Arthritis Treatment: Disturbing Trends and Possible Promise for Osteoarthritis of the Knee?

A number of recent studies have pointed out a disturbing trend. The first showed that the prevalence of knee pain has increased over the last 20 years, independent of age or body mass index. What was surprising is that this was not accompanied by an increasing incidence of osteoarthritis noted on x-ray.

Another study- probably more disturbing- indicated that only a few years ago, between 300,000 and 350,000 knee replacement surgeries were performed annually. Today, that number has risen to an astonishing 500,000. And within 10 years, some estimate there could be as many as 3.2 million annual knee replacement surgeries.

What's more surprising is that this operation is being done on a much younger population group... boomers under the age of 60.

While the technology is improving, it is still worrisome because the "shelf-life" of replacements is still unknown. What that means is revision procedures- replacements of the replacements will have to be done conceivably two and three times during the course of a given person's life.

That exposes the patient to a number of potential complications.

So what can be done?

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and affects more than 20 million Americans. Osteoarthritis adversely affects hyaline articular cartilage, the tough gristle that caps the ends of long bones.

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

When OA develops, a distinct change in the joint environment occurs. Chondrocytes begin to elaborate destructive enzymes causing cracks in the cartilage. These are called "fibrillations."

Why OA develops is still poorly understood. Since investigators have difficulty figuring out how the disease develops, it is no surprise that the treatments for the condition are relatively inadequate.

Symptomatic treatment with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, analgesics, braces, physical therapy, exercise, injections of glucocorticoids and viscosupplements, can buy time they do not restore articular cartilage.

There needs to be a treatment that bridges the gap and possibly may forestall the need for knee replacement.

In the latter part of the 20th century, work on adult mesenchymal stem cells, cells with the ability to differentiate into connective tissue were found to be an integral component of connective tissue repair.

These cells are present in a number of areas including the bone marrow, fat, deciduous teeth (baby teeth), and the periosteum (outside lining) of bone.

Increasing number of anecdotal reports, case histories, and small population studies (Wei N, Beard S, Delauter S, Bitner C, Gillis R, Rau L, Miller C, Clark T. Guided Mesenchymal Stem Cell Layering Technique for Treatment of Osteoarthritis of the Knee. J Applied Res. 2011; 11: 44-48) have confirmed the potential value of mesenchymal stem cells as a viable treatment for osteoarthritis.

Quite obviously, there need to be large multi-center controlled studies to validate these findings and it is hoped they will be offered in the near future.

Drink Alfalfa Tea Regularly to Cure Arthritic Pains

Alfalfa is known to be the most versatile verb with great nutritional value. This leguminous herb precisely grows up to 60 cms in height. It is found to have green leaves and purplish colour flowers.

In ancient times this particular herb was well known as the "kings of kings" of plants and the "father of all foods" by Arabs. However, the Persian acknowledged it to be the healing grass of many health ailments.

This herb is enriched with major source of vitamins such as A, B, C, D, E, G and K. Along with this, it provides the valuable source of magnesium, calcium, chlorine, phosphorus, potassium, sodium and silicon.

According to US Department of Agriculture revelations alfalfa contains more protein in the form of arginine, lysine, theronine and tryptophane than grains like corn and wheat. It also found to have the rich source of dietary fibre and chlorophyll.

The leaves, stems and seeds of alfalfa herb is widely used for treating so many health problems such as asthma, high cholesterol, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, upset stomach diabetes and a bleeding disorder known as thrombocytopenic purpura.

Let us go through some of these ailments in detail:

Dropsy: It is mainly referred to state of excessive accumulation of fluid in the body. The consumption of alfalfa herb which is diuretic in nature by way of leaves, stem or seeds in desired quantity nay help in balancing the excessive fluid in the body. Furthermore it also helps in treating the inflammation of bladder effectively.

Heart Diseases: To cure numerous problems related to arterial or heart it is advised to consume the juice of this herb duly mixed with one glass of carrot juice daily to have beneficial results.

Respiratory Disorders: The consumption of alfalfa juice is really beneficial in curing numerous respiratory problems especially related to lungs or sinuses.

Stomach Disorder: To treat various problems related to stomach distress it is advised the seeds of this herb should be consumed like sprouts. To treat hyperacidity the consumption of tea made by mixing this herb with few mint leaves after meal is very beneficial.

Arthritis: The seeds of this herb work like a magic in treating the arthritic pains of the body. It is advised that near about seven cups of tea made by using this herb should be consumed one time a day for at least 15 days to have beneficial results.

Hair Disorders: It is advised that the juice of alfalfa mixed with one glass carrot and lettuce juice should be consumed one time a day to have the remarkable growth of the hair.

High Blood Pressure: This herb proves to be an effective remedy for high blood pressure. The consumption of this herb in the diet may help in softening of the hardened arteries and improves the blood flow in the body.

You use this herb in numerous in numerous ways in your dietary food. The seeds of the plant can be consumed like sprouts. Its leaves can be consumed by way of salad or soups. This can also be consumed in the form of extract or juice. It can also be drunk as tea which is prepared by boiling its seeds for one hour in required quantity of water. Later on this decoction is strained off and cooled down and consumed by mixing 1 tsp of honey.

How To Cure Osteoarthritis Without Drugs Or Surgery

Often the breakdown of a joint's cartilage can lead to osteoarthritis, which is the most common form of arthritis. The breakdown of the cartilage leads to bone on bone and deterioration of the bones. The protective cartilage is there to prevent the damage and act as a shock absorber between the bones. As the cartilage deteriorates that may lead to additional stretching of other tendons and ligaments in the supporting structures. The additional stress now placed on the ligaments and tendons can also contribute to the pain the patient feels. If left untreated there eventually will be chronic pain and gradual loss of motion inhibiting the patient's ability to do things and care for him or herself.

Osteoarthritis generally occurs in mid age and older people, more prevalent in women than men, and rare in younger people. Osteoarthritis basically affects most mobile joint areas, as distinguished from non mobile such as cranial bones.

A progressor of osteoarthritis is being overweight. The actual causation though is not the weight, but the lack of supporting musculature to support the additional weight. If the muscles do not support the weight then the joints bear the burden of supporting it and the cartilage is exposed to more impact and compaction. Tendons and ligaments stretch due to the prolonged weight. Over time, this is why middle age/older disease the cumulative effects occur and, the diagnosis becomes osteoarthritis.

There is one simple way to prevent the occurrence, or correct the anatomical problems associated with causing osteoarthritis. The longer, more time involved process is simple exercising using isometrics. This is also more painful for greater time periods due to the slow process of gaining muscle strength. Combined with high frequency interferential functional stimulation the muscles regain strength, often exceeding original strength in approximately 1/3rd the time.

The single best curative and preventive is to do as recommended in traditional exercise however supplement the exercises with about 7 - 10 reps using functional high frequency electrical stimulation. This is simply using a device such as the Infrex Plus or the soon to be released Infrex FRM to strengthen the muscles quicker and with less pain. The same concepts that allow an ACL reconstruction surgery patient to go from surgery to playing basketball in 98 days applies here.

Where the condition, such as osteoarthritis, has occurred over time, the period of regaining strength; increasing overall muscle strength, will stop the progression of the disease and can reverse the symptomatic issue of pain. The addition of high frequency Infrex electrical stimulation will quickly reverse causation and restore full range of motion, without pain.

Arthritis in Dogs - How to Ease Their Pain

My dog has arthritis, so what can I do for him to help relieve the pain from his sore and stiff joints? Can I give him over-the-counter drugs? Should I stop taking him for walks? You have lots of questions - we have lots of answers...

Arthritis is a general term for abnormal changes in a joint and it is common in dogs, especially if they are aging and over weight. Dogs that are over weight have more trouble with arthritis because it affects their joints. With the extra weight, more pressure is placed on the already sore and stiff joints, thus causing further pain.

To help find a drug treatment that will help ease your dogs pain for arthritis, talk to your Veterinarian and follow his advise. He may prescribe an over-the-counter drug that may help decrease the dogs pain and its progression. Never give your dog any medication that is meant for a human without first checking with you Veterinarian. Certain medications can be toxic to dogs. Especially medications such as: acetaminophen and ibuprofen. Let your Veterinarian help you make the correct and safest choice on what to give your dog.

Some of the signs of arthritis in dogs

  Dogs that seem to have stiff or sore joints

  Not wanting to play as much

  Trouble sitting or standing

  Not wanting to jump up on you

  Having trouble climbing stairs

  Favoring a limb

  Weight gain

  Sleeping more

If you dog starts to show these symptoms, it's time to take him to the Veterinarian for a check up. The Veterinarian might also want X-rays for a better diagnosis. This way if the dog has arthritis, you can start treating him right away.

Treatments

The Veterinarian will want you to put your dog on a healthy diet rich in proteins, fiber and minerals and an exercise program that is designed for his condition at that time. By having regular check ups, your veterinarian can adjust the exercise program and medications as needed.

- Over-the-counter pills or food that contain either or both, glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate supplements, will reduce the swelling and pain from the arthritis.

- Omega fatty acids in the dogs diet can help alleviate the inflammation and discomfort of an arthritic dog. Flax and flax oil are good sources of Omega 3. Cold-pressed flax oil is another excellent choice, but should be kept in the refrigerator because it has a short shelf life.

- Oils such as cod liver oil derived from cold-water fish are also an excellent source of Omega 3.

- Vitamin E has help in some cases, as it is said to have moderate anti-inflammatory properties. What I've been told by my Veterinarian is 2000IU a day for dogs over 50 lbs. Although the veterinarian would start dogs out on a lower dose at first and build the dose up over time. Always ask your Veterinarian on how much is appropriate for your dog.

- I found that a product called Arthramine works well for my 12 year old. Arthramine is for healthy joints and bones. It contains: Glucosamine HCI - Vitamin C - Manganese - Omega-3 fatty acids. This can be bought over-the-counter at pet stores; but is much cheaper when bought in a mail-order catalog, such as: Omaha Vaccine Company.

Food to avoid

Try to avoid food that contains grains, which are said to cause inflammation. Some veterinarians think this might aggravate the pain of arthritis even more.

Ways to help relieve the pain of arthritis

* Try giving your dog a massage to help relieve the sore, stiff muscles and joints.

* Keep him warm and off cold or damp surfaces. Try placing blankets, or extra rugs for him to lie on.

* Keep his weight under control so there is less stress to his joints.

* Give him some exercise, in moderation of course. It's better to let him walk outside with you everyday, than to take him on a long walk one day and forget about him for the next several days.

Remember, dogs do better if they know that someone cares about them. Give them lots of love and attention.

Fighting Osteoarthritis: An All Natural Approach to Relief

Osteoarthritis is a form of joint disease that develops when cartilage deteriorates. Over time, the space between bones narrows and the surface of the bones change shape, leading eventually to friction and joint damage. Osteoarthritis can affect more than one joint in the body, but affects some more than others.

There are numerous causes of osteoarthritis. Some examples include:

Endocrine: Diabetes a disorder of the endocrine system may promote osteoarthritis. Other endocrine disorders also may increase risk, including acromegaly, hypothyroidism, hyperparathyroidism, and obesity. Diabetes can also cause nerve problems which cause loss of sensation in the limbs and joints, causing the body not to recognize when it is injured.

Inflammatory joint disease: This includes infected joints, chronic gouty arthritis, and rheumatoid disease.

Congenital: Abnormal anatomy such as unequal leg length may cause osteoarthritis.
Metabolic: Diseases causing errors of metabolism may cause osteoarthritis. Examples include Paget's disease and Wilson disease.

Genetic: A genetic defect may promote breakdown of cartilage. Examples include collagen disturbances such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.

Posttraumatic: There are many traumatic injuries of the joint that can promote osteoarthritis, such as a broken bone that heal out of alignment causing loss of stability, or damage to the joint cartilage. Microtraumas that occur over time, such as repetitive movements, or overuse can contribute to osteoarthritis.

Other causes include nutritional problems, hemophilia, and sickle cell.

Treatment of osteoarthritis begins by eliminating risk factors, early diagnosis and monitoring progression of the disease, and treatment of pain. Regaining mobility is important. The common course of treatment includes physical and occupational therapy, weight reduction, exercise, assistive devices (orthoses) drug therapy, and surgery.

Osteoarthritis increases aggregate health care expenditures by $186 billion annually. Osteoarthritis raised aggregate annual medical care expenditures in the U.S. by $185.5 billion according to researchers from Stony Brook University. The cost of Medication and surgery for osteoarthritis is significant. The average annual medication cost per individual is $4,434.50. Out-of-pocket medication expense averages $1,036.50 per person annually. These averages do not include the cost of office visits.

There are over 100 medications for osteoarthritis. However, most of these possess harmful side effects that are often worse than the symptoms of osteoarthritis. One of the most popular of these is Celebrex. On the Celebrex page of the website Rx List (rxlist.com), the first thing you are hit with are these two health warning associated with Celebrex:

WARNING

CARDIOVASCULAR AND GASTROINTESTINAL RISKS

Cardiovascular Risk

CELEBREX (celecoxib) may cause an increased risk of serious cardiovascular thrombotic events, myocardial infarction, and stroke, which can be fatal. All nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may have a similar risk. This risk may increase with duration of use. Patients with cardiovascular disease or risk factors for cardiovascular disease may be at greater risk.

CELEBREX (celecoxib) is contraindicated for the treatment of perioperative pain in the setting of coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery.

Gastrointestinal Risk

NSAIDs, including CELEBREX (celecoxib), cause an increased risk of serious gastrointestinal adverse events including bleeding, ulceration, and perforation of the stomach or intestines, which can be fatal. These events can occur at any time during use and without warning symptoms. Elderly patients are at greater risk for serious gastrointestinal events.

See rxlist.com/celebrex-drug.htm

According to rxlist.com the following is not a COMPLETE list of side effects associated with Celebrex.

Possible side effects of Celebrex

Serious side effects:

Chest pain, weakness, shortness of breath, slurred speech, problems with vision or balance; black, bloody, or tarry stools; coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds; swelling or rapid weight gain; urinating less than usual or not at all; nausea, stomach pain, low fever, loss of appetite, dark urine, clay-colored stools, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes); fever, sore throat, and headache with a severe blistering, peeling, and red skin rash; or bruising, severe tingling, numbness, pain, and muscle weakness.

Less serious side effects may include:

Upset stomach, mild heartburn, diarrhea, constipation; bloating, gas; dizziness, nervousness, headache; skin rash, itching; blurred vision; or ringing in your ears.

OTHER WARNINGS:
Signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Another factor to consider in treating osteoarthritis with Celebrex and other similar drugs is the toxicity that builds up in our bodies from the use of prescription medication.

Due to the high number of side effects and other health risks, millions are now turning away from modern healthcare and turning to natural health alternatives, which provide a much safer treatment alternative.

What alternatives exist for osteoarthritis sufferers? In recent years the popularity of Glucosamine and Chondroitin products, such as Schiff Glucosamine Plus MSM 1500mg or a blend such as Doctor's Best Glucosamine/Chondroitin/MSM has continued to increase substantially.

Results from several well-designed scientific studies suggest that glucosamine supplements may be an effective treatment for osteoarthritis, particularly osteoarthritis of the knee or hip. In general, these studies suggest that glucosamine reduces pain, improves function in people with hip or knee osteoarthritis, reduces joint swelling and stiffness, and provides relief from osteoarthritis symptoms for up to 3 months after treatment is stopped. Most studies have shown that glucosamine needs to be taken for 2 - 4 months before it is effective, although you may feel some improvement sooner. Glucosamine and chondroitin can be used along with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to treat osteoarthritis.

Other natural alternatives include:

Omega-3 fatty acids: Omega-3 fatty acids come in many forms, such as, but not limited to, Chinook salmon, sardines, cooked soybeans, baked or broiled halibut, steamed or broiled shrimp, raw tofu, baked or broiled snapper, and baked or broiled scallops. However, when your diet just doesn't contain enough of these omega-3 rich foods, there are numerous supplements available, such as Trident Krill Oil, 1000 mg, or Schiff MegaRed Omega-3 Krill Oil 300 mg.

Avocado soybean unsaponifiables (ASU): A few preliminary studies suggest that this natural vegetable extract may help reduce the symptoms of OA and possible even slow progression of the disease. ASU is available in supplements such as, ASU300-Avocado Soy Unsaponifiables, w/SierraSil, Nutramax Laboratories Incorporated - Avoca Asu, and Cosamin ASU Active People Capsule.

Devil's Claw: Several studies support the use of Devils claw (Harpagophytum procumbens) as an anti-inflammatory to relieve pain and stiffness of osteoarthritis, particularly of the knee, hip, and back. Devil's Claw is a desert plant found in the South African desert. For centuries the native people of the South African desert dried this root to treat pain. The most popular Devil's Claw supplements include: Nature's Way - Se Devil's Claw, 350 mg, and Nature's Answer Devil's Claw Root, 1-Ounce liquid.

Other natural alternatives include: Ginger, Willow Bark, Capsaicin cream, and boswellia. There are several natural cream blends such as Now Foods Joint Support Cream.

Take back control of your health by learning more about natural health alternatives today.

Arthritis Pain Relief Medications, Do They Really Work for People With Fibromyalgia?

The problem with fibromyalgia is the wild variety of seemingly unrelated symptoms that go along with the syndrome. Drugs treatments like arthritis pain relief medications are just the tip of the iceberg. Pain and fatigue are the two most widely recognized symptoms... but then there's the insomnia and other sleep disorders, mood disorders (anxiety and depression), gastrointestinal issues, mental fog... and the list goes on and on. In fact, more than one hundred symptoms of fibromyalgia have been recorded between doctors and fibromyalgia sufferers... and the medications for treatment of the symptoms are just as numerous, including arthritis pain relief drugs.

Today, medications are as varied as the symptoms. Common types of drugs used to treat fibromyalgia are pain relievers like arthritis pain relief drugs, sleep aids, tricyclic and SSRI-type antidepressants, anticonvulsants, narcolepsy drugs, gastrointestinal medications, benzodiazepines (muscle relaxers), and the list goes on and on, using this symptom-by-symptom approach.

By far, pain medications are the medications most widely requested by sufferers... in fact, it's usually the pain that drives sufferers to get diagnosed in the first place. Arthritis pain relief medications come in prescription and non-prescription tablets and capsules, as well as topical creams, gels and patches. But fibromyalgia sufferers will tell you that for most sufferers, the over-the-counter options are not nearly strong enough.

Interestingly enough, there is not one single pain-relieving drug that has been approved by the FDA including arthritis pain relief drugs, for the treatment of fibromyalgia pain. Instead, doctors and patients alike are test subjects... patients participating in the drug-trials, and doctors keeping records and reporting results to medical forums and journals. Fortunately, even without FDA approval of pain-killers for fibromyalgia, insurance companies are accepting the word of the doctor that the prescribed pain-killer is medically necessary... and most of the standard prescription pain-relieving drugs are covered for those who have prescription drug insurance.

Common Arthritis Pain Relief Medications...

• Acetaminophen - Widely used pain relief for people who can't take other medications due to gastrointestinal issues or allergies; not usually effective for treatment of fibromyalgia except in prescription form including an opioid like codeine - side-effects with codeine may include constipation, dizziness, nausea and vomiting, light-headedness, and slowed breathing; maximum daily dosage should not go over 4 grams per day - over that limit risk of liver and kidney damage increases; acetaminophen is found in other products like cold remedies - must be aware so as not to accidentally over-dose; there is presently no solid evidence confirming that opiods actually work to relieve fibromyalgia pain, and there is a risk of the patient becoming physically or psychologically dependent.


• NSAIDS (Non-steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs) - classification of medications that includes aspirin, ibuprofen (examples Advil, Motrin), naproxen (example Aleve), and COX-2 inhibitors (Celebrex) - side-effects of traditional NSAIDS include upset stomach, ulcers, blood-thinning effect (aspirin), gastrointestinal bleeding as well as heart and skin side-effects - side-effects of COX-2 inhibitors include stomach upset, gastrointestinal bleeding, and may aggravate heart problems in some individuals - some risk of liver and kidney damage with prolonged use.


• Other Common Arthritis Pain Relief Analgesics - Darvon, Ultram and Vicodin are general use pain-relievers which may work for some individuals although can cause side-effects like headaches, dizziness, allergic symptoms and flu-like reactions.


• Creams, Gels, Pain Patches - most available over-the-counter at local pharmacies and grocery stores, generally symptom relief is temporary but can be helpful in relieving fibromyalgia pain if no allergies develop.

In the treatment of fibromyalgia arthritis pain relief medications are just one type of drug treatment. The symptoms of fibromyalgia vary from person to person, so treatments include combinations of drugs working together. The challenge for doctors and patients alike is finding the right balance of medications that relax stiff muscles, dull pain, reduce stress reactions and support healthy, restful sleep... without undesirable side-effects.

A team approach with your general practitioner, rheumatologist and pharmacist to develop a treatment plan that will control your pain and reduce risks of serious complications, is advocated by many medical specialists including Chief, Public Health Officer for the Arthritis Foundation, Patience White, M.D. "It is imperative that people understand the impact of any medications as they're prescribed (including arthritis pain relief drugs)... as well as exercise and diet, on their total health," she has stated. It's true for the treatment of fibromyalgia, just as with arthritis. And the AMA supports the addition of a nutritional program to your diet, to support your medical treatment regimen. It can go a long way toward healing the symptoms of fibromyalgia. For more information on relieving the pain of fibromyalgia and improving your overall health naturally, contact me by clicking one of the links below.

Benefits of Green and Matcha Tea Against Arthritis - This Tea May Prevent and Cure Your Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis takes place when the immune system attacks itself, affecting the joints (and other body areas) and creating inflammation, pain, swelling and bone/joint degeneration.

The 'miracle' drink benefits. Besides great anti-oxidant effects, matcha - which can be dissolved in warm or cold milk/soy/almond milk with honey (or your choice of natural sweetener) after being whisked to a perfect blend - may be able to help you prevent arthritis or minimize its symptoms. If this is true, this may explain why my constant intake of matcha powder may have, despite being diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis very young, played a part in the fact that I don't suffer from any symptoms.

Summary of the Results. Recent studies revealed that the mice who were given matcha over a period of time were showing only minor symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis and they all surfaced with significant delays compared to the mice who were given plain water. Further examination of the animals' joint tissue revealed that those who took matcha showed a much lower disease penetration than those who had been given plain water, who showed massive 'penetration' of the disease.

Geographical Occurrence to confirm the positive impact of matcha on Arthritis. Countries such as Japan, China and India seem to have a much lower incidence of Rheumatoid Arthritis; basically, it is not as widespread as in other areas (such as North America, Canada or even Europe). Since these 'healthier' regions (and their inhabitants) regard matcha as therapeutic and consume it regularly, it could safely be assumed that matcha's benefits against Rheumatoid Arthritis are real and larger than we thought. At the same time, those 'healthier' regions consume much less red meat and follow a more 'naturopathic' approach to health, which could also be significant in the prevention and treatment of chronic degenerative diseases such as Arthritis.

On a footnote, I now buy all my green tea and matcha tea OUTSIDE of Japan, since European controls (which are stricter than in other continents) have recently found 'excessive radioactive materials' in green tea ingredients coming from Japan. You can read about this on Japan Times online.

Arthritis and Alcohol - Is Alcohol Causing You Pain and Inflammation?

Studies have been conducted and countless articles written on whether or not alcohol is good for us, how much to drink, how often to drink, what is best to drink and so on. However, if you are worried about getting arthritis or are already suffering from arthritis then the questions really are - can alcohol increase the development of your arthritis and is alcohol causing you pain?

Alcohol Increases the Acid in Your Stomach

While moderate amounts of alcohol can usually be tolerated by most people, the overuse of alcohol can irritate your stomach, causing inflammation of the stomach lining, ulcers and acid reflux. Once the cells lining the stomach and intestines have been damaged, the absorption and breakdown of the nutrients can be blocked. Prolonged use of alcohol can erode your stomach lining, causing chronic blood seepage into your stomach. In addition, the sedative influence of alcohol slows down your digestive process thus creating gas and bloating.

Alcohol Contributes to Leaky Gut Syndrome

When the intestinal lining becomes inflamed it is weakened, allowing bacteria, toxins and food to pass through the weakened membrane and into the bloodstream, otherwise known as Leaky Gut. A healthy immune system is able to control the leakage of toxic substances but if overloaded, the toxins leak into the liver, causing it to become overworked.

The liver helps to filter toxins such as drugs, environmental toxins and alcohol, as well as to aid with your digestion by producing bile. When your body is overloaded with toxins it places a huge strain on your liver, sometimes resulting in damaged liver cells or disease. An already overburdened liver is unable to cope with further toxins released by a leaky gut, sending them back into the bloodstream. Here they are taken by the circulatory system and stored in the connective tissue and muscles, where they are seen as foreign bodies by the white blood cells. These foreign bodies are attacked by the immune system with chemicals that cause inflammation and pain in your body, and if left untreated could result in permanent damage to your joint tissue.

To Drink or Not to Drink?

In addition to alcohol damaging your stomach lining and placing a burden on your liver, it depletes your body of vitamins and minerals and can interfere with medications for arthritis. Combining alcohol with NSAIDs increases your risk of stomach ulcers and can put your liver at risk. Gout is a type of arthritis caused by too much uric acid, which forms crystals in the blood that eventually accumulate in the joints, usually in the big toe. The consequence is acute swelling, inflammation and agonizing pain in the joints. Men are more prone to gout, which is often brought on by drinking alcohol.

Proteolytic Enzymes Used For Arthritis Treatment

One of the medical benefits of proteolytic enzyme is that it is deemed as a potential cure for arthritis. Arthritis is a painful joint disease. It literally means inflammation of one or two more joints. A joint is an area where two bones met, thus allowing movement of the body parts it connects. Arthritis is considered as a rheumatic disease for it can potentially affect the internal parts of the body. It is actually one of the most common chronic diseases and can affect men, women, and even children.

There are many types of arthritis, ranging from osteoarthritis to rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is characterized by the wear and tear of cartilage. Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is the inflammation of the joints resulting from a viral infection or autoimmune response.

Although the actual cause of arthritis is still unknown, there are several potential causes which include injuries, infections, abnormal metabolism, and by an overactive immune system. And since arthritis has various causes, treatment programs would depend on the specific causes.

Person having arthritis experiences pain, fever, and joint stiffness, warmth, redness, and swelling. Moreover, deformities may result from the limited joint functions. If not treated other organs of the body such as the kidneys, heart, and lungs may get affected. Some people with arthritis are likely to lose weight and would often easily feel tired.

Enzyme treatments for curing arthritis have by far produced positive results. The use of proteolytic enzymes such as serrapeptase has showed that such enzymes are capable of dissolving dead or scar tissues without harming the healthy living tissues. It is therefore a much safer alternative for steroidal and non steroidal inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs. Also, it is rated as a safer option over exotic treatments such as D-penicillamine and methotrexate. Such drugs and treatments can only provide temporary relief and may even prove lethal.

Enzyme treatment on the other hand may potentially cure arthritis. The enzymes used in the treatments have the ability to break down fats, carbohydrates, proteins, and even scar tissues, giving the body time to heal itself and replace the dead tissues with healthy ones. In addition, test results produced by enzyme treatment showed no side effects whatsoever.

Enzymes are natural to the body. There are those that the body produces, however, there are some that can't be produced by the body but just as essential. These enzymes that are not naturally produced by are referred to as essential enzymes and can be acquired from raw foods and supplemental enzymes. Suffice it to say, enzyme treatment accompanied with proper nutrition is your way to living a loner, pain-free life.

Facts About Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a type of arthritis that is caused by the breakdown and eventual loss of the cartilage of one or more joints. Cartilage is a protein substance that serves as a "cushion" between the bones of the joints. Osteoarthritis is also known as degenerative arthritis.

Among the over 100 different types of arthritis conditions, osteoarthritis is the most common. Before age 45, osteoarthritis occurs more frequently in males. After age 55 years, it occurs more frequently in females. Osteoarthritis commonly affects the hands, feet, spine, and large weight-bearing joints, such as the hips and knees.

What causes osteoarthritis?

Primary osteoarthritis (when the cause is not known) is mostly related to aging. With aging, the water content of the cartilage increases and the protein makeup of cartilage degenerates. Repetitive use of the joints over the years irritates and inflames the cartilage, causing joint pain and swelling. Eventually, cartilage begins to degenerate. In advanced cases, there is a total loss of the cartilage cushion between the bones of the joints. Loss of cartilage cushion causes friction between the bones, leading to pain and limitation of joint mobility. Inflammation of the cartilage can also stimulate new bone outgrowths (spurs) to form around the joints.

Secondary osteoarthritis is caused by another disease or condition like obesity, repeated trauma or surgery to the joint structures, abnormal joints at birth (congenital abnormalities), gout, diabetes and other hormone disorders. Obesity causes osteoarthritis by increasing the mechanical stress on the cartilage. Crystal deposits in the cartilage can cause cartilage degeneration, and osteoarthritis. Uric acid crystals cause arthritis in gout, while calcium pyrophosphate crystals cause arthritis in pseudogout.

Some people are born with abnormally formed joints (congenital abnormalities) that are vulnerable to mechanical wear, causing early degeneration and loss of joint cartilage. Hormone disturbances, such as diabetes and growth hormone disorders, are also associated with early cartilage wear and secondary osteoarthritis.

What are symptoms of osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a disease of the joints. Unlike many other forms of arthritis that are systemic illnesses, such as rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus, osteoarthritis does not affect other organs of the body. The most common symptom of osteoarthritis is pain in the affected joint(s) after repetitive use.

Joint pain is usually worse later in the day. There can be swelling, warmth, and creaking of the affected joints. Pain and stiffness of the joints can also occur after long periods of inactivity. In severe osteoarthritis, complete loss of cartilage cushion causes friction between bones, causing pain at rest or pain with limited motion.

Symptoms of osteoarthritis vary greatly from patient to patient. On the other hand, others may have remarkably few symptoms in spite of dramatic degeneration of the joints apparent on x-rays. Symptoms also can be intermittent. It is not unusual for patients with osteoarthritis of the hands and knees to have years of pain-free intervals between symptoms.

Osteoarthritis of the knees is often associated with obesity or a history of repeated injury and/or joint surgery. Progressive cartilage degeneration of the knee joints can lead to deformity and outward curvature of the knees referred to as "bow legged." Patients with osteoarthritis of the weight bearing joints (like the knees) can develop a limp. The limping can worsen as more cartilage degenerates.

Osteoarthritis of the spine causes pain in the neck or low back. Bony spurs that form along the arthritic spine can irritate spinal nerves, causing severe pain, numbness, and tingling of the affected parts of the body.

Osteoarthritis causes the formation of hard bony enlargements of the small joints of the fingers. Osteoarthritis of the fingers and the toes may have a genetic basis, and can be found in numerous women members of some families.

How is osteoarthritis diagnosed?

There is no blood test for the diagnosis of osteoarthritis. Blood tests are performed to exclude diseases that can cause secondary osteoarthritis, as well as to exclude other arthritis conditions that can mimic osteoarthritis.

X-rays of the affected joints can suggest osteoarthritis. The common x-ray findings of osteoarthritis include loss of joint cartilage, narrowing of the joint space between adjacent bones and bone spur formation. Simple x-ray testing can be very helpful to exclude other causes of pain in a particular joint as well as assist the decision-making as to when surgical intervention should be considered.

What is the treatment for osteoarthritis?

Aside from weight reduction and avoiding activities that exert excessive stress on the joint cartilage, there is no specific treatment to halt cartilage degeneration or to repair damaged cartilage in osteoarthritis. The goal of treatment in osteoarthritis is to reduce joint pain and inflammation while improving and maintaining joint function. Some patients with osteoarthritis have minimal or no pain, and may not need treatment.

Others may benefit from conservative measures such as rest, exercise, weight reduction, physical and occupational therapy, and mechanical support devices. These measures are particularly important when large, weight-bearing joints are involved, such as the hips or knees. In fact, even modest weight reduction can help to decrease symptoms of osteoarthritis of the large joints, such as the knees and hips.

Medications are used to complement the physical measures described above. Medication may be used topically, taken orally, or injected into the joints to decrease joint inflammation and pain. When conservative measures fail to control pain and improve joint function, surgery can be considered.

Resting sore joints decreases stress on the joints, and relieves pain and swelling. Patients are asked to simply decrease the intensity and/or frequency of the activities that consistently cause joint pain.

Exercise usually does not aggravate osteoarthritis when performed at levels that do not cause joint pain. Exercise is helpful in osteoarthritis in several ways. First, it strengthens the muscular support around the joints. It also prevents the joints from "freezing up" and improves and maintains joint mobility. Finally, it helps with weight reduction and promotes endurance. Applying local heat before and cold packs after exercise can help relieve pain and inflammation. Swimming is particularly suited for patients with osteoarthritis because it allows patients to exercise with minimal impact stress to the joints. Other popular exercises include walking, stationary cycling, and light weight training.

Spine symptoms can improve with a neck collar, lumbar corset, or a firm mattress, depending on what areas are involved.

In many patients with osteoarthritis, mild pain relievers such as aspirin and acetaminophen may be sufficient treatment. Studies have shown that acetaminophen given in adequate doses can often be equally as effective as prescription anti-inflammatory medications in relieving pain in osteoarthritis of the knees. Since acetaminophen has fewer gastrointestinal side effects than NSAIDS, especially among the elderly patients, acetaminophen is generally the preferred initial drug given to patients with osteoarthritis. Medicine to relax muscles in spasm might also be given temporarily. Pain-relieving creams applied to the skin over the joints can provide relief of minor arthritis pain. Examples include capsaicin, salycin, methyl salicylate and menthol.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are medications that are used to reduce pain and inflammation in the joints. Examples of NSAIDs include aspirin, ibuprofen, nabumetone and naproxen. It is sometimes possible to use NSAIDs for a while and then discontinue them for periods of time without recurrent symptoms, thereby decreasing side effect risks.

The most common side effects of NSAIDs involve gastrointestinal distress, such as stomach upset, cramping diarrhea, ulcer and even bleeding.

Some studies, but not all, have suggested that the food supplements glucosamine and chondroitin can relieve symptoms of pain and stiffness for some persons with osteoarthritis. Patients taking blood-thinners should be careful taking chondroitin as it can increase the blood-thinning and cause excessive bleeding. Fish oil supplements have been shown to have some anti-inflammation properties and increasing the dietary fish intake and/or fish oil capsules (omega 3 capsules) can sometimes reduce inflammation of arthritis.

While oral cortisone is generally not used in treating osteoarthritis, when injected directly into the inflamed joints, it can rapidly decrease pain and restore function.

For persisting pain of severe osteoarthritis of the knee that does not respond to weight reduction, exercise or medications, a series of injections of hyaluronic acid into the joint can sometimes be helpful, especially if surgery is not being considered. These products seem to work by temporarily restoring the thickness of the joint fluid, allowing better joint lubrication and impact capability, and perhaps by directly affecting pain receptors.

Surgery is generally reserved for those patients with osteoarthritis that is particularly severe and unresponsive to the conservative treatments. Total hip and total knee replacements are now commonly performed.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Diet - Delayed Food Sensitivities

Is there a rheumatoid arthritis diet that can lessen the symptoms or even cure rheumatoid arthritis? For many people the answer is yes.

One study published in the medical journal "Lancet" found that 37% of their study participants (who all had rheumatoid arthritis) had food sensitivities that were one of the causes of their arthritis. The list of problem foods was different for each person. But when these individually determined foods were eliminated from their diets, they all felt much better.

For about a third of people with RA, this type of individually tailored rheumatoid arthritis diet can make the difference between suffering with a challenging illness and enjoying good health.

This is because delayed food sensitivities are one of the underlying causes of rheumatoid arthritis. They are not the same as classical food allergies, which usually cause symptoms immediately or within a few hours. Instead, delayed food sensitivities usually take between 24-36 hours for symptoms to occur. This delay can make it hard to track the connection between eating a problem food and worsening of arthritis symptoms, especially if a problem food is a regular part of your diet.

To make the problem worse, normal allergy tests are not a reliable way to test for these sensitivities either.

Luckily, however, there are ways to test for delayed food hypersensitivities.

One way is a blood test called the ALCAT test.

Another way is eliminating all your suspected problem foods for a week and then selectively reintroducing them into your diet, no more than one each 24 hours. When the foods causing delayed sensitivities are removed from the diet, the body goes through a withdrawal period, similar to a drug withdrawal period. It becomes hypersensitive to those foods. If you reintroduce any of these problem foods into your diet during this time, the reaction tends to be quicker and more noticeable than any other time. This is a great aid in getting accurate test results.

It takes about 7 days to eliminate all traces of a given food from your body after you stop eating it. That is why the elimination phase lasts a week. The hypersensitivity period begins at this point, so that is why the testing by reintroduction begins then. This hypersensitivity period can last for week to months, so don't worry about missing it if you have a long list of foods you have eliminated that need to be tested.

If you do react to something you test, go back to your safe foods for a few days until your symptoms have calmed down again. The fewer symptoms you are having when you test, the easier it is get clear results when you test a new food. You need these clear results to create you're the exact rheumatoid arthritis diet you need to heal.

If delayed food sensitivities are a problem for you, then identifying your problem foods and eliminated all of them from your diet, will make a huge difference in how you feel.

There is no one rheumatoid arthritis diet out there that works for everyone, but this type of individually tailored rheumatoid arthritis diet can work miracles if you do happen to have delayed food sensitivities.

Psoriatic Arthritis: Much More Than Just A Skin Disease

Sometimes people have a tendency to disregard abnormalities that occur on the skin thinking that it is as simple as purchasing over the counter medications and applying it more than the affected area. If one notices raised red patches on the skin, inflammation and scaling of the skin on the skin particularly on the scalp, ears, elbows, knees, the navel and around the anus and the genital area, probabilities are he or she has psoriasis. Pitting and lifting of the fingernails and toenails might also happen. In the event you belong to an age bracket of 20 years old to 50 years old of any race then you are able to never say that you are excused because this disease is present in people of all races each in men and ladies. This condition of the skin might also appear if there's trauma such as in surgery or an excessive amount of sun exposure.

As in all conditions it is encouraged to maintain a really good immune program but some factors such as the environment, genes and exposure to infectious agents makes you a candidate. Most of it is risk is modifiable except in genes. Genes are something that we inherit from our ancestors. Pain and inflammation is inevitable but can be managed by cold therapy and medicines. Skin lesions must be controlled and most importantly progression of the illness should be delayed if not treated. If you are in your twenties, you wouldn't wish to have deformities in any part of one's body. Stiffness of the joints particularly within the morning is most common, so are the neck, back and sacroiliac joints.

Since deformities might be present, the high quality of life of a person might be affected. It could lead to low self-esteem and social avoidance. Psoriatic arthritis is much more than just a skin disease it's debilitating. It makes a person weak.

Caregivers ought to be sensitive towards the type of discomfort that the person with the disease is going via. Pain is the fifth vital sign. So the assessment must be accurate in assessing discomfort. Occasionally pain could be unbearable so management is important. Deformities of the joints may trigger insecurities for individuals who're conscious of their look. A strong support system such as the family and buddies should give the person a constant assurance to increase the confidence of the individual.

Psoriatic arthritis could be lifelong there's remission and exacerbation.

What is Rheumatoid Arthritis And How To Identify Its Symptoms

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can be defined as a multisystem chronic disease of unknown origin. There is an array of systemic expression; the main distinguishing feature of rheumatoid arthritis is chronic inflammatory synovitis, typically symmetrically involving peripheral joints.

The likely influence of inflammation of the synovium leading to damage of the articular cartilage and erosion of the involving bones and consequent changes in the integrity of the joint is the characteristic of the disease. RA also involves the tissues around the joint as well as different organs in our body.

Characteristically, Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder, which occurs when the body's own defense mechanism wrongly interprets some bodily character and mistakenly attacks them.

The immune system is a multifaceted association of different protective cells and antibodies programmed normally to 'seek and destroy' the intruders into our body. The main role playing of the immune system occurs when an infective agent invades our system.

Patients having deranged immunity or autoimmune disorder produce antibodies (some proteins that have a killer potentiality towards intruders) in the blood that targets their own body parts, leading to inflammation. As rheumatoid arthritis can affect numerous other organs in our body, it is referred as a systemic disease.

The word "Rheumatoid" is coined from the Greek word "Rheumatos" which means 'Flowing' and the suffix "oid" refers to 'resembling'. The word "Arthritis" means 'inflammation of a joint'. So, together they mean 'inflammation of a joint that is flowing in nature'. In spite of its harsh potential, the course of the disease can vary a lot.

Some patients can experience a mere oligoarticular ailment (involving a single joint) of short duration with minimal or no joint damage, while others may suffer from a persistent progressive polyarthritis with striking functional impairment.

Rheumatoid arthritis has very common symptoms [http://www.arthritissymptoms.org/common-symptoms-for-rheumatoid-arthritis.htm] and according to a survey, it has affected more than two million people in the United States.

The disease is almost three times more common in women than in men and affects people of all races uniformly. The onset of the disease can be at any age, but the usual point of time is after forty years of age. Being a genetically determined disease,

Rheumatoid arthritis can affect multiple members in the same family. As for example, severe RA is noticed in approximately four times the usual rate among the first degree relatives of persons suffering from the disease in conjunction with presence of autoantibody - the Rheumatic factor- more than 10% of patients with RA will have an affected first degree relative.

In addition, monozygotic twins are at least four times more likely to develop RA than dizygotic twins. This is to be noted that, the highest risk of association id noted in twins who possess two HLA-DRB1 alleles (a type of genes) which is identified to be closely linked with RA. Genetic predisposing factors do not entirely account for the occurrence of RA, pointing towards some other factors. Environmental factors have a role playing action in the development of RA.

This is highlighted by epidemiological studies conducted in AFRICA, that indicated the role of urbanization and climate have a major impact over the occurrence and severity of RA.

Can Psoriasis be Cured?

What is Psoriasis, and can it be cured? Psoriasis in a nasty skin irritation that is passed through your families DNA, it is generally noticed due to irritating itching and there are five known types.

One type of Psoriasis is Psoriatic Arthritis, which is the inflammation of joints. Plaque Psoriasis is the most common with symptoms of red raised areas and white flakes. The next type is Guttate Psoriasis, which are small red spots on the skin. Then Pustular Psoriasis, where there are white pustules surrounded by red skin. Inverse Psoriasis that are smooth red liaisons in the skins fold, and finally Erythrodermic Psoriasis that are wide spread with severe itching, pain and red abrasions.

Now, can Psoriasis be cured? Unfortunately, no, as it is passed through the DNA of your family, which can be a good thing, though, since it does give an indication of whether you are likely to get it or not. Psoriasis can be treated, however, and many have shown results of going months and years between outbreaks. There have even been a few cases where the Psoriasis did not return after the proper treatment.

Most studies show that Psoriasis can and will return during different intervals of time. You need to follow your doctor's advice and medication prescriptions carefully, though, as people with Psoriasis are generally more at risk for bacterial infections. If you are in any stage of an outbreak, whether in the beginning middle or end, you need to be extra careful. Please note that you are not meant to be scared into seclusion, just be extra careful, especially if you have any open areas.

You need to be sure not to scratch the itching areas for obvious reasons, but the biggest threat is that if you scratch to hard, you take the chance of opening your skin and bringing in even more infection or causing a second Psoriasis outbreak.

Now what can you do? Well, you need to make sure you follow all of the doctor's directions, and make note of any new outbreaks and or changes in your current condition. You should also make sure you have very thorough and proper hygiene; your doctor or specialist will give you a routine to follow with the proper products.

If you are worried about having a secondary attack or wondering if you are having one now, you should watch out for the following symptoms. You will notice a red patch of skin area around a Psoriasis laceration, or that the red area has increased and gotten worse. Some complain of the skin feeling hotter or even of having a fever associated with the attack. This is caused by the body's natural defenses trying to heal itself.

Never give up. There are studies going even right this moment to help with this aggravating and sometimes very painful problem.

Arthritis Pain Treatment - Different Ways and Approaches

Arthritis may be a lot easier to handle if only the pain was non-existent. Unfortunately, pain is one of the symptoms that characterize this condition and it is the most difficult, most uncomfortable part of suffering from arthritis. Arthritis has no cure - at least not yet - so don't believe any advertisement or product claim that says otherwise. Pain associated with arthritis can vary in severity, but it can be managed with the right treatments.

Understanding Pain from Arthritis

In order to manage arthritic pain, it is important to understand what it is and how it affects treatment. Pain that is short in duration is generally easier to treat compared to pain that lasts longer, such as that experienced during an arthritic attack. This type of pain is caused by inflammation and damage to the joints. As the condition progresses, fatigue and wear and tear set in, which make pain much more difficult to handle.

Arthritic Pain Treatments Using Drugs

Painkillers or analgesics such as those containing acetaminophen may be prescribed to treat pain but they will not do anything for the inflammation. If you do not suffer from inflamed joints, analgesics will provide temporary relief from arthritic pain. They are also available as over-the-counter drugs while stronger doses require a prescription.

To treat pain caused by inflammation, NSAIDs or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be used. NSAIDs are effective in reducing stiffness and joint swelling, giving temporary relief from arthritis pain. These drugs, which include ibuprofen, naproxen sodium and aspirin are also available over-the-counter while other types may need a prescription. If NSAIDs are prescribed, be aware that they are accompanied by side effects, including stomach upset. NSAIDs contribute to the deterioration of the gastrointestinal tract lining and prolonged use may contribute to ulcers.

Glucocorticoids and DMARDs (disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs) may also be prescribed for the treatment of arthritis pain. Glucocorticoids are similar to cortisol, a natural hormone found in the body. The synthetic form can either be injected directly or taken as a pill to relieve pain caused by inflammation. When given as a treatment of choice, glucocorticoids are carefully monitored in order to minimize side effects.

DMARDs, such as hydroxycholorquine, methotrexate and azulfdine also control the inflammation associated with rheumatoid arthritis, effectively reducing swelling and pain. The only drawback about these drugs is that they take a while to reduce symptoms. Depending on the patient and the severity of the condition, DMARDs can take weeks or even months in order to produce satisfactory results.

There are also other medications used for the treatment of arthritis pain. These include topical pain relievers, salicylates, muscle relaxants, nerve blockers, antidepressants and narcotics. Make sure you understand the options available for the type of pain you are experiencing and always discuss any problems you might have with your doctor.

Other Ways to Treat Pain

You might think that the first thing a doctor would do is to prescribe painkillers to zap discomfort. While this might be one of the major components of your treatment for arthritis pain, it should not be the only approach. Let's take a look at several options that should be considered as a complement to conventional medications:

Diet and Exercise

Excessive weight can make arthritis pain worse, especially if the affected areas are the ankles, knees, hips and spine. It may benefit these areas more if a sensible diet and exercise program are used in order to lose weight gradually. Avoid foods that seem to make your symptoms worse and include only healthy food in your meals. Try to engage in active and productive activities that promote movement. You may need to take it easy on certain joints, but that doesn't mean you should lose it to arthritis.

Relaxation techniques

It would seem a little strange for a doctor to prescribe anti-depressants to patients, but this is often the case with those who suffer from terrible arthritis pain. Anti-depressants help relax and calm the body so the patient will be more emotionally equipped to handle the pain. Avoid feelings of depression by regularly using relaxation techniques to prevent anxiety and manage fatigue. Having pleasant thoughts and a positive attitude usually works well with arthritis patients as part of any conventional or alternative treatment.

Treatment for arthritis pain has come a long way and new ones are still being researched and discovered today. When treating pain for arthritis, try different approaches aside from conventional medication, such as lifestyle changes and modifications of your own emotional approach to the problem. Arthritis may still be incurable but pain can certainly be managed effectively.

Dog Arthritis: Prevention, Treatment, And Prognosis

Seeing your canine pal struggling to walk is difficult for any pet owner. You'll likely have a lot of questions: it is hip dysplasia? Is it ever going to go away? In many canines, the answer is quite different. Dog arthritis is a common problem, one that strikes young and old alike, causing painful movement due to inflammation in the joints.

What Causes It?

Veterinarians are not entirely sure what creates the problem in the first place. It can appear very differently, and often without warning. It can be slow-onset and grow worse over time in gradual increments, or it can suddenly appear in full force. It can occur in young dogs and old alike. Injuries to legs/joints are common predictors, but don't guarantee that it will appear.

Dog arthritis occurs when, for whatever reason, the natural covering which prevents two bones from rubbing together at the joint begins to erode. This stops smooth functioning, and causes the bones to grate against each other. In normal situations, the covering would regenerate itself, but in some dogs (particularly those who are old or injured) it doesn't work. In fact, it tends to be a degenerative condition, meaning that once a pup is diagnosed they are likely to continue wearing down the covering and causing themselves even more pain.

Examining Symptoms

The most obvious symptoms are lameness or discomfort around a joint. The pain caused by the condition is typically exacerbated by movement, especially placing weight on the affected area. If your normally active pup becomes lethargic or refuses to get up, go up/down stairs, or jump for balls and toys, you should consider dog arthritis as a potential cause of the symptoms.

Can It Be Reversed?

Left completely untreated, dog arthritis will almost always degenerate. If your pup isn't replenishing the covering already, he's unlikely to do so in the future. However, there are several treatment options which can help restore this natural replenishment. Pet vitamins are one of the most popular because they don't involve giving your pup any drugs, have no side effects, and are less expensive than common vet medicines. Pet vitamins help support the immune system and encourage the body to return to health, which can re-start production of elements such as the joint covering.

Prognosis

As with all conditions, your pup's individual medical history and current situation will determine his or her individual outlook. However, in general, dog arthritis is not fatal. However, without proper treatment, it is likely to continue degenerating and causing a lot of pain. Ultimately, your pup may become unable to walk on the leg where the pain is concentrated. It can become quite extreme if not addressed, but with proper pet vitamins and the potential for intervention by your veterinarian to help make your canine pal more comfortable, it is very possible to have your pet live a long and happy life even with arthritis.

Spice Up Your Food and Beat Arthritis Pain Naturally

Herbs for arthritis can be an important part of your relief plan. Unlike medications that just deaden pain, many plants have compounds in them that repair the damage of an injury or degenerative disease and provide relief. Some act as natural muscle relaxants and others as anti-spasmodics or anti-inflammatories. With arthritis, a comfrey ointment may help repair damaged and degenerating bone and anti-inflammatory herbs like willow, devil's claw or meadosweet may help relieve pain. There are also cleansing herbs that can detoxify the joints, like yellow dock or celery seed. The Chinese have been using herbs for arthritis for centuries, and they are generally classified as warming or cooling, depending on their actions inside the body and what "evils" (like heat, cold, or damp) they are counteracting.

The Europeans have been studying herbs for arthritis and other chronic conditions for years. In fact, in the PDR (Physician's Desk Reference) for Herbal Medicines, many of the research on herbs and their effects are taking place in Germany. The Japanese are also doing a lot of research on native plants and fruits and publishing the results. There is much knowledge out there on plants that can help you. Here, I'll only discuss the top few that you can easily get in the United States (because that's where I'm located) and that have the best safety record.

Angelica - a good herb for arthritis that can be used topically in a compress, or added in a hot bath. It's a warming and stimulating herb, good for "cold" types of osteoarthritis (if you have circulation problems for example). It's available in tincture form (recommended) or you may purchase the dried leaves or root (not recommended).

To use, dilute the tincture in hot water and apply to a cloth to use as a compress. You may also dilute 10 drops of Angelica oil in 25 mL of almond or sunflower oil to use as massage oil for arthritic joints. For a bath, add 5 drops of the oil to the water in the tub.

Do NOT use Angelica during pregnancy.

Devil's Claw - is a potent anti-inflammatory and its action has been compared to that of cortisone. It's better for degenerative arthritis than for RA. This herb is best taken internally, but do NOT take it if you have stomach or duodenal ulcers, as it increases gastric juices production.
Devil's Claw is supplied in capsules. Take between 1-3 grams per day in divided doses during flare ups. Capsules normally contain between 400-600 mg each.

It can also be made into an infusion by using 1 teaspoon (about 4.5 grams) in 300 mL of boiling water. Steep this for 8 hours and strain. It can then be taken up to 3 times a day or used as a compress.

Bogbean - is a "cooling" herb, so it's good for flare ups with hot, aching joints. This herb is used primarily in Europe for loss of appetite and and stomach discomfort, but it is also known an aid for gout and swelling; so I'm listing it here in herbs for arthritis.

In tincture form, you can take up to 8 mL three times a day. You may also use it as an infusion. To make a tea, pour boiling water over 0.5 to 1 gram of the finely chopped dried herb, let steep for 5-10 minutes and then strain. You may drink 1/2 cup, unsweetened, before each meal.

White Willow - is rich in salicylates (the active ingredient in aspirin) so it is well known as an anti-inflammatory. It's useful during flare ups and for associated muscle pain. It's available in powder and tincture form.

Take up to 5 mL tincuture three times a day. It may also be combined with other herbs for arthritis like angelica or yellow dock. To make an infusion, put 2-3 grams of finely chopped or powdered herb in cold water, bring to a boil, then turn off heat and steep for 5 minutes. Strain. You may drink 1 cup 3-5 times daily.

Caution should be used if you're already taking NSAID's or other salicylates (like aspirin). Do not take if you are on anti-platelet medication or any medicine that prolongs the PT time. White willow should NEVER be given to children with flu like symptoms due to the association between salicylates and Reye's syndrome.

Cooking with herbs for arthritis relief

Herbs and spices can be easily integrated in your meals to help ease arthritis pain, too. This is a great, easy way to get the healing properties of these plants into you. Spices are full of antioxidants and phytochemicals and some have anti-inflammatory effects. Here are some herbs for arthritis you probably have in your kitchen cupboards and can start using right away.

Turmeric - this comes from the curcumin plant and helps inflammation. A study in the journal Arthritis & Rheumatism showed turmeric slowed down cartilage destruction, blocked inflammation and reduced swelling.

Eat dishes made with curry several times a week or take in capsule form.

Ginger - This spice is used in traditional Chinese medicines and inhibits inflammation. It's especially good for people whose symptoms get worse in cold weather since it increases blood flow.

Ginger can be drunk as a tea daily or you can take it in supplement form. The root is good grated and used in soups and stocks or even added to juices (but use it sparingly).

Rosemary - This herb contains antioxidants that reduce inflammation and helps block pain.
You can use it in cooking as a dried or fresh herb or you can use essential oil in a bath or mixed with almond oil and massage it into your sore joints. Do NOT use rosemary during pregnancy.

Saffron - This herb is handpicked from crocus blossoms and is a powerful antioxidant. True saffron is expensive, but it doesn't take much in cooking to release it's scent and color.

Mix 1/2 teaspoon of saffron into boiling water and you can drink it as a tea. You can also mix saffron essential oil with some almond oil and rub it directly into your joints. It's also excellent when added to rice dishes and soups. You don't want to use more than 2 grams a day, though, as that might cause nausea.

Cayenne - Cayenne pepper is best known for the heat it adds to chilis and other spicy dishes. The active ingredient, capsaicin can block pain signals to the brain when used topically.

Use it as you would any pepper, but it doesn't take much to go from warm to burn your mouth hot, so be careful. It is sold in capsule form, but may cause nausea. Many over the counter pain relieving creams contain it, and you can use those on painful joints as directed.

If you make the switch to low glycemic eating (it's naturally anti-inflammatory) you may find that you'll want to use herbs and spices to flavor your food, especially if you've been eating a lot of processed foods. Boxed foods have salt and other food additives in them to make them taste good. If you eat a lot of these, your taste buds are used to the additives, and herbs and spices are a great way to boost flavor of natural, unprocessed, whole foods.

Spondylosis - Arthritis of the Spine

Arthritis is one of the most common ailments that affect people all over the world. Osteoarthritis which happens through the normal wear and tear of the body's joint tissues occurs as people grow older. This kind of degenerative disease is the one that affects people of the older population. One kind of Osteoarthritis is the arthritis of the spine also known as Spondylosis.

There are two kinds of arthritis of the spine depending on which part the pain is most felt. Lumbosacral arthritis affects the lower back causing it stiffness and pain. It is loss of cartilage in the sacroiliac joint that is found between the pelvis and the spine. It is also called Lumbar Spine or lower back osteoarthritis.

The cervical spine or neck osteoarthritis is also called the cervical spondylosis which is felt in the upper spine. Stiffness and pain in the shoulders, neck, arms and head usually accompany the condition. Other signs of arthritis of the spine are pain or difficulty in bending or walking especially in getting out of bed in the morning, a feeling of your bone grinding on bone and any type of deformity of the spine.

Proper diagnosis of the condition by a doctor requires a record of your medical history, when you have started to feel the pain and difficulty of movement in your spine and also the test to recognize the regions which you are having most difficulty to function. Blood tests and x-rays must also be taken in other instances to assure that other spinal diseases are ruled out. These are important for the proper treatment of the ailment.

An effective pain management plan can be done through some known techniques for its treatment. Sometimes, a combination of the different methods added with other contributing factors such as lifestyle, food and exercise are used to restore balance and mobility to the body. Most traditional treatments fail to offer long-lasting pain relief to arthritis of the spine because they just address the symptoms and not the cause.

An example of the traditional treatment includes medications which has a high risk for the drug dependency among those who take it. Certain side effects are also triggered by the long-term use of the drugs that aggravate the condition instead of improving recovery.

The most important thing in the treatment of arthritis of the spine is to be informed as much as possible of the many possible treatment and alternative ways in bringing back the lost vitality through proper diet, exercise, health supplements and a combination of methods that would help ease the pain.

Arthritis - Coping With Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis

Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (JRA) is the most common type of childhood arthritis. It causes joint inflammation for at least six weeks in children 16 years old or younger. Doctors believe that JRA is an autoimmune disorder meaning the body's immune system attacks its own cells and tissues. It is not known why this happens, but both heredity and environment seem to play a role. In most cases, symptoms of JRA may fade after several months or years.

A virus or bacterium may cause the development of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis in children with certain genetic profiles. These genetic profiles are detected in some children with JRA and are considered genetic markers. However, not all children with the markers develop JRA, and children without the markers can develop the condition.

Children with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis should live life as normally as possible by attending school and participating in extra-curricular and family activities. To foster a healthy transition to adulthood, adolescents with JRA should be allowed to enjoy independent activities, such as taking a part-time job and learning to drive. Provide your child with opportunities to interact with other children who also have arthritis in or near your community. Ask your rheumatologist about summer camps and other available group activities.

Treatment of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis focuses on physical activity to maintain full joint movement and strength, preventing damage and controlling pain. Continued physical activity will help prevent loss of function. Therapists may construct splints to prevent joint contractures or deformity, and work with school-based therapists to address issues at school.

Parents should be familiar with Federal Act 504, which may provide children with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis special accommodations at school. Families with children with JRA may be eligible for assistance through state agencies or services such as vocational rehabilitation. They may also benefit from information and activities available through the American Juvenile Arthritis Organization.

Learning To Recognize Psoriatic Arthritis Symptoms

Being able to recognize psoriatic arthritis symptoms places you on the path towards getting the treatment that you need. The discomfort and frustration that is often associated with this symptom makes it near impossible for sufferers to enjoy most everyday activities. Learning more about the causes, the signs and how to lessen the associated symptom can help you regain optimal health and happiness.

There are several common types of this condition that those with psoriasis must frequently contend with. Affecting only those that suffer with the skin condition called psoriasis, the associated arthritic symptoms may actually precede the development or visual appearance of the psoriasis itself. Much like rheumatoid arthritis, the signs will include pain and swelling in the joints.

With symmetrical polyarthritis the individual will have swelling that occurs in pairs. If the right elbow is inflamed and painful, the left elbow will be as well. This is the second most common that sufferers of psoriasis will experience. If left untreated it can cause major deformations in joints. Individuals that have symmetrical polyarthritis will usually have far more extensive skin symptoms than those with other types of arthritic pain.

Asymmetrical arthritic pain usually occurs in the fingers and toes and will affect only two to three joints separately rather than in pairs. The fingers will frequently swell and the joints may feel warm to the touch and may appear red. This is often a common occurrence among those have psoriasis.

There are numerous other forms of psoriatic arthritis. While there is currently no known cure for this condition, treatment is necessary to improve and maintain joint health. Speaking with your physician can allow you to garner more information about the various prescribed or natural treatments that may be advantageous to you. You can also search online through the many message and chat boards that host the comments of psoriasis sufferers that have or feel they may be developing this common condition.

Arthritis Treatment: Evolution of Treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis Today

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most common form of inflammatory arthritis, affecting approximately two million Americans. It is a chronic, systemic, autoimmune driven disease for which there is no cure.

Among the multisystem features of the disease is the ability to attack and destroy not only joint tissue, but also other organ systems such as the eye, bone marrow, lungs, peripheral nervous system as well as heighten the incidence of cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke.

While the disease, if not diagnosed and treated aggressively, can still cause significant problems, major advances in treatment have developed in the last 25 years.

The drug of choice remains methotrexate. We now have more than 30 years of experience with this medication and are familiar with its side effect profile which is much more benign than we used to believe.

Roughly, 25% to 30% of patients will go into remission or near remission on methotrexate alone, and many of those patients will sustain that response for up to a year or more.

So how is response defined?

Response occurs when a patient has no clinical signs of disease activity, no elevated acute phase reactants, which are blood tests that measure inflammation. The two most commonly used tests are the erythrocyte sedimentation rate ("sed rate") and CRP. And they have no functional deficit from their disease.

In patients who don't achieve remission or lose their remission, we now add on a tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitor. These are a category of biologic drugs. These medicines that act like a laser beam against the immunologic disturbances that are responsible for RA.

While many patients respond to the combination of methotrexate and TNF inhibitor, some either don't respond initially or lose their response over time. In these patients we will try a second TNF inhibitor.

Fortunately, there are alternatives. We have three other biologic medicines that are all useful in the event a patient fails two TNF inhibitors. There is Orencia, which is a T-cell costimulatory modulator. T cells are felt to be a key player in the inflammation of RA. The second is Rituxan. This is a drug that was initially used to treat non-Hodgkins lymphoma. It is an antibody directed against B-cells, which are also a major contributor to chronic inflammation in RA. Finally, there is Actemra, which is an antibody drug directed against the interleukin-6 receptor.

Interleukin-6 is a protein messenger that is pivotal in perpetuating RA activity.

All of these have been shown to be effective in rheumatoid arthritis, and all have been shown to be effective in patients who have failed a TNF inhibitor.

With this arsenal of drugs there is better than a 50 per cent chance of getting a patient with new-onset RA into remission within six to twelve months.

And the good news is that newer therapies are being developed that may be even more effective.

Arthritis Treatment - Releasing Joint Pressure

Arthritis is characterized by the inflammation on the joint that causes pain on the affected area. If you are looking for the right information on an effective arthritis treatment then you have come to the right place.

An Overview of Arthritis

Arthritis occurs when the area between the bones is inflamed causing discomfort; when you attempt to move pressure is exerted on the inflammation. This is a health condition that is also referred to as rheumatoid arthritis. Signs and symptoms vary from patient to patient; hence treatment and prognosis are different as well.

There are more than a hundred forms of arthritis but all are characterized by discomfort on the joint. Most of these are due to wear and tear and inflammation of the cartilage. It is one of the common chronic illnesses today.

Millions Suffer and are Seeking Arthritis treatment

Both men and women suffer from arthritis. It is a more common occurrence among adults but children and young adults are likely to suffer, as well. There are about 350 million patients suffering from arthritis around the globe. In the US alone, there are more than 40 million sufferers and almost 翹 of this data are children while half of those identified are under 65 years old.

What are the Causes and Symptoms of Arthritis?

Different causes are known depending on the form of the illness. There are injuries that might have led to the inflammation of the joints. Infections and disorders in the immune system could also cause this condition.

Symptoms include chronic pain, redness, swelling, and inflammation. Rheumatic diseases are also characterized by fever and feelings of fatigue and body malaise.

When to Get Medical Care

Sufferers who are feeling extreme swelling, redness, and stiffness around the area should immediately seek medical attention. There are cases when there is also an evident deformity of the affected area. This should not be taken lightly.

There are symptoms that persist for more than a week due to unexplainable reasons. When you have these symptoms, you should immediately seek medical attention. Early diagnosis is necessary lest the condition might lead to a more serious condition like paralysis.

What You Can Do

The treatment will depend on which form of arthritis a patient is suffering from, plus its severity and location. Doctors will also look into a patient's medical history for a more thorough and accurate prognosis.

Certain natural ways of healing can be undertaken. There are therapies that can be recommended. Simple massage and occupational therapy that will offer relief can be given to patients. Therapists will employ several techniques to help minimize stress and strain on your joints which can help alleviate discomfort.

For patients who want to try a natural method to treat arthritis, acupuncture is often recommended. It is the Chinese practice of using needles to ease discomfort and release the body's natural energy to heal itself.

A drug medication such as Tramadol is also often prescribed to help ease the discomfort while the cause of the illness is being treated, the pain reliever.

You can try the above tips but you must still consult a doctor so you will be given the proper arthritis treatment you need.

Knee Osteoarthritis and Supartz Joint Fluid Therapy

Osteoarthritis is common in the knee joint. It is a disease that involves both biomechanical and biochemical factors that destabilize the cartilage matrix and cause pain, functional limitations, and disability. In the United States, it is the leading cause of disability and over 20 million people are affected by it.

Cartilage is a rubbery tissue at the end of bones which allows the joint to move easily. Normally, the knee contains lubricating substance called hyaluronan in the synovial fluid, a fluid which cushions your knee.

In osteoarthritis, there is not enough hyaluronan by which it can be hard to move your joints. The surface layer of cartilage breaks and wears away. The bones under the cartilage rub together, causing pain, swelling, and loss of motion of the joint. Over time, the joint may lose its normal shape.

Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis

The deterioration of cartilage occurs gradually and there may be no symptoms in the early stages of osteoarthritis. Symptoms may appear over time. These include:

• Knee stiffness especially in the morning
• Knee pain whether a person moves or not
• Crackling sound or grating feeling
• Red and swollen skin around the knee

Symptoms do not always correlate with the amount of damage to the joint and they may come and go for no apparent reason.

Risk Factors of Knee Osteoarthritis

Knee is vulnerable to pain, and a number of widespread risk factors are causing a rise in osteoarthritis of the knee. Some risk factors include:

• Aging
• Obesity
• Heredity
• Injury to the knee joint
• Lack of exercise or sedentary lifestyle
• Muscle weakness
• Overuse of the knee joint
• Skewed feet
• Wearing inappropriate footwear

How Supartz Therapy Can Help with Knee Osteoarthritis

Supartz Joint Fluid Therapy is a viscosupplement which is used as a nonsurgical and nonpharmacological treatment for osteoarthritis of the knee. It contains highly purified sodium hyaluronate, also known as hyaluronan or hyaluronic acid. Viscosupplements are designed to replace normal component of the joint involved in joint lubrication.

In five randomized, double-blind studies in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee Supartz injections were significantly more effective than phosphate-buffered saline control injections. The goal of Supartz Joint Fluid Therapy is to supplement the poor quality hyaluronic acid in your knee with additional highly purified hyaluronic acid. A course of Supartz therapy can help relieve pain, improve mobility, and get back to exercising, which is important for arthritic joints.

Most patients treated with Supartz therapy experienced minor to no discomfort during the injection. There is no definite treatment that can cure osteoarthritis, but with effective Supartz treatment and proper physician care, many people with osteoarthritis can have healthy and active lives.

How Rheumatoid Arthritis is a Life Long Struggle

There is no shortage of rheumatoid arthritis treatments. A great many researchers are working on ways to relieve the pain, disfigurement and discomfort of RA. But doctors say there is no cure! However, there is hope.

In recent years, researchers have developed a number of treatments that make life easier for the RA patient. The goal is to provide as normal a life as possible for the sufferer with the lowest level of discomfort, disfigurement and interruption of a normal life.

Until a cure is found, doctors find themselves minimizing joint damage, disfigurement and pain while enhancing the patient's ability to engage in enjoy a quality lifestyle. Doctors have also learned that it's far easier for the patient if families and loved ones understand what is happening - that is, the nature of RA.

So, what can actually be done? Three classes of drugs are usually utilized for rheumatoid arthritis treatments:

1) non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (or NSAIDs),

2) disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (or DMARDs) and.

3) corticosteroids.

The major benefit of NSAIDs is to relieve inflammation. That decreases pain and improves function. However, NSAIDs alone can't change the course of the disease nor prevent destruction of the affected joints.

For years, aspirin was the primary treatment - and still relieves pain quite effectively. However, it often causes stomach discomfort and has to be taken repeatedly during the day. Thus, many doctors have replaced it with other NSAIDs.

Fortunately, there are quite a few to choose from.

Over-the-counter NSAIDs include naproxen sodium (such as Aleve簧) and ibuprofen (such as Advil簧, Motrin簧 and Nuprin簧.

Prescription NSAIDs include choline magnesium salicylate (Trilasate簧), diclofenac (Cataflam簧, Voltaren簧, Arthrotec簧), diflusinal (Dolobid簧), etodolac (Lodine簧), indomethicin (Indocin簧), ketoprofen (Orudis簧, Oruvail簧), meloxicam (Mobic簧), nabumetone (Relafen簧), oxaprozin (Daypro簧), piroxicam (Feldene簧), sulindac (Clinoril簧) and tolementin (Tolectin簧).

Many patients prefer naproxen sodium since it can be taken once every 12 hours - rather than four times a day as with some of the others.

NSAIDs provide quick but short-term help.

DMARDs can take several weeks or months. Among those most commonly used are abatacept (Orencia簧), adalimumab (Humira簧), anakinra (Kineret簧), antimalarials, azathioprine (Imuran), cyclophosphamide cyclosporin A, d-penicillamine, etanercept (Enbrel簧), gold salts, infliximab (Remicade簧), leflunomide (Arava簧), methotrexate, rituximab (Rituxan簧) and sulfasalazine.

Most are very effective in preventing cartilage damage and the bone erosions that can come as early as during the first two years of the disease. As a result, many doctors prescribe a DMARD as soon as RA is diagnosed.

But since DMARDs can be so slow acting, aspirin and other analgesics are also taken since they are so effective in decreasing pain - but not in stopping the disease's progression.

So, NSAIDs are taken to ease discomfort, particularly until DMARDs take effect.

Corticosteroids are the third category of drugs used with RA. These are often prescribed for patients with severe cases who aren't responding to NSAIDs or DMARDs. However, there are side effects such as weight gain, puffiness around the face, redness of the cheeks, and even such oddities as the development of a "buffalo hump" over the neck.

Any rheumatoid arthritis sufferer is wise to stay current of new developments - and to ask their doctor whether this or that "wonder treatment" on the internet actually works.

Types Of Arthritis - Three Most Common Types And Other Types Of Arthritis

Arthritis covers a broad spectrum of disease. To many, the term arthritis means pain and inflammation of the joints - but, arthritis is a much more complex medical condition. The term arthritis comes from the Latin phrase, "arth" meaning joint and "it is" meaning inflammation. There are over 100 illnesses associated with the term arthritis. Arthritis can range from something as simple as tendonitis to something as chronic as rheumatoid arthritis.

Three Most Common Types of Arthritis

• 
  Osteoarthritis - the most common type of arthritis. This degenerative joint disease affects over 16 million Americans. This form of arthritis is caused when the cartilage surrounding the ends of the bones begins to degenerate and the joints are no longer cushioned. This caused the joints to rub together and in severe cases, you can hear the bones grating against one another. At the onset of osteoarthritis, the symptoms are usually mild and consist of pain and stiffness of the joints. As the disease progresses, inflammation and loss of motion can occur. In some severe cases, deformity can occur if the grinding joints wear one side of the joint more than the other.

• 
  Rheumatoid arthritis - This is the second most common type of arthritis and the most severe. Symptoms usually begin appearing between the ages of 25 and 50 - however, children and senior citizens can experience the onset of this disease. Rheumatoid arthritis is the most common type of inflammatory arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is considered an autoimmune disease because factors other than wear and tear of cartilage can cause the disease and the disease can affect other organs, such as the eyes, lungs, and heart.

Rheumatoid arthritis usually affects the joints on both sides of the body - for instance, both hands will be affected, both wrists will be affected, and both legs will be affected. The most common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are pain, stiffness, swelling, redness of the skin, fatigue, weight loss, and low-grade fever. Not only affecting the joints, rheumatoid arthritis can give you an overall feeling of sickness. Rheumatoid arthritis can be a debilitating disease, however patients can experience periods of remission in which the symptoms disappear and they can lead a normal life.

• 
  Fibromyalgia - This is a type of arthritis that does not directly affect the joints. Rather, the inflammation and pain affect the muscles, ligaments, tendons, and soft tissues under the skin. Many patients have tender spots under the skin that are painful when any type of pressure is applied. The symptoms for Fibromyalgia include deep muscle pain, fatigue, sleeplessness, and depression. Symptoms may come and go, but the disease is long term and chronic.

Other Types of Arthritis

• 
  Anklyosing Spondylitis - a chronic, inflammatory disease that affects the spine. The common symptoms include lower back pain and stiffness that lasts for more than a period of three months, difficulty sleeping, fatigue, weight loss, and low-grade fever.


• 
  Gout - this disease usually affects the joints of the big toe, but can extend to the ankles, heels, knees, wrists, fingers, and elbow. The common symptoms are tenderness, pain, redness, warmth, and swelling of the affected joint.


• 
  Infectious Arthritis - this type of arthritis is caused by an infection, and can be caused by both bacterial and viral infections. The onset of infectious arthritis is sudden and the symptoms include swelling of the joint, soreness, warmth, leakage of tissue fluid, fever, and chills.


• 
  Cervical arthritis - this type of arthritis affects the upper back and can cause pain in the neck and arms. Cervical arthritis is caused when the cartilage protecting the discs that support the neck deteriorate. The most common symptom of cervical arthritis is chronic neck pain, but can include loss of balance, headaches, muscle weakness, and stiffness.


• 
  Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis - this inflammatory arthritis affects children. The most common symptoms of Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis are swelling, pain, and stiffness in joints. The symptoms are usually worse in children upon waking in the morning and after a nap. There is no known reason for the onset of arthritis in children and, unlike rheumatoid arthritis in adults, children sometimes outgrow the disease and the symptoms disappear.
  

These are just some of the many types of arthritis. In general terms, arthritis is any disease that involves inflammation - swelling and pain of the joints or muscles. If you suspect that you suffer from arthritis, you should consult your physician to determine the type of arthritis and learn what treatments are available.

How to Treat Degenerative Disc Disease

Degenerative disc disease from osteoarthritis of the back can cause you extreme pain and suffering. There are a few ways whereby you can treat degenerative disc disease. Understanding what degenerative disc disease is, and what you can do, are important steps towards a better quality of life.

The chance of getting degenerative disk disease increases with age. Degenerative disc disease refers to a group of painful back conditions. Other types of diseases that can cause it are spinal stenosis and ankylosing spondylitis. It is usually caused by osteoarthritis of the spine, and it can be quite painful. If you have osteoarthritis of the spine, your pain comes from the vertebra becoming inflamed and irritated because of the compression of the disk. As your spine works to heal itself, small calcium stones are created on the spinal column. You will then experience painful attacks and a lack of mobility of the spinal will occur.

There are several treatment options if you have osteoarthritis of the spine. A popular OTC medication is paracetamol for pain. Codeine can be used in conjunction with paracetamol for added pain relief too. There are other prescription medications that are anti-inflammatory, which reduce pain. Steroids such as prednisone are one, but they cannot be taken on a long-term basis, especially for people with high blood pressure and heart disease. Side effects include bleeding ulcers and severe indigestion.

Steroids can also be taken as injections directly into the back for pain relief from osteoarthritis. A newer treatment in the injection form is using hyaluronic acid. Some medical studies have shown that it may push the body to make other cells that form cartilage in the back. Other studies on hyaluronic injection treatments theorize that it may help with lubrication between the spinal pads of the back. Only your doctor is qualified to tell you if they feel that using hyaluronic treatment may be beneficial for your pain management from osteoarthritis in your back.

It is thought that because osteoarthritis inhibits blood flow to the cartilage and muscles, taking glucosamine and chondroitin helps increase blood flow and maintain a healthier cartilage. These are food supplements that can be bought directly from over the counter. Other types of natural holistic treatments are taking avocado and soybeans, in either a pill form, or adding this to your diet in elevated concentrations. A few medical studies have shown that people who did add this to their diet experienced less pain, and not quite as much dependence on painkillers. Talk with your doctor if you feel that it may help with your painful osteoarthritis episodes.

Exercise is another good way to control pain and help with movement. Also, make sure that you control your weight too. Excess weight causes pressure on the back, and increases pain in the back.

Non-traditional therapies for degenerative disc disease caused by osteoarthritis are acupuncture and deep body massages. Acupuncture is believed to inhibit the body's pain receptors in the brain, and it thereby makes it easier for you to cope with the pain. Deep body messages relax tense muscles, and it can stress from pain. Many people have found relief from pain by using these two techniques for pain management by either using them independently, or in conjunction with each other. It is also thought that with acupuncture and deep body messages that pain fighting hormones are released into the body to dull the sensation of pain.

An excellent home remedy is to use a heat on the painful area. You may find that a moist heat is the best, but always use safety when applying heat from a heating pad for your back. Do not leave the heat on it for more than 30 minutes, and let your skin cool down. You do not want blisters. You can reapply heat as needed throughout the day, but make sure to rest between cool downs. If you don't muscle spasms can occur, and it will delay your healing time. If you can take aspirin for your pain because it is an anti-inflammatory, but remember it's also a blood thinner, and aspirin will raise blood pressure.

It can be depressing to be inflicted with degenerative disc disease. The best that you can do is try out a combination of methods to help you relieve yourself from pain. Hopefully one day there will be an effective and safe cure for your back.