Arthritis Treatment: Five Neck Exercises That Work Wonders!

A common complaint heard by rheumatologists from their patients is, "My neck hurts." If you have ever had neck pain you know how debilitating this can be. The neck consists of a column of seven vertebrae separated from each other by true joints (uncovertebral joints) in back and discs in front. This column is supported by a complex arrangement of ligaments and muscles.

While most neck pain is due to muscle strains- for example, the "crick" in the neck that can come on if you sleep in an awkward position- most people with neck pain after the age of 40 also have osteoarthritis and degenerative disk disease as well.

Here are five simple exercises you can do to help your neck feel better. Do not do these exercises until you consult with your physician or physical therapist. If possible, apply moist heat to the neck for five minutes before doing these exercises. That helps to loosen the muscles up.

#1. Stand up straight. Slowly turn your head as far as possible, slowly, to the right. While you're turning, count slowly to eight. That's about the right cadence for this exercise. Hold this position for a five count. Return to a neutral position. Then repeat the same motion to the left side. Do a total of five repetitions each side.

#2. Stand straight up. Slowly lower your chin to your chest. Hold this position for a five count. Slowly raise your head up and look at the ceiling. Do not force this. If it hurts, stop. Hold this position for a five count. Return to neutral and repeat this set of motions five times.

#3. Stand up straight. Slowly bend your head to the side bringing your right ear to your right shoulder. Hold for a count of five. Return to a neutral position. Repeat the same motion to the left side. Do five repetitions to each side.

#4 Stand up straight. Slowly and evenly roll your head clockwise in a wide circle up to the right, then down to the left. Then repeat the same motion in a counterclockwise fashion. Do this slowly. Repeat five times.

#5. Stand up straight. Take a deep breath in and with your arms down at your sides, slowly lift your shoulders up towards your ears. Pull your shoulders back as far as they will go at the very top of this maneuver, then rotate your shoulders forward again and exhale. Repeat this ten to twenty times.

Don't expect overnight miracles. These exercises will help you over time.

Stem Cell Treatment For Osteoarthritis - What is it All About?

While many new and amazing therapies for rheumatoid arthritis have been developed in recent years, very little progress has been made in the treatment of osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and affects approximately 30 million Americans. OA is a disease of articular cartilage, the gristle that caps the ends of long bones. Cartilage has both gliding as well as shock absorbing properties.

It is this flexibility of function that enables a joint to work properly.

Normal cartilage is composed of cells called chondrocytes that sit inside a matrix consisting of collagen and glycosaminoglycans... much like grapes inside Jello.

Osteoarthritis develops when the chondrocyte begins to malfunction and starts to produce destructive enzymes. At the same time water content inside the matrix changes making it more susceptible to stress. Small cracks, called "fissures" develop. Also, local inflammation involving the lining of the joint- called the synovium- begins. The end result is a gradual and premature wearing away of cartilage.

This process is most apparent in weight-bearing areas such as the neck, low back, hips, and knees.

Current approaches to the treatment of OA involve the use of analgesics (pain-relieving medicines), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), physical therapy, proper weight management, exercises, injections of steroids, injections of viscosupplements (lubricants), and surgery.

While many of the above treatments help relieve pain, they do nothing to prevent cartilage loss... and more importantly, they do nothing to restore cartilage.

Orthopedic techniques such as chondrocyte transplantation and cartilage plug surgery are helpful for discrete, relatively small areas of cartilage loss but are generally reserved for younger people who have had traumatic injuries to cartilage. But what about the older person who suffers from osteoarthritis?

In recent years there has been much interest in the role of regenerative techniques to rebuild cartilage.

The topic of much study are stem cells. Stem cells are pluripotential cells, meaning they are cells that can become any kind of tissue, given the right stimulus. Stem cells can be obtained from embryonic tissue, which is a source of much controversy. Or they can be obtained from adults. The adult body has a small number of stem cells in many tissues. They are activated by injury or illness. Adult stem cells, as a rule, do not have the ability to differentiate as well as embryonic stem cells.

However, in recent years, techniques have been developed to harvest mesenchymal stem cells- stem cells found in the bone marrow. These mesenchymal stem cells cells, when properly prepared and concentrated, have the ability to differentiate into cartilage and bone.

Stem cells are harvested from the the patient's iliac crest bone marrow using local anesthetic and a special type of biopsy needle. The stem cells are then specially concentrated.

After the stem cells are prepared, the physician, using ultrasound guidance and local anesthetic, finds the area of arthritis involvement and irritates the area using a special large needle. This irritation is important because it initiates an inflammatory reaction which is the prelude to healing and regeneration. The areas that are irritated include the capsule, tendon insertions, pericapsular soft tissue, as well as cartilage.

Blood is drawn from the patient and spun in a special centrifuge in order to obtain platelet rich plasma. Platelets are blood cells that contain multiple growth and healing factors.

Once the irritation has been completed, stem cells as well as the platelet rich plasma are injected into the prepared area.

The growth factors within the platelet rich plasma act on receptors found on the surface of stem cells and cause the stem cells to differentiate and multiply.

The end result is cartilage regeneration as well as lessening of pain. While the data is preliminary, the early results appear to be very promising.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Causes, Symptoms and Natural Remedies That You Should Know

Rheumatoid arthritis is much different from osteoarthritis and it has nothing to do with age. It usually strikes between 20 and 30 years old and it is an auto-immune disease. Its causes are not yet clear for the researchers, but they have reached the conclusion that women are more likely to develop this condition than men. The reasons are not understood. However, this is a serious condition that completely messes up one's life. The disease progresses in time even though the patients also experience periods when the symptoms completely disappear. It starts with affecting the joints in the hands and wrists and sufferers usually feel worse in the morning, for about an hour after waking up. The joint stiffness and pain is usually symmetrical, this meaning that both hands will be affected, not just one, or both feet, depending on the case.

There are many ways in which rheumatoid arthritis patients can obtain relief from the symptoms of the disease. Herbal remedies are one of the safest methods. Rheumatoid arthritis can't be cured, but it can be slowed down and the patients' condition and quality of life can be improved. Here are some herbs that can do that -

1. Borage seed oil - It contains anti-inflammatory substances and Omega-6 fatty acids which help the body fight inflammation.

2. Boswelia - It is efficient both in rheumatoid arthritis and in osteoarthritis. It has the power of reducing pain and inflammation and it also helps the damaged cartilage to grow. Administration of boswelia also improves the blood flow to the affected joint which means that this will be better nourished with all the minerals that the cartilage needs for preserving its condition.

3. Eucalyptus oil - It is an excellent pain killer if massaged on the affected joints.

4. Holy basil - It contains ursolic acid, strong anti-inflammatory substances. Besides, this, it is also effective in preventing cancer, so not only provides relief from rheumatoid arthritis but also has a positive impact on one's overall health condition.

5. Oregano - The compounds of this product can easily compete with the most prestigious drugs. It contains 31 anti-inflammatory agents and 28 antioxidants. Antioxidants are substances that fight free radicals, responsible for damaging the cells.

6. Pine essential oil - Massaging it on the painful joints provides relief both in cases of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Its action is similar with that of cortisone drugs, but using it provokes no side effects.

Arthritis Remedies - Safe and Natural Ways to Reduce Joint Pain and Inflammation

Many herbal preparations work as remedies for arthritis patients as these can not only relieve the manifested symptoms of arthritis but also produce effects in the whole body to root out the disease. The herbal remedies for arthritis are safe as they do not produce any side effects even if dosage becomes little bit higher. Exercises are also very helpful in alleviating symptoms of arthritis, various types of exercises and therapies can help in improving joint mobility, range of motion and promoting endurance.

Causes for many type of arthritis are not yet known but the relief from symptoms and maintaining movement of the affected parts is a part of the treatment for all types of arthritis. Herbs can control pain, reduce inflammation, improve immune system and can provide mental relaxation for combating this debilitating disease. Ginger is a commonly found natural herb in every kitchen but it can also be an effective remedy for arthritis. The rich anti-oxidants present in ginger help the body in relieving the symptoms and also increasing the period of remission of the disease. Alfalfa is a very effective herb in relieving the symptoms of rheumatic arthritis. The tea of alfalfa seeds 2-3 times in a day is recommended for rheumatic arthritis patients as a remedy.

Vitamin C is very important to help the body in fighting arthritis, two teaspoon of lemon juice with one teaspoon of honey mixed in a warm cup of water is an effective remedy for arthritis. Another effective remedy for arthritis can be made by using egg plant and some spices easily available in the kitchen. Two egg plants first baked and then mashed and fried with two teaspoons of castor oil. While frying them add coriander, cumin seed, turmeric, garlic and salt, consumption of this preparation once in a day helps in relieving the symptoms and preventing flares of arthritis.

Non prescription cayenne cream contains capsaicin which can inhibit the signals of pain to the brain providing immediate relief from pain. This cream is suggested for use during flares of the disease when pain reduces the movement of joints. Tying warm mustard oil spread on a madar leaf also alleviates the pain and inflammation effectively.

Proper diet also works as effective remedy for arthritis, peas, oysters, wheat germ, whole grains are rich sources of zinc and one high zinc diet in a day improves immunity system. Grapefruit juice and other citrus fruit juices increase the effectiveness of vitamin C and control inflammation. Omega 3 fatty acids are also effective diet for curing arthritis. Cod liver oil as a supplement acts as good remedy for arthritis.

Ashwagandha is an excellent health tonic and is a natural pain reliever; it is helpful in almost all types of arthritis conditions. Ginseng and half teaspoon of gugglu after every meal acts as preventive remedies for arthritis as they improve over all well being. Light exercises and keeping weight in control is not only good for over all health but helps in keeping the symptoms of arthritis under control.

Arthritis Treatment: New Approaches to Treating Gouty Arthritis

Gout is a common cause of arthritis affecting more than 8 million Americans. Although it affects men more than women, there appears to be an increasing incidence of the disease in post-menopausal women. The incidence overall appears to be increasing as a result of the epidemic of obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and elevated lipids, all of which are associated with gout.

Gout, in 90 per cent of cases, is caused by the inability of the kidneys to get rid of urate. In the other 10 per cent, there is an overproduction of urate.

Animals other than humans don't get gout because they have an enzyme called uricase which breaks urate down and allows the animal to excrete it. Human beings, on the other hand, lack this enzyme and therefore are unable to excrete urate (uric acid) appropriately. This leads to accumulation of uric acid crystals in the joints and other organ systems.

Gout typically occurs in three stages. The first stage is what is called "asymptomatic hyperuricemia." Asymptomatic hyperuricemia is characterized by elevate blood uric acid levels without attacks of gout. The higher the blood uric acid level is, though, the greater likelihood of an eventual attack.

The second phase or stage is termed "acute intermittent gout". During this stage, patients have attacks of gout but after the attack is over, they are relatively symptom free. The danger here is that chronic inflammation persists despite the absence of symptoms.

The third stage is called "chronic tophaceous gout." In this phase, patients have chronic pain due to repeated attacks of gout with an increasing burden of urate accumulation in the joints, kidneys, and other organs systems. Patients develop " tophi" which are deposits of inflammatory cells, urate crystals and fibrin. Gradual destruction of the joints occurs with the development of crippling deformity.

The treatment of gouty arthritis consists of a two-fold approach with relief of the acute attack accompanied by attempts to lower the urate burden.

Acute attacks can be treated with colchicine, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and steroids. The latter can be given either orally or directly into the affected joint.

Drugs that lower urate need to be used for the chronic treatment of gout. These drugs, when initiated, need to be accompanied by gout prophylaxis in the form of daily doses of either colchicine or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, for at least six months. The reason is this: as urate shifts as a result of the effect of uric acid lowering drugs, there is a predisposition to acute attacks.

Drugs used to lower urate consist of medicines that make patients urinate out their uric acid (probenecid), medicines that suppress uric acid production ( allopurinol, febuxostat [Uloric]), and uricolytic drugs. An example of the latter is pegloticase (Krystexxa), which converts uric acid to allantoin, an inert ingredient that is then excreted.

Counseling a patient in regards to lifestyle and diet also plays a role in the comprehensive approach to gout.

Signs and Symptoms of Arthritis - Defined

Arthritis pain and the options for relieving pain can be very frustrating. According to Gene Hunder, M.D., rheumatology specialist at Mayo Clinic, if joint damage is already evident, the arthritis pain worsens with stressful or repetitive activities to the joints affected. However, if mild joint pain exists a gentle exercise program may be beneficial.

Ankylosing Spondylitis - This arthritis affects the spine, hips, heart, lungs and heels, which is chronic, painful and progressive. Ankylosing spondylitis can eventually cause fusion of the spine in those of genetic predisposition. Typical symptoms affect males between the ages of 15-30 consisting of chronic pain and stiffness in the lower back and fatigue. Children as young as three may experience knee pain often misinterpreted as rheumatisms. Generally, X-ray tests will show indications of any spinal changes and sacroilitiis characteristic to ankylosing spondylitis. Ankylosing spondylitis is classified as a systematic rheumatic autoimmune disease, with no known cure available. However, medication, physical therapy and exercise are available to reduce pain, inflammation and symptoms.

Juvenile Arthritis - This arthritis affects children between the ages of 6 months to 16 years. Many of the symptoms are the same as rheumatoid arthritis (see below) and usually the child outgrows juvenile rheumatoid arthritis before reaching adulthood. Medications are available to improve symptoms, which might include a variable fever.

Osteoarthritis - Degenerative arthritis, another name for osteoarthritis affects the joints. The wearing of the cartilage, which acts as a cushion for the joints, causes inflammation and pain. Because the bone surfaces have less protection from the cartilage, walking and standing, or any other weight bearing activity creates pain, but little if any inflammation. Currently this arthritis affects 21 million people within the United States. Because it is, so far anyway, impossible to replace cartilage, there is no cure for Osteoarthritis. The type of pain usually associated with osteoarthritis is described as a sharp ache, or burning sensation in the muscles and tendons associated with the bone. Occasionally when the joint moves or is touched, it will make a crackling noise. Other symptoms noted include muscle spasms, tendon contractions and fluid in the joint. Areas affected by Osteoarthritis are hands, feet, spine, hips, knees and in theory any joint in the body. When knees are affected, they tend to curve outward and usually feel worse the more they are used during the day. This separates osteoarthritis apart from rheumatoid arthritis. On fingers nodes form, but usually are not painful. Bunion formation that may become red or swollen is a common form on the toes. There are two causes of osteoarthritis; Primary, caused by aging where the water content of the cartilage increases and loss of protein composition; Secondary, other diseases or conditions including, but not limited to, obesity, repeated trauma, hormonal disorders, surgery and inflammatory diseases. Because 60% of the population has family members affected by osteoarthritis, this indicates a hereditary condition. X-rays and MRIs, in addition to a physical examination, are the most common techniques used to diagnose osteoarthritis. No matter how severe the osteoarthritis condition, weight control, appropriate rest and exercise and support devices, if necessary are the most beneficial treatments. To relieve pain associated with exercise, apply heat before and cold after for 10-20 minutes each, along with mild pain relievers, if necessary. In severe cases, surgery may be required to remove fragments, reposition bones, or bone fusion, which will increase stability.

Rheumatoid Arthritis - This chronic, inflammatory autoimmune disorder allows the immune system to attacks joints, which is both painful and destructive and may create loss of mobility. Rheumatoid arthritis differs from other forms of arthritis because it attacks the soft-tissue of many joints at the same time and stiffness and pain are worse in the morning, improving with use. Rheumatoid arthritis may lead to joint deformity should joint surfaces erode or become destroyed, such as fingers and assume unnatural shapes. This disorder is more common among women and is genetic. Common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are morning stiffness, soft-tissue swelling in three or more joints, arthritis of hand joints, symmetric arthritis, subcutaneous nodules in specific places, radiological changes that suggest joint changes. Blood tests are used to determine if a patient suffers from Rheumatoid arthritis. Scientists do not know what causes rheumatoid arthritis, but suspicions lead to an offending organism causes an immune response that leaves behind antibodies specific to that organism. Though this disease is progressive, regular diet and exercise can ease the symptoms of pain and stiffness associated.

Arthritis dates back as far a 4500 BC when the remains of Indians were found in Tennessee. The first text written is dated 123 AD noting symptoms similar to rheumatoid arthritis.

A Dermatologist For Your Skin Problems

A dermatologist is a medical doctor who specializes in the treatment of conditions that affect the skin, nails and hair. Some of these conditions include, but are not limited to, acne, eczema, psoriasis, skin cancer, moles, melanomas and skin tumors. The American Board of Dermatology certifies dermatologists.

In the U.S., dermatologists must undergo rigorous training and graduate from an accredited medical school or osteopathic school in order to be qualified. Dermatologists that graduate from medical schools outside of the United States are required by law to obtain a foreign graduate certificate before they are permitted to practice dermatology. Just like other medical doctors, dermatologists have been trained and have completed at least one year in a residency program for clinical training in emergency medicine, family practice, gynecology and obstetrics, pediatrics, general surgery or internal medicine. Dermatologists are considered medical specialists, as they are fully trained medical doctors who have undergone specialized training in matters pertaining to skin conditions.

A person with a skin condition, such as eczema, psoriasis or skin cancer, is most likely referred to a dermatologist by their regular doctor. Because of their specialized training, a dermatologist is better suited to treat skin conditions or assist in managing them. Often, the treatment that they offer includes dermabrasion or chemical peels, laser resurfacing, tissue augmentation, hair transplants, liposuction or sclerotherapy (to treat vascular malformations). Specially trained in the latest, most effective surgical techniques, a dermatologist is also an expert in managing skin disorders that accompany aging, such as hair loss, skin discolorations and other skin changes. Some even specialize in cosmetic treatments, such as botox injections, collagen injections and eyelid surgery.

Though already deemed a specialist in the care of skin conditions, some dermatologists further specialize in other treatments. For instance, a dermatopathologist specializes in infectious skin diseases or those that are immune system related or degenerative. Such doctors specialize in microscopic examinations useful in identifying these diseases. Often these specialists even work in hospital settings where contagious skin infections sometimes occur.

Other dermatology specialists include pediatric dermatology. These doctors work specifically with childhood skin conditions, such as eczema and other skin allergies common in childhood. These dermatological specialists are generally part of a larger medical team used to treat children who often have very complex medical conditions with multiple symptoms.

Eczema is another area where a dermatologist may treat a large number of children. Characterized by red, scaly or leathery-looking skin that sometimes oozes and becomes crusty, eczema is a skin condition that largely affects infants and young children. As it is commonly associated with an allergic reaction and dermatologists are specially trained to treat skin allergies, their care is usually recommended. To treat eczema symptoms in children, a dermatologist may prescribe either a topical or an oral cortocosteroid medication, as well as recommend home skin care regimens to lessen the severity of eczema's affects. Though most children eventually outgrow eczema, some do not and the condition is carried over into adulthood. Therefore, many dermatologists also treat adult patients with eczema.

When most people think of a dermatologist, teen acne is perhaps the first type of treatment they associate with this specialty. Acne is characterized by the appearance of pimples, blotchy skin, cysts, whiteheads or blackheads. These eruptions are the result of bacteria and oil, which blocks the skin's pores and causes mild to severe skin eruptions. For persistent or very severe cases of acne, a dermatologist is sought for treatment and relief. The treatment offered may include the dermatologist draining the pimples or cysts with specially designed instruments and a dermatologist may prescribe medications to specifically target and reduce acne problems. In cases where acne scarring has occurred, a dermatologist may perform collagen injections, dermabrasion, a chemical peel or laser surgery to correct the appearance of unsightly pit marks and scars.

Psoriasis is another skin condition that a dermatologist may be called upon to treat. Most commonly affecting adults, psoriasis can also be found in children. Characterized by inflamed, thick, discolored patches of skin, psoriasis is actually caused by an overreaction of the immune system. While most cases are mild to moderate, some patients with psoriasis actually experience arthritic symptoms, and loss of fingernails and toenails as a result of this condition. While most cases of psoriasis can be treated with over the counter or home styled remedies, in these more severe cases a dermatologist may be called upon for specialized treatment and to help a person with psoriatic arthritis manage daily life.

A dermatologist is also routinely recommended for the proper diagnosis and treatment of skin cancers, melanomas, moles and skin tumors. These highly trained specialists are best suited for treatment, as they have been trained to recognize its symptoms, diagnose and administer the best patient care in these areas. A dermatologist may perform skin biopsies, surgical excisions, special procedures to remove tumors (medically referred to as Mohs micrographic surgery), cryosurgery (freezing cancer growths using liquid nitrogen), topical chemotherapy or any other number of procedures they are specially trained to administer.

While many may think of a dermatologist as merely being an acne doctor for teenagers, a closer look at this specialized field of medicine reveals a lot more. As the skin is the largest organ on the body, a dermatologist plays a very important role in the medical profession as this specialist is called upon to treat a wide variety of common, rare and serious skin conditions and diseases. Trained in performing everything from diagnoses to extensive and very delicate surgical procedures, a dermatologist is a specialist deserving of the same respect as a heart surgeon or another uniquely qualified medical doctor.

Did You Know Many Of The Astaxanthin Benefits Can Give Your Health A Boost?

Carotenoids, in case you didn't know occur naturally and their main property is that they are very powerful antioxidants. These are essential for you to maintain your health. The way they go about this is to destroy free radicals which are the source of so many illnesses and health problems. Lately research has been centred on one particular carotenoid called astaxanthin. So, what is so special about this and just how many astaxanthin benefits are there?

Where does it come from? It comes from microscopic small plants, these micro-alga are then eaten by larger marine animals. Because crabs, lobster, fish and crawfish feed on the micro-alga the astaxanthin it gives them their red color.

What are the Astaxanthin Benefits?

In comparison to other carotenoid antioxidants it tops the list when it eliminating free radicals. It is many times more powerful than vitamins C, E and beta-carotene.

Do you suffer from joint pain?

80% of the people taking an astaxanthin supplement showed an improvement in their symptoms. These ranged from osteoarthritis, back pain to rheumatoid arthritis. It has also been proven to be effective with tennis elbow, painful joints and carpal tunnel syndrome.

The benefits for serious athletes are substantial these include:

a). a boost to their stamina

b). after an accident it decreased the amount of time spent in recovery.

c). after exercise their muscles and joints displayed no soreness.

Astaxanthin Benefits for your skin.

Everyone wants healthy skin and in human clinical trials it was proven that astaxanthin helped to overturn the signs of aging. In addition to this enhancement in skin quality it also prevented damage by UV rays.

Many experts are now recommending astaxanthin for wrinkle reduction, age spots and to improve the moisture level of your skin. Some well-known cosmetic companies have now beginning to incorporate astaxanthin in their products.

Reduced inflammation.

If you have an infection your body's responds by using inflammation as the instrument to restore the injured tissue. Another form is chronic inflammation, this is far more serious.

Some of the health conditions associated with chronic inflammation are arthritis, asthma, strokes, ulcers, Alzheimer's and many more. The prescription drugs used to treat these conditions have major and frequently alarming side effects.

When you compare astaxanthin to the standard anti-inflammatory treatments it does not work as fast as a drug. On the other hand it is completely safe and there are no side effects besides being extremely effective for countless users.

Cancer prevention.

There has been a great deal of research on the effect astaxanthin has on various types of cancer cells. Although the studies have been carried out on rats and mice the results are very promising.

It has been proven to be very effective against urinary bladder cancer and colon cancer. The way it works is that it inhibits the start of cancer cells.

It also gives your immune system an enhancement by greatly increasing the number of antibodies and improving your resistance to colds.

There are many more health conditions where this has proved to be of immense value and it really is the type of supplement you should be taking daily. However to consume the recommended daily amount of astaxanthin in your diet will mean eating a lot of fish.

The alternative is to find a multivitamin supplement that includes this. There are many brands on the market, just be sure that the astaxanthin is natural and not the synthetic type. Any supplement that includes natural herbal extracts will work in synergy to give you the maximum astaxanthin benefits

Osteoarthritis - The Top 3 Myths About Your Knee Pain

There is lots of information out there about osteoarthritis,but can you find fact amongst the fiction? Here are a few myths that most believe to be true:

Only old people get arthritis:

Not so. Although advancing age is a risk factor many people feel the pain of arthritis before the age of 40. Younger people also have higher mobility expectations and notice physical restrictions acutely. Fractures that involve the joint surfaces also greatly increase the rate of wear in weight-bearing joints and can result in advanced arthritis at a very young age.

There is not much you can do about arthritis:

Yes there is. The two areas you definitely have a say in are your weight and your muscle strength. Both of these tend to become bigger issues due to the formation of a 'vicious cycle'. As your pain increases you become less active and more likely to put on weight. This leads to more stresses on the joints and more pain, starting the cycle again. This same lack of activity leads to weaker thigh muscles that normally protect the knee joint. As they get weaker they support the knee less and lead to more wear and pain. The good news is that the cycle works in reverse. Lose weight and gain muscle strength and your knees are supported more, are required to carry less weight, and so cause you less pain.This lets you get active again.

I have osteoarthritis so I will eventually have to have surgery

Wrong again. Not everyone needs surgery, and the person who decides if you need surgery is you! Just because a doctor says "all I can offer you is a knee replacement" doesn't mean you have to have one. You may choose to have one, or you may say that you can manage without. You can always change your mind and have surgery later. It just means that your arthritis has past the point where lesser treatments such as an injection or key-hole surgery would be of any long-term benefit.

How to Exercise With Psoriasis

It is clear that exercise can be extremely beneficial to those suffering from psoriasis. But for many, there are some tricky dilemmas when it comes to stepping into that gym. Here are the three major problems and some helpful solutions.

Problems You Might Face Whilst Exercising With Psoriasis

Embarrassment
Often highly-visible, psoriasis can often cause individuals to become extremely self-conscious. Showcasing your red and scaly elbows to an entire row of body-building enthusiasts or trim gym-bunnies is something you would rather avoid!

Discomfort
Having dry, cracked and irritated skin can be very uncomfortable. Exercise can exacerbate affected areas, and the buckets of sweat don't help either!

Fragility
When exercising with psoriasis, one needs to be careful not to injure the skin. Affected areas can be extremely fragile, and when traumatised can take extra-long to heal or worsen. This is known as the Koebner response, which describes how psoriasis spreads to areas of skin injury and trauma, like cuts. Perhaps rugby or extreme sumo wrestling aren't the sports for you., and whatever you do, don't sign up to the UFC!

The Solutions

Exercise at Home
If you feel too uncomfortable at the local swimming pool why not exercise at home? Invest in a treadmill, yoga mat or buy the latest celebrity exercise video! Here, you can work out in the privacy of your own home, and even belt out some of your favourite exercise tunes.

Exercise Outside
Get out of the house and go for a jog, book a tennis court with a friend, or head to the gym before anyone else gets there! Out and about, there won't be as many stares.

Try and Get Over It
The reality is - you can't hide forever! The longer you exercise in the presence of others, the more comfortable it will become. Being open about your psoriasis with other gym regulars can also really help! You underestimate how understanding and accepting people can be.

Wear Appropriate Workout Gear
Wearing loose fitting, light and comfortable clothing has 2 main benefits. Firstly, you can use all those folds to hide your psoriasis. Instead of shorts and a t-shirt, pick up some light sweatpants and a long-sleeved top! Secondly, loose fitting and light work-out clothes will reduce friction and sweating. Time to throw those spandex shorts out!

Moisturise
Moisturise and moisturise! Use your favourite moisturiser to lubricate the places most likely to be aggravated by exercise, and enjoy a gentle shower afterwards so not to aggravate your problem spots.

Choose the Right Exercise
Choosing the right type of exercise is also important. For those with extra sensitive skin you will want to avoid those hard-hitting contact sports in order to reduce the risk of injury. Instead, try some non-contact sports such as tennis, cricket or volleyball. If you suffer from psoriatic arthritis, it is best to stay away from heavy-duty sports and practise some gentle tai-chi or yoga. Other appropriate activities include aerobic-type exercises such as walking, biking, running and swimming.

Psoriasis does not need to hold you back from maintaining a healthy and daily exercise routine. There are no excuses!

Arthritis of the Foot - Symptoms and Treatment

One of the leading causes of disability in the United States is arthritis. The condition can occur at any age and anywhere in the body. The name, 'arthritis,' literally means 'pain within a joint' and is used to describe a number of conditions that affect the joint.

While there is no cure for arthritis, there are a number of treatment options available. Treatment goals are designed to manage pain, keep the affected individual active and provide overall relief.

There are three different types of arthritis that affect the foot:

1. Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis of the foot is also known as a degenerative condition that is more common in people after they reach middle age. The condition is caused from overall 'wear and tear' that results in inflammation, swelling and pain around the joint. The problem can make it painful to walk and in some cases debilitating. Osteoarthritis progresses gradually, and the symptoms

2. Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is different than osteoarthritis in that is a system wide disease that does not follow a predictable pattern in certain joints like osteoarthritis does. Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory disease where the immune system attacks itself and destroys the cartilage. The exact cause of this condition is unknown.

3. Post-Traumatic Arthritis

Foot trauma, specifically foot fractures, may lead to arthritis developing in the affected joint. An injured joint is about seven more times likely to become arthritic over time, if the area is not properly treated.

Symptoms of Arthritis in the Foot

The signs and symptoms of arthritis in the foot vary, depending on which foot joint is affected. Common symptoms may include:

繚 Pain and tenderness
繚 Stiffness or reduced range of motion in the foot
繚 Swelling in affected joint and surrounding areas
繚 Difficulty walking due to any of the above symptoms

Treatment for Arthritis of the Foot

The treatment plan for foot arthritis depends on the type, location and severity of the condition. There are wide ranges of treatment types available.

Nonsurgical treatment involves:

繚 Pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications
繚 Custom-made shoes with a rocker bottom
繚 Shoe inserts, or orthotics
繚 Physical therapy and rehabilitation exercises
繚 Steroid injections into the joint to relieve pain and inflammation

Surgical treatment is available if the arthritis does not respond to nonsurgical treatment. The choice will depend on the type of the arthritis and where it is located. Surgery that is performed on the foot include:

繚 Arthroscopic debridement
繚 Arthrodesis (fusion of the joints)
繚 Arthroplasty (replacement of the affected joint)

Green Lipped Mussel Extract Treatment For Arthritis

If your pet has been diagnosed with arthritis you might find Green-lipped mussel (Perna canaliculus) is included in some glucosamine based treatments. Green lipped mussel has been found to inhibit inflammation in the joints and is useful in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis

How does it work?

Any animal or human will experience a certain amount of inflammation in the joints and increasingly so with age. Your pet makes several types of chemical mediators for inflammation levels of these are higher in an animal experiencing symptoms of arthritis. The green lipped mussel extract helps control the inflammatory mediators in your pets body, it improves conditions which involve inflammation such as arthritis, psoriasis and asthma among others.

Where is it found?

Green-lipped mussels are found in the oceans off New Zealand. In supplement form, green-lipped mussel is available as a lipid extract or a freeze-dried powder. Green lipped mussel extract is also combined with other arthritis treatments. When you buy a product containing green lipped mussel, it comes in two forms one which is stabilized with a preservative and the other is not. Recent animal studies have compared the two forms and found a stabilized lipid extract to be significantly more effective than a non-stabilized extract at decreasing inflammation. Because both forms are currently available on the market, we would recommend you read the label carefully to choose the stabilized form.

Other products you might have been recommended for your pets arthritis inflammation are the non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs which include ibruprofen. The downside of using these drugs are the side effects which can cause stomach problems including ulcers if administered too frequently. Using a green lipped mussel extract also reduces the need for anti inflammatory drugs.

How much does your pet need?

These will depend on the individual pets weight and also the potency of the extract. Feed this to your pet in the doses recommended by the manufacturer.

Will my pet experience any side effects?

Studies in humans have produced varying data, with some mussel extracts producing nausea as a side effect while other studies show no side effects. In this case be observant of your pets eating habits and report it to your vet if you have been giving your pet green mussel extract.

Allergy Information

It is possible for your pet to have an allergic reaction to shellfish. Again be observant of any changes in your pet, itching , sneezing etc. and report it to your vet if you suspect an allergic reaction. However compared to lipid preparations, freeze-dried preparations contain substantially more of the protein fraction responsible for allergic reactions.

Copyright 2006 Paul Nelson

Is There Any Hope For Osteoarthritis Pain And Aches?

If you suffer from osteoarthritis pain, you are certainly not alone. According to the Mayo Clinic, osteoarthritis affects nearly 21 million people in the United States alone.

Osteoarthritis of the knee - Pain Relief

Although many people suffer osteoarthritis of the knee, it can afflict any of the jointed areas: fingers, hands, neck, and more.

Osteoarthritis causes damage to the cartilage over time....by engendering stiffing in the joints. This stiffness, in turn, results in loss of elasticity.

The cartilage, in short, can be worn down in such jointed areas. As the cartilage wears away, osteoarthritis pain increases because the cartilage's job was to act as a protector -- a shock absorption mechanism, in other words, that prevents bones from literally rubbing against each other.

Now when it comes specifically to osteoarthritis of the knee - pain relief, there are many people who suffer from this because our knees are used a lot in our daily activities. Constant bending of the knees, sports and certain exercises like running or jogging can exacerbate and speed up the condition.

Regardless if you suffer osteoarthritis pain in the hands, the knee, or elsewhere you undoubtedly want to know what you can do to alleviate the pain.

One thing that many people may not know is that increasing your intake of omega 3 fatty acids may help a great deal because they are naturally rich anti-inflammatories.

Inflammation can result because of the stiffness in the joints, making the situation much worse.

But don't just take my word for it.

According to the University of Maryland's Medical website:

"Based on laboratory studies....many researchers suggest that diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids....may benefit people with other inflammatory disorders, including OA [Osteoarthritis]. In fact, several laboratory studies of cartilage-containing cells have found that omega-3 fatty acids decrease inflammation and reduce the activity of enzymes that break down cartilage. Patients also showed increased improvement when fish oil supplements were used...."

The University of Maryland's Medical Website also mentions an interesting source very high in omega 3 fatty acids that most people in the United States are not aware of, but is available to them. This source is called the New Zealand green lipped mussel and is used in that country for osteoarthritis pain, among other things.

On their website, they state:

"....New Zealand green lipped mussel ( Perna canaliculus ), 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."

Now, none of these statements should mean that omega 3 fatty acids are going to cure your condition if you have osteoarthritis. That's just wishful thinking.

However, omega 3 fatty acids are well known to benefit both brain and cardiovascular health. So to think you can take something that will improve your overall health while also possibly alleviating your osteoarthritis pain, it makes a lot of sense.

You should note, however, that fish oils and omega 3 fatty acids are natural anti-coagulants. This means they help thin the blood, which can be a good thing. However, if you are already on blood thinners, especially prescription blood thinners, check with your doctor before using fish oil or green lipped mussel supplements for osteoarthritis pain.

Given that the prescription COX-2 inhibitor drugs, like Vioxx, have proven themselves to have serious health risks -- having been implicated in the deaths of tens of thousands of people with ongoing class action lawsuits -- it makes sense to us to try natural alternatives and remedies as the first resort.

Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Hip Dysplasia and Others: Is Dasuquin The Answer?

So you have heard already about this all-time favorite in joints supplements Dasuquin. Perhaps, you have even used it already to your suffering dog or as preventive measure against such common disease. Well, some people would still think that when their dogs got arthritis, it's just the way it is; "nothing to blame just let it lame" mentality.

The thing is, arthritis in dogs can be prevented; it can be treated and of course it can be alleviated. For our beloved pet owners who have their pet suffering from such ailments, I highly recommend that you bring your pet to your trusted veterinarian and surely he/she will be able to explain to you in-depth how are you going to handle such problem.

For now, I have reserved here some few technical terms regarding joints problems in our dogs. Absolutely, our dogs never could understand such a term but I hope when our times come, we not only let these terms penetrate our ears but propel us to be kind enough with pets to bring him/her to our vet for appropriate action.

Osteoarthritis

This is a degenerative joint disease characterized by the destruction of bone cells and related cartilaginous tissues around joints. While being too technical, this is sometimes the the starting point of other much complicated and much specific joints disease. Because of the destruction of those cells, it results to inflammation, reduced shock absorption, and reduced flexibility causing severe pain to our pets.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

So dogs can get rheumatoid arthritis too? Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks joints cells leading to inflammation and swelling. While not being common in dogs, most breeds affected are the toy or small breeds during early phase of life.

Hip Dysplasia

Hip dysplasia has some wide range of causes from genetics to nutrition and even excessive exercise. What happens here is that the ball and socket that makes up the hip joint seems to become far away from each other causing tissue erosion and intense wear and tear. Eventually, this leads to arthritis, a disease characterized by pain and swelling.

Other joints illness and lameness problems quite worth to mention here are shoulder degeneration, traumatic arthritis, sprains and strains, bone fractures, ruptured ligaments and even dislocations. All these can or may lead your dog's active life come to an end.

Let's get straight here. As I said, joints diseases can be prevented, treated as well as alleviated. Today, we can find a number of supplements both synthetic and natural which we can try to help our pets. For example, we have the dasuquin with msm for dogs which your veterinarian might have recommended you.

This cost-effective formulation for dogs provides comprehensive joint health management. It includes NMX1000 ASU (avocado/soybean unsaponifiables), decaffeinated tea, Cosequin's FCHG49 glucosamine hydrochloride, and TRH122 low molecular weight chondroitin sulfate, as well as MSM (methylsulfonylmethane).

It contains avocado/soybean unsaponifiables, or ASU, fortified with green tea, combined with glucosamine hydrochloride, MSM and low molecular weight chondroitin sulfate. It is the most complete joint support supplement available.

Also, Dasuquin with MSM for dogs is a non-prescription (OTC) product available as flavored, chewable tablets which we can give our dogs to help counter joints problems.

Coping With Arthritis Knee Pain

Arthritis is a disease of the joints connecting the bones of the body. This happens when the said cartilage of the joint becomes weak, brittle, or deteriorated; the effect of which is the exposure of the bare bones to conditions leading to arthritis.

Knee arthritis is the most common form of this disease. Generally, it is due to old age, being overweight, or just hereditary. It is common because the knee is a part of the body that is mostly used everyday, when walking, running, or doing outdoor activities; only the degree of pain varies.

Pain can be suffered not only from arthritis; there are many sources of knee pain. It may be from bursitis or the inflammation by reason of frequent and constant pressure like overuse and kneeling. Pain may also come from tendinitis or the pain in the knee while ascending or descending from the stairs or when engaging in sports and outdoor activities. Other causes includes a strain or sprain, torn ligaments due to accidents, dislocation of the knee cap, injuries, infections in the joint, and tumors.

There are several causes of arthritis knee pain and it consists of the Baker's cyst, rheumatoid, osteoarthritis, connective tissue disorders, gout, and lupus. The Baker's cyst is characterized as a fluid-filled bulge behind one's knee that accompanies inflammation. The bad thing about the Baker's cyst is that when the cyst bursts, it will not just affect the knee but also your calf.

In osteoarthritis, the cartilage of the joint slowly deteriorates revealing the joints to arthritis attacks. In rheumatoid, it is not just gradual deterioration but the cartilage is destroyed because of the inflammation. Simply put, the Baker's cyst, rheumatoid, connective tissue disorders, gout and lupus have the same serious effect of severe inflammation including the tissues, bones, ligaments, nerves, and muscles around it.

Some common arthritis knee pain includes inflammation of the joints, swelling of the bones near the joints, problems in standing, walking, or running, and intolerable discomfort.

Arthritis pain varies depending on the cause. If the person suffering from arthritis belongs to the 50 years old and up bracket, the knee pain is pretty much tolerable but it is very hard to stand, walk, or run. In this case, the person suffering from this ailment must use a cane or a wheelchair for mobility. With respect to persons under 50 years of age, the cause of arthritis may be overuse, overweight, or genetic.

A knee is considered overused when the person is sports inclined and does not rest for a sufficient number of hours. In this type of arthritis the inflammation in the knee is serious and unbearable, but may still be cure through proper rest. When the person is overweight, the pain is experienced when walking or running. In this case it is having a hard time to carry the weight of one's body.

Arthritis Treatment: What Causes the Pain of Osteoarthritis of the Knee?

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and affects more than 20 million Americans.

There are two different types of cartilage within the knee. Hard hyaline articular cartilage is the tough gristle that caps the ends of long bones within the joint. Also located on either side are two semicircular pieces of fibrocartilage, a somewhat softer form of cartilage, called menisci.

OA is primarily a disease of the hyaline cartilage. Hyaline cartilage is made up of a matrix consisting of a combination of proteoglycans (complexes of proteins and sugars) and chondrocytes. Chondrocytes are located within the matrix... picture a gelatin mold with grapes. The gelatin is the matrix and the grapes are the chondrocytes. Chondrocytes are cartilage cells that manufacture matrix under normal healthy circumstances. They are responsible for nourishing the matrix as well.

However, when OA develops, a change in the metabolism of hyaline cartilage occurs. Chondrocytes begin to elaborate destructive enzymes causing cracks and fissures in the cartilage. These are called "fibrillations."

What has been a perplexing question is, "What causes pain in OA of the knee?" Cartilage has no blood vessels nor does it have nerves. So the topic of pain mechanism in osteoarthritis has been the subject of intense interest.

There are a number of potential suspects. For example, when osteophytes (bone spurs) develop, they can lift the periosteum (the thin top layer of the bone). Periosteum is rich in nerve fibers and certainly can be a source of pain.

It has been noted that blood vessels in bone underlying osteoarthritic cartilage can become engorged and this may elevate the pressure inside the bone which could also, theoretically, cause pain.

The lining of the joint (synovium) becomes inflamed in OA. Pain fibers are located within the joint capsule and these inflammatory processes could irritate them.

The joint capsule can contract or shrink leading to irritation of nerve fibers located within the capsule.

By the same token, if fluid builds up within the joint, it can stretch the joint capsule again leading to stimulation of pain fibers.

As mentioned earlier, there are two small pieces of fibrocartilage located within the knee. These pieces of fibrocartilage (menisci) have a rich blood and nerve supply where they attach to the joint capsule. OA often leads to tearing of these menisci. This can cause damage to the capsular attachment leading to pain.

Spasm of the muscles surrounding the knee can also lead to pain.

Finally, there is increasing interest in the role of the central nervous system- the brain- in causing the pain of knee OA. Recent studies showing the effectiveness of drugs like Cymbalta, a drug originally prescribed for depression, but also showing beneficial effects on pain relief in patients with OA, led to FDA approval for this indication in 2011.

Cellaplex Review - Is it the Right Pain Relief Product For You?

Did you know that millions of people who suffer from arthritis do not take any pain relief product at all? They simply manage their pain through a combination of home treatment options like warm or cold compress, warm baths, salves, or massage.

The problem is that some type of arthritis can cause extreme joint pain that can affect your mobility. Home remedies are also not enough to relieve extreme joint discomfort and pain.

In order not to lose your mobility and independence, it is important to consult your doctor so you will know the best pain relief product for you. Here are some of the most common pain relief products that you can use to alleviate debilitating arthritis pain:

Analgesics: The First Defense against Pain

Analgesics are the most widely recommended medications to alleviate pain. Analgesic drugs are inexpensive and that is why it one of the most popular pain relief product against pain symptoms.

For most cases of osteoarthritis, acetaminophen is highly recommended. Acetaminophen is a widely available analgesic, inexpensive, and can immediately numb joint pain.

However, there are joint pains that can not be treated with acetaminophen. In such cases, doctors usually prescribe stronger analgesic with opioid. These are regulated drugs and you can only get it with a prescription from your doctor.

Non Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

NSAIDs are also a common pain relief product to fight arthritis pain. Most anti-inflammatory drugs are highly regulated so you need to consult your doctor first before you take these medications.

NSAIDs combine the efficacy of analgesics but also suppress inflammations. Because some types of arthritis are characterized by inflamed joint tissues and cartilage intervention with NSAIDs are necessary.

Some patients however can develop allergies from NSAIDs. This type of medication can also cause stomach upset, diarrhea, and stomach allergies. You may be forced to take analgesic or alternative pain relief product if you can not tolerate NSAID.

Natural Pain Relief Supplements

Natural supplements normally contain active ingredients that are effective against pain and inflammation. Such supplements are especially designed for patients suffering from arthritis, degenerative joint disorder, or inflammatory disorder.

You still have to consult your doctor before you take natural supplements for pain. You have to know if the active ingredients of the supplement will interact with your drug medication.

Normally, natural supplements contain substances that have been proven effective against pain symptoms. For example, Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate, which which are common substances found in anti-arthritis supplements, are very effective against arthritis pain. They have anti inflammatory properties that could help reduce joint discomfort.

Bromelain is also a good substance that is very effective against pain. This is an enzyme with natural anti-inflammatory properties. It has been proven in several clinical trials that Bromelain can reduce swelling, fight inflammation, and alleviate extreme joint pain symptoms. Cetyl Myristoleate (CM8) lubricates joints, provides strong anti-inflammatory properties, and also supports your immune system.

There are lots of anti-pain products available for you but only one seems to have all the ingredients necessary to relieve pain and inflammation, rebuild damaged joints, and help restore normal joint function. The makers of Cellaplex have addressed the most common joint pain issues and have formulated a unique, clinically-proven product that is being widely recommended by Orthopaedic doctors and physicians to help aid in rehab and overall joint health. I have added Cellaplex to all of my patients' rehab programs and have seen very promising results to date.

To read further about Cellaplex please visit their website at http://www.cellaplex.com.

Arthritis - A Common Problem

Arthritis is a disease that affects millions of people. Arthritis is a broad term, which is used to refer to more than 100 conditions that can cause pain in the body's joints. Arthritis is a degenerative joint disease and pain and stiffness develop as a result of wear and tear to the joints involved. It is not just a disease affecting the middle aged and older. It's an equal opportunity disease affecting children as well as adults of all ages.

Arthritis is a condition that occurs in various joints in the body, especially in the knees, hips, and spine. Arthritis is second only to heart disease as a cause of work disability and is one of the leading causes of disability in people over the age of 55. Arthritis is most often a chronic disease, so symptoms may come and go, or persist over time.

Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most serious and disabling types, affecting mostly women. Osteoarthritis is caused by the breakdown of protective tissue called cartilage in the joints. Juvenile arthritis is a general term for all types of arthritis that occur in children.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is part of a group of diseases known as autoimmune diseases. The joint lining becomes inflamed as part of the body's immune system activity. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that occurs when the bodies own immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium (cell lining inside the joint). Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most serious and disabling types, affecting mostly women. It causes affected joints to feel tender, stiff and swollen. Rheumatoid arthritis is generally worse in the morning. Initially patients often do not have symptoms following their morning shower. Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease that warrants treatment as soon as possible to minimize the pain and discomfort.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis (OA), also known as degenerative arthritis or degenerative joint disease, is the most common type of arthritis. Osteoarthritis usually affects the hips, knees, feet or hands. Osteoarthritis is caused by the breakdown of protective tissue called cartilage in the joints. It causes degeneration of joint cartilage and changes in underlying bone and supporting tissue, which leads to joint pain and stiffness, movement problems and difficulty on a daily basis.

Osteoarthritis usually is diagnosed in people older than 40. It is classically worse at night or following rest. Symptoms include joint pain while standing or moving, giving out or locking of the joint, pretty constant pain, decreased activity and abnormal stance or walk. Osteoarthritis results from wear and tear from playing certain types of sports, being overweight and getting older.

Arthritis is not a new disease it was found in factory workers during the Industrial Revolution. As the population ages, the number of people with arthritis is growing. It is a leading cause of disability and a significant public health concern. Arthritis is a painful condition, and for this reason it should always be taken seriously.

Gout Arthritis Treatment, Symptoms, Causes and Risk Factors

There are over hundred types of arthritis conditions and Gout is the most painful among them. Generally people above 50 years of age are affected most, especially men whereas it is a rare occurrence in women. Some women may develop Gout after menopause. This is considered as a chronic disease that occurs due to the deposition of needle like crystals of uric acid in the joints leading to swelling and inflammation causing acute pain. Being one of the most frequently recorded illnesses, Gout is also a genetically inherited disease. This painful condition demands thorough treatment to prevent crippling at an advanced age.

Symptoms

The most common outcome of Gout is the abnormal swelling of the big toe which becomes red and warm. Gout pain also affects other areas like elbows, knee joints, fingers, ankles, wrists. This results in the stiffness in the joints followed by severe attacks of pain often awakening a person from the sleep.

Causes and Risk factors

Blood contains a definite level of uric acid, which is regularly eliminated from the body through kidneys. When there is an abnormal rise in the blood uric levels, it starts depositing in the joints in the form of sharp crystals often forming lumps that causes the pain.

Factors that may cause Gout -

1. Too much drinking of alcohol
2. Excessive consumption of protein rich food
3. Obesity
4. High Blood pressure
5. Malfunctioning of the kidneys
6. Use of certain drugs in some cases.

Gout Treatment

Basic treatment involves changes in diet and lifestyle followed by other medications or natural remedies. Massage with Rumatone Gold oil is very helpful in gout treatment. If it is taken with Rumatone capsules it gives fast relief.

Diet

1. Purine rich food like red meat, liver, shellfish, refined and sweet foods must be avoided.
2. Blue berries, cherries, strawberries and other colorful berries must be taken regularly.
3. Drinking plenty of water, fluids and juices.
4. Eating fruits rich in Vitamin C like oranges, red capsicum, red cabbages etc. and Pineapple which is rich in Bromelain.

Treatments

The most common treatment involves the administration of NSAID, analgesics to reduce inflammation and provide relief from pain. In acute cases corticosteroids are given through short courses.

Few natural remedies that are commonly practiced in treating Gout arthritis are -

1. Raw vegetable juices that of carrot, beet and cucumber are beneficial in treating Gout. 100 ml. each of beet root and cucumber juice mixed with 300 ml. of carrot juices should be taken regularly.
2. Celery seeds and oil of Sir John's Wort herb are beneficial in treating gout.
3. Berries of Juniper blocks the synthesis of prostaglandins and are traditionally used for Gout treatment.
4. Application of cold packs, taking Epsom salt baths and regular physical workouts helps in treating Gout.

How to Cure Arthritis

Arthritis can rob an active individual of his or her livelihood. Whether it manifests as a constant pain or an inability to move the joints, this condition is quite life-altering. Whether you have suffered for years or are in the early stages of its onset, finding out how to cure arthritis can be one of the few ways to combat its inevitable onslaught. You may need to eat certain foods or soak in specific minerals, but there are ways that you can retain your livelihood without having to resort to going to a doctor.

What is Arthritis?

Arthritis, simply put, is the inflammation of a joint. It may sound innocuous to those that do not suffer from the affliction, but it can be life-altering for those that do. There are many causes of arthritis, perhaps too many to list. Among them are repetitive strain, genetics, stress, age, diet and even the weather. Those that suffer from the condition often deal with a lack of flexibility and with extreme pain in the joints. This can range from infrequent bouts to near-constant states of pain or rigidity, and may last for many years. As such, many that suffer from the issue are keen to find out how to cure arthritis.

How to Cure Arthritis Through Eating and Drinking

Some of the more common methods of how to cure arthritis involve eating or drinking certain compounds. Flax seed oil (and more specifically, its Omega-3 fats) is incredibly popular, as the substance is considered a natural anti-inflammatory. About one teaspoon of flax seed oil taken three times a day is a common cure, as is eating about a tablespoon of the seed itself three times a day. Another common remedy is cinnamon and honey - the combination of the two should be taken about once a day, and results are thought to show up quite quickly.

How to Cure Arthritis Through Soaking

Of course, not everyone can use these cures. Some are unable to stomach the seeds or oils, while others might be allergic to the ingredients. If you have this problem, you might want to consider a soak. Soaking one's self in Epsom Salts has been popular for many years, and many do swear by it. As the body absorbs the minerals in the salts, it is thought, the general inflammation that causes the arthritis will be lessened, making this a gentle method of how to cure arthritis for many.

If you wish to learn how to cure arthritis, you should always make sure to have an open mind. The condition predates modern medical science, and folk remedies have been used for centuries to keep individuals up and active even during the worst bouts of pain. Soaking may help some, while the various oils and seeds consumed by others may provide relief in different circumstances. No matter what the case, though, those suffering from the ailment should always be willing to try new ways to help to return to their former level of activity.

Health and Fitness: Arthritis Article Category - Page 226

Arthritis Treatment: 7 Tips On How To Deal With Your Gouty Arthritis

Gout is a form of arthritis that affects approximately eight million Americans. It is a condition that is due to the abnormal deposition of monosodium urate- also known as uric acid (UA)- in body tissues. This disease is a metabolic condition due to the body's inability to get rid of UA. UA is a byproduct of the metabolism of purines, substances that are found in many types of food. While animals have an enzyme, called uricase, that is capable of breaking down monosodium urate, human beings do not.

What is disturbing is that gouty arthritis is a disease which is increasing in incidence. Presumably, this phenomenon is related to the epidemic of obesity occurring in the United States as well as other developed nations. This obesity is fueled by dietary indiscretion as well as the ever-growing presence of high fructose containing foods and beverages.

This article will present some important tips for people who have this condition to help themselves.

1. Recognize the stage of gout you have. There are three stages and each is managed differently. Even most doctors don't know about the three stages but if you have this disease you need to.

2. Treating gout the right way involves treating the acute attack first, and then treating the underlying problem, which is the excess accumulation of UA. If you do one without the other, it's not effective.

3. Gout drugs have side effects. You have to know about these particularly if you're taking medicines for other conditions since drug interaction can occur. Some can be life-threatening.

4. Diet is important regardless of what you hear. And exercise is important as well. The first exercise many patients need to start with is the "push away from the dinner table" exercise.

5. People with gouty arthritis need to understand why dehydration can be a problem for people with gout... and how to avoid it.

6. Know that this disease is often associated with other medical conditions that can have an adverse impact on both gout as well as the treatment for gout. Examples include diabetes, elevated blood lipids, heart disease, and kidney disease.

7. The chief goal of treating an acute gout attack is to start treatment early in order to either prevent or minimize the intensity of the attack, relieve pain, and reduce the chance of disability. Gout attacks can incapacitate a person for a long time if this simple directive isn't followed.

By following these tips, you can get a head start on controlling your disease.

Arthritis - Tips for Easing the Pain

Contrary to popular beliefs, arthritis is not a product of old age alone. In fact, there are several types of arthritis, which have nothing to do with one's chronological age. Being afflicted with arthritis can greatly interfere with how you spend your time. The pain associated with it can be so debilitating that you might find yourself with no interest or strength left to do the things you have always enjoyed so much.

However, this does not mean that you have to spend your time wasting away. Here are several suggestions that you can follow to spring back to life and start doing the things you love to do before the disease took over.

. Don't just sit there, exercise! The best time to exercise is when the inflammation has already calmed down. There are a number of exercises which can benefit arthritis sufferers most. Among these are range-of-motion exercises, isometrics and certain weight bearing exercises. Stretching and warming up the joints should always be incorporated as the first steps in the routine to make the joints more flexible. And as a safety precaution, remember to consult with your family physician first before engaging in these types of activities.

. Every movement counts. The best way to dodge arthritic pains is to keep your joints moving. Maintaining movement in your joints helps them to function properly for longer periods of time. It does not matter if small movements are all that you can manage. Remember that every little bit of movement counts!

. Consider exercising in the pool. Exercising in a heated pool might be a very good idea especially if you feel pain with even the simplest of movements. The natural buoyancy of the water will help reduce the pressure in your joints and the heat coming from it will actually help you loosen those joints. This idea, however, is not recommended for people with high blood pressure.

. Water workout for the hands. If your hands are in pain, a warm water workout may just do the trick. Try doing hand exercises in a tub of warm water and notice the comfort that it will bring.

. Exercise is good but do not overdo it. Overdoing your routine will not help you and may only bring you more pain. A good indication of how much is too much when it comes to exercising can be determined by observing how you feel a few hours after you have completed your routine. Then again, see how you feel after 24 hours. If you notice any significant increase in pain during that period, you definitely are overdoing it. It is best to cut back on the rate and amount of exercise that you are doing.

. Put on your gloves. Wearing your gloves provides the warmth needed to reduce the pain. Using a pair of stretch gloves might even help reduce the swelling that accompanies arthritis. For best results, keep your gloves on all night while you sleep.

. Go easy on over-the-counter creams. These may provide temporary relief but overusing these preparations can actually activate certain enzymes that can damage the cartilages in the joints.

. The bed issue. Several studies indicate that arthritis sufferers who used to sleep in water beds actually noticed reduced morning stiffness, especially when they used heated water beds. Similarly, patients who used sleeping bags on top of their beds also noticed reduced morning aches and pains.

. Maintain a healthy weight. If you are overweight, the joints naturally bear a heavier load. Thus, losing excess weight can actually reduce the stress on your joints and help them function better.

Following these suggestions can help you get back on the swing of things and may allow you to spend your days doing the things you want to do.

Common Symptoms Of Rheumatoid Arthritis Explained

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a multifactor disease usually developing in multiple joints leading to inflammation of the affected joint.

This gives rise to pain, swelling, redness and increase in the local temperature of the area.

The cause of Rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, but it is assumed that genetic factors, infective agents, some environmental factors have a predisposing role for developing it.

Awareness of the most common signs and symptoms of the Rheumatoid arthritis can help people as well as doctors to recognize this disease during its early stages.

It is an autoimmune disease described by inflammation in the articular surfaces of the joints.

It has an effect on more than two million people in the US between the ages of twenty and forty five. The disease can occur in all ethnic groups and races; women are affected three times more than men.

Generally the disease starts in the middle age with increasing incidence in older persons; it may develop among the children as well as the young adults.

The early symptoms generally include some obvious signs. Most commonly, it starts with one or two common symptoms and gradually advancement takes place over time.

The common symptoms for Rheumatoid arthritis vary from person to person. It is seen that there is no single test that can confirm the diagnosis of Rheumatoid arthritis.

In addition, it takes time for developing the full blown symptoms. Just a few indistinctive signs and symptoms may be present at the onset, making the task difficult of diagnosing Rheumatoid arthritis at its early stages.

So, the doctors use an array of means for the correct diagnosis of most common symptoms of Rheumatoid arthritis and side by side ruling out other arthritic conditions.

The points doctors remember while diagnosing Rheumatoid arthritis by early sign and symptoms are- proper history taking, detailed medical examinations, categorically placed laboratory tests and different imaging modalities. All these are done to asses the degree of joint involvement.

Complaining of pain in the joint daily is, by far, the most common symptom for Rheumatoid arthritis [http://www.arthritissymptoms.org/common-symptoms-for-rheumatoid-arthritis.htm].

There are also reports of morning stiffness in and around the joint that lasts for an hour or two before improving, at least three involved joint with concurrent soft tissue swelling or increase in the synovial fluid including not less than one swollen joint area in the wrist, the middle joints of the finger or the knuckle.

Rheumatoid arthritis has a predisposition the wrist and joints of the finger closest to the hand. It is also seen that Rheumatoid arthritis affects other large joints like joints of the feet, ankles, knees, elbows and jaws.

Early diagnosis along with quick proper treatment is beneficial for the people suffering from Rheumatoid arthritis to live longer, healthy life. They will also suffer from fewer amounts of pain, joint damage and subsequently permanent disability.

It is unfortunate that early symptoms of Rheumatoid arthritis fail to diagnose the case properly as they are very similar to other conditions, especially the other forms of arthritis like Lupus and Fibromyalgia.

Due to this, it is imperative that the patient communicates openly and in totality to the doctor and keep each other well informed about the disease.

Rheumatoid Arthritis: Implications For Physiotherapy And Occupational Therapy

Occupational therapists and physiotherapists must provide complementing therapy to and for the patient(s) with the rheumatoid arthritis disease. They need to complement each others therapy and education, that the patients will not be confused and can manage the disease effectively and efficiently. The biggest contribution that both the occupational therapist and physiotherapist for the patient with this disease is with pain relief, improving mobility and functional ability, as well as managing the mental and cognitive perspective to pain and perceived impairment.

Objectives Of The Physiotherapist And Occupational Therapist

1. educate and assure patient about the disease, its process, prognosis, and what to expect
2. educate, instruct and demonstrate methods of energy conservation and its benefits
3. how to manage the maintenance of joint range of motion using exercise, heat modality and protection
4. how to bolster strength and stamina through exercise, mental imagery and perception
5. prevent or slow the disease using approaches such as splinting, adaptive and protective approaches
6. how to maintain or improve mobility and function, enabling and encouraging the patient with the disease to be as participative as possible in activities of daily living and mobility. Mental approaches to stress management, motivation and empowerment is frequently used to encourage and empower the patient with rheumatoid arthritis to improve as much and and as often as possible.
7. provide environmental (social and physical) support, advice and modifications to facilitate the patient's cognitive and physical adjustment to the disease
8. re-integrate the patient to their homes, work and social life, with rheumatoid arthritis.

Dog Arthritis Treatment Remedies

Arthritis is a degenerative condition and, in dogs is normally age related, but not always. There are some other conditions that can cause arthritis, such as hip dysplasia, joint trauma and other joint conditions and these are not particularly limited to older dogs.

Larger and heavier dogs are affected far more than smaller lighter breeds; the heavier a dog is the more weight there is placing strain on joints and ligaments. Symptoms of degenerative arthritis include stiffness, particularly when getting up, sleeping more, struggling to stand and walk, lameness, joint pain, irritability and behavioural changes.

Diagnosis is normally by way of x-rays. Once the diagnosis has been made your vet will prescribe s course of treatment. Arthritis is not curable but prescription of some medications can dramatically improve your dog's quality of life and reduce his pain and suffering. Your vet may be able to prescribe a medication that will help the joints to repair themselves as well, preventing further damage.

It is worth noting that, whilst the medications that your vet prescribes will most certainly help him some of them are likely to cause unwanted side effects that can make your dog feel much worse and may cause other complications. Many people and vets are now looking at other ways in which to treat a dog with arthritis using more natural methods although the use of some medication will be essential.

There are other things that you can do to help your dog with his arthritis. You can put a small amount of vitamin C into his food daily, starting small and very gradually building up the amount over the course of a year. You should also give your dog certain fish oil supplements as well to help his joints to stay supple.

You can also change your dog's diet from shop bought to home cooked to ensure your dog is getting a high quality, chemical free diet. Avoid the use of tomatoes, potatoes, eggplant and peppers though as these can make your dog's arthritis much worse. However, be careful not to allow your dog to put on weight as this will deteriorate his condition quicker.

Gentle exercise is excellent therapy for arthritic dogs as it helps to keep the joints moving and helps to maintain the joints and cartilage. Be careful not to overdo it though as too much is as bad as too little.

As the old saying goes, prevention is better than cure. Ensuring that your dog is regularly exercised, eats a good healthy diet and maintains a balanced weight you can minimise the chances of your dog getting arthritis. One way to keep your dog's joints supple and mobile is to use fish oil supplements. Omega 3 6 and 9 fish oils are excellent for this and given daily will certainly benefit your dog greatly.

You can purchase combination packs of products that contain these oils and one that contains the enzymes that your dog's body naturally produces. Combined and given as directed there is no reason why, although he will never be cured of arthritis, your dog can live a pain free quality life.

Arthritis Treatment: Pain in the Top of the Foot and Its Causes

The anatomy of the foot is complex. And this complexity is also responsible for the eventual development of pain. The action of taking a step is a stereotypical process. The first is heel strike, then foot flat to the surface, then mid-stance, followed by heel lift and finally toe off. Any disturbance in this sequence will lead to mechanical dysfunction and pain.

The foot consists of 22 bones each "coated" with a layer of cartilage so that each interacts with the others in true joint fashion. The foot is divided into three sections: the forefoot (ball of the foot and toes), the mid-foot, and finally the hind foot which actually is part of the ankle.

This entire complex is supported by numerous ligaments and muscles.

In evaluating the motion of the foot, it is evident that it can point up or down, side to side, and also roll in (pronate) or roll out (supinate.) Taking into consideration it has to do all that while bearing weight makes it easy to understand why arthritic problems are so common.

So what conditions can cause pain in the foot, particularly the top of the foot? The most common is osteoarthritis developing in the mid-foot.

Osteoarthritis is a disease characterized by abnormal cartilage metabolism that eventuates in cartilage loss, inflammation of the joint, and the development of bony spurs. Typically, a patient will complain of pain in the top of the foot. They won't be able to wear shoes that put pressure on the top of the foot. On examination, bony spurs can be palpated. There may be signs of local inflammation.

Conservative management consists of the application of topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory preparations and avoidance of footwear that puts pressure on the affected area. While injections of glucocorticoid ('cortisone") may provide temporary relief, in general, the results are not satisfactory.

Recently, the needle tenotomy using ultrasound guidance to remove the spurs, followed by injection of platelet-rich plasma has appeared to be effective for a number of patients. Surgery is usually not recommended.

Gout is another form of arthritis that affects the top of the foot. Here, local steroid injection followed by anti-inflammatory medicines or colchicine to break the acute attack and uric-acid lowering therapies to treat the chronic condition is advised.

Pseudogout can also affect the foot and must be differentiated from gout because the treatment is different.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a common cause of pain in the top of the foot. The treatment here is local steroid injection and systemic control of the disease.

Bursitis and tendonitis can also cause pain in the top of the foot. The treatment hinges on an accurate diagnosis. While most of these problems will respond to local glucocorticoid injection, physical therapy, and rest, some require the use of needle tenotomy and platelet-rich plasma.

Arthritis Treatment: The Three Types of Tendonitis That Cause Knee Pain And How to Treat Them

Knee pain (KP) is a common malady often seen in a rheumatologist's or orthopedic surgeon's office. Multiple causes exist including trauma, arthritis, bursitis, neurological conditions, genetic issues, and so on.

One type of medical problem causing KP that is frequently ignored... or not considered is tendonitis. There are at least three major types of tendonitis that can cause significant KP.

The first is quadriceps tendonitis. The quadriceps tendon connects the quadriceps muscle in the thigh to the patella (kneecap). While relatively uncommon, certain factors can cause quadriceps tendonitis to rear its ugly head. These include trauma, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, steroid therapy, kidney disease, and the use of fluoroquinolone antibiotics. The latter cause is an important one because fluoroquinolone antibiotics are frequently used to treat respiratory tract and urinary tract infections. These antibiotics can cause not only tendonitis but can also increase the likelihood of tendon rupture.

Quadriceps tendon rupture is devastating and can be recognized when a patient who has had symptomatic quadriceps tendonitis cannot straighten their leg, and there is a gap between where the tendon should insert into the kneecap and the quadriceps muscle. This is a surgical emergency.

Patellar tendonitis is another type of tendonitis that causes KP. It is fairly common, particularly in athletes who engage in running, jumping, and kicking. Patellar tendonitis is often referred to as "jumper's knee". Pain, tenderness, and inability to straighten the knee are usually present. Like the quadriceps tendon, this tendon can also rupture.

Both forms of tendonitis present with pain either above or below the knee cap. Treatment involves the use of rest, ice, anti-inflammatory drugs, physical therapy, stretching, and platelet-rich plasma. Platelet-rich plasma or PRP is an ultra-concentrate of blood containing many platelets. Platelets are blood cells that enable clotting and also contain many healing and growth factors. Multiple studies have demonstrated that ultrasound guided platelet-rich plasma injection can significantly shorten the healing cycle.

Another type of tendonitis that can cause knee pain is hamstring tendonitis. Although hamstring injuries in athletes are frequently due to hamstring muscle strain, hamstring tendons can also cause pain. The hamstring muscles originate at the back of the pelvis. They end in tendons that insert at the back of and along the inside part of the knee. When they become inflamed or injured, they cause significant pain and disability.

Treatment includes, rest, ice, anti-inflammatory drugs, physical therapy, gentle stretching and ultrasound-guided platelet-rich plasma injections.

Osteoarthritis - Trends in Treatment Offer Hope to Millions

Pain.

For the estimated 20 million sufferers of arthritis in the United States, pain is a constant and dependable companion. Sufferers of this disease - which comes in many forms and does not discriminate - search, often without much success, for relief.

For many, the first step taken when the pain becomes noticeable is a trip to the local mega-mart or corner pharmacy for an over-the-counter painkiller such as Tylenol, Advil or Motrin. The receipts add up as more and more medication is purchased, and the pain increases regardless of the medication.

At this point, some will take their search for relief to their physician. X-rays, blood tests and physical examinations may result in a diagnosis of osteoarthritis - the most common form of arthritis - and a prescription for a still-stronger pain relieving medication, such as Daypro, Naprosyn or Celebrex and a few stretching exercises. The prescription medication may work for a time... or not at all... and the patient may experience side effects. Frustration with the exercises and a lack of fast results often leads to discouragement.

Still others prefer to avoid the dangerous side effects of these prescription medications and resort to other, more natural ways of relieving pain. Weight loss, herbal pain remedies and physical therapy are just a few of the many "natural" routes those who suffer from osteoarthritis may take. Many will simply limit their activity - cutting back on the things they love - in order to have some semblance of relief.

At first blush, these treatments may seem completely different. However, all of these treatments - over-the-counter, prescription and otherwise - have one thing in common.

They only treat the symptoms.

Getting to the heart of the matter - the cause of the pain - is the most effective way to manage osteoarthritis. But first, what is osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of degenerative joint disease in the world. Unlike other forms of arthritis, osteoarthritis is not believed to be genetic and affects both young and old, athletes and couch potatoes alike. A simple twisted ankle can set the stage for a lifetime of debilitating pain.

So what causes the pain? Simply stated - inflammation. When the cartilage - the "padding" - between bones begins to break down faster than it can be repaired, inflammation occurs and causes pain. Complicating matters, continued use of the joint only serves to worsen the situation. And because osteoarthritis typically affects the oft-used weight-bearing joints of the hips, legs and ankles, limiting movement can be very difficult and, for many, an impossible prospect.

So, rather than limiting activity and movement of the affected joints, sufferers seek relief from one of the treatments previously mentioned, hoping at the very least to lessen their pain and get on with their lives. Although it may seem like a lost cause, there is hope for those who suffer from osteoarthritis. In fact, one treatment not only relieves pain, it gets to the root of the problem by working to rebuild damaged cartilage in the arthritic joints.

Supplementation with natural glucosamine and chondroitin has been shown to not only relieve the pain of osteoarthritis, but also to stop - and in some cases, reverse - the effects of osteoarthritis. Glucosamine and chondroitin supplements give joints the raw materials necessary to rebuild cartilage.

What Food is Bad For Arthritis?

The links between diet and arthritis have been the subject of a lot of talk, but very little conclusive advice can be found on what food is bad for arthritis. The recommendations may differ among different types of arthritis, and for the most part, foods that aggravate arthritis may vary on a case by case basis. In the end, each sufferer from arthritis must be responsible for cutting out foods which make the condition worse.

For most types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, there is no real set of dietary instructions. In the case of gout, a low purine diet is advised, and sufferers should avoid meat, beans and alcohol. There is, however, plenty of unproven advice on the relationship between food and arthritis. Many recommend avoiding foods belonging to the nightshade family, such as tomatoes and peppers. Others recommend cutting down on packaged snack foods and reducing consumption of saturated fats, which often requires cutting down on meat consumption. Some feel better when they remove glutens from their diet, and others when they eliminate dairy products.

While none of these recommendations has been supported by scientific evidence, doctors recognize that an individual may find that certain foods can aggravate arthritis. On an individual basis, these common culprits can be foods to test with to see if elimination improves the condition. For those who suffer from arthritis, figuring out which foods aggravate the problem can take some real work. There are no universals, but certain foods are common aggravators.

The relationship between diet and arthritis can be very individual, but some general recommendations can be made. Maintaining a healthy diet is important, and weight loss can help ease some pain of arthritis. Losing weight can be especially effective in osteoarthritis of the knee. Omega-3 fatty acids can help limit arthritis inflammation. Limiting consumption of fat, cholesterol, sugar, and alcohol is a good idea overall.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms And Natural Pain Relief

Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms are very painful and can affect anyone at any age. But simple, highly effective natural rheumatoid arthritis pain relief is possible.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a form of arthritis causing swelling, stiffness, pain and limited movement in the joints - mainly a person's wrists and fingers. However, RA is very different from osteoarthritis, which often comes with older age.

While the cause of RA is unknown, it's clear that healthy lifestyle changes and a good rheumatoid arthritis diet can slow or even stop joint damage and greatly reduce the pain.

Signs and Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis

RA is more prevalent among women than men. It generally starts between the ages 25 and 50 and the rheumatoid arthritis symptoms can come and go. Or, they may last for only a short period of time. However the severe form of RA can last a lifetime.

The symptoms usually begin with pain, inflammation and stiffness in the joints of fingers, hands and wrists. These joints may become swollen, tender and warm to the touch.

Loss of appetite, sleeplessness, fatigue and depression are also common symptoms.

RA is an autoimmune disease. This means that it's the result of an immune system breakdown, where the body attacks it's own tissues. Rheumatoid arthritis can therefore affect other body parts besides joints, such as the eyes, mouth and lungs.

If measures aren't taken to safely manage RA, it can spread throughout the body causing permanent damage and severely limited range of motion. However, the unsafe painkillers usually prescribed for RA, such as Aleve, Vioxx and Bextra, etc, provide only risky, temporary pain relief and do NOT strengthen the immune system.

To control the spread of the disease, it's important to begin immediately to safely manage the pain and inflammation and to naturally strengthen the immune system.

Natural Rheumatoid Arthritis Pain Relief

As more and more evidence proves that lifestyle changes and a good rheumatoid arthritis diet can both help prevent the disease and provide symptom relief, a more holistic approach is being taken and people with RA are living happier, healthier lives.

Although any kind of exercise may be the last thing on a person's mind when they're experiencing pain, exercise is essential for improved range of motion and for strong, healthy bones and muscles. Moderate exercise such as walking, swimming and yoga are excellent ways to stay active with a minimum of stress.

For immune building phytonutrients and essential fiber, include more colorful vegetables, fruits and whole grains in your diet. And since cold water fish is nature's richest source of anti-inflammatory omega 3 oil with EPA and DHA, add more fresh fish, such as salmon.

Also, cut back on red meat. People who eat red meat daily have twice the risk of arthritis as those who eat red meat no more than twice a week or not at all.

Drink lots of pure, clean water - at least eight glasses a day.

And since excess weight puts extra stress on the joints, particularly the hips and knees, it's important to reach and maintain a healthy weight by reducing calories, eliminating high glycemic carbohydrates and keeping fat intake below 30% of calories.

Supplements for Rheumatoid Arthritis

The key to effective natural rheumatoid arthritis control and management is basically the same as it is for getting healthy and preventing any degenerative disease.

In the case of RA, begin by avoiding injury and reducing stress, fatigue and depression as much as possible. Then get healthy and fit with moderate exercise and a good rheumatoid arthritis diet that includes whole food supplements, particularly fish oil.

Arthritis - Signs and Symptoms

Arthritis is a group of conditions involving damage to the joints of the body. The most common form is the osteoarthritis also referred to as the degenerative joint disease. Osteoarthritis is caused by a trauma or an infection to the joint. Sometimes it could be as a result of age.

Other forms of this condition are rheumatoid, psoriatic and autoimmune diseases in which the body attacks itself. Septic is another form that is caused by a joint infection while gouty is caused by deposition of uric acid crystals in the joint causing inflammation. Pseudo gout is a rare form of gout that is normally caused by the formation of rhomboid crystals of calcium pyrophosphate.

Some of the symptoms of arthritis include pain and swelling in the joint, stiffness especially in the morning and feeling of warmth around the affected joint. Redness of the skin around the joint as well as inability to easily move the joint are other signs.

Pain patterns may differ depending on the type and the location of the affected area. Rheumatoid is normally worse in the morning and it leads to stiffness especially in the early stages. The stiffness normally disappears after a morning shower. Radiographs are normally used to asses the severity of the condition while blood tests and x-rays of the affected joints are used to make the diagnosis.

The type of arthritis you have determines the type of treatment to be administered. Available treatments include physical therapy and lifestyle changes such as exercise and weight control. Medications and dietary supplements are the other treatment options.

Osteoarthritis and Omega-3 - Is There A Connection For Pain Relief

The relationship between osteoarthritis and omega-3 fatty acid consumption has been the subject of numerous clinical, laboratory and animal studies over the years. Only recently have scientists begun to explain how and why omega-3 and inflammation are conversely related.

Inflammation is a normal immune system response to infection or injury. But, at times, inflammation is excessive. And in some cases, the immune system is responding inappropriately to signals sent out by the cells, or the cells are sending inappropriate signals. In either of these three cases, the immune system is overreacting, going slightly "haywire" or dysfunctional.

At first, research concerning osteoarthritis and omega-3 fatty acid consumption focused on the patient's assessment of pain relief. More and more research is now being done concerning the chemical reactions that occur within the body on a cellular level after omega-3 supplementation.

This research is important, not only to provide a better understanding of the relationship between supplemental omega-3 and inflammation, but also to support clinical reports of pain relief and to assess the value of using supplementation to help treat other conditions. Researchers at Cardiff University used cell models to simulate the breakdown of cartilage that occurs in arthritis.

They found that omega-3 supplementation decreases the breakdown, but that omega-6 fatty acids are ineffective. Regretfully, most people, particularly in Western countries, consume more omega-6 than omega-3 fatty acids. We need both omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids in the diet, but there are many sources of omega 6s and only a few sources for omega-3s. The best known source of omega 3 fatty acids is purified fish oil.

In regard to omega-3 and inflammation, the Cardiff researchers found that omega 3s interfere with the inflammatory process on a cellular level. There conclusion concerning osteoarthritis and omega-3 supplementation was that the data they collected supported supplementation and further that there may be a "beneficial effect in slowing and reducing inflammation in the pathogenesis of degenerative joint diseases in man."

Researchers at the University of Southampton conducted research in 2006 concerning supplementation of omega 3 and inflammation reduction. They found that omega 3s decrease the production of inflammatory agents and inflammatory cytokines (a type of protein released by cells of the immune system), has anti-oxidant and anti-coagulant activity. This research supports the use of omega-3s from fish and fish oils for the treatment and prevention of numerous diseases.

Choosing the right supplement is important. Some supplements derived from flaxseed oil contain only ALA, which the body can convert to DHA and EPA fatty acids, but the process sometimes happens inefficiently. Southampton researchers found that ALA did not appear to exert anti-inflammatory effects at amounts that a person could easily consume. So, at least for omega-3 and inflammation prevention or relief, fish oil is still the best choice, as long as it's molecularly distilled.

Recommendations concerning osteoarthritis and omega-3 supplementation vary. Some doctors and scientists would like to see more research before making recommendations. Some, on the other hand, believe that there is enough evidence to support the use of daily fish oil supplements and recommend at least 1000mg per day of high quality fish oil containing both DHA and EPA fatty acids.