Symptoms of Arthritis

In a previous article, we discussed what Arthritis is and its many forms, now it is time to take a look at the symptoms of Arthritis. Arthritis shows up in various ways. Some of the first symptoms include things like knees cracking when you stand up, general pain or swelling around joints that lasts for more than two weeks, you may also notice that pain in your joints increases as you move, also you may notice increased stiffness in your joints when you wake up in the morning, and your joints may appear red and feel warm to the touch.

Some other symptoms of Arthritis include fever, a sense of feeling tired all the time, even a feeling that you have the flu. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is imperative that you see your doctor or physician at once. Only a doctor can truly diagnose whether you have Arthritis, and because there are over 100 forms of Arthritis, it is also important to determine which form of Arthritis you have. The different forms of Arthritis have different symptoms as well. It is also important to seek medical treatment as soon as possible, since Arthritis has no known cure, the sooner you seek treatment and begin a regimen of care, and the better your results of managing your Arthritis will be. Your treatment plan may include things such as a specific course of medicine, plenty of rest, adequate diet, and proper nutrition, losing weight if you are overweight, and in severe cases, surgery may be required. In future articles we will look at treatment options, from Acupuncture to Zinc.

Is it Rheumatoid Arthritis or Osteoarthritis?

We've discussed that there are over 100 forms of Arthritis. The most common forms are Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, and Gout. All of these forms have different symptoms and require testing by your physician for an accurate diagnosis. Here are some of the symptoms and differences between Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis.

Symptoms of Osteoarthritis:

· Osteoarthritis Typically begins in one Joint

· Osteoarthritis Typically affects only the Joints

· Osteoarthritis does not affect Internal Organs

· Osteoarthritis affects Cartilage

· Osteoarthritis causes Stiffness in the Joints when waking in the Morning

Osteoarthritis is a result of cartilage being broke down. As this takes place, the bones rub together. This typically happens in the knees, hips, hands, and spine. Unfortunately, when the pain sets in there has already been a substantial loss and damage to the cartilage.

Rheumatoid Arthritis has different symptoms than Osteoarthritis. Here are the symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis

· Extreme Tiredness and Fatigue

· Low Grade Fever

· Muscle Pain and Aches

· Appetite Loss

· Painful and Swollen Joints

· Redness and Heat at the Joint Site

Typically, Rheumatoid Arthritis affects the joint of the body in a symmetrical fashion.
Rheumatoid Arthritis is a systematic disease and it often affects other organs in the body, and not just joints.

The symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis often appear, and then enter a state of remission. There is no proven reason as to the exact cause of Rheumatoid Arthritis, however it has been suspected that bacteria, fungi, and infections may cause it. There has also been evidence that Rheumatoid Arthritis is a hereditary condition. It is also believed that certain triggers, such as poor nutrition, stress, and infection can bring on Rheumatoid Arthritis.

· Stay tuned for our next article, "Osteoarthritis: Cause and Treatments".

Live Better With Natural Arthritis Remedies

Facts about Arthritis

Arthritis refers to pain in various parts of the body including fingers, hips jaw, knees where a joint exists between bones. It can be severely painful because of joints being bounded by several nerves that are required to make these complicated joints function properly.

Arthritis is of many types of which Rheumatoid or Osteoarthritis is the most common. It can be caused due to several factors such as misalignment, dehydration, protein deficiency, calcium deficiency or inflammation.

Top 5 natural arthritis remedies -

Following are some of the best remedies to treat arthritis naturally

1. Sesame seeds- soak 1 teaspoon of sesame seeds in a cup of water and leave it overnight. Drink this liquid the first thing the next morning. This has proven effective in preventing recurrent joint pains.

2. Cinnamon- this herb is a remarkable natural remedy for arthritis in hands. Add a pinch of cinnamon powder with honey and have it every morning prior to breakfast. Continue this process for at least a month and feel the difference.

3. Alfalfa- a cup of tea prepared from Alfalfa seeds is effective in treating arthritis. Take a cup of boiling water and add 1 teaspoon of Alfalfa seeds. Drink 4-5 cups of this tea every day for a minimum of 15 days to reduce inflammation. One can also add small portions of alfalfa in their daily diet.

4. Cod Liver Oil- According to a research, consuming small amounts of cod liver oil daily can potentially reduce cartilage degeneration, one of the key symptoms leading to osteoarthritis. Furthermore, the omega-3 acids present in the oil helps in reducing the inflammation and pain associated with arthritis. Consuming 2-3 teaspoons of cod liver oil every day can be beneficial.

5. Turmeric- this herb for ages is known for its healing properties. The active ingredient Curcumin protects joint inflammation and thereby helps to alleviate arthritis pain.

Juices for arthritis -

There are several juices that arthritis patients should take especially those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis as they help to clear up the pain. The list of juice includes black cherry, broccoli, spinach, carrots, ginger and apples. All these juices are best natural remedies for arthritis in hands as they are rich in anti-inflammatory nutrients that helps to alleviate the pain.

One can also improve rheumatoid arthritis pain by drinking 2-3 glasses of pineapple juice daily. This fruit contains a high percentage of Bromelain enzyme which has rich anti-inflammatory properties.

Caution: there are certain juices which are likely to result in adverse reactions in those having osteoarthritis. Always avoid intake of citrus fruits and vegetables such as eggplant, peppers, tomatoes or potatoes for best results.

One can enjoy the healthy life with natural herbs, the invaluable nature's gift to mankind.

Defend Yourself Against Arthritis

The word arthritis comes from "arth" which means joint, and "itis" which means inflammation. There are over 100 different types of arthritis that mainly affect the joints. Most types of arthritis affect the elderly but there are some kinds that can affect children as well. It is one of the main causes of disability in the world.

One of the most common symptoms of arthritis is joint pain and it can happen in any of the joints on the body. A for sure sign that you have arthritis would be pain and tenderness, definitely if you are experiencing worsened symptoms when using them, like going for a walk, getting up from sitting, and carrying groceries. Fatigue is another common symptom and most people who have this symptom say that they get a sudden or instant tiredness this can also go along with weakness as well.

Treatments for arthritis can be different and vary for mild to very serious treatment. A very serious treatment would be surgery in cases were deformity is a result from arthritis. Talking to your doctor to get diagnosed would be the best thing to prevent any serious problems like lose of movement and deformity. Together you and doctor can work to find a solution that is good for you.

A few of the most common kinds of arthritis are Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid, Psoriatic, Gout, Juvenile, Infectious, Ankvlosing, Fibromyalgia, Polymyalgia Rheumatica, and Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease, it is caused by wear and tear to the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis is when the immune system attacks its own body, mostly joints. Psoriatic arthritis is like rheumatoid except it is autoimmune, if left untreated it can cause crippling. Juvenile arthritis is usually rheumatoid but it refers to all different kinds that affect children. Infectious arthritis is caused by fungi,viruses, or bacteria.

Ankylosing Spondylitis is chronic and can result in fusing the vertebrae called rigid spine. This can affect men and women sometimes between the ages of 16 and 35. Polymayalgia Rheumatica affects people after the age of 50 and causes severe aching in the shoulders, hips, and neck. Systemic Lupus Erythematosis is autoimmune and affects the entire system with several internal organs. Firbromyalgia affects soft tissue of the body and caused by a defective transmitter function in the brain.

Gout occurs in people between the ages of 40 and 60 mostly and normally signs are noticed when the big toe becomes suddenly swollen, painful, hot, and red. It seems to be a mostly inherited disease and also is thought to be a hormonal factor involved with it as well. It can affect fingers, toes, wrists, elbows, knees, and ankles. They normally become tender almost to the point where even the touch of the bed sheet seems to be painful. An attack of gout can last for a few weeks and it can be repeated through a number of years.

Forever Freedom by Forever living can help you maintain your joints and the healthy function of them. It is a breakthrough formula that combines aloe vera gel with glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate to help your mobility and function in joints. It works to maintain the fluid in cartilage and draws nutrients in. Forever Freedom also has MSM because it is an anti0inflammatory agent and is a primary source of sulfur that the body needs to maintain healthy connective tissues and joint function. Forever Freedom is available at Alternative Health Supplements. This product does contain shellfish so people who have shellfish allergies should not take this product. Other ingredients include natural orange juice concentrate, sorbital, aloe vera gel, potassium sorbate, Glucosamine, Chondriotin, tocopherol(antioxidants), and fructose. Drink 2 to 4 ounces of Forever Freedom daily to defend against the signs of arthritis and aging.

Natural Remedies For Wrist Arthritis Inflammation and What Research is Telling Us

There are many natural remedies for wrist arthritis inflammation. This article looks at the ones that have proven to be beneficial in scientific studies.

Before the advent of modern pharmaceuticals, people had treatments for diseases. They were mostly herbs and other plants. But, people made use of what they had in large quantities. Modern research has shown that many of these ancient remedies have anti-inflammatory activity.

The active component of aspirin was originally derived from the bark of the willow tree. It is now synthesized and the synthetic version may have a negative effect on the liver; however, willow bark tea is still available.

In Ayurvedic medicine, popular in India for thousands of years, the spices turmeric and ginger were often used to reduce aches and pains. Researchers have found that turmeric contains a compound called curcumin, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity.

Ginger contains gingerol, which has similar benefits. It's also good for upset stomach, morning sickness and motion sickness. Other spices contain compounds with proven anti-inflammatory activity. For example, black pepper contains piperine. So, adding more spices to the foods that you eat could help with the pain and swelling. You might also try an anti-inflammatory diet.

An anti-inflammatory diet is one of the natural remedies for wrist arthritis inflammation that could also reduce your risk of heart disease, cancer and other age-related health problems. The diets consist of lots of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, seeds and good fats like olive oil and fatty fish. It's very similar to the traditional Mediterranean diet.

Olive oil contains oleocanthal, which has anti-inflammatory activity similar to that of ibuprofen. Fatty fish and fish oils contain omega-3 fatty acids, which help to balance the inflammatory response throughout the body.

Fish oil was one of the natural remedies for wrist arthritis inflammation, and achy joints in general, among the Vikings and cold-water fishermen. Research has shown that the omega-3 fatty acids found in fish oil have anti-inflammatory activity and stimulate the production of molecules that tell the immune system that inflammation is no longer necessary.

In studies concerning rheumatoid arthritis, volunteers that took a fish oil supplement on a daily basis were able to reduce the amount of pain killers they had to take. They had less morning stiffness and felt better overall.

It is important to note that fish oil supplements vary greatly in terms of potency and purity. But, if you choose a good brand, fish oil is one of the best natural remedies for wrist arthritis inflammation according to the scientists.

Living With Arthritis Pains and Its Complications

What is arthritis?

Arthritis is a chronic disease that comes with pain and loss of movement of the joints. It is a joint disorder caused by disease, infection, anomalies and other factors that affect the everyday activities. Arthritis affects the people of all ages, including children and young adults but generally people over 50years show more signs of arthritis because the joint naturally degrades overtime. Arthritis is not a single disease, but a term that covers over 100diseases and medical conditions that can affect many parts of the body. It is a long term disease that cannot be totally cured but can be managed with proper medical care, adequate therapy and by treating its symptoms.

However, it should be noted that arthritis is associated with diseases of other tissues and organs in the body and as a result it is considered as one of the major causes of disability in people who are over 50years and above. In the United States, arthritis is the leading cause of disability and researchers claimed that nearly 1 in every 5 adults has some form of arthritis.

We have various types of arthritis and for this article l would like to write on the most common types of arthritis and these are Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis Arthritis - is a disease that can cause the breakdown of joint tissue which leads to joint pain and stiffness. It is normal inflammatory and at onset is subtle and gradually starting from one or few joints. It is also known as degenerative joint disease, resulting from wear and tear of cartilage usually associated with old age. The pressure of gravity causes damage to the joints and surrounding tissues leading to pain, tenderness and sometimes swelling at different parts of the body.

Rheumatoid arthritis - is a chronic disease potentially disabling type of arthritis that occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the synovium (cell lining the joint). It usually causes severe joint pain, loss of joint function, stiffness, swelling and sometimes leads to permanent deformity. Rheumatoid arthritis can be difficult to diagnose early because the symptoms can be deceptive. As a result no single test can conclusively establish its correct diagnosis. It is responsible for arthritis pain and inflammation joints that affects most joints of the body like fingers, wrists, kneels and toes.

Treatment of Arthritis

Over the years proper treatment have help to relieve arthritis symptoms and correct many serious joint problems. Sometimes physical and occupational therapy is used to control and maintain joint mobility and range of motion. The proper kind and amount of this therapy depends on the underlying cause and individual factors.

Arthritis cure largely depends on the type, the severity of the problem and previous response to treatment by the patients. As a result, medical supervision is a must because arthritis like rheumatoid can be crippling and can affect other organs in the body. Doses of aspirin or aspirin-like drugs are common prescription that effectively reduced arthritis pain and inflammation. In case of severe pains, drugs like DMARDS or SAARDS (disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs or slow-acting antirheumatic drugs) such as anti-malaria are administered.

Once again l would like to emphasize that all these drugs prescribed require close supervision and that most of them have hazardous effects, for example in some patients aspirin interferes with platelet function and this can cause serious bleeding.

Finally, in treating arthritis the major concern of the doctor is to provide the best treatment that will reduce the pains, or further damage to the joints and prevent any permanent deformity.

Super Foods For Arthritis and Meditations to Help With Arthritis

FROM SUPER FIT TO SUDDEN CHRONIC ILLNESS

One day I was an incredibly fit individual, practicing yoga and meditation daily; the next day I awoke in chronic pain. Rapidly limb by limb over the coming days and weeks, I gradually became more and more disabled. A few months later I was told devastating news that I had a disabling condition called spondylo arthritis. How did this happen so suddenly with no sign of symptoms previously? I was shocked, confused and frightened as the consultants told me how serious it was and how it would most likely be with me for the rest of my life. My condition was so bad that I could barely walk and at my worst I had to be pushed in a wheelchair which made me cry, because I could not understand how I had got to such a place so rapidly having always been fit and healthy. I was in a bad place mentally and physically. I could not focus on meditation, especially when the medication took me into its inhumane chemical trances; needless to say the side effects on top of that were challenging to say the least. One of the medications I had to take totally blocked my mind from creativity which was devastating for me as I write and record meditations.

COLD TURKEY, CHRONIC ANAEMIA AND DEPRESSSION WERE MY COMPANIONS

My nature being very positive I set out to fight arthritis with food. My remedies I believed in so dearly were not working, so I allowed my Consultants to medicate me, as the pain was so intense that it was a near impossible to sleep for more than half an hour at a time. I felt defeated as my Consultant told me I would have to come to terms with the diagnosis, so reluctantly I said yes to steroids which made my condition worse. The next course of treatment was non steroid arthritis anti inflammatory drugs which took the edge off my chronic pain and enabled me to function in a more acceptable manner. I experienced some relief. However, over the months I wasn't getting any better, the inflammation never went down and I was beginning to spiral in and out of mini depressions with the never ending pain. I looked so pale as I now had chronic anaemia, My consultant abruptly took me off my medication as he suspected the medication was the cause of my anaemia. I was left cold turkey and the only pain killers permitted were paracetamol which didn't do much or tramadol that knocked me out, needless to say I was feeling very depressed by this stage.

Throughout the months I never gave up and was always trying new remedies, juicing, raw foods, the arthritis diet, cider vinegar, black strap molasses, herbal remedies, homeopathic, alternative therapies, pain machines. I pretty much exhausted all my options.I was desperate to walk again with ease. I so wanted to tend my garden which I loved and had so badly neglected, as I was unable to bend down. Indeed my memory humours me now as I look back to how bad I actually was at my worst; my cats used to get very impatient with their suspended food dish in the air that was coming down millimetre by millimetre, which seemed to take an eternity to reach the ground. They would be leaping up trying to assist in pulling it down to the ground and sometimes did with a mighty crash spilling food all over the floor!

A MIRACE - I DISCOVERED SUPER FOODS FOR ARTHRITIS

I read books, tried everything I heard of that could help, spent vast amounts of money until I felt I had exhausted all my options and felt deflated. Nothing helped. I exercised daily but it was agony. One day I was surfing the net yet again in hope I had missed something and by chance I came across a pod cast about cocoa beans by David Wolfe. I could not believe the potential of super foods for arthritis and the health enhancing properties cocoa contained. I felt excited and optimistic. So began the next phase of my journey of consuming cocoa daily, one of the beneficial super foods for arthritis sufferers. I felt hope again for the first time in months. Cocoa turned my life around literally from the day I first took it as within hours I felt my mood change due to the natural mood enhancing chemicals it contains and within days my pain was less and my inflammation reduced. This crunchy bean that was more like a nut with a bitter chocolate flavour, made me feel wonderful for the first time in a long time. I noticed my walking was improving and my energy levels were the best they had been for a long time, which was amazing. I felt happy again. I was so impressed that I wanted to learn more about super foods for arthritis. I came across recommendations to take cocoa nibs along with goji berries for a more potent health remedy and for the complimentary taste.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF COCOA AND GOJI BERRIES

Goji berries are known as the happy berry as they are reported to have mood lifting properties as well as many other desirable health benefits. The combination of Cocoa and Goji berries from my experience are incredibly powerful. Cocoa is one of the most nutrient rich and complex foods known to man and to some experts, is considered to be the number one antioxidant food and is the best sources of magnesium of any known food, which many arthritis sufferers are deficient. It is also a rich source of iron which helped with my anaemia. Other benefits that caught my attention from my research were as follows:

Acts as an anti-depressant and balances the mood; Balances the brain chemistry; Builds strong bones; Detoxifies the liver; Helps with healthy pancreas functioning; Balances blood sugar; Builds a stress defence shield; Regulates inflammatory and immune responses in blood vessel walls; Contains anandamide The Bliss Chemical, serotonin and endorphins; Cocoa beans/cacao is one of the most nutrient rich and complex foods known to man.

I cannot express strongly enough how these two gifts of nature have helped to turn my life around. I managed to completely come off all painkillers within a week of taking cocoa and have been totally free from any form of medication for many months now. One year after my diagnosis I have strength to walk and climb steps. I can tend my garden with joy and happiness. I have consistent energy and now have colour back in my cheeks. The most important thing is that I now have a constant clear mind and energy like I have never experienced before. It's such a joy to have my own authentic mind back, clear of chemical blockages, which has enabled me to be true to my inner self again. For months I could not meditate, as my mind was under the influence of chemicals from medication which put me into a chemical fog, far away from mindfulness. Now I am on the path of wellness, meditation is big part of my daily life again. It has helped to clear my mind of all the trauma of the trail of negative energy illness left behind. For months the chemicals I was consuming daily seemed to be taking me on a journey away from my true self and into a bleak downward spiral of never ending suffering. Super foods for arthritis helped me to find my path back home and re-ignited my passion to practice meditation daily. My yoga movements are coming along nicely again too.

KNOWLEDGE IS A BLESSING - SHARING IS CARING

I hope that by sharing my experience I may help others. I know we are all made differently as human beings and whilst medication may suit some people it may not suit others. Super foods for arthritis may be a saviour to some of my readers like they were and still are to me today. Even if I only reach out and help a few people by sharing my journey and my learning's then I will be very happy.

As a therapist I have always practiced as I preach, but the intrusion of Arthritis into my life lhas since lead me to more deeper profound dimensions of my practice which I live and breath daily. Please look after your body and your mind - they are very precious - treasure them and above all please be true to yourself my dear reader.

What Relieves Joint Pain and Arthritis? Flaxseed Oil - An Arthritis Treatment

To relieve joint pain, or arthritis your body requires multiple nutrients derived from various sources. The main minerals for joint pain relief are Marine oils, CoQ10, Vitamin E, Organic Flaxseed Oil, Olive oil, borage oil, combined with a daily intake of 12 fruits and 12 vegetables. The vegetables include, parsley, kale, spinach, wheat grass, brussel sprouts, asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower, beets, carrots, and garlic. The fruits included a person's daily diet are plums, cranberry, blueberry, strawberries, blackberries, bilberries, cherries, apricot, papaya, oranges, grapes, and pineapple.

I will now review a product that contains all of these ingredients, so you can determine what is best. A company by the name of Xango discovered this whole food nutritional blend to not only help relief joint pain, but help cardiovascular health, immune health, cognitive health, skin health, prostate health (men), bone and joint health (women), healthy energy levels, healthy stress management, and cell protection. The product is Xango 3Sixty5, it basically contains everything mentioned in the above paragraph. It is easier for the body to absorb these nutrients, because the formula contains the mangosteen rind in a concentrated form, with the 12 fruits, 12 vegetables, and the wide variety of essential vitamins and minerals.

It is found that some supplements are never absorbed in the body at all, passing through the entire digestive tract. Xango 3Sixty5 is known for its absorption, because of the chelated minerals that increase the body's ability to absorb the ingredients. Chelated minerals have been shown to have better absorption properties than non-chelated minerals, providing you with a better supplement. Taking the capsules with the Xango juice is said to increase absorption. Normally Xango 3Sixty5 is taken every morning, and evening with 1-3oz of Xango Juice, and with 8oz glass of water.

The Marine oils EPA and DHA are omega-3 fatty acids that help with joint pain. These minerals are only made available for the body through consumption of various items such as cold water fish, flaxseed oil, or supplementation. The brain and retina require high levels of DHA, but DHA is normally consumed in very small quantities. However, regardless of consumption patterns, marine oil is very beneficial for support of cardiovascular health, cognitive health, immune, and structural health.

CoQ10 is an antioxidant that produces cellular energy throughout the body. It provides the cells in our bodies to do the basic functions to remain healthy. According to the Mayo Clinic, CoQ10 levels decrease with age, and people with poor health have a low amount of CoQ10.

The Organic Flaxseed Oil helps maintain heart health. It has several other ingredients including omega-3, 6, 9, fatty acids, B-vitamins, fiber, protein, and zinc. The flaxseed helps promote a healthy cardiovascular system, immune system, reproductive system, nervous system, and skeletal system.

Lastly, the healthy oils contained in Xango 3Sixty5, such as olive oil, which is a strong antioxidant that helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels. The borage oil contains gamma-linoleic acid (GLA), which maintains structural, respiratory, and skin health.

The Harvard School of Public Health did a study for the longest, where a research program included 110,000 men and women. Their health and dietary habits were followed for 14 years. The study found that the more fruits and vegetables you eat daily, the better your chances for maintaining healthy circulatory system, digestive system, and good vision.

Effective Pain Management Strategies For Dog Arthritis Treatment

If your older dog is reluctant to stand or slow to respond to a sit command you may think it's a normal symptom of an aging pet. Although it's true your dog may slow down a bit with age he may be suffering pain from arthritic joints.

Veterinary care for pets has advanced by leaps and bounds in recent years. It is not necessary for any pet to suffer from pain as there are medications that can help lubricate his joints and make him feel almost like a puppy again.

Aspirin is often recommended for arthritis pain in dogs. Given in small doses (baby aspirin) this common, inexpensive drug provide pain relief by relieving inflammation. Ibuprofen can be used but can have the side effect of stomach irritation with frequent use.

Aspirin may seem the cheapest and easiest option for your dog's arthritis treatment but even aspirin can cause side effects, especially with long term use. Your vet may recommend using aspirin as a temporary relief of joint pain but should not be given to dogs suffering from kidney disease or problems with blood pressure. Prolonged used of aspirin can cause stomach irritation.

Arthritis in dogs is not constant. The pain and stiffness wax and wane depending on activity and even on the temperature and weather. If you have a mild form of arthritis yourself any climate change that causes you pain will likely have the same effect on your arthritic canine.

For mild pain, aspirin is effective partly because it can be given only as needed. For stronger pain your veterinarian may recommend Rimadyl, Deramaxx or Metacam.

These are non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID) that are amazingly effective pain management for many dogs.

Rimadyl treats the pain and inflammation of arthris and other joint diseases that include hip dysplasia. It is also often prescribed for pain relief after surgery and for dogs with fever. Rimadyl is well tolerated by most dogs and administered as a single dose each day of a chewable tablet that dogs seem to like or a non-chewable caplet. Rimadyl reduces the hormones that cause pain in canines. It should not be used for dogs used for breeding or for pregnant or lactating animals.

Rimydal has caused liver problems in a small number of dogs but the benefits gained with the medicine seems to outweigh the risk especially as the risk seems to be reversed when the medicine is halted.

Deramaxx is a breakthrough product that has proven safe for daily use. It's in chewable form with a beef flavor dogs love. As with any NSAID drugs some dogs may experience side effects involving the digestive system, liver or kidneys.

Metacam is an oral NSAID with a sweet taste that is well accepted by canines. The oral form allows dosages to be carefully controlled in relation to the size of the dog. It can be added to the pet food or be given directly into the mouth. A single daily dose provides a full 24 hours of pain relief.

No matter which pain treatment method you chose for dog arthritis treatment, your veterinarian will prescribe the lowest dosage possible to manage the symptoms of pain and stiffness.

Arthritis in dogs is a lifetime affliction and by starting with the lowest possible dosage the owner is able to increase the dosage of a dog's arthritis treatment as needed with advancing age.

Before starting arthritis treatment for your dog, your veterinarian will consider other meds your pet may be taking and will conduct a full exam to be certain there are no factors other than arthritis making your pooch uncomfortable. The results of the exam will be useful as comparison if your dog does develop a reaction to arthritis treatment medications.

Where Does Arthritis Come From? I Know What Cured Me

Who's Fault is It?

So, what led to my acquiring of arthritis? I was the victim of divorced parents. My mom remarried twice and my dad had visitation rights. In my particular case, neither parent was insistent upon my consuming what I would call "a well balanced diet." Frankly, I doubt that they really knew what one was.

Dad, for example, would encourage me to eat chocolate candy bars for quick energy, with which instructions I was only too happy to comply. If I wanted hamburger, fries, and malts or banana splits, it made no difference to them. Needless to say, I was overweight and I am likewise convinced that my system was well on the way to becoming plugged up at an all too young age.

What Does That Have to Do With Arthritis?

Yes, I did in fact develop arthritis, and there are millions who also suffer from this loathsome and painful disease. Much later in my life, my daughter-in-law was also affected adversely by arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis as a matter of fact. Anyone who has or is suffering from this malady knows only too well that the word "atrocious" just about defines it in a fair to middling fashion.

In my case, it had the potential of being life threatening in view of limiting my ability to defend myself adequately as a policeman. In my daughter-in-law's case, she was the mother of six and had all of attendant responsibilities that being a wife and mother imply. Again, when a member of one's own family is affected adversely with any malady, the pain becomes even more pronounced.

Though I do not know where all arthritis comes from; I do know that my arthritis left my body only after an M.D. advised me that I should stop eating white sugar. So I had to stop eating banana splits and candy bars and everything in-between. Of course I could not blame my parents because I was now "all grown up" and made my own decisions. But it wasn't an easy decision to eliminate sugar from my diet.

Is There Any Hope at All?

Changing my dietary habits was a great alternative for me since it freed me from spending the "best half" of my life on pain medications. Because of my successful experience with alternative medicine, it was only as one would suspect that our children would be open to alternative medicine as a viable consideration for their health needs as well. You can only imagine the delight that my wife and I had upon learning that our daughter-in-law had been delivered from all of the effects of rheumatoid arthritis by the use of an herbal supplement.

If you or someone you love is suffering from arthritis, I highly suggest that you get advice from a nutritionist about how you can modify your eating habits. I also suggest you consider what benefits might be available to you from supplementing your nutrition with herbs as well. If you have a hard time breaking free from sugars, there are herbs that can suppress those cravings. So don't give up hope! Your freedom from arthritis might be just around the corner.

Apple Cider Vinegar; It Will Cure What Ails You

So many health products for sale! So much money to be spent! Yet, in your kitchen, you may have just what you need to give you optimum health. Apple Cider Vinegar and Honey. It is important to note that they must both be organic and raw. The modern types that you buy in the grocery store will not work, as all the healing elements have been removed. Did you know that this little combination will take care of a variety of health problems? I will give my disclaimer now. If you are ill or have a chronic condition, don't stop taking your medication abruptly. Take the apple cider vinegar tablets together with your medication and notice how much better you feel. There are various ways to do this. You may mix two teaspoons of apple cider vinegar, together with two teaspoons of honey in a glass of water and drink this three times a day. Some people love it and say that it is quite a refreshing drink. I do not share that opinion, so I opt to take the tablets. Whichever route you decide to take, remember, they must be organic. Do not get the watered down commercial brand.

I first discovered an advertisement about apple cider vinegar and its health benefits, not even a month after I lost my mother. I had cared for her for four years and it had worn me down emotionally and physically. Where once upon a time I came first and she sacrificed for me, life had done a backward flip and now she came first and I sacrificed for her. Therefore, many of my health concerns went unattended. No, I would not advise anyone to sacrifice in this way, but when faced with the position of full time caregiver, this is so very easy to do. You tend to forget about yourself, fully intending to take care of yourself later . . . and later . . . . and later . . . . .By the time mother died, I had asthma, for which I was taking a variety of inhalers, sinus headaches, Osteoarthritis, so bad in my hips that it was extremely difficult to go up two steps. I have always been wary of prescription medicine, so I never asked for the latest miracle pills on the market. After several of them being taken off the shelves, I am most glad that I didn't.

Well, normally I just take a quick look at advertisements and then just toss them. However, this one was different. There was something about it that made sense, it might really work. The benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar and Honey. I read through the entire article and it convinced me to try it. I don't remember what exactly they were selling but I knew that I could use their methods for just pennies a day.

Optimum health has to do with your body's alkalinity. This was something new to me. Apple Cider Vinegar gives your body the exact alkalinity it needs. If you have too much, it will reduce it. If you have too little, it will increase it. It is good for a variety of conditions. Started early enough, you will not have to worry about depending on prescription pills. Of course, this is in conjunction with a healthy diet and exercise. While caring for mother, I noticed that so many prescription medicines cause side effects, necessitating you to take additional medicines to alleviate those side effects. Well, this can turn into a vicious cycle and too often does. I became very aware of this as I cared for my mother through her illness. By the time I realized what was going on, it was too late. I am not even taking into consideration the expense involved.

I have been taking Apple Cider Vinegar tablets for seven months now and I maintain that if I had given these to mother from the minute she came to live with me, right now she would be running a marathon without her oxygen.

This is what Apple Cider Vinegar has done for me. I have no asthma. I take no inhalers. I have no sinus headaches. And the most amazing of all ........ Drum Roll Please! I am not allergic to cats anymore. Yes, apple cider vinegar will take certain allergies away. I will not say all allergies, as I am not positive, but it will take your animal allergies away. Imagine, no more dreadful allergy shots. I now have an indoor cat, Maggie May. Oh yes, the osteoarthritis. Gone. I am limber and can climb stairs. I can get on a bus without having to be helped up and I can sit on the floor and get up again. This is my personal testimony.

Now, let me list all the benefits of apple cider vinegar, whether you take two teaspoons mixed with two teaspoons of honey, in a glass of water, or if you take tablets. Since I have found tables, that is what I do, since it is much less painful than the other alternatives.

Apple Cider Vinegar is good for:

Obesity; Overweight; Arthritis; Asthma; High Blood Pressure; Blood - Provides the elements necessary for perfect clotting. Blood will not clot abnormally and it will also prevent hemorrhaging.

Colitis; Coughs; Diarrhea; Dizziness; Ear Discharge; Eczema; Tired and Sore Eyes; Fatigue; Food Poisoning; Hair Loss; Hayfever; Headaches; Hearing; Heartburn; Hiccups; Insomnia; and, last but not least, Kidneys and Bladder

These are only some of the benefits of Apple Cider Vinegar.

Hippocrates treated his patients with Apple Cider Vinegar. Apple Cider Vinegar has been discovered in Egyptian urns as dating back to 3000 B.C. The Babylonians used Apple Cider Vinegar as a condiment and preservative. Julius Caesar's army took Apple Cider Vinegar to stay healthy. It was used as a healing agent in Biblical times, and in the Middle Ages it was sold as a healing tonic. Christopher Columbus used Apple Cider Vinegar in his voyage to prevent scurvy. Apple Cider Vinegar has a myriad of uses. Not only is Apple Cider Vinegar used for over all health, but it is also used as a cleansing agent to remove germs, bacteria, and odors. It can even be used to remove stains and spots.

In this day and age, it is so important to keep fit. We are in a fast paced world where stress rules the day. Our cities are polluted and our food full of insecticide and preservatives. It is so important that we give our bodies the proper nutrients for optimum health. If we start while young, we minimize the risk of chronic illness. However, if have already burned the candle at both ends and find ourselves a little older, a little fatigued or maybe even have medical problems, combined with proper nutrition and exercise, Apple Cider Vinegar and Honey is Mother Nature's supplement for optimum health.

©Luella May 2006

Everything You Need To Know About Hip Arthritis

The main type of arthritis is Osteoarthritis which most affects people who are older, typically over 50 years old. A lesser type is Rheumatoid arthritis which mainly targets middle aged - elderly women. There are other types of arthritis but they are extremely less common than these two. The rest of this article will focus on Osteoarthritis which is almost 8 times more likely than Rheumatoid arthritis.

The basic definition of hip arthritis is an aging condition brought on by the general wear and tear of the hip joint over time. The protective cartilage that separates the bones that meet at the joint is worn down which opens up the joint for bone on bone and bursa contact, which leads to significant hip joint and hip flexor pain.

Hip Arthritis Causes

There is no single cause that is attributed to Osteoarthritis, there are several factors that can contribute to your chance of having the condition; genetics for example can play a large role in this. That being said, there are some things that have been linked to developing hip arthritis:

Weight

If you are overweight everything that you do will put more stress on your hip joint, which will accelerate any development of hip arthritis.

Posture

Similar to being overweight, when you have bad posture you put more stress on certain parts of your body than you should, the hip joint included. While there may not be many short term effects of this hip arthritis can be a long term result.

Injuries

If you have had any traumatic hip injuries (like a complete hip flexor strain)in the past you are more likely to develop hip arthritis. Previous injuries can cause scar tissue to develop, move body parts slightly out of place, and change your walking and sitting posture.

Symptoms

The nature of the condition means that any hip joint pain will only get worse as the cartilage continues to degrade, which means that it is crucial to try to recognize hip arthritis early on for treatment.

If you have hip arthritis you will experience pain with common everyday activities like walking, sitting, anything with movement really. You may also feel a lot of stiffness in the hip area and have trouble walking correctly.

Treatment

There are limited options to reverse the effects of hip arthritis other than hip replacement surgery. Typically this is put off as long as possible as any surgery comes with cost and risk of complications.

If you are diagnosed with hip arthritis you will most likely be recommended to try one of the following to reduce pain and limit further cartilage deterioration.

Lose Weight: It may not always be applicable, but for the reasons explained above, if you are overweight it will take some stress off your joints if you lose a few pounds.

Walking Assistance: No one enjoys it, but using a walker or a cane can really make a big difference in managing the pain by taking stress off of your hip joint(s).

Painkillers: Usually not the first recommendation, but if there is also inflammation present in your hip (often in Rheumatoid arthritis), you may be given painkillers/anti-inflammatories

Strengthening Routine: If you follow a hip flexor strengthening routine you can also relieve some pressure that is directly on the hip joint, which will reduce pain.

Arthritis Prevention

There is no way to prevent hip arthritis for sure, but if you follow the suggestions in the treatment section of this article you can help to minimize your chances of developing the condition.

Severe Lower Back Pain - Time For Exercises

Many people suffer for years with lower back pain and eventually find some relief from various pain killers. I have eliminated or substantially reduced approaches prescribed by my pain management specialist. The difference is daily exercise for back pain relief.

My pain story is not unique. Several years ago, my doctor determined I had two herniated discs and osteoarthritis in the lumbar area. The discs and the inflammation of the osteoarthritis restricted a channel and pinched the sciatic nerve. The result was severe lower back pain, coupled with sciatic nerve pain. Over a number of years, I progressed from shots in the lower back, to an implanted neurostimulator, to a variety of pain medications. Most recently, the pain medications consisted of two narcotic drugs, one on an as-needed basis, and one for 24-hour maintenance. The physical and emotional effects of the medications substantially changed the quality of my life. I wanted to get rid of those medications, even if I had to live with the pain.

A friend with sciatic nerve pain told me a physical therapist helped him eliminate the pain through a daily exercise program. My pain management specialist agreed to write a prescription for the physical therapist of my choice, and I started a new life.

After the therapist completed his evaluation, he told me two important things. First, a significant amount of lower back pain is the direct result of unused and out-of-shape muscles. Get those muscles in shape, keep them in shape, and most of the pain should disappear. Second, the exercises would not help the pain caused by the bone and osteoarthritis issues. In other words, an exercise program will eliminate muscle pain, while leaving the real source of my lower back pain- herniated discs and osteoarthritis.

Over four weeks, he worked me on a routine of eight exercises and bike riding using a recumbent bike. The exercises worked the muscles in the legs, thighs, hamstrings, buttocks, and lower back. I continued these exercises every day at home.

Miracles never cease. My wife says she can see me move with more vitality and energy, and I feel better. I can easily affirm my energy level is higher and my enthusiasm for getting out of bed each day is much improved.

Here are the results with which I am most pleased. The 24-hour narcotic is gone, the as-needed narcotic is reduced to no more than one per day, if at all, and the neurostimulator is seldom used. The conclusion, in my case, is simple: exercise for lower back pain brings relief!

Arthritis Treatment: What to Do About Wrist Arthritis

The wrist is a complicated joint. Rather than just two bones that interact, the wrist consists of eight small bones all of which interact with each other as well as the two arm bones- the radius and ulna- as well as the bones of the hand.

The wrist bones- called "carpals" are arranged in two rows and are held in place with an intricate system of ligaments.

The wrist has a number of functions. It moves the hand, stabilizes the hand, and enhances the mechanics of the hand in relation to the forearm.

Wrist arthritis results in both severe pain and restriction of movement. Swelling and deformity are other features of wrist arthritis.

A number of conditions can cause wrist arthritis. The most common is rheumatoid arthritis. However, crustal induced arthritis such as gout and pseudogout, psoriatic arthritis, and osteoarthritis can also be implicated.

Since the wrist is supposed to stabilize the hand, the resultant pain and deformity from arthritis may result in loss of function with weakness of hand grip.

History and physical exam start the process of diagnosis. Laboratory tests are also useful. While x-rays can detect damage, the findings are late. Magnetic resonance imaging is better for finding early changes.

The general axiom is that initiation of treatment for the underlying disease is needed along with local treatment for the wrist.

Non-surgical measures for wrist arthritis are aimed at pain relief. Splinting can be instituted during acute flares. However, prolonged can lead to wrist stiffness and weakness.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) can help reduce swelling and pain.

Steroid injection may be beneficial. Injection should be accompanied by temporary splinting. The results can vary depending on the severity of the underlying problem.

In patients who don't respond to conservative measures, surgery may need to be considered. A number of considerations enter into the decision making process. These include: type of arthritis, the extent of involvement, functional requirements, and patient expectations.

Surgical options include:

• Arthroscopy (using a small telescope to examine the inside of the wrist and perform minor surgical procedures such as repairs of ligament tears)
• Synovectomy (removal of inflamed joint tissue; particularly useful for rheumatoid arthritis)
• Ulnar resection (removing the end of the ulna bone which helps stabilize the wrist biomechanically)
• Arthrodesis (fusion)

All of these treatments have their place depending on the extent of disease. Wrist replacements are improving all the time but are still inadequate.

Joint Support Through Nutritional Assistance

The human body is unique, the most cfomplex organism in the world and every aspect of the body down to the tiniest microscopic cell reveals that the human body is fearfully and wonderfully made.

The human body has 206 bones and there are 230 moveable and semi-moveable joints in the body. Joints are structures where two bones meet. When joints are healthy they hold the bones together and allow the rigid skeleton to move easily.

Joints may be synovial (with a cavity) or fibrous.

Fibrous Joints Fibrous joints lack synovium and synovial fluid. Bones in the joints are covered by cartilage which is an open spongy network of calcified collagen in a tough outer shell. The bone can withstand thrust forces as long as it is covered in cartilage, which distributes load evenly. Without cartilage, the spongy bone collapses easily. Bone is constantly remodeling in response to stresses

Synovial Joints Synovial fluid is effectively a liquid connective tissue. Normal synovial fluid is clear, colorless and noticeably thick and stringy, like eggwhite. Hence the name syn ovium ('with egg'). Its viscous and elastic properties are due to hyaluronan, a long chain glycosaminoglycan carbohydrate Healthy joints are amazing parts of the human body and when joints are healthy they provide easy, smooth and painless body movements. They need to be taken care of to remain healthy lifelong. Overuse of joints can cause excessive wear and tear. Underuse of joints because of a sedentary lifestyle may cause stiffness and joint pains

Common Causes of Joint Pain Joint pain can generally be attributed to following causes:

oInjury Injury to the joint, due to a fall, twist or overloading may cause damage to the joint and may result in temporary inflammation and pain in the joint.

oDegenerative Arthritis or Osteoarthritis(OA) Wear and tear of the joints can lead to joint pains. The exact cause of OA is not known but it is generally believed that OA can be due to obesity, sedentary life style and/or lack of exercise, unhealthy eating habits leading to nutritional deficiencies like low calcium and other essential minerals needed for healthy bones and joints. Smoking and alcohol may also contribute to osteoporosis of the bone

oInflammatory joint disorders When the joint capsule holding synovial fluid becomes inflamed, the lubrication of the joint is affected. This type of pain can be due to rheumatoid arthritis, or arthritis due to gout and Lyme's disease.

Symptoms of Joint Pain May Include

oJoint pain that is exacerbated by exercise and relieved by rest. In advanced stages pain can be experienced during times of rest and at night. Knee pain due to OA is usually bilateral and felt in and around the knee. Hip pain due to OA is felt in the groin and anterior or lateral thigh.
oJoint stiffness in the morning or after rest.
oReduced function and mobility of joint.

Signs of OA Local examination of the joint affected by OA will show:

oReduced range of joint movement
oPain on movement of joint or at extremes of joint movement
oJoint swelling/synovitis (warmth, effusion, synovial thickening)
oJoint instability
oMuscle weakness/wasting around the affected joint.

Arthritis continues to be a large and growing public health problem. According to the National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, recent arthritis prevalence studies show that 46 million American adults suffer from arthritis which comes to nearly 1 in 5 adults. Around 27 million people suffer from osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis. Osteoarthritis accounts for most of the hip and knee replacement surgeries performed in the United States. It is estimated that 67 million people in America will be affected by arthritis by the year 2030.

Even though osteoarthritis does not leave patients totally disabled, it affects the quality of life because of pain on movement and joint stiffness. Osteoarthritis affecting the elbow and shoulder joints may inhibit simple day to day activities like brushing the hair. Normal activities like dressing up, and other household chores tend to become painful and may ultimately lead to depression in many patients. It may restrict a person's social life in some cases as moving around becomes painfully difficult.

Nutritional Support for Joints Research shows that nutritional support can help to relieve joint pain and may help restore healthy cartilage to the joints. These nutrients support proper joint function, mobility, and healthy ligaments and tendons. GoFlex contains:

Interhealth Collagen Type 2 Works with the immune system to promote healthy joints, while improving joint mobility and flexibility.

Hyal Joint A natural substance known to lubricate joint cartilage surfaces to reduce friction and keep them gliding smoothly.

White Willow Bark Extract Ancient Egyptians used white willow for inflammation problems.

Yucca Root Powder Contains natural steroidal-like saponins that have been used to reduce inflammation, spasms and pain associated with arthritis.

Green Lipped Mussel Extract Contains Omega-3 and a rich blend of natural proteins, minerals and mucopolysaccharides that support healthy joint mobility and cartilage maintenance.

Boswellin A natural herb that has traditionally been used for optimum joint health.

Curcumin C3 Traditionally used for its anti-inflammatory, anti-arthritic, antioxidant and immune system stimulating properties.

DL-Phenylalanine A combination of the well-tolerated essential amino acids that promotes optimal joint health.

Natto Kinase One of the most promising new nutrients used to help support a healthy circulatory system.

Bioperine Generates energy and increases the bioavailability of other nutritional compounds.

Grape Seed Extract A potent antioxidant that that nutritionally supports reduced swelling, improved blood circulation and healthy collagen.

MSM A vital building block of joints and cartilage.

Glucosamine Sulfate1 May nutritionally help to stimulate your body's ability to repair its worn joints, and may help to provide joint pain relief, reduced tenderness and improved mobility.

An insufficiency in any of these essential nutrients that support joint health may be a significant factor leading to the deterioration of the joints and causing stiffness, loss of mobility and pain. GoFlex contains natural proteins, minerals and other nutrients to effectively provide nutritional health support for joint health.

References: 1. Long-term effects of glucosamine sulphate on osteoarthritis progression: a randomised, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Lancet. 2001 Jan 27;357(9252):251-6. PMID: 11214126

Rheumatoid Arthritis in the Knee

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic type of inflammation that occurs symmetrically, affecting key joints of the body such as hands, knees, ankles, feet, hips, elbows and shoulders. The condition is more likely to affect women than men and is common in those who are aged 40 and above, though it can most certainly occur in much younger persons as well. It is blamed for a number of symptoms that include joint swelling and pain, stiffness and types of deformity. Rheumatoid arthritis in the knee can be particularly painful and cause severe restrictions to one's freedom of movement. Although there is no known cure as yet, the condition can still be managed to a fair degree.

Before we discuss rheumatoid arthritis of the knee let us look at this particular joint which is very important when it comes to mobility. Around the ends of the bones is the cartilage and this prevents the bones from rubbing against each other. Between the two cartilages of the particular bones is a small pouch that is covered with a thin tissue known as synovium and this secretes a liquid that helps keep the joint lubricated. When the synovium is affected as a result of the rheumatoid arthritis condition, the functions of the various parts that make up the knee get affected and fail to function as they should.

Common symptoms of this disease's effects on the knee include pain, swelling and inflammation, stiffness, a warm feeling around the knee, fever, flu symptoms and fatigue. While the exact cause for the disease in general and its effects on the knee are unknown even as of now, it is widely believed that genetics and living environments play a part in who is affected by it and who is not. Rheumatoid arthritis of the knee is diagnosed based on symptoms pretty much along the lines of general rheumatoid arthritis. Blood tests and X rays to verify the damage to joint are also used in the diagnostic process for this condition. A test of the fluid between the joints can also help diagnose the condition as a high level of inflammatory material therein will indicate rheumatoid arthritis affecting the said joint.

There are a few time tested treatments available for rheumatoid arthritis of the knee. Common types of medication include aspirins, acetaminophen (or Tylenol) and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Most of these treatments are targeted at the pain as there is no cure to completely eradicate the condition. Regular exercises targeting the health of the joints can also be recommended as a practice to keep the condition in check. Excess weight can meanwhile compound the condition as the excess weight places a disproportionate stress and pressure on them. As such it is best to maintain a weight that is recommended for your height or to reduce weight via a suitable diet plan in case you are overweight.

In a worst case scenario where damage to the joints is severe, a replacement procedure may be required. This last resort surgery can be expected to produce a successful outcome thanks to modern day advances in procedures of the sort.

A Cure For Arthritis That Really Works

It has been known for years by many seasoned medical professionals that prescription medications to reverse or relieve the symptoms of arthritis only mask the problem. The answer of course is to fix the underlying cause of the condition and reverse the effects altogether.

First we must understand what a crippling arthritic condition really is. A crippling arthritic condition is the deterioration of joint tissue resulting in pain, swelling, discomfort, and immobility. Whether it be Osteo, RA, or Gouty etc, it basically functions the same way. The deterioration of the joint area is usually the result of enzymes eating away at the joint/cartilage over a period of time.

WHY DOES THIS HAPPEN?

A. In many cases it is believed that an individuals ability to develop such conditions is within the genetics of the body.

B. An injury to the joint or effected area could be somewhat the catalyst in weakening the cartilage/tissue and enabling the area to be more prone to arthritis.

C. A mineral/nutrient deficiency slows the bodys ability to repair itself, and whether inherited or not, arthritis develops.

I myself was diagnosed with RA in 2001. I began to seek out every possible way to cure my condition. I would wake up with my hands swollen, fingers curled, and burning pain. Actually, the pain medicine and naproxen began to not do much at all. Maybe we build a tolerance to it over a period of time. I dont know. But I couldnt live with the thought of never playing the piano, guitar, or other things I enjoyed. Thanks to an older doctor who believes in "old fashion cures for what ail you", I found a cure that worked for me. Thanks to him, I am able to share this with you.

I actually found two natural cures. The one I used in the beginning was a supplement that contained glucosamine, along with a t-spoon of flax seed oil daily, and colloidal silver. I was doing so fine in feeling I was totally cured, that I stopped taking the daily supplements, along with everything else. When the arhtritis began to return, I couldn't find the supplement. I tried so many glucosamine supplements and none had the same effect as the first did. So this is what lead me to the real cure.

SO WHATS THE CURE?

Keep in mind that my condition returned after I stopped taking the supplements. So if you are looking for a permanent cure that will rid you of arthritis, then lets move on.

The method I used to rid my life of arthritis for good, is a combination of techniques from a great program I found. It has been 7 years and the arthritis is gone. The best way to cure your arthritis is with a good working program you can do at home. It combines a little of the above mentioned formula along with a system a lady came up with. She has helped me so much! I can't thank her enough! There are many out there. If you search the internet, you will find a program you can use. Some take longer than others, and some don't work at all. However, if you want a system for a cure for arthritis that really works, see my blog link and I'll guide you right to her.

Immediate, and long lasting relief can be realised with the information I am sharing here. It has worked for me. I would advise you to follow my blog link and we will walk you through to a cure for arthritis that really works. Cure arthritis now!

Top 2 Natural Arthritis Supplements

Today, there a handful of natural arthritis supplements which can reduce inflammation and relieve joint pain that are as easily effective as some of the NSAID's, but without the side-effects, so when it comes to choosing the best natural arthritis supplement the bar is set quite high.

However, since the FDA has started registering certain supplements to treat inflammation and joint pain, it's fare to say it's now a two horse race between Glucosamine (an FDA supplement), and Provailen - which contains the most powerfully known natural anti-inflammatory ingredient - Reishi.

1) Glucosamine

Control tested, Glucosamine is one of the most commonly taken dietary and joint care supplements in the U.S, which is commercially produced from the exoskeletons of crustaceans - mainly shellfish, or for those allergic to certain sea foods it's derived from the fermentation of wheat.

Glucosamine helps support the structure and function of your joints and it may also influence the strength of the cartilage which is crucial for keeping joint movement supple and stress free.

People who suffer from osteoarthritis most commonly use glucosamine, as it is a precursor for glycosaminoglycans which form a significant part of your joint cartilage where clinical trials point to the fact that by taking more glucosamine, this should help with improving the structure of your cartilage.

Results vary in its effectiveness from one individual to another but the fact that millions of people take glucosamine on a daily basis to treat the aches and pains of this debilitating disease suggests that there are some real benefits to be had from it.

Both MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane) and Chondroitin are generally included in Glucosamine joint care capsules and FDA directions state that 1500mg is the ideal daily dosage.

2) Reishi

Reishi is to date registered as the most powerful natural anti-inflammatory ingredient and when extracted in pharmaceutical labs, can be improved to sixty times its strength when consumed orally.

This is due to the chitin which surrounds the spores making them difficult to break down and digest, thus reducing its potency.

When cracked open and extracted under laboratory conditions however, this helps increase its strength at lowering cholesterol levels, hypertension and swelling around the joints.

Used for over 2000 years by the Chinese, Reishi or Lingzhi as it should correctly be named, is one of the oldest mushrooms known to have been used for medicinal purposes.

These include most importantly treatment for symptoms of arthritis, liver ailments, suppressing cancer and its migration, and lowering blood pressure.

Back Pain & Rheumatoid Arthritis

This form of arthritis can cause back pain. Your doctor will talk about it, but it may be obvious if you have R.A. This disease is a systemic one which causes joint inflammation. It is linked to autoimmune diseases or genetics. Inflammation of ligaments, bones and cartilage can cause destruction or reduced capability. Calcification occurs. This is abnormal hardening and it can cause swelling and joint stiffness. Your doctor considers symptoms first, then can offer a diagnosis.

If a person has R.A., they may have an eating disorder such as anorexia, experience malaise, fatigue, subcutaneous modules (i.e. under the skin), a limited range of motion, pain and swollen joints, and rises in body temperature. Stiffness may occur while a person is awake. People with R.A. may show signs of crepitus, inflamed lymph nodes, pericarditis, leukopenia and splenomegaly. Pericarditis is the condition that causes swelling. With swelling, your back is usually affected. R.A. in itself causes stiffness of the joints and muscles and this can cause a lot of pain. Other sources can be from injury or infections.

Doctors conduct tests to see if a person has R.A. These may include latex fixation, x-rays, gamma globulin, hematology (blood) and synovial fluid analysis test. If some of these tests show spacing between narrow joints, platelet or WBC or ESR increases, erosion of bones, increases in IgM and IgG and decrease of opaqueness and viscosity, then R.A. may be indicated. Management, interventions, stress reduction and many other treatments may be put into place. Heat and cold together with gold therapy can be used. Gold therapy is used to prevent in infections from reaching the inner central muscle layers and therefore, the walls of the heart.

Skin and emotional care are also often prescribed. An arthritis foundation will provide a lot more information to help you to cope. Stress-reduction therapy may be prescribed by your doctor. Patients will also be taught to try and avoid infections, colds and fake remedies for R.A. The environment also plays a big part in R.A. You can reduce swelling, redness and pain by performing motion exercises and trying warm compresses or heat therapy. Start stretching exercises and avoid people who get your emotions up too far. Seek emotional and mental support if you have R.A. Try not to suppress your emotions too much as this leads to chemical imbalance and stress.

Perhaps the practice of yoga will lead to a calmer environment. A few basic moves are easy to learn. Take care of your feet and skin. If you can control your R.A. then surgery may not be needed. R.A. can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome and we all need to use our hands so controlling that is critical. Pain may spread out from the carpal tunnel syndrome affected area to other parts of your body. Besides R.A., gouty arthritis can also cause back pain. Any form of arthritis limits movement, and this leads to damage in joints, cartilage, connective tissue, bones, muscles, etc. Back pain can soon follow.

Degenerative Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease. The cartilage, which is a protein that cushions the joints, faces an eventual loss, causing this disease. There are more than 100 types of arthritic conditions but degenerative arthritis is by far the most common. The spine, feet, hands and other areas that bear the load of the body like the knees and the hips are most affected by this condition.

When the cause of arthritis is not known it is called primary arthritis, like erosive osteoarthritis, and after the cause is known it is called as secondary arthritis. The common example of which would be traumatic or post-traumatic arthritis.

Primary osteoarthritis is mostly caused due to aging. Secondary osteoarthritis on the other hand, maybe caused due to another disease or condition. Obesity, diabetes, gout, repeated surgery or trauma may cause this condition. The disease does not affect any organ of the body other than the affected joints. The main symptom of the disease is constant pain in the joint, especially during the later part of the day. Certain patients become greatly enfeebled due to pain, while in other cases there might be a greater case of degeneration of bones without as much pain.

X-ray is the most important method for the diagnosis of osteoarthritis. An x-ray is always followed by blood tests to find out if the condition is the consequence of any other disease. According to the x-ray reports, a decision regarding surgery is taken. Other effective means of diagnosis are arthrocentesis and arthroscopy. Arthrocentesis involves the extraction of fluid from the joint for analysis. It also helps relieve inflammation, pain and swelling. In arthroscopy, a viewing tube is inserted into the joint space by the doctors.

Avoiding exerting activities and reduction of weight are the only two ways that can slow down the process of cartilage degeneration, besides the use of medication and surgery.

Treating Psoriasis May Help Prevent Heart Attacks And Strokes

In the past, psoriasis was viewed primarily as a cosmetic issue that would not extend beyond the obvious lesions on the skin. With a better understanding of the immune responses involved in this disease, and clinical evidence indicating the frequent associations between psoriasis and other serious diseases, we now know that psoriasis is a much more serious disease affecting the whole body and quality of life.

Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a common skin disease that affects more than 6 million people in America. Psoriasis usually occurs as red, scaly, crusty patches that reveal fine silvery scales when scraped or scratched. These patches may itch, irritate, and cause discomfort.

Psoriasis is most common on the knees, elbows and scalp, but can appear anywhere on the body. In some types the nails or joints are also affected. The condition is chronic, lasting for many years, sometimes painful, disabling, especially when coupled with arthritis.

Causes Of Psoriasis

The reason psoriasis occurs is unidentified. However, it is accepted that the immune system plays an important role in the disease development. When psoriasis strikes, the over-reactive immune cells release inflammatory cytokines and cause the rapid turnover of skin cells. Under normal conditions, it takes up to 28 days for newly formed skin cells to rise to the surface of the skin and separate from healthy tissue, but in psoriasis it takes just two to six days. When the skin cells replenish themselves too quickly, they are immature and defective as part of skin barrier.

According to medical research, it is now established that psoriasis is a chronic immune-mediated hyper-proliferative inflammatory skin disease. Psoriasis is characterized by an over-production of inflammatory mediators and complicated interactions among epidermal cells and inflammatory/immune network.

Psoriasis Is Associated With Serious Medical Conditions

There is a growing awareness that psoriasis is more than 'skin deep'. Over the years, several studies have uncovered that psoriasis is linked with a number of potentially serious medical conditions including cardiovascular disease, cancer, obesity, psoriatic arthritis, metabolic syndrome, diabetes, autoimmune diseases (Crohn's disease), psychiatric diseases (such as depression and sexual dysfunction), sleep apnea, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).

Recently, a convincing association between psoriasis and vascular diseases has emerged. Psoriasis patients have an increased incidence of heart disease, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease. Studies also showed that patients with severe psoriasis have shorter life expectancies by an average of three to five years than those who are not affected by psoriasis.

Inflammation Is The Causal Link Between Psoriasis And Cardiovascular Diseases

The exact connection between psoriasis and cardiovascular diseases is unknown, but available evidence supports that inflammation may be the causative link between psoriasis and vascular disease.

Psoriasis and atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries, the leading cause of heart attacks, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease) share similar immune-inflammatory responses. In psoriasis, local release of inflammatory mediators causes a cascade of immune-inflammatory cell activation, continuous skin cell proliferation, and development of psoriatic plaques. In atherosclerosis, activated inflammatory cells gather at the sites of vascular injury, become part of atherosclerotic plaque, and destabilize the plaque which eventually leads to heart attack and stroke.

Psoriasis Treatments

Psoriasis treatments are aimed to suppress the over-reative immune-inflammatory responses, slow down cellular growth, and relieve associated itching and scaling.

Treating psoriasis often involves combination of different medications and interventions such as:

--Topical drug therapy (including steroids, vitamin D analogues, tar preparations, dithranol preparations and vitamin A derivatives)

--Phototherapy (also known as light therapy)

--Systemic medications (prescribed to block specific immune-inflammatory molecules or pathways in the body)

Along with drug treatments, moisturizers are often used to avoid water loss and ease the dryness associated with the disease or caused by treatments.

Apparently, there are side effects and risks linked with long term drug treatment. Common side-effects of corticosteroids include skin thinning, loss of pigment, allergic to steroids, and increased risk of infection.

Common side effects of systemic immunomodulatory therapy (impact the entire immune system) and newer biologic drugs (target individual factor or specific parts of the immune system) include increased risk of infection, flu-like symptoms, injection site reactions, and compromised immune system.

Can Treating Inflammation Benefit Both Psoriasis And Cardiovascular Disease

Due to essential role of inflammation in psoriasis and atherosclerosis, it is thought that suppressing immune-inflammatory responses may be effective treatments for both psoriasis and atherosclerosis. Various studies are performed to determine whether a treatment to reduce inflammation in psoriasis patients could be associated with a decrease in cardiovascular diseases.

Although there has no conclusive evidence, initial results suggest that treating psoriasis patients with drugs targeting inflammatory pathways can reduce vascular inflammation in psoriasis patients. Nonetheless, long-term follow-up studies are required to confirm whether reduced inflammation in psoriasis patients is associated with smaller and stable atherosclerotic plaques and decreased incidence of heart attack and stroke.

Topical Anti-inflammatory Remedies For Psoriasis Relief

To avoid systemic side effects related to long term drug treatments, natural anti-inflammatory remedies, especially topical anti-inflammatory herbal remedies, are often used as alternative treatments for psoriasis relief. Anti-inflammatory herbal extracts have been used for centuries to ease inflammatory skin conditions including psoriasis. Some results from clinical trials using herbal remedies to treat psoriasis have been promising.

Commonly used anti-inflammatory herbs for psoriasis relief include White willow, Aloe vera, Licorice, Coptis, Scute, Rhubarb, Honey suckle, and Indigo naturalis. Pharmacological studies have shown that these herbs have anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-allergic, and immuno-regulatory properties.

Topical Anti-inflammatory herbal remedies may provide following benefits for psoriasis relief:

--Ease of inflammation-related scaling and itching

--Balanced immune response against allergens, irritants, oxidative stress, and infections

--Augmented endogenous (i.e., derived internally) antioxidants, the most effective disease-fighting molecules in the body

--Nurturing environment for recovery of damaged skin cells and enhanced tissue repair

To learn and benefit from natural anti-inflammatory remedies, follow blog series "Nature's Best Anti-inflammatory Herbs" and "Natural Cures For Chronic Inflammatory Conditions".

Top 4 Psoriasis Treatments

Psoriasis treatments are in great availability currently, considering the huge increase in the number of people who are affected by this chronic skin condition. If you have Psoriasis, then you should start seeking the most suitable treatment for you, as this may cause you to suffer from extreme discomfort. This skin condition is also unsightly. There are cases when you will get flaky patches due to the condition. There are also cases when Psoriasis causes blisters that may bleed in the long run. This may cause you to suffer from a constant burning feeling. The following are among the best Psoriasis treatments that can work perfectly for your case:

1. Hot Epsom or Dead Sea Salt. This is one of the most effective Psoriasis treatments as the minerals present in this salt are effective in reducing the remission of the skin condition. Using it in your bath can offer a good element of your skin. Make sure that you mix the salt with lukewarm water and bathe using it. Hot Epsom or Dead Sea salt is among those Psoriasis treatments that can soothe the irritation in your skin. Just make sure that you apply lotion in your skin after bathing with it to avoid extreme dryness.

2. Acupuncture. This is one of those Psoriasis treatments that can be used together with herbal treatments. This is a perfect solution for you if you are suffering from psoriatic arthritis as acupuncture is a major help in alleviating the joint pain which can be linked to this condition.

3. Herbal Psoriasis Treatments. A lot of Psoriasis sufferers rely on the effectiveness of some herbs when it comes to treating their condition. The good thing about these herbs is that they are not only capable of treating the symptoms but also in effectively dealing with the major causes of it. Among the most effective herbal Psoriasis treatments are witch hazel, Aloe Vera and milk thistle extract. But make sure that you talk to your doctor before using any of the herbs to guarantee your safety. Bear in mind that there are herbs that can trigger allergies and liver damage so you have to be extremely careful.

4. Naturopathy. This is considered to be one of the most effective Psoriasis treatments. All that you need to do is to strictly follow a good nutrition plan and a healthy lifestyle in order to get rid of the toxins that are causing you to suffer from the skin disease. It is advisable for you to change your daily eating habits by reducing or fully eliminating your consumption of caffeine, sugar and alcohol. You are also advised to consume more water, use good supplements, exercise regularly, quit smoking and relieve yourself from stress by using any of the most effective relaxation techniques.

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Feline Arthritis Symptoms - Help For Cat Hip and Joint Pain

Feline arthritis symptoms like limping up stairs or refusing to jump up on the couch without your help are painful to accept. Knowing that you cat hurts is something you want to fix. Here's some tips on how to help him.

Arthritis is not a friendly disease and it's one of the more common ones that hit middle to older aged cats. Feline arthritis symptoms develop in many of the same places humans deal with the disease, which is wherever there are joints - elbows, knees and hips.

There isn't a cure for arthritis in cats. You can, however do a lot to help your buddy live comfortably, even pain-free for the rest of its life. But the faster the symptoms are noticed, the sooner the arthritis can be treated.

This is why it's important to be aware of your cat and know its regular routine. The speed with which you're able to pick up on feline arthritis symptoms will only help you in the long run. While some of the signs are more gradual and can be the cause of something else, it's good to get them checked out or at least mentioned when your cat has its regular veterinarian visit.

One symptom that may be noticed before others is limited motion. When a cat has developed painful joints, he might suddenly start doing things a little differently. For one, he might totally avoid the stairs or start taking short hops so there's less stress on its joints. He will most likely move slower than normal, or it won't be as quick to jump up to its scratching post or favorite place to watch the activity of the day.

Limping might become more noticeable on a gradual level, unless you know your pet well enough to notice every detail. It will be worse in the morning or right after the cat has been napping. The limp will decrease as the day goes on, as activity helps stiff joints. It is sometimes more noticeable during cold and damp weather.

The other feline arthritis symptoms tend to relate to moods. It's probably because of the cat's inability to do the many things it was accustomed to. A cat's mood will normally change if it isn't feeling well or it's in pain. This means if a cat is struggling with arthritis, it's not uncommon for it to become depressed or irritable. It may also not want to be touched, because the brushing or petting hurts it.

If nothing is done about your cat's arthritis, then your cat is only going to become more and more lethargic and moody. He's going to sleep more than normal. There may even be an appetite decrease because depression has set in or because it isn't moving around as much. The reason is everything is painful and every movement hurts.

Yoga As A Natural Cure For Psoriatic Arthritis

Psoriasis can lead to other health issues. If you have Psoriasis, you may develop arthritis. This happens to about 5% to 10% of people who have been diagnosed with Psoriasis. Symptoms vary from swollen and deformed feet and joints on the hand to pain on the knee joints etc, nail changes may occur. This condition is common in men when their Psoriasis is pustular. If you already have Psoriasis and developed joint paint or swelling in any part of your body, please ensure your physician is made aware.

Arthritis is a joint disease that can cause problems in any area of the body where two or more bones intersect.? The arthritis itself can affect the join in a number of different ways, targeting different areas such as the synovial, the muscles or tendons or the cartilage.? Cartilage is the soft protective material that protects the ends of the joints from rubbing against each other and the entire join is encased in a type of capsule that is lined with the tissue synovial. Some people take medication, but others have found relief from the pain in exercises performed at a gentle pace and intensity.? Yoga is the perfect example of this type of exercise.

? Yoga is a very old art originating in India about 4000 years ago.? It uses poses or postures along with deeply controlled breathing exercises that lead to benefits to the body mind and spirit.? Yoga is a very versatile form of exercise and meditation and it is used, in different forms, to treat a very wide range of medical conditions and injuries including such diverse areas as fibromyalgia, arthritic, migraine headaches, chronic pain, and sports injuries.

? The Yoga poses can be tailored specially for specific joints or combination of joints.? For instance a common area for arthritis to strike is the hands and knuckles and in this instance there would be a series of poses that straighten and lengthen the fingers, although the level of comfort in the arthritis sufferer always dictates the extent of this.? Stretching the hands also feed energy to that area of the body and over time will assist the arthritis in the fingers.? The heat generated by these movements is proven to be very beneficial for sufferers of arthritis.

Yoga is another natural way to take care of your Psoriasis. It has been proven to work wonders, just find what you are comfortable with and stick with the plan.

Massage Therapies for Arthritis Have Been Proven To Be Effective In Providing Arthritis Pain Relief

Massage is an effective way to manage arthritis pain. Massage as a treatment for arthritis is sometimes controversial. However, those who are believers in this therapy are individuals who have
experienced the relief from pain.

Massage therapy is a proven way to improve muscle and joint movement. Athletes use massage as a way to relax tense muscles and stimulate circulation. Massage therapy for arthritis is not only enjoyable, it has proven to be therapeutic.

Massage therapies for arthritis break the cycle of pain that often goes along with arthritis. Massage is being used successfully in some medical facilities as a healing therapy for people who suffer from arthritis.

Now as the medical community becomes enlightened to the benefits of massage insurance sometimes covers the treatment when prescribed by a a doctor. Now millions of Americans have access to massage as a treatment alternative for painful arthritis symptoms.

The use of massage in the treatment of arthritis continues to grow as the efficacy of the treatments is validated. The use of massage in the treatment of arthritis is being acknowledged by the medical establishment as a less invasive method of therapy for chronic conditions.

Massage has few side effects and does not add toxins to the body as traditional medications that are prescribed to treat arthritis. Some of the most common forms of massage used in the treatment of arthritis pain include: These are some of the most common ones:

*Deep tissue massage using slow strong pressure to reach the deeper layers of muscle tissue. Releasing tissue is the primary goal. The side effects may be soreness and some minor discomfort.

However deep tissue massage is sometimes associated with acupressure that has therapeutic benefits to the body and eases the pain and discomfort associated with arthritis

*Swedish massage is the most popular method of massaging the body. The whole body is stroked and kneaded. The top layer of muscles are manipulated with gentle stokes and movement. The Swedish massage is considered to be the most enjoyable massage technique.

*Myofascial release massage involves long strokes that stretch the body. These strokesare intended to release tension in the fascia. The fascia is the connective tissue around the muscles.

*Acupressure and Shiatsu massage are ancient Asian techniques that use pressure points on specific parts of the body. Acupressure is similar to acupuncture in that acupressure uses the same points that are stimulated in acupuncture.

*Trigger point therapy uses concentrated finger pressure on points or knots of tension or pain in the body.

*Reflexology therapy involves applying pressure to specific points on the feet, hands, or ears that correspond to other parts of the body

The benefits of massage therapy for arthritis are many:

*Deep muscle and tissue relaxation

*Reduces stress

*Releases toxins from the body

*Increases the flexibility of muscles

*Improves blood circulations

*Lowers blood pressure

*Relieves tension and pain

*Balances the body

*Reduces nervousness

*Heightens mental and spiritual awareness

Massage therapy has been proven to be effective in treating the pain associated with arthritis that other medical treatments are unable to address Massage therapy has proven to provide a higher quality of life to individuals who use massage therapy to relieve pain. More people are learning to experience relief of pain as they are treated to the miraculous healing power of a massage.

Fighting Crohn's and Arthritis Joint Pain Naturally

In the past, whenever people had a painful condition in their stomach or joints, their natural reaction was to go to the medicine chest for the best advertised over the counter or doctor recommend prescription drug of the day. Most folks just didn't know that there were any alternatives to drugs made in the lab, and the potential risks of harmful side effects from taking them. In fact studies show that even now, half the population doesn't think natural supplements are worth buying. The Federal Drug Administration doesn't even think they are important enough to try and regulate.

However, an increasing number of people are delighted with the positive results they are discovering by taking certain types of natural supplements derived from plant compounds found in fruits and vegetables and even certain kinds of tree bark...specifically pine bark or pycnogenol. These supplements called OPC's or (Oligomeric Proanthocyandidins) belong to a specific family called bioflavanoids...which are powerful antioxidants that encourage your body's own immune system to respond appropriately to inflammation, allergy and infections. Antioxidants are compounds that protect the body's cells and tissues from being damaged by free-radicals, which contribute to aging and illness. Free radicals are created by environmental pollution, food additives, high-fat diets, excessive alcohol, smoking and second hand smoke, burns, infection, stress, radiation and nutrient deficiencies. In short...everyone is exposed to free-radicals on a daily basis. But by giving our own bodies immune system the strength it needs to fight off free radicals and their effects, we can live healthier, longer and more active lives.

Besides the inflammation and pain in the intestines, most Crohn's sufferers, like Arthritis sufferers experience a great deal of pain and stiffness in their joints, mostly in the elbows, knees, wrists and ankles. While traditional medicines simply treat the pain symptom itself by blocking it out, antioxidant rich natural supplements like OPC's go straight to the root cause of the pain...namely the inflammation, and eliminate it naturally, without producing any harmful side effects in the body. If inflammation is the direct cause of pain, whether from an injury or a degenerative disease like rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's, Colitis, etc., it seems only logical that the inflammation should be addressed functionally through immobilization and by antagonizing the chemical messengers (such as histamine and prostaglandins) that are responsible for the inflammatory response and subsequent pain to begin with. Bioflavanoids have been proven very successful in this pursuit. Actually, OPC's are not the only bioflavanoids available...there are literally thousands. For example Vitamins A, C, E, zinc, selenium and beta carotene (to name a few) are also known for their strong antioxidant properties. However, out of all the of antioxidant bioflavanoids available, only the grape seed extract and pine bark rich OPC's are considered to be the most powerful.

While OPC has not been proven to cure any disease or condition, reducing the amount of free-radicals in the body levels the playing field and allows it (your immune system) to heal itself amazingly well!

Rheumatoid Arthritis Facts And Information

There are a lot of myths and rumors surrounding rheumatoid arthritis. Mystery seems to surround everything from what actually causes the disease to potential ways to cope with the pain associated with it. The simple truth is that this particular disease can present in a number of different ways and how severe it is will really dictate the best path to consider for coping.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease that affects the joints within the body. It can cause such things as pain, swelling and stiffness. The disease itself tends to present systemically, which means if one side of the body has it, the other likely will, too. For example, if left knee shows signs of a rheumatoid condition, the right will, as well. In addition to stiffness and pain, rheumatoid can bring with it deformities in extreme cases, a sense of overall fatigue and even fevers.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition that doctors are still researching to figure out exact causes. What is known is that this particular condition can come and completely go away without leaving behind permanent damage. It can also present with flare-ups that come and go over time. In some cases, unfortunately, the disease persists for years on end, bringing with it permanent damage.

Rheumatoid arthritis is most common in people in the middle age of life, but it can strike children at times. While the exact causes are unclear, many doctors believe it can come from such things as genetics, hormones, and even environment. Women tend to be more likely to get this condition than men.

Dealing with rheumatoid arthritis can be a very difficult task that will come with both good days and bad days. The pain can be unbearable at times, but the good news is there are very effective ways of coping with it. What works for one patient, might not work for another. Fortunately, there are a lot of different treatment options.

When it comes to treating rheumatoid arthritis, doctors strive to achieve a few things. The primary goals of any treatment are to reduce pain and swelling, stave off joint damage and help people feel better while staying active. The last two points are particularly important when the disease strikes the very young and very active. Since cures can often be worse than the condition, the goal here is pain reduction without quality of life reduction.

Depending on the severity of the case of rheumatoid arthritis, a doctor might prescribe such things as anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce the swelling, which often helps with the pain. In some cases, painkillers will be advised, but many try to steer clear of this option. Other forms of treatment include gentle exercises to keep the range of motion good, cold compresses, injections and so on. The key, again, is to preserve quality of life while also preventing any permanent issues.

Since rheumatoid arthritis can sometimes be a lifelong condition, it can bring with it some emotional problems, as well. To help patients cope, there are even support groups that can be of real benefit.

Living life with rheumatoid arthritis isn't easy, but it can be done effectively when patience, persistence and a willingness to overcome are all present. The best advice is to take it a day at a time and do what's necessary to cope to make living with rheumatoid arthritis possible.

7 Major Differences Between Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Arthritis is a very painful condition that affects millions and millions of Americans every year. There are many different types of arthritis including psoriatic arthritis, gout, septic arthritis, scleroderma, osteoarthritis, gonococcal arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Arthritis of all types is a condition that affects the body's joints. A joint is defined as the location where two bones in the body come together. People suffering from arthritis experience joint inflammation that may occur in one bodily joint or many joints.

Two types of arthritis that are commonly discussed include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. You may be wondering what some of the major differences are between these two conditions. Here are seven major differences between osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA).

1. Osteoarthritis is more common than Rheumatoid Arthritis. According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), OA affects around 27 million American adults 25 years and older. The Arthritis Foundation reports that RA affects about 1.5 million people in the United States.


2. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition caused by the wearing of bodily joints over time. RA is an autoimmune disease that occurs when a person's immune system attacks the body's joints.


3. Typically people experience OA when they get older. RA can strike a person at any point in life. When it occurs in children, it is sometimes called juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.


4. RA can occur quite quickly whereas OA tends to have a more gradual progression over the course of many years.


5. RA tends to strike in a more symmetrical manner where a person might experience inflammation and pain in both hands or both feet. In contrast, OA can easily affect only one joint in the body.


6. Both types of arthritis cause a sense of stiffness in the morning. While the morning stiffness may lessen as the day goes on for those with OA, people with RA are more likely to experience this stiffness for a longer period of time during and throughout the day.


7. Rheumatoid arthritis is often accompanied with other symptoms which include overall tiredness and malaise, whereas the discomfort associated with osteoarthritis is specific to the joint that is affected.

Arthritis of any type is painful and challenging. Treatment most typically aims to help reduce discomfort, aid physical functioning and if possible, to prevent additional damage to bodily joints.

A thorough physical examination by a trained health care professional like a board certified orthopedic physician is advisable if you think you might be suffering from any type of arthritis including osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis.