Reactive Arthritis Versus Reiter's Syndrome

What should this disease be called? Should a physician convicted of war crimes against people under his care be honored by calling a disease after him?

Reactive arthritis is also known as Reiter's Syndrome, arthritis urethritica, venereal arthritis and polyarteritis enterica.

It is an autoimmune condition that develops in response to an infection in another part of the body (cross-reactivity). Bacterial infections often trigger the disease.

Reactive arthritis has symptoms similar to various other conditions collectively known as "arthritis". By the time the patient experiences symptoms, oftentimes the "trigger" infection has been cured or is in remission in chronic cases.

The manifestations of reactive arthritis include the following triad of symptoms: an inflammatory arthritis of large joints, commonly including the knee and the back (due to involvement of the sacroiliac joint), inflammation of the eyes in the form of conjunctivitis, which is inflammation of the outer layer of the eye, or uveitis, which is inflammation of the middle layers of the eye, and urethritis in men or cervicitis in women. Patients may also have lesions on the mucus membranes of the skin, as well as psoriasis-like skin lesions. There may also be inflammation where the Achilles tendon attaches to the heal bone, resulting in heel pain. Not all affected persons have all the manifestations (Source: Mayo Clinic ).

The question of what to call this syndrome stems from the fact Hans Conrad Julius Reiter (February 26, 1881 - November 25, 1969), who was a German physician, described the syndrome in 1916. Reiter was not the first person to describe this condition but he was an energetic and long lived self-promoter, and the name Reiter's Syndrome eventually caught on.

Reiter was also an enthusiastic supporter of the Nazi regime. He wrote a well known book on racial hygiene. He designed typhus inoculation experiments that killed more than 250 prisoners at concentration camps, like Buchenwald. He was later convicted of war crimes for his medical experiments at the concentration camp at Buchenwald.

In 1977, appalled by his war crimes, a group of doctors began a campaign for the term "Reiter's Syndrome" to be abandoned and renamed "reactive arthritis." In the last few years, the campaign to change the name to reactive arthritis has met with considerable success.

Personally, I already favored the term reactive arthritis, because I found that it enabled me to get better medical care. Now, having recently learned more about the name change campaign, I have one more reason to favor the name reactive arthritis. Thank you to Don Taylor who recently wrote me about Dr. Reiter's history, of which I was previously unaware.

Diet Therapy For Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis

Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis is marked by pain, stiffness and swelling of joints, affecting those under 16 years of age. Fortunately, the problem has low occurrence, as only about 1 out of 10,000 children report the disease. It appears in one of three forms; pauciarticular (less than four joints affected), polyarticular (four or more joints affected), and systemic-onset (inflamed joints with high fever and rash).

Despite encouraging medical advance, diet therapy is still an appealing way to control juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. It is a promising solution for the young ones with the early diagnosis of the problem. Therapy is an effective diet plan which controls symptoms like inflammation and pain, besides, contributing to the overall wellness of the child.

Several diets hold the promise to relieve or prevent arthritic symptoms. The effective dietary approaches use fasting, vegan diets and elimination diets. The fasting diet comprises of periods of only juice and water. Vegan diet brings everything, except the animal derived products, while the elimination diet restricts foods supposed to cause joint inflammation and hyper active immune reaction. Vegan diet is designed to meet all the nutritional requirements of the child.

Particular foods and nutrients are really exceptional for treating rheumatoid arthritis. For instance, omega-3 fatty acids containing foods are helpful in reducing inflammation. They are involved in decreasing pro-inflammatory cytokine level. Different fish types including salmon, albacore tuna, lake trout, herring, sardines and mackerel are good sources of this helping agent. In addition, several plant-based sources such as flaxseed, flaxseed oil, walnuts and canola oil are good for it.

Mineral, vitamins and anti-oxidants play a significant role in controlling arthritis symptoms. Try to include fruits, vegetable and whole grain food in your diet. Intake of calcium-rich foods, such as low-fat dairy products improves bone health, making it stronger and resistant.

Put your child on the Mediterranean diet, having a low content of red meat and a high content of olive oil. Olive oil is good for inhibiting lymphocyte proliferation, natural killer cell activity, adhesion molecule expression on lymphocytes and the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Some foods are strictly prohibited in juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. Citrus fruits, for example, generally aggravate the symptoms. Wheat and other rough grain products also may elicit severe allergic reaction in such patients enhancing the production of pro-inflammatory agents causing pain and swelling. Diet therapy is a mild, least risky but exceptionally effective way of treating juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.

How Hemp Seed Oil Can Help Your Arthritis

There is a huge problem that exists today with the enormous number of people suffering from arthritis in its many forms. It is said that well over half the population of this country who are over 60 suffer from either osteo or rheumatoid arthritis.

What both forms of the disease actually are I will not go into here, as it is a long and complex subject. But, arthritis is a form of inflammation which mainstream medicine appears unable to address.

Both are caused by what I call "bone and cartilage gravel", the bits of bone and cartilage which are left in the joints after the body has started to degenerate, rubbing in the joints each time it moves. This "gravel" rubs on the nerve ends, causing pain, whilst at the same time creating more damage as the "gravel" continues to rub away more of the bone and cartilage. In other words, a vicious circle that modern medicine cannot resolve.

But there are ways in the alternative remedy field that may, and I know of many cases that have, been able to break this circle.

I recommend that a daily Hemp Oil Capsule, or the liquid neat, which is quite tasty, and can be taken off a spoon, should be considered long term. Hemp Oil comes from hemp seed: THE MOST NUTRITIONALLY COMPLETE FOOD SOURCE IN THE WORLD.

Taking a quality Hemp Oil is just the same for your body as putting oil in your car's engine. It lubricates the system. Hemp is unique with an almost perfectly balanced profile of Omega 3, 6 & 9 to match the body's requirements.

Uniquely among common seed oil, it also contains GLA (Gamma-Linolenic Acid) and even more uniquely, raises circulating GLA.

GLA (Gamma-Linolenic Acid) research around the world has shown that hemp oil (as can all essential fatty acids) boosts the body's natural ability to heal and also boosts our immune systems. The Essential Fatty Acids in hemp are renowned for their ability to improve cell growth and organ function, vitality and mental state.

Extensive studies have shown that many common illnesses (such as Eczema, Arthritis and many other problems) are related to deficiencies or imbalances of specific fatty acids, and in particular, Omega 3, 6 & 9. Seeds of the plant cannabis sativa, hemp seed (not the drug plant!) contain all the essential amino acids and essential fatty acids necessary to maintain healthy human life. No other single plant source has the essential amino acids in such an easily digestible form, nor has the essential fatty acids in as perfect a ratio to meet human nutritional needs.

Its distinctive nutty flavour makes it ideal for use in salad dressings, dips etc., as an accompaniment to all vegetables, or taken straight, as a nutritional supplement.

Hemp Oil is suitable for Vegetarians and Vegans.

Arthritis and Senior Citizens

A common ailment suffered by many people is arthritis. According to the Arthritis Foundation, it is the leading cause of a disability in American adults and can be especially prevalent in senior citizens as their bodies age and certain functions begin to wear down. The term "arthritis" actually encompasses over 100 different types of the disease. Arthritis can be caused by many factors but generally it occurs when something out of the ordinary happens to the joint: the cartilage can be worn down from years of pressure, the body could be low on lubricating synovial fluid causing the joints to rub against each other, or some type of infection could occur that leads to arthritis.

The main types of arthritis that affect senior citizens include osteoarthritis (loss of cartilage elasticity, often due to age), rheumatoid arthritis (inflammation in the joints that can become aggravated), and septic arthritis (infection in the synovial fluid caused by bacteria or a virus). Arthritis sufferers can experience debilitating pain and a decrease in their quality of life. The Arthritis Foundation Pain Center states that the causes of pain are inflammation, damage to the joint tissues, fatigue, and stress or depression caused by the disease.

There are many types of treatments and therapies for arthritis. Medications include NSAIDs, either over the counter or prescription strength, aspirin, medications used to fight malaria, anti inflammatory steroids, and sulfa derivatives. For those with minor pain, ice packs or heating pads can relieve pain, and frequent massages can help alleviate pain. Physical therapy can help people maintain the mobility of their joints and encourage the use of muscle strength to prevent any further breakdowns in the body. Occupational therapy can teach arthritis sufferers to use their bodies effectively for everyday activities with less stress on their joints.

Body weight can also affect arthritis, so it is in the best interest of arthritis sufferers to maintain a healthy body weight and have a proper, nutritious diet. Stress and over activity can also make arthritis worse, so the inclusion of relaxation and positive thinking can do wonders to help relieve arthritis pain. For those who are caregivers, making sure that their patient adheres to any physical therapies or medication treatment is essential to monitoring and managing the disease. Encouraging healthy food choices and exercise is also beneficial.

Although there is no cure for arthritis, there are many resources that provide help and information about the disease including the Arthritis Foundation.

Natural Ways to Relieve Arthritis Pain Or Even Cure Your Arthritis

Arthritis could really be a burden especially for those with full-time jobs. Because of arthritis, they would have to endure back and leg pains all day long. It would be really difficult for them to deal with it without taking drugs that could relieve the pain. Arthritis is caused by a lot of factors. It could be due to overstressing the joints and could also be caused by the unavoidable circumstances of aging.

The development can not be avoided but it could be prevented from worsening. If taken care of immediately, arthritis could be stopped from spreading to other parts of the body and the pain could be eliminated entirely.

If you are on the verge of developing the disease yourself, you need not worry about taking drugs prescribed by your doctor that could have harmful effects on your body. There are natural arthritis pain relief methods that could help you. Drugs could eliminate the pain but taking drugs for long term would only make your body dependent on it and could cause damage to other areas of your body.

The best way to save yourself from the pain caused by arthritis of all types is to take natural dietary supplements specifically designed to get rid of pains in the joints and other body parts.

One sample of a natural arthritis pain relief is Cortaflex. This dietary supplement contains only natural ingredients that are guaranteed to be safe for your body. Unlike most drugs prescribed to heal arthritis, this natural dietary supplement would not have any side effects. It would only help in promoting good joint health that could last for a lifetime. Just make sure to take this regularly as a dietary supplement and you would never feel pain caused by arthritis.

Arthritis has many types but only three types are considered to be common. These are gout, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Out of the three, the most prevalent and seemingly unavoidable is osteoarthritis. It often attacks the cartilage, making it weak and causing the bones to rub against each other. The friction created because of the rubbing causes pain in the joints. By taking Cortaflex, the cartilage would always be healthy and you would not feel any pain at all.

There are other cures to arthritis and ways to prevent it from developing. The best way to save yourself from any disease is still to find out everything you can about it. By learning about a disease, you will know what to do in case you experience its early signs.

A Review Of What Happens To Your Joints When You Contract Arthritis

There are over one hundred different types of arthritis, and every type falls into one of two distinct categories: degenerative or inflammatory. The most prevalent type of degenerative arthritis by far is osteoarthritis, which accounts for about 80 per cent of all arthritis and affects tens of millions of people around the world. The most prevalent type of inflammatory arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis, which afflicts roughly one or two in one hundred people. If you have ever seen pictures of an active volcano, then you know how lava keeps spewing forth, spreading out beyond itself and forming land that was not there before. Think of the production of cartilage as you would a very slow lava flow. A layer of specialized cells called chondrocytes slowly secrete a particular cartilage gel. The cartilage gel is made up of two different types of materials. One is collagen, which is akin to strong "ropes" and provides the cartilage with its scaffolding. The other type of material in cartilage goes under the heading proteoglycans. These are little elasticized "springs" that connect the "ropes". They are crucial because they dam up water between them, providing the joint with elasticity and its ability to slide easily. Water also provides foolproof cushioning.

It can not be compressed, but it can easily be squeezed from place to place, which means it can even out the pressure in cartilage by flowing from an area of high pressure to an area of lower pressure. The process of distributing pressure throughout a joint works as follows: When you put a load on a joint, say, by walking or gripping something with your hand, muscles in the area move the bones, which in turn compress the cartilage. Specifically, it is the springs inside the cartilage that are compressing. This squeezes the water out from between the springs from the middle of the joint to the edges, which, in turn, allows the pressure of the movement to be evenly applied across the joint. After the movement is completed, the water flows back between the springs, ready for the next step or grip and with age, you lose some of the springs-and, therefore, some of the elasticity. The springs that remain, eventually become more brittle and less springy. In some people, the joint wear and tear of a lifetime leads to osteoarthritis; in others, it does not. It can not be predicted with certainty who will end up with osteoarthritis and who will not. But there are some risk factors that make a lot of people far more prone to developing the disease.

Arthritis Pain Reliever - Conventional And Alternative Options

The next best thing to a cure for arthritis - as this is still unknown - is a pain reliever. Pain is the common and usually most unbearable symptom of arthritis and with the right pain reliever, you could look forward to a relatively comfortable and active future even with arthritis. Ultimately, your main problem is making sure you're using the right arthritis pain reliever.

Three Types of Conventional Arthritic Pain Relievers

You have the option to choose among the three known types of arthritic pain relievers.

Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs). This is the most common type of arthritic pain reliever and can be used regularly to assuage the pain caused by your condition. If you are looking for NSAIDs with higher dosages, however, you'll have to ask for prescription from your doctor for those. Previously hailed for its effectiveness in treating symptoms for arthritis and other pain-riddled diseases, recent studies have revealed how continued use of NSAIDs have serious side effects.

Narcotics. This type of arthritic pain reliever has its own share of side effects as well. Possibly the worst disadvantage to using narcotics is the risk of getting addicted to it. Many people have found themselves unable to function properly without taking narcotics at the start of the day. Another side effect of narcotics is the possible immunity of the body to its effects after a long period of use. In such cases, individuals will then be forced to take larger doses of narcotics. If they aren't careful, taking huge amounts of arthritis can lead to respiratory problems and even death.

Steroids. Examples of this type of arthritic pain reliever are COX-2 inhibitors which are very popular with arthritic patients. Unfortunately, continued use of steroids can lead to heart and kidney disorders, hypertension, and other chronic complications.

Obviously, all three types of arthritic pain relievers have their respective sets of ups and downs. If you're determined to use a traditional arthritic pain reliever, you need to consult your doctor to get the kind of medication your body is ready and able to handle without much side effects.

Is an Alternative or Home Arthritic Pain Reliever Effective?

Arthritic patients, fearing the various side effects and possible complications caused by taking traditional painkillers are becoming increasingly dependent on alternative or home remedies. These are safe to use, provided you can be sure of its origins.

Some people believe that natural arthritic pain relievers are effective only because of contrived placebo effects - it's only the individual's trust in the product, in other words, that make the product effective against arthritis. Herbalists however provide data regarding pain-relieving and anti-inflammatory properties of their ingredients to prove that their home remedies are truly effective in allaying the pain caused by arthritis.

Here are several examples of alternative arthritic pain relievers you can use:

Chondroitin and Glucosamine. These two not only reduce the amount of pain you're suffering from arthritis but also help in slowing down the progress of osteoarthritis as well as expediting joint repair.

MSM. Its natural sulfuric contents make it an effective anti-inflammatory agent. It decreases the intensity of inflammation and swelling of joints and consequently making your condition less painful.

Boswellia. This is another herb with anti-inflammatory properties.

SAM-e. This natural arthritic pain reliever is good in increasing joint motion and flexibility as well as reducing swelling of joints.

Tumeric. Yet another herb, Tumeric is more powerful than other natural ingredients when used to treat pain caused by arthritis.

Choosing the Right Arthritic Pain Reliever for You

Consider the following factors when looking for the ideal natural arthritic pain reliever.

Price. Natural pain relievers are certainly more affordable than painkilling medications, but they might not be considered as acceptable expenses by your health insurance company. It's best to consult your insurance agent before trying out any painkiller, natural or not, as they may have recommended brands that will give you discounted rates to enjoy.

Availability. If you have a green thumb and garden, it would be easy for you to grow your own herbs and make your own remedies. If you live in the city then OTC arthritic pain relievers are definitely more abundant in supply as they can be procured online or from any drugstore.

An arthritic pain reliever has many benefits, but don't make the mistake of using it as a substitute for having a healthy lifestyle. The right habits are still one of the most effective ways of treating arthritis.

What Is An Approved Osteoarthritis Medicine And Should You Consider Natural Remedies?

Approved osteoarthrits medicine may be effective at relieving pain, but is also accompanied by negative side effects and in some cases increased risk of developing life threatening diseases. For example, Vioxx was an approved osteoarthritis medication that was recalled because an alarming number of patients experienced heart attacks, strokes or blood clots.

Bextra, a COX-2 inhibitor similar to Vioxx, was removed from the market for the same reasons and because of a link to Stevens Johnson Syndrome and other skin disorders. Celebrex, also a COX-2 inhibitor, is still on the market but it and all other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs carry a warning label that "users may face an increased risk of cardiovascular side effects and gastrointestinal bleeding".

Another approved osteoarthritis medicine is prednisone and other corticosteroids. Corticosteroids, when taken orally, can increase blood sugar levels, particularly in diabetics. Long term use can cause dependence, depression, fatigue, blurred vision and abdominal pain. A safer and increasingly popular use for this type of osteoarthritis medication is injection directly into the affected joint.

Approved osteoarthritis medicine includes narcotic pain relievers, such as Vicodin, Tylenol with Codeine and Oxycodone. The makers of Oxycodone were recently required to pay millions of dollars in damages because sales representatives were told to advise doctors that the drug was less addictive than other narcotics, when in actuality it is one of the most addictive.

Side effects of this type of osteoarthritis medication include liver damage when accompanied by alcohol use; this side effect also accompanies the use of non-narcotic over the counter Tylenol and other acetaminophen products. Less serious side effects include constipation, drowsiness, dry mouth and difficulty urinating. It should also be noted that narcotic pain relievers do not reduce inflammation, but work by blocking pain receptors in nerve cells.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) is becoming increasingly popular among arthritis sufferers. Although CAM therapies cannot be classified as "approved" osteoarthritis medicine, some additional form of therapy is recommended by most doctors. Therapies may include dietary changes, increased physical activity or nutritional supplements.

Fish oil products cannot be labeled as osteoarthritis medication, because of FTC regulations. However, omega 3 fatty acids and fish oil supplements are used by 11.7% of people who use natural products for health reasons.

Clinical studies have shown that when used on a regular basis, omega 3 fatty acids improve joint mobility and decrease pain. People whose blood does not clot properly or who have conditions which include bleeding (bleeding ulcers, for example) should avoid omega 3 supplementation, because it thins the blood like aspirin, but otherwise, there are no known detrimental side effects, only additional health benefits for heart and brain.

On the University of Maryland Medical Center's website, they state:

"Several articles reviewing the research in this area conclude that omega-3 fatty acid supplements reduce tenderness in joints, decrease morning stiffness, and allow for a reduction in the amount of medication needed for people with rheumatoid arthritis."

Moreover, they say: "....several test tube studies of cartilage-containing cells have found that omega-3 fatty acids decrease inflammation and reduce the activity of enzymes that destroy cartilage. Similarly, New Zealand green lipped mussel....another potential source of omega-3 fatty acids, has been shown to reduce joint stiffness and pain, increase grip strength, and enhance walking pace in a small group of people with osteoarthritis.

There may be newly approved osteoarthritis medicine in the future. But, in our opinion, it makes more sense to try healthy natural alternatives first.

In the end, you should speak to a health professional to understand your options, but be sure to ask them about potential side effects, although, unfortunately, not all of them can be known in advance, which is why Vioxx was sold for years before it was realized it was responsible for numerous deaths.

Natutral Treatment For Rheumatoid Arthritis: Options For You To Consider

Turning to a natural treatment for rheumatoid arthritis is an option you can consider. Such a treatment does not usually involve the use of prescription medications and would have virtually little or no side effects.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease that refers to the inflammation of your joints. When your joints are inflamed, you experience pain, swelling, stiffness and general discomfort. It results from infection, trauma, degenerative changes, metabolic disturbances, or other causes.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease whereby your immune system starts to attack its own body tissues. It is also considered a progressive disease. This means that over time, your arthritis symptoms can worsen.

There are over 100 different classifications and types of arthritis. It is likely that if you have been diagnosed with one of these, your doctor would have prescribed you the appropriate drugs for it. Although drug medication can be used effectively to treat many kinds of arthritis, there are potential side effects when you become over dependent on them for arthritis pain relief.

Here is a quick run-down on some of the newest and most popular natural rheumatoid arthritis treatments. They may be used alone, or in conjunction with each other.

Physical therapy. This is a very popular natural treatment for rheumatoid arthritis as it is highly effective. In many cases, regular prescribed exercises can even improve the range of physical motion substantially. Physical therapy can also help you deal with muscle and joint stiffness, increase muscle strength, and reduce allover pain.

Acupuncture. Acupuncture is a traditional Chinese healing method that dates back more than 3,000 years ago. It is used to effectively treat the symptoms of arthritis, in addition to other health ailments. Acupuncture is a procedure used in which specific body areas (or meridian points) are pierced with fine needles for therapeutic purposes or to relieve pain or produce regional anesthesia.

As a natural treatment method, acupuncture is fast gaining popularity in America and other western countries. By 1993, Americans were making 12 million visits per year to acupuncturists, and spending $500 million annually on acupuncture treatments. By 1995, there were an estimated 10,000 certified acupuncturists practicing in the United States; as of 2000, there were 20,000.

Acupresure. Acupressure is another ancient Chinese form of therapy that has been used for thousands of years. It is also used to as a natural treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. In contrast to acupuncture, here, the acupressure practitioner uses his or her fingers instead of needles. Studies have shown that acupressure seem to release endorphins in patients, causing feeling of pleasantness and comfort. It appears that acupressure has strong anti-inflammatory healing abilities for rheumatoid arthritis.

Relaxation therapy: Relaxation therapy is a multidisciplinary approach that incorporates several different therapies working toward a common goal. The goal of relaxation therapy as a natural treatment for rheumatoid arthritis is to release muscle tension and joint rigidity to reduce your overall pain and discomfort. The different relaxation therapies include meditation, yoga, stretching exercises and Pilates.

Hydrotherapy. Hydrotherapy is fast becoming a popular therapy for rheumatoid arthritis patients as it is fun and can be very effective. It involves a series of water exercises, usually done in lukewarm water. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis report that the feeling of warm water helps to relax them and provide much relief from their pain.

In addition, several studies have shown that hydrotherapy is an effective therapy that helps reduce the weight and pressure on the joints. The warm water relaxes the muscles and helps reduce the feeling of stiffness. Hydrotherapy is also effective in weight management, which is particularly important if you have rheumatoid arthritis.

Occupational therapy. Occupational therapy is often used as a complementary and natural treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. In occupational therapy, you learn how to use their body parts more efficiently. Occupational therapy helps in ensuring that you can go about your everyday chores and tasks so that less tension is placed on the joints. Specially made splints are often used to help patients accomplish certain tasks without placing excess pressure on their joints. You and your occupational therapist can work together to tackle any specific challenges that you face. Your occupational therapist can design specific exercises for this purpose and train you in the use of special assistive devices.

Hot and cold therapies. These therapies take advantage of the effects of certain temperatures on the joints. Compresses, ultrasound devices, and warm wax may be used to apply heat to the joints. Ice packs may be used to apply cold temperatures to the affected areas. The efficacy of heat and cold therapies varies according to the patient.

In most instances, the benefits of using the above mentioned natural treatment for rheumatoid arthritis outweigh any instant results, but far more damaging, derived from consuming drugs and medication. The only drawback is that usually a natural treatment does not produce instant reliefs. You may need to use it over a period to know if it works for you. It will also be a good idea to maintain a journal to keep track.

Understanding Arthritis and How to Live Pain Free

One of the most common types of joint conditions is arthritis, which is an inflation of the joints of the body. While arthritis is the most common disability in persons above fifty-five years of age, younger people can still be affected. There are many different forms of arthritis and each one has a different effect on the body. The most common form of arthritis is called osteoarthritis, which is a condition that causes a continuous degeneration of the joints. Osteoarthritis is commonly a result of trauma to the affected joint, infection of the joint, or aging of the body. New evidence is suggesting that abnormal conditions of anatomy might predispose certain individuals to development of early onset osteoarthritis.

There are other forms of arthritis that are caused when the body starts to attack its joints internally, which are commonly referred to as autoimmune diseases. Autoimmune diseases occur when the body mistakes its own tissues as foreign substances, and attempts to rid itself of them. Some common examples of this are rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis can cause the surrounding joint tissues to become inflamed, along with the organs in the body. While rheumatoid arthritis is considered to be a chronic illness, which means that it can last for many years, sufferers from this disease may experience long periods without any symptoms. Typically this form of arthritis is considered to be a progressive illness, which can potentially cause destruction of the joints, and hindered mobility due to pain and bone deformation. Psoriatic arthritis is also considered to be a chronic disease; it is a common skin condition causing inflation of the skin and joints. Noticeable patchy, raised, red areas on the skin are present, often at the tips of the elbows, knees, scalp, navel, and around the genital areas.

While there is no cure for arthritis, there are forms of treatment available. These include rest and relaxation, exercise and proper diet, medication, and instruction about the way to properly use joints properly and maximize energy conservation. Other form of treatments include pain relieving methods, and use of assisted devices such as braces or splints. If provided as an option by your medical practitioner, surgery may be available in extreme cases.

The Lancet Medical Journal wrote that arthritis pain medications may be contributing to cartridge destruction in joints. Other problems in arthritis medication users have been reported as well such as heart attacks, strokes and intestinal bleeding. Studies by the New England Journal of Medicine have reported high numbers of arthritis medication induced kidney and liver failures as well.

If you want relief from pain but are wary of traditional pain relievers there is an all natural alternative on the market. Bell Shark Cartilage Joint Relief product contains no additives, is available at a low cost, does not require a prescription and is side effect free. Bell Shark Cartilage Joint Relief has helped thousands of people who have arthritis live without pain, so if you are one of the many people suffering from debilitating arthritis, you may be interested in trying this great product. For more information on Bell Shark Cartilage Joint Relief, please visit our website: http://www.alternative-health-supplements.com/bell-shark-cartilage-joint-relief.htm.

Top 10 Natural Arthritis Treatments

There's no question that arthritis is an excruciating disease. People who have it have to suffer going through life with throbbing pains on their joints. This type of disease is so difficult that it can even lead to disability. As with most other ailments, there are several natural arthritis treatments that people recommend.

Almost every culture has different herbal ways to help ease arthritis. Depending on what is available to them naturally, these types of home treatment will always be available for our use.

Herbs which are nature's gift for natural medicine offer some of the best natural cures for arthritis. Listed are some of the more popular natural remedies for the disease. They are usually herbs that are often included in some tablets available as supplements for arthritic patients. They are written here in alphabetical order.

1. Alfalfa

This can be eaten or boiled like tea. This is believed to have bone strengthening properties. This type of herb also contains high concentrations of Vitamin K. It also contains protein, Vitamin D, Iron and calcium that may help build stronger bones.

2. Barberry Root

Taken in tea form, barberry root is best for those who have rheumatoid arthritis. The practice of using barberry roots also came from the Native Americans who used it for back pain, arthritis and even cancer. This root also has no negative side effects, though some may regard it as out of date.

3. Cider Vinegar

This is recommended for patients who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. It is also a well-known remedy for those who want to lose weight. The sour taste often repulses those who take it. But if you don't mind the taste, this may help you.

4. Black Cohosh

A Native Indian remedy, black cohosh is used often for dysmenorrheal pain during menstruation. This herb's composition is deemed to have anti-inflammatory properties. This will help in the soreness of joints due to arthritis. It will also help in the relief of pain experienced by the patient. This is often mixed with other herbs like willow bark and guaiacum for arthritis relief.

5. Celery

The seed of this popular vegetable is ingested to improve symptoms of arthritis. Considered primarily for its medical value before it found its way to our tables as a vegetable, celery is known a good diuretic which is the main reason for its healing property. Potassium deficiency is often identified with rheumatoid arthritis and celery's abundance of this mineral may help with this problem.

6. Camphor

Liquid concentrations of camphor are massaged to the aching area afflicted with arthritis. This oil is natural analgesic and anti-inflammatory and could be used for dealing with arthritic pain. Use of this oil should be limited as it may be toxic when taken improperly.

7. Copper Bracelet

This is a break from the usual herbs in the list. Another age-old remedy for arthritis is the wearing of copper bracelets. Bracelets or rings made of copper are worn on the part where there is joint pain - for example, on the elbow, fingers, toes or ankles. This is said to relieve pain especially during flare-ups.

8. Dandelion

Also known for its pain relieving properties, dandelion is claimed to be rich in potassium like celery. It contains high concentrations of Vitamin A. This is also a diuretic and helps the liver in straining the wastes out of our system.

9. Emu Oil

From the emu bird common to the Australian outback, the oil extracted from the animal is an Aboriginal remedy for curing arthritis. Unlike other medications, emu oil has no side effects that make it a safer choice among arthritic patients. This is not commonly known among Americans but its popularity is increasingly catching up. Australian studies show that there is significant pain relief among arthritic patients who use emu oil.

10. Menthol

Because of its cooling property, menthol is used for quick pain relief on muscles and joints. Another herb with analgesic, menthol is known for its soothing capabilities. This natural pain reliever is commonly added to creams to produce another example of natural arthritis treatments.

Doctor...Why Does Arthritis Cause Fatigue?

Fatigue is extremely common in patients who have arthritis. While it is a common complaint in patients who have "bread and butter" types of arthritis like osteoarthritis, it is even more common in patients who have inflammatory disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. Fatigue is often a sign of a flare of disease.

Another condition often accompanied by fatigue is fibromyalgia.

There are many factors that may be responsible for fatigue.

Sometimes it is the body's method for dealing with a chronic painful condition. The body craves rest because it uses so much energy to combat the pain.

Another common reason is that arthritis often interrupts sleep. Not only is it more difficult to get to sleep but patients will wake up during the night, they will have difficulty falling back to sleep, and they will awaken early in the morning. This early morning awakening may also signal the presence of depression which is also a common problem in patients who have arthritis. Depression is also a cause of fatigue in patients with arthritis.

A corollary to this is stress. Stress not only aggravates the pain of arthritis; it can also aggravate fatigue.

Patients with more serious types of disease may have anemia which compounds the fatigue problem.

Medications can also contribute to fatigue. For instance some patients who are on methotrexate often report a "washed-out" feeling that occurs for one to two days after taking their methotrexate dose.

Fatigue has a major impact on the life of a person with arthritis. It causes daytime sleepiness, difficulty concentrating, and limits interpersonal relationships. Participating in all types of activities becomes more difficult. Also, some people fall into a nasty cycle of feeling tired, taking a nap during the day, which prevents them from getting to sleep that night.

So what can be done?

The most important thing is to get the arthritis under good control. That often improves fatigue by itself. Effective medications often make a big difference!

Correcting anemia is another action step. Sometimes the anemia will correct itself when the disease is controlled. Other times iron deficiency or other problems need to be addressed.

Improving the quality of sleep can help. Changing to a mattress made of memory foam is reported by some patients to be useful.

Getting into a regular sleep cycle is a good idea. Avoid large meals and caffeinated beverages before going to sleep. Sounds like common sense but too many people don't follow common sense rules1

Medicines that adversely affect sleep like prednisone and hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil) should be taken in the morning rather than in the evening.

A nice hot bath or shower before going to bed sometimes is helpful. Using warm moist heating pads is also a nice thing to try. Getting into a regular relaxing routine that consists of reading, listening to soft music, etc. can also ensure good quality sleep.

Regular exercise is another contributor to good quality sleep. Lack of exercise often causes fatigue. Regular exercise provides more energy, increases stamina, and improves sleep.

Stress reduction is an obvious benefit.

Eating a well-balanced diet can also contribute to less fatigue.

Patients should try to avoid prescription sleeping pills if possible. Herbal remedies may be useful though.

Can Your Own Stem Cells Regenerate Cartilage?

Lay media attention on stem cell (SC) therapy has generally focused on two areas:

1. The promise of embryonic SC
2. The proliferation of charlatans preying on the dreams and fears of helpless patients.

While embryonic SC, in theory, appear to potentially be the best option for tissue regeneration, the hype has exceeded the hope. Because of political and ethical concerns, research efforts using these cells has been disappointing.

At the same time, news articles and television commentaries have also dealt with controversial areas of SC therapy. An inordinate amount of time has been devoted to exposing the seamy side... individuals involved in obvious hucksterism, the possible abuse of SC therapy by practitioners, as well as the implication that all SC research conducted outside academic centers is suspect.

As a result, there has been neglect regarding of some fascinating and promising work, particularly in arthritis treatment.

One of the more intriguing studies was recently published by Korean investigators (Pak J. Regeneration of human bones in hip osteonecrosis and human cartilage in knee osteoarthritis with autologous adipose-derived stem cells: a case series. J Med Case Reports. 2011; 7: 296)

The Korean physicians treated four patients. Two (a 29 year old woman and a 47 year old man) had osteonecrosis of the hip. Two other patients (a 70 year old woman and a 79 year old man) had osteoarthritis of the knee. They were all given a mixture of autologous stem cells (the patient's own stem cells) derived from fat along with platelet rich plasma, hyaluronic acid, nanogram amounts of dexamethasone, and calcium chloride.

Pre and post treatment MRI scans were obtained in all subjects. In the case of patients with osteonecrosis, new bone formation was noted. In the patients with osteoarthritis, new cartilage formation was seen.

Along with the MRI findings, both subjective pain measures and functional outcomes improved.

I found these findings to be extremely interesting for a number of reasons.

First, the mixture used in the Korean report is similar to the one that we use at our center, with one exception. The exception is this: In addition to the SC, we also use bone marrow derived stem cells.

And, while our center has had excellent results with knee osteoarthritis (more than 90 per cent success), our experience with both hip osteoarthritis as well as hip osteonecrosis has been disappointing.

Why the difference between hip and knee? I suspect it's because the mechanical forces are different. The anatomy of the hip joint allows extreme rotation as opposed to the knee joint which is primarily a hinge joint with some rotation and some gliding. Activity level and body weight may also be contributing factors.

Nonetheless, this report from Korea underscores what we believe to be true... the use of autologous stem cells, also known as repair stem cells, will prove to be a fruitful area of progress in osteoarthritis research for years to come.

Partial Unicondylar Knee Replacement in India - Treatment For Partial Unicompartmental Knee Arthriti

Many middle aged Indian patients develop partial knee osteoarthritis. In Indians, osteoarthritis of the knee affects the inner half or medial compartment to start with and then proceeds to affect the outer half or lateral compartment.

Localized attrition occurs in the beginning as a so called "lesion". Later it gradually affects the front and inner portion of the inner half of the lower end of the thigh and leg bones (anter- medial wear) leading to partial knee arthritis. This is obvious on standing x rays as meidal or inner space joint space narrowing. Clinically these individuals may be bow legged since childhood.

In India the standard surgical treatment for OA knee is a total knee replacement. However the ideal candidate for a TKR is a person older than 65 years. Clearly someone in their fifties is not suited for a TKR as his/her life span would exceed that of the joint and he would need a revision knee replacement later on.

Indian surgeons offer osteotomy or a Uni condylar knee replacement for partial knee affliction. In an osteotomy, the thigh or leg bone is divided and re aligned so that the abnormal weight bearing axis is normalized. Pain relief is provided for a period of up to 10 years but is not total. An osteotomy is the logical operation for patients with bow legs and knock knees in the working class whose work demands would wear out an artificial joint. It is not the right procedure when there is no deformity.

A unicondylar or partial knee replacement substitutes the worn half of the joint with prosthesis. The bony resection is restricted to the affected half alone sparing the outer half and the patella unlike a total knee replacement. The operation can be done by a minimally invasive technique sparing the quadriceps muscle. The pre requisites are that the one half alone must be worn as seen on x- rays and the anterior cruciate ligament should be intact. The technique of insertion is demanding but the rewards to the patient are numerous. Shorter hospital stay, quicker recovery, small incisions, no blood transfusion, less pain, less cost (vs. TKR) and better function (squatting, kneeling, climbing stairs) are the much acclaimed benefits. The knee feels more natural as sensations carried by the ligaments are intact.

The Oxford unicompartmental knee is a representative type and is a mobile bearing uni knee. It replicates the function of the meniscus. The wear rates are low. Survivorship analysis is 98% at 15 years.

Advantages of partial knee replacements
1) minimally invasive surgery- Since the surgery involves a small exposure to see the affected half alone, surgeons can make the incision smaller, producing less post operative pain and smaller scars
2) less blood loss- Since the surgery is minimally invasive, less blood loss occurs.
3) Faster rehabilitation- Patients can stand up and walk on the same day, squat by week one and return to work earlier.

These innovative knee replacement procedures are available in India. Baby boomers and young patients with partial knee arthritis lacking Mediclaim or Medicare can now fly to India and have their surgery performed in hospitals with international standards.

Playing Piano and Arthritis - Are They Related?

Having read a news article about Vladimir Ashkenazy having to give up his public piano playing due to arthritis I started to wonder if there was any link between the two. The question to be asked is piano playing a good or bad thing for your joints and will it induce or deter you from getting arthritis? My research led me to some interesting conclusions.

The right way and the wrong way to play the piano: In fact piano playing really does not induce arthritis if you do it correctly. Having played the piano myself in my young days I can say that there is definitely a wrong way and a right way to play the piano. Before you even start there are finger exercises like the "five finger exercise" and others to do. These exercises serve as a warm up and help to strengthen your fingers and make them more flexible.

Playing the piano the right way can help arthritis: When you play the piano you also have to position your wrists and hands in the correct way. When you do this you will in fact be putting the right pressure on your fingers and joints. This will actually improve blood circulation to your joints and help with any joint problems.

Playing the piano does indeed help you if you have arthritis and you play for a certain amount of time on a daily basis. However if you are playing for a living like a concert pianist you may have some problems. It is not that piano playing itself induces arthritis but if you have the problem already, due to other causes, too much exertion of your joints could be bad.

Plus when a concert pianist is on full work load they do have to practice up to 8 hours a day. Much of this will be repetitive phrases over and over again. This repetitive pattern of the hands may be a strain on the joints. It is well documented that repetitive movement of the joints can be a factor in arthritis. After some time arthritis can creep up on a performer due to this strain on the joints.

However surprisingly enough you do not hear of arthritis stopping pianists in their tracks too often. Given these facts it would appear that piano playing is actually good for your joints and although it may not always prevent this disease is good therapy for your joints and can help you with hand arthritis.

Arthritis Treatment: How Is Gouty Arthritis Treated?

Gout is a common metabolic disease characterized by elevated blood levels of uric acid (UA). This arises as a result of either the inability to excrete (get rid of) UA or overproducing it. In any event, what occurs is that over time, deposits of monosodium urate form inside joints and other organs, particularly the kidneys, which is the major organ responsible for excreting UA.

At a certain critical point in time, if enough UA has built up, an attack of gouty arthritis (GA) will occur.

GA typically affects a joint or joints in the leg, preferentially attacking the foot, ankle, or knee. The attacks tend to occur early in the morning, often awaking a patient from sleep. The pain builds in intensity and is accompanied by swelling, redness, and heat. The discomfort is so severe that the patient may complain that even "the weight of a bedsheet" on the affected area causes unbearable pain.

The treatment of GA is generally divided into treatment for the acute attack and treatment of chronic disease.

This article will focus on the treatment of an acute attack.

There are multiple choices available and the decision regarding which avenue to pursue will depend on a number of factors including, the duration of attack, location of attack, the possibility of another process going on (ie, infection), and the presence of co-morbid conditions- other diseases a patient has that could potentially be affected by treatment intervention.

In addition to the medicines that will be discussed, rest with ice may be beneficial since ice reduces inflammation.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) are the most commonly used treatment for acute attacks.

NSAIDS should be started as soon as possible and tapered when the attack is controlled.

Unfortunately, these medicines have many potential side effects including stomach ulcers, kidney damage, aggravation of hypertension, and increased risk of heart attack and stroke. They should be avoided in patients taking blood thinners. Their use in older individuals should be monitored carefully and avoided if possible.

Colchicine is a time-honored medication that blocks gout inflammation effectively. Low doses, 0.6 mgs two to three times a day for 1-2 days may be sufficient to break an attack. Colchicine has a number of side effects that limit its use. These include stomach cramps, nausea, vomiting bone marrow suppression, and neurologic as well as muscle damage. It should not be used in patients with liver or kidney disease.

Glucocorticoids ("cortisone") can be given directly into the joint if only one or two joints are affected or be given by mouth or intramuscularly. Glucocorticoids are a good alternative when NSAIDs and colchicine can't be used.

Blocking interleukin -1 using biologic therapy is a new concept in the treatment of acute gout attacks. It is very effective but carries the drawback of being extremely expensive.

What Helps Gout Pain And Causes Metabolic Arthritis?

Gout, or metabolic arthritis, is a form of arthritis characterized by severe, sudden attacks of pain, swelling, redness, and warmth afflicting the joints.

Gouty arthritis, as gout is otherwise known, is a treatable condition that most commonly affects the joint of the big toe. Seventy-percent of first gout attacks occur in this part of the body. Gouty arthritis may also occur in feet, ankles, knees, hands, and wrists. The first episode of gout often occurs at night and continues on for a week or two before subsiding.

While anyone of any age can experience bouts of gout, the condition is most prevalent in middle-aged men between the ages of forty and fifty. Post-menopausal women are at an increased risk of developing gouty arthritis

Gout occurs when the body is hosting an elevated level of uric acid. The human bloodstream is only designed to carry trace amounts of uric acid. Once the body experiences an increase in these levels, the excess uric acid will form crystals that lodge themselves into the joints of the body. These deposits of uric acid routinely enlarge in size and burst through the skin until they have become a chalky white-colored material.

Uric acid is the byproduct of the body's breakdown of a waste product called purines. Purines is often found in foods like organ meats. Some foods containing purines include liver, brains, and kidneys. Foods like sweetbreads, mushrooms, and asparagus.

What Causes Metabolic Arthritis?

Gout can be an inherited condition. One out of five gout sufferers have a family history of metabolic arthritis However, episodes with gouty arthritis can also be triggered by factors including:

Chemotherapy Treatment

Injury to the Joints

Crash Diets

Severe Illness

Surgery

Certain prescriptions have been medically linked to the development of gout. Amongst the drugs that increase uric acid levels, subsequently thiazide diuretics, a type of drug prescribed to treat high blood pressure, low doses of aspirin, and anti-rejection drugs used for post-transplant surgeries. There are also particular medical conditions that elevate the risk of developing gouty arthritis Untreated diabetes and hypertension are amongst the health problems that influence gout. Changes in lifestyle also play a role. Gaining thirty pounds or more, in addition to consuming more than one alcohol beverage a day for women and two or more for men, can increase the risk of developing gout.

Signs and Symptoms Associated With Gout

Intense joint pain may be the first indicator of the onset of gout. Since afflicted joints customarily exhibit red, tender, and swollen joints, inflammation at the point of affliction is another sign of gouty arthritis

What Helps Gout Pain?

While painful, there are various treatments for gout. So, what helps gout pain? Implementing dietary changes is one form of assistance for gout pain. Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, otherwise known as NSAIDs, may provide relief in the midst of gout attacks. Ibuprofen, like Advil and Motrin, are popular non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

The most severe cases of gouty arthritis are generally treated with the use of corticosteroids. When steroids are used for gout treatment , they are injected directly into the affected joints, in a treatment that is limited to three times annually.

Preventing Osteoarthritis in Men Over 50

Over 50? Take action now to limit your osteoarthritis risk

If you're a man over age 50, your odds of getting Osteoarthritis are going up. In fact, research shows that by age 60, most men will have some form of this degenerative joint disease.

Osteoarthritis simply explained is a deterioration of the soft cartilage material lining our joints. The cartilage breaks down, leaving rougher, uneven surfaces where the joint grinds instead of slides. At worst, the cartilage can wear away entirely, leaving direct bone-on-bone contact.

Osteoarthritis normally shows up in the following joints:

1. Hips


2. Knees


3. Spine


4. Shoulders

While osteoarthritis causes are subject to much discussion, two main factors seem universal:

1. Joint overuse or repetitive stress


2. Joint injury

In limiting the risk of osteoarthritis, we will focus primarily on joint overuse and repetitive stress.

Regarding joint injury, leading a high-impact lifestyle, where you're likely to fall hard or impact the joints with blunt force, will increase your osteoarthritis risk. But hey, you gotta live your life, so make these lifestyle decision with discretion.

Osteoarthritis Causal Factors

Most men over 50 don't understand joints very well. For our purposes, it's important to understand that the skeletal system, including where bones connect as joints, aren't really designed to bear a lot of weight.

Our skeletal role is mostly just to provide a rigid structure for muscle attachment. The following two factors can contribute greatly to joint stress:

1. Obesity; carrying too much weight


2. Muscle atrophy; weak muscles

For example, if you're a man about 50 and six feet tall, your body weight should be in the neighborhood of 175 pounds, give or take a few. For this same person who might weigh, say 250 pounds, that's an extra 75 pounds of weight your body must support.

On top of that, throw in a sedentary lifestyle where muscles have shrunk to a limited capacity in supporting the joints. After all, a joint is really only as strong as the muscles and tendons that hold it together.

The combined effect is "settling into the joints", placing tremendous loads on the knees, hips, and spine. Now think of joint cartilage as the "contact points" of this load.

After years of abuse the joint cartilage just starts to fall apart.

Risk Prevention

Limiting osteoarthritis risk in men over 50 then is pretty self-evident, but it's up to you as the individual to take the right actions now, so here are the keys:

1. Lose weight. Universally, this is the single best thing any man over 50 can do to improve overall health. However, specific to osteoarthritis, maintaining proper weight is an imperative.


2. Strengthen your muscle base. Resistance training (weight lifting) is the best way to achieve muscle strength gains. If you don't have resistance training experience, find a reputable personal trainer to help start you. Any program must include total body strengthening with heavy emphasis on increasing core strength.

Osteoarthritis is not completely preventable in men over 50, however understanding the causes and taking specific action now will limit anyone's risk in a favorable way.

Remember, it's your body, the only one you'll ever have. It's up to you to take the steps required to maintain a healthy body and a healthy, happy life.

Hot Stone Massages Help to Keep Arthritis Out of Your Joints

Have you ever suffered from arthritis? Many of us often have misconceptions about certain medical conditions. For instance, because elderly people often suffer from arthritis, we may conclude that it cannot affect younger people. That is wrong. Also, arthritis itself is technically not a disease. So what exactly is it? Arthritis is a medical condition that causes people's joints to become swollen and painful.

Just the facts

Here are some interesting facts about arthritis:

- It includes more than 100 unique diseases that impact regions in or surrounding joints

- It affected about 46 Americans (1 in 5 adults) in 2006.

- It is the top cause of disability among Americans (at least 16-years-old)

- It yearly costs the U.S. economy $128 billion.

- It yearly causes over half a million hospitalizations

- It affects almost 300,000 children

Joints, bones, and antagonistic muscles

To better understand arthritis, we need to comprehend how our joints function. The bones of our skeletons work as a group of levers that move around joints, which are points where pivoting takes place. This happens as muscles switch between contracting and relaxing. Meanwhile, the muscles surround the joints in pairs. So each group of muscles directs bones in one particular direction, while a twin "antagonistic" muscle group moves the bones in the converse direction.

Among the numerous types of arthritis, here are some of the most common:

Osteoarthritis: This is the most common type of arthritis. It causes the joints to worsen. Cartilage covering the tips of bones within the join wears down. The result is that as the bone starts to scrape against the bone, one's range of motion is reduced, and pain is created.

Rheumatoid Arthritis: This is a disease in which the body's immune system attacks normal cells. The result of is that the lining of the joint becomes red or swollen. This type of arthritis mainly strikes women, and is one of the most powerful types of arthritis.

Gout: This condition primarily affects males. It usually results from a blemish in the chemistry of the body. In the majority of cases, this condition affects small joints and the big toe in particular. But there is good news for you! Gout can nearly always be totally managed with changes in diet, and certain medication.

Fortunately, you can use several types of treatment s for arthritis:

Medication: Numerous types of drugs can be used to treat arthritis, and they have different purposes. These can include reducing pain, lowering soreness, and attacking the disease itself.

Surgery: The majority of people who experience arthritis could never require surgery. On the other hand, surgery can be very beneficial for those with extremely damaged joints, and when other types of treatments are not effective. Joint replacement is the most popular form of arthritis surgery.

Physiotherapy: This can improve people's strength, flexibility, and mobility. When used with medication, pain can be significantly reduced. Physiotherapists can create a treatment plan especially for you, which could include exercise, hydrotherapy, and pain relief methods.

Massages with hot stones are another type of effective treatment for arthritis sufferers. When we suffer from stress, our bodies produce too many hormones. Thus, the body attacks its own joints, resulting in rheumatoid arthritis. Through massage, the body's muscles, ligaments and tendons are relaxed, thus creating balance within the body.

More specifically, a massage moves the muscle and regions around the joints, increasing the body's circulation of blood and lymph. Thus, the body gets rid of more toxins. The ultimate result is that the movement of the joints is significantly improved. In addition to massages improving the condition of the actual joints, they also relieve the symptoms of arthritis. Massages warn arthritis to stay out of your joint!

What Foods Should You Eat to Prevent Gouty Arthritis?

The main cause behind gouty arthritis is the buildup of uric acid crystals in your blood, which eventually become deposited in your joints, causing inflammation and pain. One of the main reasons for excess uric acid in your system is eating too much purine-rich food so you will have to adjust your diet in order to avoid gout attacks.

Foods that are rich in purine include organ meats such as liver and kidney as well as certain types of fish such as sardines and salmon. Alcoholic beverages such as beer that are made from yeast also have high purine content. In addition, you should also avoid beverages that are rich in caffeine such as coffee and tea while increasing your intake of water to help cleanse your system of uric acid.

To help treat gouty arthritis, replace high-purine foods in your diet with low-purine ones. Foods which are low in purine include:

• fresh vegetables such as lettuce, cabbage and other leafy greens as well as tomatoes, potatoes and red bell peppers;


• high-fiber and water-rich fruits such as cherries, strawberries, potassium-rich bananas, oranges and pineapples;


• plant-based proteins such as nuts, soy products such as tofu and peanut butter;


• Refined cereals such as brown rice and whole wheat.

In addition, there are some nutritional supplements and nutrients that you need to take more of to help you address gouty arthritis, such as:

• Apple cider vinegar, which helps create a more alkaline environment in your body that contributes to reducing gout attacks.


• Omega 3 fatty acids which can regulate the production of leukotrienes that help control inflammation. Since many Omega 3-rich fish species are also high in purines, you can get this nutrient from plant-based sources such as walnuts and flaxseed.


• Celery seeds can help reduce the amount of uric acid in your blood. Boil one tablespoon of celery seeds in two cups of water to create a tea and then drink half a cup four times a day.


• Cod liver oil is rich in Vitamin A, which can promote healthy kidneys as well as preventing uric acid buildup. Take one teaspoon per day.


• Cherry juice can also be effective in reducing uric acid levels as well as controlling inflammation of the joints. You can also take one teaspoon of cherry juice concentrate without sugar twice a day. Take cherry juice or concentrate consistently for the rest of your life as this will help you manage your uric acid and prevent gouty arthritis attacks.

The Heartbreak of Psoriasis - And Other Worries

People often complain about arthritis as if it were one disease. Untrue. Arthritis is a term used to describe more than 100 different conditions involving joint disease.

Some diseases are relatively mild. Others can be quite serious, involving other organ systems, and leading to potential disability as well as the possibility of a shortened life span.

One disease that is not well understood by both the general public as well as many physicians is psoriatic arthritis. This is the form of arthritis that often accompanies psoriasis, an autoimmune skin disease.

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) is not rare. According to one study (Gelfand J, et al. J AM Acad Dermatol 2005; 534: 573-577), as estimated 520,000 people in the United States have the condition.

It is not an easy disease to diagnose because it may present in a dizzying array of fashions.

The primary symptoms of PsA are joint pain and stiffness. However, other modes of presentation are almost as common. These include enthesitis (inflammation where tendons joint bones), dactylitis (swelling of a finger or toe so that it looks like a "sausage"), and skin psoriasis.

Enthesitis causes inflammation where tendons or ligaments attach to bone. Common sites for symptoms to occur are the Achilles tendon, the plantar fascia (bottom of the heel), medial knee, patellar tendon, (where the patellar tendon inserts into the patella), iliac crest, triceps tendon, and lateral epicondyle. In essence, enthesitis can occur at pretty much any point where a tendon, ligament or even joint attaches to bone.

Approximately, 30 per cent of patients with PsA have enthesitis. Because the symptoms can be widespread and vague and not confined to joints, the clinical picture can be confusing. Other conditions associated with widespread pain such as fibromyalgia may be considered in the list of diagnostic possibilities. The isolated presentation of what appears to be typical plantar fasciitis may be a sign of PsA.

The other symptom that is classic is dactylitis- the "sausage digit." The sausage appearance is due to inflammation of the tendon sheath in the finger or toe. Dactylitis also occurs in about 30 per cent of patients.

The importance of dactylitis is that it is a good indicator of disease severity. It also tells the doctor that the disease is active and not well-controlled. Dactylitis is also a harbinger of severe disease that can ultimately lead to joint destruction.

Fortunately, there are medications which are extremely effective in controlling PsA. A combination of disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDS) and biologics usually results in excellent disease control and remission.

Arthritis - How To Treat Arthritis

Arthritis is an extremely painful and potentially debilitating condition, which now affects over one in ten people in the developed world. It can lead to a reduced ability to carry out many of the essential tasks of daily life and often impair the sufferer's ability to do their job of work. There are many different types of arthritis, with varying symptoms, but most types involve some kind of inflammation of the joints, making movement difficult and often painful. It is very important to make a correct diagnosis, in order for the proper treatment to be carried out.

The first step you need to take if you suspect you may have arthritis is to visit a qualified medical practitioner. Usually this will involve referral to a hospital where X ray and blood tests will be performed. Sometimes there will be a specialist on site who will be able to administer more advanced forms of tests and give advice on the spot. Once a diagnosis has been made, there are various treatments that can be applied. The most obvious and crude, of these treatments is the simple pain killing drug, such as aspirin or paracetamol. Aspirin is preferred in many cases as it has anti-inflammatory properties. Many of these basic painkillers are available without prescription, so it vitally important to inform your physician if you intend to take these on top of any prescribed medicine.

Anti inflammatory drugs are vitally important as they not only reduce pain, but also lessen the irreversible damage which is often done to joints when arthritis flares up. These are the most common form of treatment prescribed for arthritis and come in two basic types. NSAIDs, Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are very common, but it takes a prolonged period of use for them to become effective. There have also been serious concerns expressed about the side effects of these drugs and the potential stomach problems that they can cause. Steroids are synthetic hormones, which mirror natural substances found in the body, but in artificial form the body tolerates them poorly. Steroids are extremely powerful medicines and are usually used in the initial stages of treatment, before other, less overpowering, treatments are employed.

As arthritis is a condition which affects the joints, it is important to consider different forms of exercise and forms of rest between exercise and how they will affect your specific condition. Arthritis sufferers are usually best advised to exercise daily, in order to prevent joints from seizing up and becoming stiff. As a form of general exercise, swimming is especially beneficial to the arthritis sufferer - as the weight of the body is distributed throughout the water, rather than being concentrated on the limbs and joints, as it is with so many other forms of exercise. This makes the movement of the joints a lot easier and reduces the pressure on points, which can be very painful if overburdened.

Exercises done in water are now routinely available at hospitals. Water is a great help for many arthritis sufferers, as the warmth of the water helps stiff joints to move. It is even possible to perform muscle-strengthening exercises under water. This a good idea as strong muscles help joints to move more smoothly, reducing the pain from arthritis naturally and with only positive side effects. These kinds of water-based treatments are highly recommended and may reduce the arthritis patient's need for powerful synthetic drugs with severe side effects.

Nurse's Best Arthritis Pain Relief Tips And Treatments

I found relief from my arthritis pain, naturally, and you can do it too. A few years ago I accidentally discovered how to rid one's self of arthritis pain, naturally.

Arthritis concentrates in one or several joints where deterioration occurs. The pain in arthritis can be moderate to severe. As a result of arthritis, the bone beneath the cartilage undergoes changes that lead to bony overgrowth and the tissue that lines the joint can become inflamed, the ligaments can loosen, and the associated muscles can weaken.

The combination of the collagen meshwork and high water content tightly bound by proteoglycans, creates a resilient, slippery pad in the joint, which resists the compression between bones during muscle movement. Cartilage is one of the few tissues that does not have its own blood supply. Damaged joints cause pain and sufferers are constantly looking for ways to relieve the pain.

Possible causes of arthritis include lesser known: bleeding disorders, like hemophilia, that causes bleeding to occur in the joint; disorders such as avascular necrosis, that block the blood supply closest to the joint; and conditions like hemochromatosis, that causes iron build-up in the joints.

Injuries sometimes can be the start in the arthritic disease process; osteoarthritis can develop years later even after a single traumatic injury to a joint or near a joint. It's generally thought that inflammation plays a minor role in osteoarthritis and is more likely to be a result, not a cause, of arthritis.

Gluten may be a culprit in arthritic diseases including fibromyalgia; avoid wheat, barley, rye, spelt, triticale, kamut and oats (although not a gluten grain it gets contaminated at the wheat mills. Natural treatment for arthritis is usually a better choice because it's non-invasive to the body. Nutrition experts say it takes a combination of supplements, that no one supplement can relieve arthritis pain, build cartilage, etc.

Making a ginger tea, by adding a thin slice or two of fresh gingerroot to hot water, is helpful to many people I know.

Make smoothies with fruit only using a base of two bananas, adding a cup of frozen or fresh blueberries and mango chunks or substitute any other fruit and add an energy boost of two tablespoons of coconut oil; add one or two leaves of kale for another highly nutritional boost -- no one will ever know.

Many have told me that going off dairy products and gluten containing foods relieved their arthritis pain entirely.

Some people swear by morning drinks of raw apple cider vinegar and honey for arthritis pain relief. If you're not already doing so, make a big effort to watch your diet.

Some people swear by glucosamine and/or chondroitin and others say it didn't help at all. One natural approach is to consume foods that are known to help relieve arthritis pain or prevent arthritis.

To be on the safe side always seek your doctor's advice before starting or changing your exercise program. Even the lightest exercise can go a long way to maintaining your joint mobility and overall health. There are a number of exercises which can benefit arthritis sufferers regardless of how much restriction of movement there is. Exercise is good for joints affected by osteoarthritis.

Your body has 147 different joints that are in motion every day of your life. Exercise in a heated pool; it will help reduce the pressure on your joints and the heat will help you loosen those joints. Important exercises for arthritis are range-of-motion exercises, isometrics, and some weight bearing exercises.

If you're planning to take any of the non-prescription NSAIDS for arthritis, make sure you understand what bad effects they can have on the stomach, liver and/or kidneys and discuss this with your doctor. Be aware that the use of NSAIDs or Cox-2 inhibitors do not halt the progress of osteoarthritis and may even hasten the onset.

Let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other drugs, herbs or other supplements you're taking, to ward off any adverse drug reactions that might occur from the combining of different drugs or supplements.

Changing your diet to predominately fruits and raw veggies, like I did, can turn your arthritis pain around almost overnight. Arthritis pain relief is the ultimate goal - understanding arthritis is a good way to get there. Knowing more about arthritis and how it works will ultimately help contribute to your relief of arthritis pain.

Gout - Causes, Stages and Treatment For This Inflammatory Arthritis

What is Gout?

Gout is a type of inflammatory arthritis that occurs in response to a build-up of crystals that are deposited in joints, soft tissue or bone. The crystals are formed as a byproduct of purine breakdown that occur naturally in the body. About 5.1 million Americans are affected by gout. It affects men older than 40 more than women, although after menopause, both men and women are equally affected.

What Causes Gout?

Uric acid is a natural byproduct of purine breakdown which is then eliminated by our kidneys. Our bodies are not very efficient however in eliminating uric acid and thus a build-up occurs which is known as hyperuricemia. Hyperuricemia is the precursor to gout although not everyone who has hyperuricemia will get gout for reasons that are not well understood. This uric acid leads to crystal formations that are deposited in joints, bones and soft tissue. These needle-like crystals can cause excruciating pain that is often likened to breaking a bone.

4 Stages of Gout

1. Asymptomatic hyperuricemia

During this period, the person has no symptoms of gout but none-the-less, crystals are deposited and accumulate which then leads to a gout attack. Again, why this occurs in some people with hyperuricemia and not others is not well understood.

2. Acute gout attack

Left untreated, an acute attack resolves spontaneously in 3 to 10 days. It is believed that the inflammation and lower pH that occurs during the attack eventually causes the crystals to dissolve. In addition, some of the crystals become walled-off in tissue while other types of cells known as macrophages may elicit an anti-inflammatory response. Finally, specific proteins are thought to coat the crystals which also suppress inflammation. These processes lead to a resolution of symptoms within 3-10 days.

3. Intercritical period

This is the period between attacks. Generally, about 68% of people will experience another gout attack or flare within the first year, 78% within 2 years and 84% within 3 years. A small minority will never experience another gout attack. During this intercritical period the individual remains pain free despite the fact that damage to the underlying structures can still occur.

4. Advanced Gout

Over time, the persistence of crystals cause chronic low-level inflammation that leads to joint damage and build up of crystal deposits that are known as tophi. These deposits lead to joint erosion and deformities that are clearly evident on X-ray or MRI.

How is Gout Diagnosed?

The gold standard for diagnosis is to take a sample of joint fluid during an acute flare to analyze it for monosodium urate crystals. However this is not always practicable during a medical exam. If the joint is not aspirated, a very detailed history is taken, the affected joint is carefully examined and blood work is ordered because gout can mimic other diseases.That is why it is very important to see your provider during an acute attack.

How is Gout Treated?

During an acute flare, treatment focuses on eliminating pain and disability as quickly as possible. To this end several types of medications can be used. Since inflammation is an underlying condition, medications that target inflammation are often used.

Treatment of advanced gout focuses on reducing the level of uric acid since gout does not occur without hyperuricemia. The goal is to prevent erosive changes to bones, soft tissue and joint spaces that otherwise occur. Talk to your provider about treatment options that are best for you.

More on the Science of Stem Cells for Osteoarthritis Treatment

Although they originally come from bone marrow, adult (or as they are often called, "mesenchymal") stem cells can be derived from a variety of body tissues. These tissues include fat, the thin lining on the surface of bone called the periosteum, joint lining (synovium), muscle, skin, baby teeth, and cartilage.

Their purpose is simply to act as repairmen to replace and regenerate cells that are lost as a result of injury, normal turnover, and aging. Think of them as the handyman around the house!

There have been attempts at defining exactly what constitutes a true mesenchymal stem cell. Various cell surface markers have been used to describe these cells and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs)appear to share certain traits and characteristics in common. Finally, it has been agreed that a true MSC is capable of differentiating into bone, cartilage, as well as fat.

Although MSCs harvested from different tissues look the same, it's not clear if they behave the same or have the same capabilities.

One study, for instance, showed that the MSCs most able to become cartilage were stem cells derived from joint lining (synovial) tissue. Other MSCs that showed a good ability to become cartilage were those from bone marrow and from periosteum.

Another issue is quality of MSCs. How effective will they be under different circumstances? It's clear that stem cells placed in an environment with certain stimulatory growth factors differentiate better. On the flip side, there have been some studies indicating that advanced age may slow stem cell multiplication and division. However, other studies indicate that regardless of age, enough good quality MSCs can be obtained that do have adequate potential to differentiate into cartilage cells. (At our center, we usually use 75 years of age as our cutoff, although a few of our best results have occurred in older individuals.)

The potential application of MSCs to differentiate into cartilage cells and be used to repair cartilage damage in osteoarthritis is a hot topic nowadays.

It is a very complicated process though, and current research has used normal cartilage as the model to emulate. Most stem cell research models of cartilage have a few things in common. First, they use MSCs. Then, a matrix or scaffold is incorporated. This framework serves as a "home" for the MSCs. Finally, the stem cells are exposed to a variety of growth factors used to stimulate differentiation and multiplication.

In many experiments done in laboratory settings, the quality of cartilage derived from MSCs has been disappointing. It appears that the both the quality of stem cell as well as the extracellular environment is critical for the normal development of viable strong cartilage. The exact "key" remains elusive. There appears to be a complex interplay between enzymes and proteins that degrade cartilage such as matrix metalloproteinases and factors that build cartilage such as transforming growth factors, bone morphogenic protein, and parathyroid hormone, to name a few.

One final interesting point is that MSCs have a unique property that is often overlooked. They have immunosuppressive and anti-inflammatory functions that have been demonstrated both in the laboratory setting as well as in animal models. This has a lot of potential impact, particularly when considering their use in arthritis treatment.

For a more scientific discussion of the intricacies of MSC biology as it pertains to cartilage regeneration, readers are referred to the excellent works written by Drs. Faye Chen and Rocky Tuan.

Hydrotherapy and Arthritis Treatment

When the body is immersed in water, there is less strain on the weight bearing joints, and this gives a feeling of comfort, relaxation and lightness of being. This takes place in both cold and hot water. Professional hydrotherapy for arthritis, however, is typically carried out in a hot pool. It has been known since before Roman times that water therapy can bring benefit and relief for arthritis. Hydrotherapy was developed in Austrian in the early 19th century at the water university. Toward the end of that century a Bavarian priest classified the therapeutic uses of water and today some centers still offer it. Today, it is available at many hospitals and clinics.

How it works - Hydrotherapy, an increasingly popular treatment for arthritis conditions of all kinds, works in two distinct but related ways. Firstly, it gives instant relief of pain and a sense of increased wellbeing and, secondly, being immersed in water allows greater joint mobility while you are actually in the water. For this reason, hydrotherapy is almost always combined with gentle exercise while the joints have this increased mobility. After the exercise session, more hydrotherapy encourages the joints and muscles to relax in a soothing, comforting way.

Relaxing in a hot bath is a form of hydrotherapy in itself, but special hydrotherapy pools are available for use by arthritis sufferers. These are hotter than ordinary swimming pools, and are staffed by physiotherapists or other health care professionals who are expert in treating this condition. Specialized care - Hydrotherapy and exercise sessions should be carried out under the supervision of a health care professional. Otherwise, there is a risk that the joints will be exercised beyond their natural capacity, resulting in more harm than good.

For the treatment to be effective, it is important that the water should be at the correct temperature, as water that is too hot or too cold will not be beneficial and may even restrict mobility. This especially applies if a joint is acutely inflamed. In addition, the skin can be damaged by water that is too hot. For this treatment, you need to book a session or course of sessions at a hydrotherapy pool.

A visit to a spa - Some spas and health farms has pools that are adapted for arthritis sufferers. Treatment in adapted pools or baths may be combined with a hot seaweed or mud wrap afterward to reduce inflammation still further. Good luck with your arthritis treatment.

Safe Arthritis and Muscle Pain Relief Solution Pain Gels With Arnica and Menthol

A Peruvian born Oklahoma City physician specializing in internal medicine and rheumatology has created a pain relief gel formula of all-natural ingredients that can give relief to joint pain, muscle discomfort and improve mobility. The doctor states that when looking for an alternative to oral pain medication precaution should be used. Oral medication be it OTC or prescription, can cause harm with prolong use from addiction to stomach or liver damage. Most pain gels contain Menthol. As an active ingredient you should look to see if the product is FDA Compliant. Other ingredients that offer safe and beneficial relief are Aloe Vera and MSM. Look to see if the pain relief gel consists of various medicinal herbs and is manufactured with a strict adherence to the German Commission E-Monographs. The commission was established in the 1970's to evaluate and report on the safety and effectiveness of over 300 herbs. One of the most reliable medical herbs is Arnica. It is recognized worldwide as an anti-rheumatic and pain reliever.

Pain relief gels with Menthol and Arnica can help joint pain in the hands, knees, elbows and shoulders. Some pain gels have also been found helpful in relieving discomfort to sore muscles, tendons and ailments related to fibromyalgia, Restless Legg Syndrome, and Myofascial pain just to name a few. 繚 Pain relief in minutes

There are many pain relief gel products available. However, many of them are presented as a topical analgesic and only offer temporary relief on the most top layer of your tissue. The two different types either contain capsaicin or Menthol. Capsaicin based analgesics offer a warm to hot feeling on the skin. Many orthopedic doctors do not recommend using heat for inflammation and pain relief. The other is menthol based which gives a soothing cool relieving feeling. Pain relief gels that are formulated with medicinal herbs to aid in the pain relieving and delivery of the gel into the tissue are the best. These gels are more costly but the end results can be noticed over other national name brand analgesics. Pain gels with medicinal herbs can give you relief much faster than most joint supplements and safer than over the counter pain relievers that can cause stomach and liver problems with prolonged use.

Look for pain relief gels that have the following:

1. FDA Compliant - Menthol is the active ingredient and manufactured to FDA compliancy

2. Soothing cool relief with no capsaicin or salicylates (aspirin)

3. No animal products or animal testing

4. No dangerous parabens

5. No artificial dyes

6. No greasy residue

7. Made in the U.S.A.

Stop living with pain and start living your life to its fullest. For most pain gels using daily, you can enjoy the activities that were given up due to pain.

Arthritis Natural Cure - Arthritis-Free Foods You Should Know About!

The best way to cure arthritis is by doing two things!

1. Understanding what caused your arthritis.

2. Realizing the best way to treat arthritis is to prevent arthritis.

In this article, we will address both of those topics to help you cure your arthritis. However, did you know that only in recent decades, did researchers begin to believe that there is a cure for arthritis?

Fact! Researchers were dumbfounded after discovering indigenous tribes in undeveloped countries whose members consistently live to be 90-100 years of age. What was even more amazing is how tribesmen would work (hunting, gathering, planting, harvesting) up to their dying day. And the the kicker! These primitive tribes have not one known case of arthritis. How could this be? After years of questions, researchers finally concluded that the tribes' diets are the cause of such a healthy life.

What Causes Arthritis?

Understanding the cause of arthritis can allow you to know how to treat arthritis.

So what causes arthritis? Arthritis is typically caused by the following: poor diet; unbalanced diet; inactive lifestyle; stress; inefficient vitamins; improper breathing; and lack of sleep.

Did you notice that you can control most (if not all) of the arthritis factors. In fact, the biggest cause of arthritis is your diet!

Naturally Treating Arthritis with Your Diet

Did you know that the FDA allows over a thousand additives and preservatives to be added to our food? In fact, thirty-year-old landfills recently opened were found to have hotdogs which still have not decomposed. How disgusting does that sound? Now think of the other foods (with preservatives) our body digests on a daily basis?

So why am I telling you this? Because the resilient tribes who live to be one hundred years of age have never consumed one additive or preservative in their life! And note, these tribes have also not one case of arthritis.

Arthritis-Free Dieting Tips

1. Stop drinking soda! Typically anything in a can is loaded with preservatives and additives.

2. Drink less coffee and more herbal teas.

3. Stop eating white flour. Anything with the words 'enriched' is not a good choice for arthritis.

4. Lower your sugar intake. Most arthritic symptoms are associated with high amounts of sugar.

5. Stay away from dairy products.

6. Eat raw fruits and vegetables. These water-soluble fiber foods are great for arthritis sufferers.

7. Eat protein from any lean meat, eggs, beans, grains and nuts.

8. Drink 8-10 glasses of water each and every day! This is extremely important for curing arthritis.

9. Stay away from fast foods and processed foods.

10. The best foods are always fresh and raw. Eat foods that will spoil after a couple of weeks.

These simple and helpful tips will get you started on the right path for treating your arthritis with no medications and no surgery. However, don't stop with these tips. To discover an array of foods to eat and not eat; various breathing exercises; fitness ideas, natural anti-inflammatory herbs and other tips to naturally cure arthritis; please check out our safe and secured website today.

Naturally Cure Your Arthritis with No Drugs

How Can Rheumatoid Arthritis Affect Your Oral Health

Rheumatoid arthritis or RA can cause inflammation of joints and tissues and some organs of the body. When the immune system attacks the body tissues mistakenly, autoimmune diseases happen. The immune system has different organizations of antibodies and cells to fight harmful toxins in the body. However, people who suffer from autoimmune illnesses have antibodies in the blood that attack body tissues, which can cause inflammation. Rheumatoid arthritis is also known as rheumatoid disease because it affects several body organs.

Patients may not experience symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis for a long time but the illness is progressive that can result to functional disability and destruction of joints.

Rheumatoid arthritis or RA has different symptoms from mild to serious. Obvious symptoms can be seen in the joints of the wrists, hands, feet and knees. Effects on oral health are less known. The disease may affect different organs such as kidneys, lungs, and tissues around the heart.

Though RA has no cure, people with RA can take different kinds of anti-inflammatory medications to relieve inflammation and pain caused by rheumatoid arthritis. Aspirin is known to be effective as an anti-inflammatory. Other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs include naproxophen and ibuprofen. To control inflammation, prednisone is recommended but it can cause several side effects including increased pressure of fluid around the brain. Other side effects are diabetes and infection. Physicians can inject cortisone and steroids for quick relief of the joints. Anti-rheumatic medications that can modify diseases are also available such as methotrexate, gold and hydroxychloroquine can, which can delay the progress of the illness. However, be aware that using these medications can have serious side effects.

Rheumatoid arthritis can also have effects on your oral health. Patients that suffer from the disease can have gum disease and serious tooth decay because the inflamed and swollen wrist joints and hands perform the oral hygiene, which can be painful and tedious. Patients can use electric toothbrushes that have more comfortable and larger handles for a better grasp. With electric toothbrushes, cleaning the teeth is easier and more effective. In addition, RA patients cannot floss and they are recommended to use interdental cleaning. Interdental cleaners can be purchased at different department stores and pharmacies.

Salivary glands are affected by RA, which causes dryness and inflammation. People with rheumatoid arthritis can experience dry mouth or xerostomia and dry eye or keratoconjunctivitis sicca. Natural treatments can treat this problem such as consuming plenty of water and chewing gums that free from sugar or sucking hard candies that are sugar-free to stimulate salivary glands. Tooth decay will occur if there are no cleansing and antibacterial saliva effects. It is necessary to use products that contain high fluoride. In addition, practice good oral hygiene and lessen the consumption of sugar.

If you are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, it is necessary to take good care of oral health. Make sure to brush your teeth at least two times everyday and floss after every meal. Make sure to check your mouth for the obvious signs of dry mouth, teeth stains, decay and plaque. In addition, you need to watch for gum disease, bad breath and bleeding. Visiting your dentist at least three times, every year is essential. It is recommended to discuss your RA as well as your oral health issues with your dentist or medical doctor.

Will Alternative Treatment Methods Relive Osteo-Arthritis?

There are lots of men and women around the globe who have got to withstand the anguish affiliated with joint pain. However, despite the fact that there are lots of over the counter as well as prescription treatments available they could cause uncomfortable side effects in most afflicted individuals. For this reason lots of people are currently deciding to check out utilizing an alternative treatment method with regard to rheumatoid arthritis instead.

Using alternative remedies a man or woman being affected by osteoarthritis finds out the treatment options that will help them to stop utilizing drugs which in turn will not function in conjunction with what they're utilising presently. On the other hand, alternative remedies will help not only to give them pain relief but in addition increase their range of motions.

Yet in addition to this form of therapy pertaining to osteoporosis assisting the sufferer with pain relief it will also help them in different ways. Numerous learn that as time passes that their health and fitness increases overall as well as their well being is actually much better. This is usually due to the therapy concentrating not only around the spot impacted by the osteoporosis but the body in general.

The main reason why so many individuals are actually deciding to test natural methods for eliminating rheumatoid arthritis is really because they still really feel uncertain regarding many of the drugs prescribed by doctors. In actuality there are specific recommended prescription drugs which have been recommended as the solution for your rumatoid arthritis, however in actuality induce a lot more complications. For instance Vioxx is actually one such doctor prescribed medication which might help to ease the pain sensation associated with osteoporosis yet has led to quite a few users experiencing various other health issues among them problems to the heart as well as in some instances individuals enduring strokes.

In terms of the treatment of osteoporosis employing holistic approaches there are plenty of to pick from. However one that's worthwhile considering is Tai Chi. By using this unique physical exercise you have to control the motion of one's body since every thing has to be performed far more gradually. In addition the actual moves which you do necessitate your body to be stretched. Therefore when you perform the actual workout routines related to Tai Chi you're working not merely the actual joints but in addition the muscle groups around them. This with time helps make these locations substantially tougher plus much more mobile.