blood pressure.

White willow holds the moniker "nature's aspirin." The pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory results of white willow remain for a longer period compared to aspirin and unlike over-the-counter aspirin, white willow does not cause stomach bleeding. One review established that, when compared to placebo, white willow effectively minimized arthritis pain.

Chondroitin, the second most commonly established arthritis supplementation, lowers inflammation and aids glucosamine in protecting cartilage material. Chondroitin, precursors of the material foundations of cartilage, prohibit enzymes which might hurt cartilage cells. Chondroitin is also thought to promote elasticity in joint cartilage.

Capsaicin is what adds spice to the cayenne pepper. The hot energy of this healthy ingredient is what knocks out pain. Capsaicin is regarded for its pain-reducing results and in the alternative medicine world, capsaicin is a top arthritis treatment.

Boswellia has been used for 100's of years by conventional Indian healers of Ayurvedic for arthritis and rheumatism. This unique herb's anti-inflammatory attributes help lower aching, rigidity and inflammation. Boswellia, additionally known as "Indian frankincense," is thought to be as potent as OTC NSAIDs like ibuprofen and aspirin but does not trigger stomach discomfort.

Omega-3 essential fatty acids have been clinically proven in a number of scientific tests to act as anti-inflammatory materials. Research shows that Omega-3 essential fatty acids lessen inflammatory symptoms of arthritis and also hinders enzymes that break down joint cartilage. These extremely advantageous nutritional elements might additionally help reduce the associated risk of long-term diseases such as heart disease and cancer, and can boost mood and help with depression.

Feverfew escaped awareness for several years but because of new scientific curiosity is now getting a solid name as an anti-inflammatory. Feverfew got its name from its old fashioned use as a fever reducer. Modern herbalists work with this herb to treat intense head aches and migraine headaches, as well as joint pain and discomfort. Feverfew helps regulate the body's inflammatory response and is found to imitate the anti-inflammatory effects of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and corticosteroid cortisone.

Shark cartilage is increasingly becoming a commonly recognized means for managing osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. A number of scientific tests demonstrate the helpfulness of shark cartilage for arthritis. One shark cartilage review revealed noticeable improvements in comfort in 75 % of arthritis patients researched over a 3 to 8 week time frame. A small-scale review involving bedridden individuals demonstrated that after merely 3 weeks of using shark cartilage, 8 of the ten people were able to get out of their beds and move about. Then in a much bigger review of 147 arthritis sufferers, the people using shark cartilage enjoyed an 85 % drop in discomfort scores, compared to the five % drop in discomfort scores described by the placebo group.

Devil's Claw is an herb put to use worldwide for its analgesic, sedative, anti-inflammatory and diuretic properties. Devil's claw has been used in Europe and Africa for more than 3 centuries and is said to lower joint painfulness while improving the physical condition of joints. A German review noted that devil's claw demonstrated anti-inflammatory effects when comparable to the anti-arthritic drug phenylbutazone. Researchers additionally observed analgesic outcomes coupled with reductions in uric acid blood levels.

These herbs and nutrients have all been proven to aid in reducing the pains of arthritis. Will these products work for you? There is simply one way to find out. All of these arthritis possibilities are commonly regarded as low risk. All the same, you will want to double check with your healthcare professional or pharmacist for possible interactions if you are taking any other drugs.

Symptoms of Rheumation Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a long term condition affecting every person in a different way. For some, it can occur for a long time, while for others, remissions can be shorter. When the rheumatic condition is not active, symptoms can be absent. People diagnosed with this disease can have the condition inactive for even as long as a month.

Although it may involve various parts of the body, the major structures that are affected are the joints. When it becomes active, this is the time when joints become inflamed. In the normal process, inflammation is due to the body's reaction to infection or other harmful attacks of dangerous foreign organisms. But for rheumatoid arthritis, inflammation occurs within normal bodily processes with reasons not known.

The joints that rheumatoid arthritis most usually affects are the hands, particularly the knuckles. This is due to the reason that these bony prominences are the most to experience pressure. But then, rheumatoid symptoms can also develop in any joint, like the wrists, neck, knees, shoulders, elbows, and even in jaws. In almost all cases, the joints are symmetrically affected.

The hallmark of rheumatoid arthritis is inflammation of joints along with these rheumatoid symptoms.

One of the rheumatoid arthritis symptoms experienced by individuals diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis is stiffness. The joints become harder, thus mobility and dexterity are affected. The trademark symptom is "morning stiffness". These people wait for an hour or more for their joints to loosen up and movement is tolerable.

Next is swelling. The accumulation of fluid in the affected joints results to edematous joint areas. The build-up of fluid also causes greater stiffness.

Pain is also among the rheumatoid symptoms. The joints are tender, sensitive and painful. Chronic inflammation results in damage of the joints.

Warm and red joint areas also observed. The erythema or redness of the area also tends to be visible in nearby muscles and skin.

Fatigue or feelings of excessive tiredness are also felt, as rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic condition that can affect the body in general.

Malaise, also called general body weakness is evident in arthritis patients. These persons feel ill.

Anorexia, or the medical term for appetite loss is also evident. This leads to weight loss.

Muscular pain is also noted, as muscles cover the joints. The inflammation of the joints leads to muscular atrophy or death of tissue because muscles become immobile due to pain and stiffness.

Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms are often compared to the flu but they can be less severe, and may last for shorter periods. It can affect the body in general, thus aside from the main structures involved which are the joints, other body parts can be greatly affected. In moderate to severe cases, multiples body organs can be severely damaged.

Thus, when a person is experiencing rheumatoid symptoms, early diagnosis from a doctor, early intervention, and aggressive treatments if possible are highly recommended. This way, symptoms are managed during the initial phase, and progression of rheumatoid arthritis is deferred, and less damage will occur.

When you have symptoms, early and aggressive treatment can help prevent further symptoms as well as stop progression of rheumatoid arthritis.

Joint Pain Stiffness and Inflammation Relief Natural Remedies

One of the common characteristic of arthritis is joint stiffness. This is the condition which is related with inactivity, decreased range or total loss of motion in a joint. If the patient is suffering from osteoarthritis then he or she may suffer from joint stiffness which may last up to 30 minutes after waking up.

In the condition of rheumatoid arthritis or systematic lupus erythematosus, which is of inflammatory types of arthritis, the stiffness typically lasts for more than 45 minutes. One of the causes of the joint pain may be bursitis also. The bursae allow the muscles and the tendons to move freely over the bone as it is a fluid filled sacs which cushion and pad bony prominences.

Some of the important causes of joint stiffness are given below.

Joint stiffness is caused due to the inflammation in the synovium, which is the lining of the joint. The pain in the joint can be caused by different types of injuries or conditions. Whatever may be the cause of the joint, joint pain and stiffness can be bothersome.

Stiffness and the pain in the joint can also be caused by an autoimmune disorder, Rheumatoid arthritis. Due to osteoarthritis, there is a growth of bone spurs and degeneration of cartilage at a joint. This type of joint pain is very common in adults older than 45 which results into the pain of the joint.

Some of the important causes of joint pain are hepatitis, influenza, rheumatic fever, rubella, varicella, infectious disease, bursitis, autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and lupus, mumps, injury, tendinitis, osteoarthritis, unusual exertion or overuse, which includes sprains or strains.

For treating the problem of joint stiffness there are many processes. Exercise helps in improving the condition of joint stiffness. Regular doing exercises helps in improving the health and fitness of the patient without hurting the joints. With the help of exercise -

1. Weight is controlled
2. Muscles are strengthened around the joints
3. Maintains the strength in the bone
4. Make it easier to get a good night's sleep
5. Make you feel better.

Cold and heat treatment is also beneficial in lessening the pain and the joint stiffness. With the help of cold treatment, swelling is reduced and it also relaxes the excited nerves and with the help of heat treatment, blood circulation is enhanced. Sometimes pain medicines also reduces the joint stiffness. Now people also prefer to go for herbal medicines to reduce the stiffness in the joint.

Getting Rid of Rheumatoid Arthritis Naturally

Many people with a chronic problem of rheumatoid arthritis know only too well that they cannot stay without using formulas to check the progress of this debilitating disease. Yet they also respect the wisdom of using natural remedies. Natural solutions have the ability to draw from nature the beauty and soothing quality of its elements. They come unchanged and have no side effects, which is more than can be said about pharmaceutical products.

Before we look at a few of these remedies, let us see what we are avoiding in pharmaceutical products. After all, someone could ask what it is we are afraid of in these other products.

The matter is rather simple. Take aspirin for example. It is a very good reliever of pain and it even calms down swelling of joints in rheumatoid arthritis. You could ask why with such a pain killer of world repute and with an equally strong anti-inflammatory effect should have to worry anybody. It is true. It will not cause heart trouble of mess up lung tissue like some of the steroid based medicines. But with continued use, it will cause you bleeding in the gastrointestinal region.

So, do you still want to know what is on offer naturally?

- The Devil's claw: so called from the appearance of hooks on the fruit of this plant, it has been used for longer than Christianity has existed. The people of South Africa have used it to treat rheumatoid arthritis, pancreas trouble, skin conditions and even fever. It has been proven to contain harpagosides and the painkilling ingredient, vioxx.

- Fatty acids (the omega-3): our bodies are not producers of omega-3 fatty acids but they need it. There have been studies to test the validity of the claim that these have any assistance to offer the rheumatoid arthritis patient. From salmon fish and other cold water fish, they are found in oil and have a way of dissuading persistent swelling. Since most fish now have traces of mercury, you can obtain your supply of omega -3 fatty acids in oil extracted, screened for chemicals and packed as capsules.

- Boswellia: the herb is a native of India and it is acidic in component structure. It works as an inhibitor to swelling. What's more, it brings on no irritation. It ihas been packaged as a pill now which should be easy to obtain and use. The extended use of this by rheumatoid arthritis patients should be abserved by a doctor.

- Gamma-linolenic acid: this one is found to be contained in borage oil, evening (primose) oils and black currant seed oil. It works like omega-3 fatty acids as an anti-inflammatory.

When you choose your medication, remember to consider your age, extent of joint damage and whether other treatments have worked before.

Cure Arthritis in Dogs Using Glucosamine

Dogs who suffer from arthritis can turn to human glucosamine. The substance is one of the most effective ways to treat arthritis. Best of all, they are safe to use for older dogs who may have a more delicate health situation. The only real problem you'll face when administering this drug is the ingestion; dogs don't find it very appetizing. This is an easy problem to solve. You can also find glucosamine in different kinds of food. In fact, they are considered as vitamins.

Glucosamine for dogs are best for those who are older. The drug can cure uncomfortable symptoms of arthritis such as limping and stiffness. It works by supplying a fresh dose of the vitamin into the joints. Glucosamine is a naturally occurring vitamin found in cartilage. However, this can degrade. As a dog ages, it becomes a lot harder for him to produce normal amounts of glucosamine. To produce this vitamin, the body has to start with glucose and synthesize it into the vitamin. Since the dog's normal bodily functions are starting to weaken, it is no longer able to generate regular amounts. While the dog's body can't produce it anymore, you can still work to supply it so he can return to his normal routine.

Before trying this arthritis treatment for your dog, you should consult a veterinarian first. Glucosamine is very safe, but it is still best to ask your doctor if it is compatible with your dog. When starting any type of new treatment, it is a must to have a physical examination done first, so you know if your dog has any reactions.

Keep in mind that glucosamine is not a pain killer. Your dog won't be relieved of the pain arthritis causes. Instead, it will work by renewing the cartilage that has been damaged. By supplying a fresh amount of glucosamine, your dog will be able to rebuild the cartilage. According to studies, it does not usually have side effects. However, some groups suggest that they may be some harm done when the drug is used on dogs. It is said that glucosamine hydrochloride, a variant of the original, works better on dogs. You will find glucosamine in chitin, which is a derivative of glucose. There are many sources of this sugar, but it is most commonly found in shellfish. Most potent glucosamine mixes are usually derived from shellfish. Other components such as protein and calcium are extracted to get a purer mix of glucosamine. Then, another stabilizer is added.

Glucosamine for dogs might be the best ticket to comfort for your dog. Every pet needs a chance to live out their lives as comfortably as they can. Now, even with arthritis, it is possible. If your vet recommends or allows you to use this treatment, there is no reason why you shouldn't try it. For those who are considering this option, make sure that you do your research so you can make an informed decision.

Different Types of Arthritis and Natural Remedies for Joint Pain

There are many types of arthritis but here in this article we have listed some of its common types. Depending upon the nature of cause, arthritis may be divided in to the following types

1. Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most common and chronic form of arthritis. It occurs when the body's own immune system attacks the synovium or cell lining inside joint. Therefore this form of arthritis is often grouped as an autoimmune disease. Rheumatoid arthritis if not diagnosed in time, may lead to total loss of joint function and permanent disability. It also shortens life expectancy.

2. Osteoarthritis is caused by the degeneration of joint cartilages. Generally the weight bearing areas like knee, hips, spine, and base of feet are invaded by this type of arthritis. It is the most common form of arthritis affecting elderly population.

3. Gout is another common form of arthritis caused due to accumulation or deposition of MSU or monosodium urate crystals at the joints.

4. Reactive arthritis is a form that occurs as an aftermath of infections like intestinal or genitourinary infections. Young adults are usually attacked by this type.

5. Ankylosing spondylitis is characterized by low back pain. This type usually attacks the spine and sacroiliac joints.

6. Psoriatic arthritis is often associated with psoriasis. It is an inflammatory form and may lead to serious conditions.

7. Fibromyalgia is a soft tissue arthritis caused due to defective functioning of neurotransmitters in the brain.

8. Polymyositis is a systemic condition affecting not only muscle around joints but also heart and lung muscles.

9. Pseudogout also occurs due to crystal deposition around joints. In case of pseudogout, the deposition of calcium pyrophosphate or hydroxyapatite occurs.

10. Polymyalgia rheumatica affects the hip, shoulder and neck regions, causing severe stiffness and pain. People over the age of 50 fall prey to this type of arthritis.

11. Lyme disease occurs due to infection by the bacteria Borrelia burgdorferi. It is transmitted through deer tick bite.

12. Systemic lupus erythematosus is an autoimmune disease affecting woman during pregnancy. It may attack different internal organs.

Natural Remedies for Arthritis and Joint Pain

1. Hot vinegar massage can relieve joint aches.

2. Rubbing aching joints with warm olive oil also yields good results.

3. Essential oils like that of juniper, cypress and lemon have tissue cleansing properties, and can improve circulation of blood around joints.

4. Massaging aching joints with camphor mixed mustard oil can be of help.

5. Dandelion leaf extracts can increase urine output with its diuretic properties. Thus it can minimize arthritis symptoms.

6. Rubbing affected area with fresh potato juice diluted with water on the ratio 50:50 can help a lot.

Discover Amazing Gout Home Remedies

Gout is a certain type of arthritis. Tenderness in the joints, swelling, redness, sudden and intense pain and heat are some of the indications of gout. This type of arthritis is usually affecting the big joint in the big toe, although the symptoms may also take place in your wrists, hands, knees and feet. The attacks usually last for about 5 to 10 days.

Alternative treatment approaches such as home remedies for gout are widely common among individuals with gout. If these home remedies for gout are employed, they must compliment and not serve as a replacement for traditional gout care.

The most effective home remedies for gout are those old-fashioned methods that our grandparents once employed. To relieve suffering from gout pain, the old timers had to utilize some products that were readily available in their homes. These home remedies for gout went out of vogue as scientific experts and medical scientists touted new forms of relief for this old medical issue.

The following are some home remedies for gout that are commonly used:

1. Application of a cold compress to the affected area - in order to lessen the pain, applying a cold compress directly to the area affected has always been the first line of treatment in the majority of households. Applying ice packs to the swollen and inflamed joints for about 10 to 15 minutes should do the trick. The application of cold packs will tend to lessen the inflammation and pain. This could feel a little uncomfortable during the first few minutes although you have to be persistent. The soreness caused by gout tends to get worse when there is the feeling of something against the skin.

2. To help alleviate the soreness due to gout, you may take ibuprofen.

3. Exercise your joints by placing each of them through a wide range of movement. Try performing this activity once or twice in a day.

4. Immerse your feet in an Epsom foot bath if the soreness is concentrated on your big toe. Epsom salt is a staple in most households. It is widely used for almost everything from laxative to water baths for soothing out painful muscles. Epsom salt contains the mineral magnesium. When present in high levels, magnesium may enhance your blood and heart circulation as well as lessen your blood pressure. Magnesium will also assist in flushing out the dangerous toxins and heavy metals away from your system.

The great thing about the aforementioned home remedies for gout is that many of these items we keep in our home. Gout needs to be treated as quickly as possible. The longer it is left untreated the worse the symptoms can become.

How Vets Diagnose And Treat Canine Arthritis

Our pets are a very rewarding part of our lives and our love for them is as deep as that of a family member. As they get older, it is fairly easy to spot a pet who is limping or is reluctant to do things he or she did as easily as a younger dog. When these symptoms persist, a trip to the vet is advised. Making a proper diagnosis is critical to treatments that will be suggested and considered. The symptoms mentioned, are a typical result of canine arthritis. This degenerative joint disease is very common, but not limited to, aging, larger breeds, and is a serious condition. Besides the physical limitations, the pain that comes along with degenerative joint disease varies from mild to severe.

If joint disease is suspected, a veterinarian will conduct a physical examination of the patient. The purpose of this physical examination is to determine if symptoms are a result of this degenerative joint disease or another ailment that has the similar symptoms.

Physical examinations often entail:

1. An interview with the owner as to the symptoms displayed, length displayed and any worsening over time.

2. Examination of the eyes, ears, skin and gums of the dog.

3. Seeking signs of fever or inflammation.

4. Motion tests and observation of the dogs gait and posture.

5. Palpation of the limbs, neck and spine.

After the physical examination, additional procedures may involve X-rays, blood tests, and in severe cases, surgery. The vet will advise whether or not other procedures are needed to determine the extent of the damage arthritis has done, and prescribe a proper treatment.

Most likely, immediate concerns will be pain management. Typical medication prescribed by vets for canine arthritis is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). However, more and more vets are now turning to other forms of treatments to manage joint problems. Promising nutritional supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin have moved onto the list of viable treatments.

Glucosamine and chondroitin are gaining in popularity among vets because of the success seen in pets afflicted with joint problems. Glucosamine and chondroitin work to treat canine arthritis right at the point of damage itself. Glucosamine assists in repairing damaged cartilage tissue while chondroitin helps provide lubrication to the affected joints. Repairing damaged tissue is much better than just blocking pain with NSAIDs. Glucosamine and chondroitin do not carry with them the adverse side effects of NSAIDs. The list of side effects associated with these powerful drugs would have any pet owner concerned. Advancements in glucosamine formulas specifically designed to fight arthritic joints have been developed and are rapidly becoming accepted by vets as a preferred form of therapy for qualifying arthritic patients of theirs.

Arthritis Pain Relief with Acupuncture

Arthritis pain has never been easy to treat and arthritis symptoms have often been managed by the use of possibly toxic or unpalatable arthritis medication. Acupuncture can result in powerful arthritis pain relief and it can provide an alternative arthritis remedy for many pain sufferers. Arthritis treatment by acupuncture is described below.

Arthritis pain relief with acupuncture - what is acupuncture?

Acupuncture has been used for arthritis pain relief in traditional Chinese medicine for many thousands of years. It has recently become a widely used technique in western medicine – both by doctors and others.

Acupuncture claims good results in the treatment of arthritis pain. Arthritis pain relief and joint pain relief are among the most common reasons for using acupuncture in Western countries. Many people who suffer from osteoathritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, degenerative arthritis and gout seek pain relief from acupuncture – either alongside, or instead of, their arthritis medication or other arthritis treatment.

Acupuncture involves the insertion of very fine needles into several points around the body. These acupuncture points are often near to the site of your arthritis pain and may be very tender to touch before the needle is inserted. Other acupuncture points used for arthritis pain relief may be quite a way distant from the affected joint – acupuncturists usually call these areas “distal points.” It depends on the particular style of practice used by your acupuncturists but you should expect to have anything between two and twenty needles inserted each time you go for treatment

Most arthritis pain sufferers need from three to six treatment sessions before they begin to get relief.
The needles are extremely fine – not much wider than a human hair – and are often left in your skin for more than twenty minutes during a treatment session.

There is no way to predict how much arthritis pain relief you will get from acupuncture – it really is a matter of try it and see what happens.

How is acupuncture used in arthritis pain relief?

Your first acupuncture session may last about an hour and subsequent appointments are often shorter in length. From two to twenty very thin needles are put in place and left there for several minutes. Having needles stuck in your body may not sound like fun but most people say there's only a slight stinging sensation as the needles enter, and no pain at all after that. Your therapist may stimulate the needles by turning or rotating them quickly during your treatment session.

Acupuncture needles are very thin and solid with a smooth point and having them inserted may not be as uncomfortable as getting an immunisation having blood taken for a blood test. The number of sessions needed varies. Long-standing and complex chronic pain problems like arthritis might need one or two treatments a week for several months.

Most people do not experience side effects from acupuncture therapy but a few of us can have problems such as bleeding or infection. Some people who have never experienced acupuncture may feel dizzy after their first acupuncture treatment.

If you suffer from arthritis then do consider trying acupuncture – it may provide the arthritis pain relief that you have been longing for.

You can read more about arthritis pain relief and other aspects of joint pain on my website where you’ll also find useful information about other frozen shoulder and other joint and muscle pain conditions.