Reasons You May Need Physical Therapy

Physical therapists help patients manage and recover from debilitating physical conditions that leaves them unable to function normally. The purpose of physical therapy is to help people who have conditions that limit their ability to function in their daily activities. A physical therapist uses many techniques and devices to assist clients with recovering physical strength and range of motion, improving mobility of injured body parts, managing pain, improving posture, and managing physically debilitating conditions. Conditions patients normally suffer can be the result of an injury, illness, or chronic disease such as diabetes. Therapeutic equipment can include ultraviolet and infrared lamps, EMS machines, whirlpool baths, and ultrasonic machines.

Physical therapy consists of a therapist assessing a patient's ability to function, monitoring motor function, improving balance and coordination, increasing muscle strength, improving range of motion, creating treatment plans for the rehabilitation facility as well as at home, and recording a patient's progress. They also instruct patients on how to use therapeutic medical devices such as canes and crutches, wheelchairs, braces, artificial limbs...etc.

Many people are not sure if they are in need of physical therapy. Physical therapy can be used for all neuromuscular or musculoskeletal dysfunctions. If you have any of the following conditions, you may require physical therapy:

Sports Related Injuries: Sports or exercise injuries can be the result of training mishaps, incorrect warm up methods, trauma from a fall or other accident resulting in a physical injury.

Chronic Diseases such as Arthritis and Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis occurs when the joint cartilage covering the ends of the bone wears away. Arthritis means inflammation of the joints. There is distinct pain and difficulty moving with these conditions.

Surgery Issues: One may require muscle conditioning and strengthening before or after surgery.

Chronic Fatigue and Pain: An example would be a Fibromyalgia diagnosis. Fibromyalgia is an aching condition characterized by extensive soft tissue pain, fatigue, sleep problems, and regions of tenderness in the body.

Balance or Mobility Problems: This problem can result from a head injury, brain condition, or trauma resulting from an accident.

Sprains and Muscle Injuries: These injuries can result from slip and fall accidents, repetitive motion injuries, and other incidents causing a physical injury. This can include such injured areas as the arms, shoulder, knees, feet, ankles, hand and wrist problems such as carpal tunnel syndrome and tendinitis. Neck pain is also an area that can be treated with physical therapy.

Lower Back Pain: This can result from muscle strains, ligament strains, herniated discs, spinal stenosis, osteoporosis, Fibromyalgia and more.

Abdominal Pressure causing Incontinence or Bowel Problems: Special physical therapy techniques can be used to strengthen the pelvic muscles.

Neuro-Rehabilitation: Physical therapy techniques are used after such incidents as a stroke, spinal cord injury, or head injury.

Physical therapy uses non-invasive techniques and devices to promote healing and restore function. It also focuses on health, fitness, and overall well being.

Because of an increased aging population, more people playing extreme sports, and an increased number of people enrolling in fitness clubs, physical therapists are in great demand. Most people can benefit from physical therapy, so it is important to discuss this method of rehabilitation with your doctor.

What Are the Most Common Types of Arthritis?

You may not know this but there are over 100 different types of Arthritis. It is a condition that affects millions every year, worldwide. As each type of arthritis is different, so must the treatments that are used to help ease the pain and discomfort caused by this condition. Symptoms can be vastly different between each type, so it is vitally important that you see your local GP, so that correct diagnosis can be made and the right treatments can begin.

So what are the most common types of arthritis?

There are two main types of arthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis and Osteoarthritis. This article will look at both, and explore causes, symptoms and possible treatments. You should however always refer to your GP for help, advice and guidance.

Rheumatoid Arthritis is caused by the malfunction of the body's immune system. This basically means that the immune system attacks parts of the body, for reasons that are not quite clear, the joints are the main areas affected.

Rheumatoid Arthritis is caused when the body's cells confuse one of its own proteins as a foreign intruder. This in return causes the immune system to start attacking the normal joint tissues. As a result there is a release of Cytokines which trigger more inflammation and destruction.

Rheumatoid Arthritis can start gradually or attack very suddenly. Symptoms can be rather severe causing pain, fatigue, loss of appetite, stiffness and fever. Most common symptoms include the pain, stiffness and swelling of the joints affected, which can include hands, wrists, elbows, shoulders, knees, ankles and the neck. Another common symptom is the development of Rheumatoid Nodules, which are lumps that appear on the skin over the affected joint.

In terms of treatments, there are a few drugs that can be administered in order to reduce pain and inflammation. These can be prescribed by your local GP.

The other main type of Arthritis is Osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is not as severe as Rheumatoid Arthritis and is a common condition among those over 40. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease, most commonly caused by the over use of certain joints, and those that bear weight.

Symptoms of Osteoarthritis include deep aching pain within a joint, difficulty gripping objects, fatigue, warm joints, joint stiffness in the morning, pain when walking and the swelling of joints.

Unlike Rheumatoid Arthritis, there are a few Osteoarthritis treatment options. These can be as simple as more exercise and a better healthier diet, pain relief medication and inflammatory drugs to, in more severe cases, Hyaluronic Acid injections straight to the effected joint.

If you think that you may be developing or have developed some form of Arthritis then you must first make an appointment with your local GP. A common mistake is to leave or ignore any symptoms and allow the condition to further develop. Pain and discomfort need not rule your life; there are treatments that can be given to help you maintain your life as normal.

How Much Glucosamine For Dogs With Arthritis?

Many pet owners wonder how much glucosamine for dogs is appropriate. The correct dosage depends on many factors including the weight of your pet, age, breed and how severe the arthritis may be. The malady affects about 30% of all canines and is a common problem for concerned pet owners. When dogs suffer from arthritis and their bodies are no longer able to produce an adequate supply of the compound naturally, glucosamine is necessary to maintain healthy cartilage and connective tissue. Supplements provide relief from inflammation and help regenerate joint tissues.

How much glucosamine for dogs is needed to cure the condition?

When an older animal develops arthritis it will have trouble getting up and will move much more slowly. Previously friendly pets will not like to be touched or handled because those actions can cause them pain. When your dog begins to show these symptoms, you should begin a course of treatment immediately. The dosage is usually calculated based upon the dog's weight and the method of administration. Sulfate and hydrochloride are generally the best forms of the compound for canines, so dosage information is based on their use. It is good to start out with 20 mg per pound per day. A pet weighing 50 pounds should receive a dosage of 1000 mg.

Many veterinarians believe that an increased dosage during the early stages will enhance the restorative process, kicking it into high gear. Some suggest doubling the dosage in the beginning for at least two weeks, then cutting back to a regular dosage. Unfortunately, this can have side effects that include vomiting and diarrhea. But the same symptoms may be caused by even a mild dose for the first few days. The best solution would be to administer the increased dosage and if the symptoms do not disappear within four or five days, then reduce the dosage. Your dog's body will take at least three or four days to make the adjustment, so waiting four or five days should give a good indication how well your pet is tolerating the medication.

How much glucosamine for dogs is needed for prevention?

The larger the breed of dog, the more susceptible he or she will be to arthritis. Breeds such as Collies, German Shepherds, Kelpies, Rottweilers, Labradors and Retrievers are very likely to develop the problem. Small breeds likely to develop osteoarthritis include Dachshunds and Pekingese. You can begin treating these animals in middle age at 500-750 mg for a 50 pound dog and adjust accordingly by weight. If your dog is injured, arthritis may develop during convalescence. Treatment should begin during this time at a full curative strength.

After a couple of weeks you can reduce the dose to a maintenance level of 750 mg per 50 pounds and continue this dose for the rest of the dog's life.

The above information should provide an accurate guide for determining how much glucosamine should be given to your pet. Supplements should always be paired with good basic nutrition and exercise to maintain a healthy weight.

Arthritis Treatment: How to Treat an Acute Attack of Gouty Arthritis

Gout is a type of arthritis due to the accumulation of uric acid (UA) crystals in body tissues. This accumulation is due to either an abnormal increased production of uric acid or to inability to excrete uric acid through the kidneys quickly enough.

Over time, as uric acid levels slowly rise, these crystals can accumulate in a number of areas, particularly the joints and the kidneys.

An attack of gouty arthritis is usually the first sign of gout. These attacks may occur in almost any joint but are most common in the toes, the insteps, and the ankles.

The attacks are characterized by severe pain, swelling, redness, heat, and disability. The pain has been described as being so intense that even the weight of a bed sheet is unbearable.

The goal of treatment of a gout attack is to reduce the severity of the attack, relieve pain, and minimize the amount of incapacity a patient is dealing with.

There are three categories of medicines used to treat an acute attack of gouty arthritis. The first group is the non-steroidal-anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS). They are used by many rheumatologists with reasonably good effectiveness. However, their efficacy is limited by their potential toxicity including gastrointestinal, kidney, and cardiovascular.

These potential toxicities need to be taken into account since most patients with gout have other disease conditions such as chronic kidney disease, high blood pressure, heart disease, elevated blood lipids, and obesity.

Colchicine is another type of drug that is used to head off acute attacks during the first 24 hours. It used to be available as a cheap generic drug but is now only available as a n expensive brand name preparation called Colchrys. It is effective but must be used within the first 24 hours of onset of an attack to be effective. Colchrys also has toxicities associated with its use. It can lead to abdominal cramps and diarrhea which leads to dehydration and to worsening of gout.

Glucocorticoids- steroids- are the third category of drug used to treat acute attacks. Steroids can be given either orally starting with a dose of 30 mgs of prednisone or its equivalent as a single morning dose with a slow taper or as an injection into a joint if the attack is limited to a single joint. The advantage to injection is that it also allows for withdrawal of fluid from the joint which is helpful in confirming diagnosis.

Use of local anesthetic along with ultrasound needle guidance makes this procedure relatively painless.
The use of steroids must be tempered with the thought that many patients with gout also have diabetes and they should be counseled that their blood sugars may rise temporarily.

A new drug in development is canakinumab, a biologic drug that blocks interleukin 1. It is very effective for attacks but is also extremely expensive. IL-1 TRAP is another drug that blocks the effects of interleukin-1 and is also in the investigative phase of drug discovery.

Cure Arthritis With Turmeric: A Natural Way to Treat Arthritis (Including Rheumatoid Arthritis)

Scientific research is finding more and more ways in which this fantastic, delicious, natural ingredient is beneficial to our health in general and against this degenerative chronic condition in particular. This fabulous 'herb' or 'spice' is showing to be effective in the treatment of a number of diseases and health problems, such as arthritic and rheumatic conditions as well as various skin problems, weight problems and even depression. This natural ingredient can be taken as a supplement (any store - including online stores - selling natural health supplements will have it) or, as a spice. Let's find out why it is now regarded as a natural miracle against these chronic, degenerative conditions (against which there is still not much traditional medicine can do without negative side-effects):

1. Anti-Inflammatory
The anti-inflammatory properties of this natural ingredient are proven to highly beneficial against arthritic and rheumatic diseases (which, as we know, creates various inflammatory states throughout the body and, unfortunately, not only the joints).

Several studies have shown it has anti-inflammatory effects similar to those of many manufactured drugs; however, since this is a natural supplement, it creates no toxicity within your body and has no harmful side-effects.

How does it work? The anti-inflammatory properties of this natural ingredient stem from its inhibitory action against 2 enzymes (COX-2 and lipoxygenase), which are responsible for creating and maintaining a number of inflammatory mechanisms within our body. Moreover, this herb's health benefits also include its capacity to 'soothe' the body's inflammatory and allergic reaction to histamines, or to over/under activity, or trauma (of various kinds).

2. Anti-Oxidant
This ingredient has shown to be effective in protecting body cells from damage caused by oxidation (in the body, oxidation is a specific chemical reaction (triggered by a number of factors such as pollution, drugs, radiation, toxins, stress and even natural ageing) releasing the 'unstable' free radicals, which combine with other molecules to, eventually, destroy the cell). Anti-oxidants have the healthy property to neutralize free radicals and their destructive effects on the body.

Free radicals are the culprits of a series of skin problems (including premature ageing), as well as a number of diseases throughout the body, including cancer. With regards to arthritic and rheumatic conditions in particular, free radicals contribute to the inflammation and the damage caused to the joints and to other organs; thus, a potent anti-oxidant like turmeric will be highly beneficial, especially due to its own strong anti-inflammatory properties.

Treating Arthritis Naturally

Conventional medications for arthritis do help relieve pain but there are more and more arthritis sufferers who have found natural treatments that have shown great results after taking some to manage their condition. Should you decide to start treating yourself naturally, these are the natural cures that you might find beneficial:

1. Devil's Claw: The name of this treatment might sound weird but it has been found to be effective for arthritis. This herbal plant, which has a fruit that looks like the claw of the devil, has been helpful to the natives of Kalahari Desert in South Africa in alleviating the pains that is associated with arthritis and inflammations. People often make a tea out of Devil's Claw by brewing the roots in water. It might be better if you will use the whole plant because the other parts of this plant have flavonoids and these provide better relief from arthritis. This claim is backed by research done by French and German researchers that said that this plant works like cortisone because it holds a glycoside called harpogoside that can help lessen the inflammation. You can get this in tablet forms from health food companies and stores.


2. Water Therapy: This might probably be the easiest way to get relief from arthritis and this can also be one of the most effective therapies that you can get. You just have to drink warm water and your body, especially the affected parts, will be lubricated for an hour. It is important that the joints have adequate fluids so when bones rub against each other, it will be smooth. Another method that you can use in this kind of treatment is by putting the water in a container known as sensory deprivation tank that can keep the water's temperature the same with the temperature that a normal body should have.


3. Molasses: Molasses, when dissolved in water, will make a syrup that tastes like you have put a tablespoon of sugar in it. The British who have been using this to answer their craving for sweets found the soothing relief that it gave to the aches that they feel. Molasses is composed of many different minerals such as potassium, iron and magnesium.


4. Copper Accessories: The most popular accessory that is made out of copper that is considered a good way to treat arthritis is the copper bracelet. Whether this is effective or not is still a subject of debate between many people. An Australian study discovered that using bracelets that are made of copper can be an effective remedy for arthritis and pains that come with it but only when one is also taking aspirin to relieve the pain. There are substances in copper that can be absorbed by the skin, so it can also be effective. If you think it's worth a try, you can buy these bracelets at numerous online shops.

Using these so-called natural cures for arthritis has been helpful to some people but not every remedy will work for each person. Try each one to determine which works best for you.

Can Arthritis Be Causing My Shoulder Pain?

Shoulder pain is something that no one should have to live with. The problem is that it can sometimes be tricky to pinpoint exactly what has caused the pain in the first place. We typically chalk it up to getting older or some type of physical exertion that we have performed. But regardless of the source, it should never be ignored with the assumption that it will go away on it's own. Sometimes, the problem is more extensive than just a case of over-exertion. Sometimes, the pain is due to arthritis.

What Is Arthritis?

Simply put, arthritis is an inflammation of a joint. When a joint becomes inflamed, cartilage begins to become damaged and, eventually destroyed. Since cartilage is the absorbent padding between bones in a joint that allows it to move smoothly, the deterioration of this padding means that the bones are allowed to make contact. This contact causes swelling, pain and stiffness. The area may also become sore to the touch and there could even be some degree of muscle weakness present. Since the shoulder is comprised of four joints, this allows multiple areas where arthritis can set in.

Arthritis of the shoulder can be due to age, the result of a traumatic injury or wear-and-tear over time. Since we utilize our shoulder joints a great deal in our everyday lives, they can develop arthritis simply due to use. Of course, individuals who preform physically demanding work or those individuals who are involved in sports have a propensity to develop arthritis more often.

Diagnosing Arthritis

Arthritis is one condition that will not go away on it's own. Once it begins to affect a joint, it will only get worse in intensity and discomfort. That's why it is important to diagnose arthritis as soon as you begin to feel symptoms in order to minimize the discomfort and the damage to the joint.

The most effective ways to diagnose arthritis is through a physical examination and x-rays. Each provides their own support of the diagnosis, and together they build a strong enough case to support the theory. In some instances, a pain specialist may inject the area with a local anesthesia to see if it relieves some of the discomfort. If it does, this serves as further proof that your should is inflamed with arthritis.

Treatment Options

The best forms of treatment for an arthritic shoulder include moist heat, applying ice packs to the area in an effort to reduce inflammation and physical therapy. A pain specialist may also recommend non-steroid injections into specific areas if the level of pain becomes too intense.

Surgery can also be performed on an arthritic shoulder, although it is always a last resort option.

Psoriasis - Can It Protect Against Cancer?

Psoriasis is a chronic recurring disease, which usually manifests on the skin but may also affect the nails, the joints (5-30% of people with psoriasis) and the mucous membranes (1-2% of people with psoriasis).

The causes of psoriasis are yet unknown, but various studies suggest that psoriasis is transferred genetically. Relatives with psoriasis are found in about 50% of the people with psoriasis. Scientists have even managed to find some genes, which seem to be responsible for the course of psoriasis and even for the development of psoriatic arthritis.

One of the main psoriasis mechanisms is the abnormally fast production of the new skin cells by the body. The dead cells then build up and create plaques composed of thick layers of dead skin.

A person with psoriasis may never develop any actual psoriasis manifestations. Psoriasis may stay in the latent stage unless it is triggered by stress, skin trauma, an infectious disease, a sudden diet change, a sudden climate change, prolonged hypothermia and other factors.

Analysis of the blood and the skin of the people with psoriasis reveal certain deviations when compared to the people without psoriasis.

One of the most notable deviations is a high level of uric acid, which is elevated by a whole 20-30% in the blood of the people with psoriasis.

According to Professor, Dr. Lubert Stryer, uric acid levels with centuries have become higher in humans as an evolutionary replacement of Vitamin C functions in order to protect humans against oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is body cell damage - a result of the cell oxidation by oxygen in various chemical reactions taking place in the presence of oxygen in our bodies.

Dr. Lubert Stryer is a neurobiology professor from the Stanford University School of Medicine. Dr. Stryer has various noble honors, such as 2006 National Medal of Science, the American Chemical Society Award in Biological Chemistry, the Molecular Bioanalytics Award of the German Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology and others.

Research shows that Lower primates (lemurs etc.) have lower uric acid levels in their blood serum when compared to the higher primates (monkeys and humans) and other long-lived mammals.

Lower primates are known to have lower life spans and higher cancer rates when compared to the higher primates.

Does that mean that the uric acid protects the higher primates from the oxidative stress resulting in cancers?

Does that mean that the people with psoriasis are protected from the oxidative stress and from the cancer even better than the rest of the people?

We don't know that for sure, but that seems to be an intriguing and an exciting hypothesis.

People with psoriasis may possess various other benefits when compared to the people without psoriasis, all resulting from the high levels of the uric acid in the blood of the people with psoriasis. These benefits may include: high protection from the degenerative Central Nervous System disorders, such as Multiple sclerosis and Schizophrenia, extended lifespan and higher levels of intellectual activity.

What is Basal Joint Arthritis? An Overview

Basal joint arthritis mostly affects people over the age of forty. It can cause a great deal of pain and reduce the ability to perform many tasks. There are many symptoms that point to the development of this type of arthritis. There are also a variety of treatment options for those who experience this condition. If you believe you may be developing this condition, consider the following things.

What Causes Basal Joint Arthritis?

The exact root or cause of this disease is unknown. However, it is believed that certain factors can contribute to development of the condition. People over the age of forty are most commonly affected because cartilage can wear out over time. Having a job or hobby that requires constant use of the joint can also increase the chances of development. Previous injuries, such as sprains or fractures, of this joint can also be a major factor. Certain hereditary conditions, such as defective cartilage, can also increase your risk. Having more than one of these risk factors can double or triple your chances of developing this condition.

How Does Basal Joint Arthritis Affect Your Life?

The basal or thumb joint is used to perform many daily tasks. Opening jars, gripping or holding an object, and performing simple tasks may be affected. Consider how much the thumb is used to carry objects or grasp them and you will realize this condition can severely limit your activity. Something as simple as brushing your teeth can be difficult and painful, as you attempt to grip the brush. If you perform a job that requires you to use your hands, it can become very difficult.

What Are the Symptoms of Basal Joint Arthritis?

One of the first signs of this condition is pain at the bottom or joint of the thumb. However, as the condition worsens, you may experience swelling, tenderness, or even stiffness in the joint. In severe situations, you may notice an irregular popping in the joint. In the beginning, you may have a slight discomfort in the joint, but after time it will turn into pain.

Are There Treatments For Basal Joint Arthritis?

As with any other form of arthritis, there are treatment options. However, prevention is the most effective form of treatment. It is also the easiest thing to do. Fortunately, if you are beyond the point of prevention there are treatment options. Most doctors say that staying active is the best thing you can do. If you reduce the amount that you use the joint, it may become stiff. There are a number of devices and medications that can reduce pain as well. Your physician may suggest a temporary splint or an injection of corticosteroids to alleviate pain. There is no permanent fix for any type of arthritis, but these treatment options can help you live a normal life.

Arthritis does not have to debilitate the way you perform or eliminate the activities you enjoy. Many people live completely normal lives when suffering from this condition. Each year, there are many advances in the treatment of arthritis. However, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can greatly reduce your chances of developing this condition all together.

Wearing Supportive Braces With Joint Pain

If you suffer from joint pain and stiffness, you may be inclined to wear a brace to help stabilize the joint. Joints damaged by age or overuse may become weakened and stiff during everyday activities. A supportive brace may help alleviate this pain and stiffness throughout your busy day. Whether it's inflammation from an injury or arthritis, braces can offer patients a reprieve from the pain and stiffness.

What Are They?

A supportive brace is just as it sounds. It is a contraption that you wrap around the weakened joint which lends support and aid to the joint. There are many types of braces for such pain, such as a knee brace, ankle brace and the like. Generally the brace will have a type of restriction which keeps the joint in perfect alignment and can ease the pain associated with overused joints. For example, a knee brace can lend support to a weakened knee joint, realign the joint so that it is in proper alignment with the hip and back, and help ease the pain of misalignment.

If you have an injury to a joint, bracing it can help speed up the process of healing, by keep the joint in proper alignment. Braces with strong support are frequently utilized by individuals who have experienced some trauma to a joint, like overuse or sprains. For this, supportive braces can strengthen the muscles and ligaments associated with the injured joint by essentially acting as a second muscle group, keeping the injured muscles from experiencing additional trauma.

For those who suffer from arthritis, supportive braces can increase motility of the damaged joint and in some case, relieve the pain associated with the condition. Often arthritic braces act as an insulator, applying heat to the afflicted joint to reduce pain by keeping it warm. Neoprene sleeve are a common type of arthritic supportive braces. The neoprene sleeve can insulate and thereby help alleviate joint pain from arthritis.

Should I Just Go Get One?

As with any medical condition, it is always advisable to seek medical treatment for any injury or disorder. If you have joint pain, you may have a more serious arthritic condition which may require surgery. Minor injuries do not always require a supportive brace and in fact supportive braces can do more harm than good if worn inappropriately. This is why it is important to consult a physician before wearing a supportive brace. Only a physician can affirm whether a supportive brace is the right choice for you.

Osteoarthritis - Definition, Signs, and Symptoms

Osteoarthritis is a group of diseases and mechanical abnormalities that involve degradation of the joints. Sometimes, the degradation can include articular cartilage as well as the subchondral bone that is next to the joint. This condition is the most common form of arthritis and it is also referred to as degenerative arthritis or degenerative joint disease. This disease normally affects the hands, the feet and the spine. It also affects the large bearing joints such as the knees and the hips.

Clinical symptoms of this condition include pain, sharp ache or a burning sensation in the affected muscles and tendons. Other symptoms are stiffness, inflammation and a creaking or a crackling noise when you move or touch the affected joint. You may also experience muscle spasm as well as contractions in the tendons.

Osteoarthritis can lead to loss of cartilage; a protein matrix that lubricates and cushions the joints. When the bone surfaces are less protected as a result of loss of cartilage, the subchondral bone may be exposed and damaged. The re-growths may lead to a proliferation of ivory-like dense reactive bone in the central areas of the cartilage loss. This process is referred to as eburnation.

Although this condition is as a result of trauma, heredity has also been linked as another cause. This disease often affects several members of the same family. Recent studies show high prevalence of the disease among siblings especially identical twins. Sixty percent of osteoarthritis is said to be as a result of genetic factors. Available treatments for this condition include manual therapy, exercise and medications.

Knee Arthritis - Osteoarthritis and Knee Replacement

Do you suffer knee pain? Do you notice abnormal knee swelling after walking or light physical activity? Do you have osteoarthritis and are avoiding the doctor because you don't want knee surgery? Surgical knee replacement is a highly successful treatment for arthritis. Many patients regain up to 90% of mobility and quality of life after surgery. You may suffer from cartilage tears (meniscus tears). There are two menisci in your knee, made up of tough cartilage conforming to your bones. If these tear or wear down, the bones rub against each other and cause severe pain. If cartilage tears are caused through age and not traumatic injury, the symptoms can appear arthritic. Whether you have a meniscus tear or osteoarthritis, you may need knee replacement surgery.

Prior to any operation for knee pain or cartilage tears, you will need to discuss a range of issues with your doctor or surgeon. He/she will make an assessment of your knee including x-rays or other imaging techniques. Drugs such as aspirin that you are taking to deal with the pain and knee swelling may affect the body's ability to clot blood - be sure to let your doctor know. Your doctor may refer you to a surgeon for knee arthroscopy - where a small camera is surgically inserted into the knee so your orthopedic surgeon can diagnose the best procedure.

Knee replacement surgery has made great strides in 50 years. Patients used to be happy with 100 degrees of knee flexibility. Now, many patients find they get up to 155 degrees of flexibility with a greater sense of knee rotation and complete relief of cartilage tears, knee pain and knee swelling. Aggressive physiotherapy is necessary after knee arthroscopy and replacement surgery to gain this much mobility. Activities such as cycling and swimming promote the strength building in the hamstrings and quadriceps.

Recovery from knee arthroscopy and replacement surgery is quicker now because the operation is less invasive. Only a small 9cm incision in needed and no incisions into the quadriceps are required. Knee replacement surgery is not as unbearable as you might think - in fact the relief of knee pain and knee swelling greatly improves the quality of life. There are things you should be aware of and steps you will need to take when the surgery is over to get back your mobility, but the result will be a better quality of life.

While there have been great advances in medical technology, a successful outcome is determined by the patient's attitude and willingness to do the necessary therapy. Based on their experience, many doctors have somewhat low expectations for recovery and may not be very encouraging. It is up to the patient to find and follow an exercise program that has already shown proven results. Equally important is finding a trainer or mentor who has a positive attitude toward recovery from knee surgery and who can teach anyone the same mindset. Believing it can be done and working with someone who has already achieved the desired results is the key to returning to normal activities and remaining free from pain.

What Are Palindromic Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms

Palindromic rheumatoid arthritis disease is whereby you experience periodic episodes of pain, swelling, warmth, and stiffness of joints. You have recurrent attacks of transient inflammation in and around the joint. The pain is usually focused on two or three joints. The pain can be very severe and it is difficult to find relief.

Palindromic Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms

Palindromic rheumatoid arthritis is usually characterized by episodic articular, or periarticular pain. Joints that are affected are usually your fingers and knees. The pain may be intense but it does not stay for more than two or three days. The attacks can end as fast as they begin.
You can easily spot the specific pattern in these recurrent episodes of pain. In 60% of the cases of palindromic rheumatoid arthritis, pain-free periods may last for several weeks or months. In some cases, these attacks recur after years.

Rheumatoid factors in Palindromic Rheumatoid Arthritis

There are certain rheumatoid factors that may be present in some of the Palindromic rheumatoid arthritis patients. Some these rheumatoid factors include:

* It is the large joints that are most commonly afflicted in the recurrent episodes of attack.

* However, in the swelling of the periarticular tissues such as heel pads and finger pads, soft tissues are also involved.

* Aside from pain and swelling, the Palindromic rheumatoid arthritis patient may feel nodules just below the skin in subcutaneous tissues.

* Blood tests: If they indicate an elevation of the ESR (Erythrocyte sedimentation rate) and CRP (C-reactive protein) level, it is a rheumatoid factor.

Treatment for Palindromic Rheumatoid Arthritis

It is difficult to treat palindromic rheumatoid arthritis. One of the main reasons is attributed to the transient nature of the episodes of pain and attack.

Even the anti-inflammatory medicines may not be very effective. However, what is usually prescribed are disease-modifying drugs such as hydroxyxhloroquine or methotrexate for Palindromic rheumatoid arthritis patients.

In all these cases, the treatment is symptomatic. As such, they do not address the root cause of palindromic rheumatoid arthritis. More research is now being conducted for this special form of rheumatoid arthritis disease. Hopefully, with more light shed on this disease, there can be a cure some day.

Rheumatoid Arthritis and Nursing Care

Rheumatoid arthritis is a horrible disease, it can strike you at any age, it is always delivering disease flare-ups and often followed by remission. It can strike numerous joints at one time which can always cause permanent deterioration and deformity.

It is a disease that always gets worse after a period of time and leads to painful swelling and permanent damage in the joints of the body particularly the wrists, feet, fingers, ankle and so on.

The injured tissues cause reddening, swelling and pain in the particular area. Apart from inflammatory joints, this disease can even hit one's internal organs such as lungs, eyes and heart. It is therefore a systemic ailment that often produces excruciating intolerable pain.

A burning pain in the joints that last for one month or more at a stretch indicates Rheumatoid Arthritis. You should take some action,however,if the pain travels to your sacroiliac joints of lower back or to the upper spine, the disease is other than this one.

Early treatment for rheumatoid arthritis is very important. for the prevention of a worse state of affairs. Some years ago, many rheumatoid arthritis patients were disabled within the first two to three years of this disease. It is a known fact that some people are more susceptible than others to the joint damage and disability associated with the disease. For this reason, not all patients require an aggressive treatment.

When the rheumatoid arthritis is moderate to severe, drugs like Trexakk, Arava, Enbrel, Humira, Remicade and Rheumatrex may be prescribed. when Stronger, newer drugs, such as Orencia and Rituxan are needed to patients who don't respond well to the above drugs.

A very important thing is taking a healthier approach towards your lifestyle which will also ease the effects of rheumatoid arthritis. This includes losing weight and not smoking, as well as eating a balanced diet filled with fruits, vegetables, protein, low-fat dairy, vitamin C and calcium.

Smoking and Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is more than a disease of the joints. It is a chronic condition affecting the whole body. In this article I'm going to consider rheumatoid arthritis and especially its possible link and association with smoking. For the benefit of those not familiar with the condition I'll add some introductory material, so bear with me.

The Science Bit

Well, as the name suggests, rheumatoid arthritis is an arthritic condition. The other common form of arthritis is termed osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is due to wear and tear on the joints and is often a disease of old age. Rheumatoid arthritis differs in many respects from osteoarthritis. First off, it can occur at any age. Its onset is often sudden and symptoms such as joint pain are common. The disorder causes joint inflammation and is progressive. If unchecked it damages and destroys joints. It is relatively common and affects about 1% of the population. The cause is really not known, but there seems to be a genetic component which interacts with environmental factors. Rheumatoid arthritis is an auto-immune disease. In auto-immune immune disorders, the immune system goes 'haywire' and starts attacking normal healthy tissue. In addition to joint damage this condition is often associated with fatigue and a general feeling of 'being unwell'

Smoking and Rheumatoid Arthritis

So what has all this to do with smoking? A Swedish study has found that smoking is an important risk factor in developing the disease. Other factors are important, of course. For instance, women are more prone to the disorder than men; it is more common in the 40 to 60 age group and there is often a family history. Workers at the Karolinska institute in Stockholm looked to see if there was a link between rheumatoid arthritis and smoking. Their research found that heavy smokers, who smoked for at least 20 years, were two and a half times more likely to contain an antibody closely associated with the condition and especially with a severe form of the disease. The researchers concluded that smoking may account for 35% of cases where the antibody is present and 20% of cases overall. It is thought that smoking, particularly heavy smoking, acts as a trigger for the disease in those who already have a genetic predisposition. The risk remains high even in those who have quit smoking. Smoking remains the only known modifiable risk factor for developing rheumatoid arthritis and thus provides a further incentive to quit smoking, or better still, to never start.

The Personal Touch

I was inspired to write this article because my wife is affected with a severe form of rheumatoid arthritis. Also, like me she is an ex-smoker. It is possible that smoking may have in some way contributed to the onset of her condition, although she was never a heavy smoker. We will never really know. Nevertheless, the best thing my wife did, for her overall health, was to quit.

Different Arthritis Symptoms

The arthritis is the disease of joints. Due to arthritis, your joints will not move quickly and give pain on each movement. The whole body depends on the joints, so that is the big problem because when you will not able to move easily then that will disturb your routine and makes you lazy. The arthritis causes due to different reasons. That can happen due to injury, due to some medical problem, due to infection and also with the age that will happen. If you are not too old or you are at initial stage then you can cure yourself from that problem. The old people too take treatments for getting relief from that problem but only if they start their treatment as soon as possible and in proper manners. You have to identify it by arthritis symptoms for getting treatment at the initial level.

The first main arthritis symptom is that you feel pain in your joints. Some people feel pain when they move but there are also many people who feel all the time even they move or not. Due to pain they can not participate in the daily activities and you can not be happy all the time. The other symptom is that you will not move quickly. When you want to move, then you feel pain in your joints and will not perform any activity. When you not bear weight on your joints then how will you walk? Some times when you try to move, you clearly listen the voice like two bones interacted.

The other arthritis symptom is that the body of those people start to thin especially from the area near to joints. While on the other hand some people have swelling on their joints. Some have redness on their joints. And some also feel that their joints are warm. In few cases that is also seen that people feel erection on their joints and can bend their parts near to joints. There are different arthritis symptoms, because the whole body is attached with each other with those joints and the whole body performance depends on those joints.

The other arthritis symptoms are: the fever attack on those people when they face joint problem. And they will be in low fever all the time and feel pain in their all body. Some people start losing their weight when they caught in that problem and that is dangerous because the food which they eat consumes there. Due to this, you body requirements will not fulfill. So, when you fall into that problem then you have to take the fruits in more quantity and must drink lot of milk. Some times, you also feel fatigue, and feel weak. That will also create problems in the other main parts of your body which are main parts of your body. And on those parts, you life is running. Due to this, your heart, lung or kidney also affect by this and will not perform well. The main functions of the body depend on those three factors and when they will not work well and you will go closer to death day by day.

Problems With Yeast Infections and Lupus Or Psoriatic Arthritis - Stay From Sugary Foods

Someone I know always had problems with yeast infections (and she has lupus). Now, she is perimenopausal and all the hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings are awful. Her gynecologist prescribed the estrogen patch and she has the worst yeast infection she has ever had. She was prescribed diflucan, and it still isn't gone completely. She knows about the bad foods, probiotics, and helpful herbs and she has been doing everything she can to get this under control. Insomnia and lupus is difficult to deal with on a daily basis, but this infection is not tolerable at all.

My sibling has psoriatic arthritis, which is very similar to lupus. But, doctors have told me that almost all people with chronic diseases have high candida and bacteria levels. They also said that we mostly all have hyperventilation problems, too. It means that we do not breathe correctly and get dizzy very quickly when exercising. We are supposed to breathe from our stomach instead from our chest, but that is another story anyway.

He has tried these anti-candida herbs/supplements for several years, which doesn't seem to really help but only make my symptoms worse. You are probably just like him. If you eat a lot of sugary foods, you feel so severely tired. He feels drunk and so tired whenever he consumes too much yeast, sugar, or carbs. He also talks loud like a drunk.

The things that work for him are: staying away from sugary foods, eating less, and eating more vegetables. If you stick with that, then you will have enough energy to do your things. It is very hard to resist eating those yummy tasting foods that bad for us sometimes, but you got to try to stick with it. We also have a liver that is working overtime to try to cleanse our body. Our immune system disorder puts more stress on the liver, so eating the dark leafy vegetables helps to clean out the liver better and give you more energy. Eating good foods and eating less is very important for us.

Frankincense Proves a Natural Arthritis and Gout Medication

An age old substance could offer new hope for sufferers of inflammatory arthritis and the more common osteoarthritis. That substance is frankincense, a resin derived from the hardy Boswellia tree. Frankincense has been traded for over 5000 years, and is best known for its aroma. It is commonly used in incense and perfumes.

Frankincense is also widely used in various religious rites, and was said to be among the gifts presented to baby Jesus by the biblical Magi, or wise men, along with gold and myrrh (a similar reddish resin). Frankincense is still burned in the Roman Catholic Church.

Frankincense has also long been valued for its medicinal properties. The resin is edible, and is used in Asian traditional medicine to aid digestion and promote healthy skin. Frankincense has also been used in Ayurvedic (traditional Indian) medicine for hundreds of years, and is called dhoop. Dhoop is used for treating arthritis, healing wounds, strengthening the female hormonal system and combating germs and mosquitoes.

Scientists have been investigating frankincense as a treatment for chronic inflammatory conditions such as ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, asthma, cancer, and rheumatoid and osteoarthritis In 2008, researchers from John Hopkins University and the Hebrew University of Jerusalem reported that frankincense smoke was a psychoactive drug that relieved depression and anxiety in mice.

In another 2008 study at the University of California, 70 osteoarthritis patients taking a frankincense extract showed a significant improvement in their condition in less than seven days, with no major adverse effects. The extract was a proprietary product developed by Laila Nutraceuticals.

Recently, scientists from Cardiff University in Wales, noting that frankincense was a traditional herbal remedy for arthritis in the local Somali community, began to research it in the lab. Their research focused on whether and how extracts of frankincense could help reduce arthritic inflammation and reduce pain.

They were able to demonstrate that an extract of a rare frankincense species, Boswellia frereana, inhibited the production of key inflammatory molecules, helping to prevent the painful breakdown of cartilage that is characteristic of arthritis and gouty arthritis.

"What our research has managed to achieve is to use innovative chemical extraction techniques to determine the active ingredient in frankincense," explained Dr. Ahmed Ali, "Having done this, we are now able to further characterize the chemical entity and compare its success against other anti-inflammatory drugs used for treating the condition."

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), arthritis is the most common form of disability in the US, impacting nearly 21 million adults. Arthritis can be classified as either inflammatory or non-inflammatory. Inflammatory arthritis is characterized by the presence of inflammatory white blood cells in the joint fluid.

Gout is an inflammatory form of arthritis, as is rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is a non-inflammatory form of the disease. Both forms are incurable, but can be managed with lifestyle changes and arthritis or gout medications.

Mum's Knitting - A Natural Arthritis Treatment Story

Arthritis can cause such a lot of discomfort in so many ways when you get older. It was one thing when mum started to lose her sight a bit as she got older; she still managed to knit things for all her grandchildren, and could do most of it from a good memory. However once arthritis started to cause her the discomfort that it typically does, her knitting needles became something which caused her pain and not pleasure.

Mum has knitted things since she was younger than me. She knitted my school jumpers and I always had some striped something or other from socks to scarves from remnants! Her hands have always been nimble. Arthritis is strange because it makes your fingers painful but they can also swell and become stiff. It is very frustrating to watch somebody try to accomplish something that used to be so easy.

That is when we starting trying some remedies to see if we could help her. I am the one in the family that is more inclined to try natural treatments so I looked into some of the remedies available. There are all different types of arthritis but two of the main ones are rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. Not knowing which one mum had, as there is also another type which appears more with age which is degenerative arthritis, we thought we would try something which has helped many people with the symptoms, so I bought her some omega 3 fish oil. Most people do not get enough of this type of oil in their diet anyway so it was worth a try. Sure enough, it has helped her immensely.

Now? Well she is no longer with us, but I know that she managed to knit right up until she couldn't sit up. The good part was, her quality of life was helped by a natural arthritis treatment. Who would have thought that a natural arthritis treatment using an oil supplement could bring somebody so much more pleasure and quality of life by relieving some of the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis? I didn't, but now I endorse the use of natural products to all the people I care about who suffer from arthritis.

Arthritis: Knee Pain and Joint Pain Most Common Symptoms

Do you Suffer from Aching Bones and Stiff Joints?

Arthritis is a condition in which the joints of the body become inflamed. Knee pain, joint pain and knotted or inflamed joints are common symptoms of arthritis which range from mild to extreme. People who suffer from arthritis may find their movement becomes limited by aching bones and stiff and sore joints. Arthritis is most commonly found in the hands, mostly affecting the fingers and wrists, but also occurs in the knee joints.

The word itself "arthritis" literally means inflammation of the joints from the Greek word 'arthron' meaning "joint" and the Latin word "itis," meaning "inflammation".

What to expect from Arthritis

While some of the most common complaints from arthritis sufferers are painful knees and joints, other joints to be affected by arthritis, the hips, finger joints, thumb joints and lower spine. Shoulders, elbows, wrists, ankles, and toe joints are less commonly affected.

Arthritis Care UK estimates that there are close to 10 million people in the U.K. alone that suffer from one form or another of arthritis. This makes it one of the most widely spread conditions in the UK. Seeing as arthritis affects so many people, let's take a closer look at what exactly it is.

Symptoms of arthritis vary in strength and severity; they can often start off mild and become stronger as the condition develops. Knee pain and joint pain may start to develop especially before or during weather fluctuations. Pain may develop in the joints of the wrists, knuckles, fingers, ankles and toes. Shoulders may become stiff first thing in the morning and also give rise to pain. Movement may become limited in the hips and other affected areas.

Knee Pain and Joint Pain - Possible Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis

In rheumatoid arthritis, knee joints can become inflamed and swollen, resulting in pain, joint stiffness and in extreme cases, reduced movement or even loss of joint function. Rheumatoid arthritis affects the elbows, knees, shoulders and hip joints. All of these joints contain a special lubricating fluid called synovial fluid. The fluid of the joints comes under attack from the body's own immune system. Painful and inflamed joints are often symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis that may lead to discomfort and can often making movement painful.

Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms tend to develop gradually, over a period of several weeks and tend to be more common in women than men and usually starts between the ages of 40-60. The word 'rheumatoid' comes from the Gk. rheuma meaning "stream, current, a flowing," as this condition affects the fluid in joints.

Bones become Worn Away in Oseotoarthritis

One of the most common forms of arthritis is osteoarthritis and is caused by a wearing away of the joints, most specifically, the cartilage at the end of the knee and hip joints. Other joints such as the fingers, thumbs and lower spine may also be affected. These are predominantly the weight-bearing joints. The word 'osteon' comes from the Greek language and means 'bone'.

What actually happens to the cartilage when someone has osteoarthritis is that it can become rough and brittle, it literally gets worn down. Sometimes the underlying bone tries to compensate for the additional load on the cartilage and bony growths can occur at the outer edges, making the joint appear knotted and thick. Over time, the affected joints can become stiff and inflamed, leading to pain and often immobility.

There are natural health products that may be of benefit in alleviating the suffering and symptoms of arthritis.

How to Strengthen Arthritic Knees

Our knees take a considerable amount of punishment during our lifetimes. The knee is involved in every step we take and the constant pounding can take its toll. Arthritic knees are not uncommon, In fact, if you have been active over the years in sports or just day to day living, there will be some internal micro damage resulting in arthritis which is commonly called osteoarthritis.

Knee osteoarthritis of course is a major problem in the 21 st century due to the fact that we as individuals are heavier. In turn the heavier you are the more force that is driven through the knee with every step you take. To help keep your knees as mobile and as pain free as possible, there are a number of different exercises you can do to help strengthen the knee. The stronger the muscles are that surround the arthritic knee, the longer you can use them and stay active with less pain. Stronger muscles surrounding the knee act like a buffer preventing the knee joint itself from absorbing more punishment then is required.

The following exercises are considered appropriate to help strengthen your arthritic knees,

1. Stationary biking. Biking is a wonderful exercise that not only promotes blood flow around the knee capsule itself but, promotes more range of motion that will help with overall mobility and stamina. Biking whether it is stationary or mobile, is also a great exercise to keep your quadriceps and hamstrings strong. Biking may be considered the best exercise for your knees that you can do.

2. Water Therapy. Water or pool therapy is good at reducing the impact of our bodyweight while completing exercise. Your bodyweight decreases the deeper you are in water therefore, exercise in a pool is more comfortable for many individuals that have arthritis that has progressed to the point that, walking on land has become so painful that their mobility has declined. In water, you have complete control over the amount of resistance you provide your knees by the speed of movement in which you complete the exercises.

3. Weight Training. There are three main exercises that are effective in strengthening the arthritic knee without driving extreme forces through the knee joint itself. Seated leg extensions whether you do them at home with several pounds or, go to a gym in use more sophisticated equipment, this exercise builds strength in the quadriceps which help absorb the shock of your bodyweight each time you take a step.

Hamstring Curls are another exercise that helps build muscle strength and balance within the knee joint also. Weak hamstrings and strong quadriceps will add additional discomfort to the arthritic knee by having unequal forces working against each other applying more stress in the knee. The quadriceps generally are always stronger than the hamstring group as a whole so, having weaker than normal hamstrings does not help the knee joint.

Calve Raises. This is another exercise that can be done effectively in your home or in the gym. This exercise helps build and strengthen the calf muscles which also play a part in protecting the arthritic knee. This exercise can be done without driving excessive force through the knee causing more pain. Strong calves help absorb impact each time we step as well, therefore stronger calves act like a buffer between the surface and the knee joint from below.

This is a sample of the main exercises that are available to a knee where arthritis has advanced to the point that care has to be taken in prolonging the knee and, reducing pain. Your choice of exercises of course will depend on your age, how far advanced the osteoarthritis is and, your overall medical condition. when it comes to an arthritic knee, exercise is highly recommended by both orthopedic surgeons and physical therapists.

Maintaining an exercise program for your knees will help maintain strength and mobility which arthritis is always trying to take away if allowed to go unchecked.

Arthritis Medicine For Dogs - Joint Protection For Your Pet

Arthritis medicines for dogs had never been so useful and functional until today. With the alarming population growth of dogs with arthritis, experts know that it is important to administer reliable medicines for dogs to control or prevent arthritis.

Like humans, dogs have a remarkable array of cartilage, bones, and ligaments that make up the canine skeletal system. Just like the typical bone structures in humans, dogs' bones are also connected by joints. These joints provide flexibility for jumping, running, moving the neck and head, climbing, and trotting.

Joint Damage

For proper lubrication and to ensure that bones maintain flexibility, a thin membrane known as synovium provides synovial fluid. However, due to the joints' wear and tear and intermittent cases of diseases or injuries, joints can be damaged and may cause inflammation or arthritis.

The most common cause of dog arthritis is old age. Due to the wear and tear of the joints or cartilages, a protective layer that guarantees bone flexibility, joint inflammation or arthritis develops. And dogs cannot simply escape this condition. And even if there cannot be marvelous medications to treat dog arthritis, much can be done to help dogs bear the pains arthritis can bring.

At some point, surgery can be administered to dogs with severe cases of arthritis. However, most dogs experience manageable arthritis and are simply given medications to control pain. Along with the right diet and consistent exercise, dogs can effectively manage the bouts of arthritis attack.

Pain Relievers

One of the most distracting effects of arthritis in dogs is pain. Unlike humans, who have higher tolerance for pain, dogs may find it hard coping with the soreness and throbbing that arthritis can bring.

Hence, it is important that dogs be given pain relievers. Health experts say that pain relievers used by humans can also be used in dogs. Although dogs are prone to side effects, controlling pain can still be provide significant relief.

For so many years, aspirin has been the most common pain reliever for humans. With this, experts say it can also be used in dogs. However, dog owners should take note that aspirin can also cause stomach irritation in dogs especially if the medication has been taken with an empty stomach. Hence, it is advisable that aspirin must be taken during meals.

Also, keep in mind that dogs should not be given more than two tablets of aspirin in a week. Try to consider your dog's weight as well for proper dosage. For example, a 30 to 40 pound dog should take half tablet twice a day.

Fewer Side Effects

On the other hand, some medicines are said to be more effective and have fewer side effects. One good example is Rimadyl, generic name for Carprofen. This medication aids in controlling pain. However, just like any drug, long-term use may cause adverse effects such as liver damage. Hence, veterinarians suggest that dogs are subject to regular blood tests just to assess the normal functioning of the liver.

Some medicines are also effective in stimulating the creation of joint fluid known as synovial fluid. They can also impede the accumulation of harmful enzymes that trigger swelling or soreness in the joints. These medications attach to torn or broken cartilage to increase metabolism, thus, speeding up the progress of repair.

One good example is Adequan or polysulfated glycosaminoglycan. This is an injectable medication for dog arthritis. Since it is injectable, Adequan is said to be fast acting and effective when administered through intramuscular injection. Best of all, experts say that this specific type of arthritis medication for dogs can provide pain relief as long as six months.

Some medicines are designed to provide fast relief with minimal side effects and gastrointestinal problems. And with the natural behavior of dogs, some medicines provide ease in administering treatment.

Supplements

Supplements count as one of the most important medications for dogs with arthritis. These medicines do not just provide reliable pain relief but can also promote proper shaping of cartilage and joint.

Veterinarians suggest that these medicines should be administered in dogs that are still at the earliest stage of arthritis. In this way, further damage and inflammation in the joints can be prevented. Moreover, these medicines try to preserve the remaining joints to facilitate growth and repair and maintain the normal functioning of the skeletal system.

To date, there are still no medications that can effectively eliminate dog arthritis. But with the help of arthritis medicines for dogs, such as pain relievers and supplements, dog arthritis can be bearable. To be on the safe side, make sure to discuss all treatments with your veterinarian.

Osteoarthritis and Cartilage Degeneration

In simple words degeneration occurs when cartilage, which serves as the working surface of joint, is replaced by the bone. Synovitis is the inflammation inside the joint capsule in which joint is located. Synovial membrane produces synovial fluid, which acts as a lubricant for the joint. In OA this membrane gets inflamed and quantity of the fluid produced decreases

Aetiology (causes) of OA: External causes - Trauma and micro-traumas of the joint, functional overloading, hypermobility of joints (extra flexible joints).

Pathogenesis (resultant effects): Artificial ageing of cartilage takes place as a result of traumas and overloading. Metabolism in the cartilage is disturbed. Cartilage loses elasticity and becomes rough, and it starts cracking. As cartilage does not absorb (cushion) the load, the load is born by the bone under the cartilage thereby as a result the bone gets compressed. Lose fragments of cartilage inside the joint irritate the synovial membrane, which leads to its frequent inflammation.

Symptoms:

1. Pain of joints occurs under the load, which gets severe towards the evening and decreases by the night.

2. During initial stages the pain is felt during first steps, which then disappears.

3. Frequent jamming of the joint accompanied by an acute pain and is caused when dead piece of cartilage comes between articular surfaces. The pain subsequently disappears by a particular movement, which removes it from the articular surfaces.

4. Cracks in the joints.

5. Relatively small restricted mobility in the joint.

After all these agonies, one can say that joints are the most favored places for OA

Treatment: Generally speaking, there is not much one can do to get relief from OA as cartilage degeneration can not be reversed. Anti-inflammatory drugs can get you temporary relief. Physiotherapy is also a good option. One can also try Su-jok therapy and in some people it has shown very good results. Besides all the preventive measures, physical exercises and medications, one must remember that it is very important to get your cartilage metabolism on track and for this there has to be something which can help you. Glucosamine has proved to be a good supplement for not only getting the relief from severe pains related to osteoarthritis and cartilage degeneration, and even helps you get back to a normal life. Liquid glucosamine is much more effective than in the form of capsules.

Difference Between Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid Arthritis - 5 Easy Tips That You Can Use Today!

What is the difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis? What are their special precautions and natural treatments? Find out the expert answers in this article.

Both these forms of arthritis have got some similarities as well as differences. Their exact causes are not known. While osteoarthritis often accompanies aging, rheumatoid arthritis can occur in any age group and is also found in children and adults.

Osteoarthritis can be commonly found in people around the age group of 60. The intensity of pain and degree of the problem varies according to their lifestyle. Rheumatoid arthritis might develop at any age, although during remission period, there might be a complete lack of symptoms of pain.

Broadly speaking, these are the major signs of difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis -

1) Pain is a common characteristic in both forms of arthritis. It is also one of the major distinguishing factors which doctors use for diagnosis and to identify the difference them.

In osteoarthritis, the pain might occur in only one joint, for example in the right knee. On the other hand, in rheumatoid arthritis the pain is generally found occurring on the joints on both sides of the body. For example, there might be pain in both knees.

2) "Wear and tear" of the cartilage cushions is the primary reason for osteoarthritis. The cartilage cushions act as shock absorbers that prevent the bones of the joint from rubbing together. When this cartilage is damaged due to overuse or injury, it causes osteoarthritis and leads to inflammation and swelling in the joints.

In rheumatoid arthritis, the pain and inflammation in the joints take place well before any damage occurs in the cartilage cushions. In fact, frequent occurrence of chronic inflammation causes damage to the cartilage and intense pain.

3) Factors that might lead to the occurrence of osteoarthritis are - obesity, joint injury, overuse of joints and heredity. On the other hand, obesity might aggravate the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, but it does not play any role in developing of that condition in the first place.

4) One of the major difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis is that osteoarthritis affects only the joints, while rheumatoid arthritis can also affect many other parts in the body.

5) What is the difference between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis in terms of treatment? In rheumatoid arthritis, drugs that suppress immune system activity are often prescribed; whereas they are not required in osteoarthritis. However, anti-inflammatory drugs are common mode of treatment in both forms of arthritis.

Omega-3 fatty acid supplementation in the diet by using fish oil supplements is one of the best, most effective and natural ways of treating the symptoms of both forms of arthritis.

They are also free of the potential side effects that most of the description based anti-inflammatory drugs suffer from. On the contrary, they provide a lot of health benefits such as improvement in brain health, cardiovascular health, digestive system, memory and concentration, skin health, joints and much more.

Green lipped mussel found in New Zealand is also another excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. It plays an effective role in reducing pain and joint stiffness, increasing grip strength and enhancing mobility in people suffering from osteoarthritis. It has excellent anti-inflammatory properties and is used in combination with fish oil supplements to provide effective long-term relief in arthritis symptoms.

However, if you are using blood thinner medications such as aspirin on medical prescription, then you should consult your doctor before including omega-3 supplements or fish oil supplements for arthritis relief as they are natural blood thinners. This is to ensure that you do not take too many blood thinners as it could lead to potential side effects.

Rheumatoid Arthritis - 6 Tips To Fight The Pain

Living with rheumatoid arthritis can be a very painful affair. It might mean living with and enduring chronic pain, fatigue and joint stiffness for years. It can even make you miserable for the rest of your life!

Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease where the white blood cells attack healthy tissues, specifically the joints and cartilages, for no apparent reason. If you happen to be afflicted with this disease, you might be in for a very difficult time. But as with all other diseases, you can adopt several measures to help ease the pain brought by the symptoms of this crippling disease. Here are a few suggestions that may help you in handling the pain when a rheumatoid arthritis attack is in the offing:

Live a healthier lifestyle. It is never too late to start living healthy. Losing weight can be good for your joints - the less you weigh, the lesser the pressure on the joints and hence, you will feel less pain. So, start eating a healthy diet and get enough sleep to keep your weight at a healthier range.

Pop in a pill to reduce the pain - No matter at what stage your rheumatoid arthritis might be in, taking anti-inflammatory drugs such as aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen may help keep the pain and the inflammation under control. However, keep in mind that all drugs have a tendency to cause certain side effects. So, take caution in taking these drugs for they might just increase your risks of developing certain heart problems and may lead to gastrointestinal bleeding. Your best bet? Take acetaminophen. It can effectively do the job without the risks!

Stretch those joints! Stretching is an important part of any exercise routine because it greatly enhances your flexibility. When doing your stretches, stop whenever you feel a mild discomfort and hold the position for 10 to 30 seconds before proceeding.

Try weight lifting - Making exercise a regular part of your routine may bring you tons of benefits. Performing moderate exercises such as weight lifting and aerobics can help ease mild to moderate rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. In this case, weight lifting is an ideal exercise since it improves your flexibility, strength and balance thereby allowing you an increased capability in handling the symptoms of the disease.

Before doing your lifts, don't forget to do some stretching exercises. Start with 3 sets of 8 to 10 repetitions. You can even begin your training without using any weights at all! Weights may be gradually added as your routine progresses. Lift the weights slowly and evenly to prevent doing any more damage to the joints and cartilages. Take things easy. Take a rest when your joints flare up to avoid adding any more strain to your already aching joints.

Try alternative therapy - Some people swear by the positive results of aqua therapy and Tai Chi in relieving the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Just remember to find a qualified practitioner before embarking on these routines. And as always, consult with your doctor first before doing any exercises.

Strive to learn more about the disease - Knowledge is power. To increase your fighting chances against rheumatoid arthritis, try to learn as much as you can about this disease. A large number of online as well as offline sources can give you all the information that you might need. When in doubt, ask your doctor to provide you with some reference on where to look for additional help.

A Battle Plan For Osteoarthritis Pain

Are you finally at your breaking point with osteoarthritis pain? You've literally beaten the streets seeking out all the various doctors and specialists you can afford and are not quite sure where to turn next. Perhaps you've been working too hard looking in all the wrong places. Did you know that there are many pain fighting nutrients found in everyday foods that can substantially reduce the inflammation so common in osteoarthritis. These very same nutrients just by being present in the body can and will, if in adequate supply, begin repairs on damaged tissues and the surrounding joints.

This isn't news for Naturopathic doctors or the many health enthusiasts out there. Naturopaths and health enthusiasts alike focus all of their energies on looking for natural remedies. One of their other goals is to avoid causing additional unwanted problems with a treatment meant to heal. With all of that in mind, they have chosen the route of nutrition and have met with a good measure of success without the back draft of side effects from excessive drugs and pharmaceuticals.

We're talking about a lot of nutrition here. The main dilemma with osteoarthritis is the rapid speed at which the cartilage breaks down. The cartilage actually deteriorates much faster than our bodies can rebuild it so the solution is certainly not drugs. That's a pretty one-sided treatment. While you're being medicated, you're probably losing a ton of nutrients as well as more cartilage. Doesn't make much sense unless you're comfortable with the eventual loss of all of your cartilage. Nutrition and plenty of it is the definite answer. Especially the kind of nutrition that's contributive to joint strengthening and rebuilding. The hard facts are if you don't eat the nutrients, your body won't have what it needs to strengthen and rebuild cartilage. You've got to have these nutrients. It's that simple.

Even if you've had unbearable joint pain from osteoarthritis for years you can begin to do something about it now and see results soon by getting healing nutrients in your body by putting them on your breakfast, lunch and dinner plates.

Before we talk about the specific nutrients be sure you understand how important water is to this solution for pain. It will do little good if you consume a bunch of nutrients and drink no water. Water is vital. Every bodily function is dependent on water. The water you drink will carry all those wonderful nutrients you consume to your bloodstream and then directly to your cartilage. If you don't drink any water your body will have a tough time utilizing the nutrients. You might as well say that you're wasting your money on nutrients that your body will never get to use.

Studies have found that particular phytochemicals reduced the risk of osteoarthritis in the knees to almost 40 percent. The phytochemicals singled out were vitamin E, lutein and lycopene. Most of your brilliant colorful fruits and vegetables are loaded down with these beneficial phytochemicals. For vitamin E, head for the wheat germ, olive oil, nuts and seeds.

Get a bit of sunshine for that necessary vitamin D. Just five minutes a few times a week in the sun is plenty. No need to subject yourself to skin cancer. Vitamin D helps protect your cartilage and your bones. If you don't get enough your risk for problematic osteoarthritis increases.

Your body needs vitamin C too. It requires it to make collagen, a fundamental part of your cartilage, muscles and bones. Without vitamin C to build with, your joints tend to weaken. Deficiencies speed up the rate of deterioration and weakness. If you feel that your osteoarthritis has gotten worse, it just might be that you're not getting enough C. Typically, those who get lots of vitamin C in their diets experience an easier time with symptoms.

The bottom line again is nutrition. Do all you can to get as much as you can into your body. And drink lots of water; at least six to eight glasses a day. You can win this battle.

Why Is There Pain In Your Hip Joint?

?Hip joints are in constant movement, they are always involved when it comes to any kind of change in position. That is why you most certainly notice this kind of pain, you just use them all the time. You can feel hip pain around the hip joints and it is quite painful.

The most common cause for hip joint pain is usually age, but it doesn't mean that young people don't experience this sort of pain. When a human being gets older, all the joints, muscles and tendons lose their strength, they become weaker, lose their elasticity and wear off. Although it is more common in people over 40, youngsters may experience hip pain because of various other reasons.

For example, quite common reason for hip pains are hip fractions that are normally due to falls or accidents. This may happen to young people, too!

Nerve irritation or muscle strain are quite common reasons. There is a major nerve that controls lower leg function and this nerve is crossing the hip. That's why you may feel this pain around your hip and going down the leg, if these nerves are irritated. You may have pain because of muscles that help to move the hip. If these muscles are overused, they result into muscle strain.

There are also two medical conditions that cause hip pain such as arthritis and bursitis.

Needless to say that when your hip is hurting, you certainly can't do sports, run, jog etc. You should also avoid jumping and any kind of activities where you have to spread your legs widely.

Also you need to pay attention how you sleep - it is better to sleep on your back or stomach and definitely not on your hurting hip. And it is suggested to avoid long periods of sitting and too much stair climbing.

You probably can not do it anyway because of the pain, but it is suggested to not bend the hurting hip. Also it would be wise to control your bodyweight as overweight people have more mass to put on the hip.

A massage may also help, but if the pain is excessive, see a doctor. If you have some kind of a medical condition, doctors give the treatment. If you have just injured your hip, they usually prescribe you some painkillers, but first they make sure if you haven't any kind of medical condition such as arthritis or something like that. With some patients doctors even decide that they need a hip replacement surgery. It comes up especially with patients who have osteonecrosis or acute arthritis.

To diagnose an arthritis, x-rays are used. It is shown on a x-ray picture where the calcium is deposited.

Herbal Remedies For Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition which is considered to be a chronic, inflammatory disorder that causes the immune system to attack the joints. This debilitating disease is a disabling and painful inflammatory condition, and can often lead to a major loss of mobility due to pain and joint expiration. Since rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic disease, it often affects extra-articular tissues throughout the body including the skin, blood vessels, heart, lungs, and muscles.

A number of herbs have been shown to feature significant anti-inflammatory properties. Some herbs also can be potential painkillers as well as being anti-inflammatory in nature. However, further testing of possible herbal remedies is still in the early stages and it would be difficult to tell the true effectiveness of these herbs. A number of promising herbal substitutes for painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs are shown below to harbor significant anti-inflammatory properties:.

 Birch leaf juice - Acts as a diuretic without irritating the kidney. It is advised to take 1 tablespoon three times daily.

 Boswellia - Boswellia, has been investigated for its effects on arthritis. The herb has a unique anti-inflammatory action, and acts much like the conventional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). People are advised to take 400-800 mg of extract in capsules or tablets three times per day.

 Blueberries and cherries - These berries are rich sources of flavonoid molecules, specifically proanthocyanidins. These flavonoids possess membrane and collagen stabilizing, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory actions, including many other functions that are very beneficial in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

 Celery seeds - These seeds help clear uric acid from the joints of gout and arthritis patients. To prepare, boil 1 tsp. of seeds in 1 cup of water for fifteen minutes, strain and sip.

 Dandelion - Noted to dispel uric acid. Take 3 capsules daily, 1 tbsp. juice or 1 cup tea, twice daily for four to six weeks to reduce the frequency and intensity of pain, and to strengthen the connective tissue.

 Devil's claw root - Is known to be effective in reducing the inflammation of connective tissues, as it dispels uric acid.

 Chinese skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis) - Chinese skullcap has proven anti-arthritic and anti Chinese skullcap does not appear to have any adverse effects at therapeutic levels. Its therapeutic-inflammatory actions, similar in effect to the prescription drugs phenylbutazone and indomethacin. action appears to be related to its high content of flavonoid molecules.

 Chinese thoroughwax - (Bupleuri falcatum) This root is an important ingredient in various prescriptions in Chinese traditional medicine, particularly remedies for inflammatory conditions.

 Ginger - In one significant study, Indian researchers gave three to seven grams of ginger a day to 28 people with rheumatoid arthritis. More than 75 percent of those participating in the study reported at least some relief from pain and swelling.

 Feverfew - Feverfew has a long history in traditional herbal treatment circles for the treatment of fever, arthritis and migraine. Extracts of feverfew have indicated greater activity in inhibiting inflammation in experimental studies. Feverfew extracts have been noted to inhibit the synthesis of many pro-inflammatory compounds at their initial stage of synthesis.

 Dong quai - This herb is potent for relieving fleeting muscle and joint pains, particularly, if they are worse in damp conditions. Take I tbsp. of dried root juice three times daily.

Along with these herbal concoctions, rheumatologists also advise that treatment for conditions like these also includes rest and physical activity. Regular exercise is required for maintaining joint mobility and strengthening the joint muscles. Swimming is particularly good, since it allows for exercise with a minimum of stress on the joints. Heat and cold compresses are effective modalities that can ease RA symptoms before and after exercise.

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Gout Arthritis - Identifying the Triggers and Symptoms of Gout

Gout attacks affect an estimated two million people in the United States alone. At least 75- 90% of the victims are men and the remainder is women who are post-menopausal or hypertensive. Many of these individuals live unhealthy life- styles and are not prepared for the sudden attacks of gout. The sudden attacks of gout arthritis are extremely painful and affect a singular joint, tendon or other bodily tissue.

Gout is the oldest form of inflammatory arthritis; closely related to rheumatic arthritis. The medical condition initially and predominately affects the joints and must be treated accordingly. 'Gouty arthritis' is potentially damaging if left untreated. Chronic gout damages major tissues and/or organs, yet it is unlike most types of arthritis which are innately chronic.

Generally, gout arthritis is characterized by painful sudden attacks that last days to weeks proceeded by long periods with no symptoms. The 'gouty arthritis' may be acute or chronic. The best way to control the onset or progression of gout is to avoid things that may trigger these symptoms.

During a gout attack, the victims suffer with several vital symptoms. Such symptoms include:

1. sharp pain
2. redness
3. swelling
4. warmth
5. tenderness
6. tightness
7. skin lump

These symptoms generally occur during the night and is particular unexpected. The most common area affected is the big toe. However, gout attacks have been known to also attack other joints such as the finger, ankle, elbow, knee, or foot. The condition is caused by a buildup of uric acid that has lodged in these joints. More so, the kidney no longer has the ability to flush away this excess uric acid. The disease may develop in men or women with:

1. Diabetes
2. Kidney Disease
3. Obesity
4. Sickle Cell Anemia

Gout arthritis occurs in 4 stages:

Asymptomatic: There are no symptoms
Specifically, an illness/condition is present with symptoms or the individual has recovered from the illness/condition and no longer has symptoms. It also indicates that the person is actually healthy. Lastly, the particular illness/condition does not produce any symptoms.

Acute: Sudden pain attack in the joints
The pain occurs especially in the feet and legs. This is a result of uric acid buildup or hyperuricemia.

Intercritical: Requiring immediate/reoccurring treatment
Condition is progressing quickly. The condition is on the way to critical or chronic gout/ permanent damage.

Chronic: Long- lasting or persisting condition
Chronic gout arthritis suggests repeated episodes of gout attacks or joint pain.

Herbs For Arthritis Treatment

Many herbs have been utilized in the treatment of joint pains for centuries. Some of the very commonly used herbs for arthritis are alfalfa, angelica, black snakeroot, black rockweed, burdock, devil's claw, feverfew, ginseng, hawthorn, licorice, meadowsweet, oregano, prickly ash, rosemary, stinging nettle, turmeric, water shamrock, wild cucumber bark, wild yam, willow, wintergreen, yarrow, and yucca.

Alfalfa (Medicago saliva) is a folklore medicine for arthritis. The tea prepared from this plant is rich in nutrient minerals. The tea is believed to fight against arthritis. Angelica (Angelica archangelica) is an herbaceous plant, which has been utilized in the folklore medicine since antiquity in Europe. The Chinese variety (Angelica sinensis) has been widely used in China. Both the species are used in the treatment of arthritis. The root of black snakeroot (Cimicifuga racemosa) is used in the American Indian treatment for arthritis. All the five species of genus Cimicifuga have been used worldwide to treat rheumatism. Besides other anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic elements, the herb also contains aspirin-like components. Devil's claw (Proboscidea louisianica) consists of a good anti-inflammatory factor. Taking one gram twice a day would be effective in reducing arthritis pain.

Feverfew (Tanacetum parthenium) is a bushy aromatic European perennial herb, which is used against arthritis for centuries. Some of the clinical studies have proven that the anti-inflammatory action of this herb is greater than NSAIDs. Ginseng (Panax quinquefolius) contains components called ginsenosides that have numerous pharmacologic activities, especially effective against arthritis. Licorice (Glycyrrhiza glabra) acts as cortisone in the body without the injurious side effects. The plant has considerable anti-inflammatory activity. However, long-term utilization of the plant can induce an elevation of the blood pressure. Oregano (Origanum vulgare) is used as an anti-inflammatory agent. The reactions of free radical are likely involved in the degenerative arthritis. It may help to get rid of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

The tea prepared from rosemary (Rosemarinus officinalis) is used in the United States to treat arthritis. The four anti-inflammatory components of the leaves of the plant are earnosol, oleanolic acid, rosmarinic acid, and ursolic acid. Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) is an approved remedy in the treatment of rheumatism in Germany. It is also very effective in the treatment of early-onset arthritis. The juice prepared from stinging nettle contains an anti-inflammatory agent, which is similar to steroid drugs. Turmeric (Curcuma longa) has substantial anti-inflammatory activity. It has been proven very effective against certain inflammations. The use of turmeric is quite safe.

According to some herbalists, the bark of wild cucumber, in the form of tea, is described as the best source for treating arthritis and rheumatism. Wild yam (Dioscorea villosa) contains a steroid constituent called diosgenin, which has anti-inflammatory features. The tea prepared from the plant is a famous folklore medicine for muscular rheumatism. Yucca (Yucca spp.) has been used for from ancient period to get rid of arthritic pain. We can list many other herbs, which are used against arthritis!

Fine Treatment For Rheumatoid Arthritis

There is no known cure for rheumatoid arthritis. To date, the goal of treatment for rheumatoid arthritis is to reduce joint inflammation and pain, maximize joint function, and prevent joint destruction and deformity. Treatment involves early intervention in chronic joint inflammation and soft-tissue swelling. The optimal treatment requires a comprehensive program for the patient. This disease usually affects the peripheral joints like hands, feet, wrists, and knees and the surrounding muscles, tendons, ligaments, and blood vessels. It can also involves internal organs like the lungs and heart. An autoimmune disease means the body tissues are attacked by your own immune system. Ultimately, this leads to joint destruction, functional disability, and decreased quality of life.

There are many types of arthritis. Some scholars consider gout as also one of the major type. Many types of arthritis may affect different areas of the body. As mentioned above, the swelling or inflammation is the general reaction of the body. During this reaction, all the protective blood cells rush to the affected area to fight against the cause of the problem. They clear the damaged cells and repair the hurt tissues. Once the treatment won the war against the causative factor, the inflammation goes away and area comes to its normal size with normal color.

-RISK FACTORS

* Smoking: Rheumatoid arthritis is associated with long-term smoking.

* Stress: Persons suffering from the disease have a higher incidence of stressful life events in the 6 months preceding onset of the disease as compared to the general population.

* Genetics: HLA-DR4, a genetic marker, is associated with increased chance of having the disease.

* Ethnicity: All races and ethnicities can be affected.

* Environment: There is no specific environmental factor that causes the disease.

* Diet: There is no specific diet or food that causes the disease.

* Infection: There is no known specific infection that causes the disease.

THE PROBLEM

The current theory is that a person who is genetically predisposed to rheumatoid arthritis encounters a trigger (infection, toxin, chemical) in the environment that starts an abnormal immune response, an autoimmune process. The disease occurs when white blood cells leave the blood stream and attack the lining of the joints.

Fortunately, there is natural healing and natural cure in order to alleviate the pain associated with the disease. Removing acidity from your blood to reach an alkaline level is well advised. A good ph level can only help. A study by the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm has also found that people who drink five glasses of wine a week halve the risk of rheumatoid arthritis.

STATISTICS

The prevalence of rheumatoid arthritis in the U.S. is about 1% which means that it affects 2.1 million Americans. There are 3 new cases per year per 10,000 persons. The disease most often starts between the ages of 25 and 50; peak onset is between 35 and 50. It is 3-5 times more common in women and 4 times more common in smokers than non-smokers. If one twin has it, there is a 15-20% chance the other twin will develop it. You deserve a better life with less pain. Some natural products are available in the treatment for rheumatoid arthritis and can relieve your joints.

Rheumatoid Arthritis in Men

Arthritis is the word used to describe inflammation of the joints. It is often described as an auto-immune disease as it relates to the system within the body which produces antibodies.

In the modem medical approach to arthritis, anti-inflammatory drugs are used which are either steroidal or non-steroidal. Unfortunately joint disease is poorly understood and the treatments have not advanced for a long time. Hopefully more research into the causes and the cure of joint diseases will be done over the next few years.

Naturopathic approaches are certainly worth trying. They may not cure the disease but they can certainly relieve much of the discomfort and slow down the debilitating symptoms. Diet plays a huge role in controlling the symptoms and some plant medicine and nutritional supplements can be very beneficial.

My father, who had severe arthritis in his knees, was always joking about the fact that there was no cure for joint problems, and he was very disturbed that the anti-inflammatories he was prescribed were upsetting his stomach, which is a very common side effect. Just by increasing his intake of water each day (elderly people tend to be dehydrated because they don't consume enough water daily) and including some vitamins helped him.

In all treatment of joint problems, solutions must be looked upon as long-term: a lifestyle change and a commitment to taking the supplements regularly to stop degeneration and further damage to the immune system are essential.

Treatment & prevention program

Follow the diet for health and vitality. This is imperative. All junk food, white sugar and white flour products must be eliminated. Foods that nourish joints are those containing omega 3 and 6 oils, such as deep-sea fish, flaxseed oil, and vitamin E in avocados and wheatgerm oils.

Eat high-quality proteins such as legumes, eggs and white meat, which are more suitable than red meat, as one of the waste products from digestion of red meat is uric acid which can aggravate joints.

Drink celery juice daily as it assists the balance of potassium and sodium being carried to the joints. It can be mixed with carrot juice.

Avoid acidic foods such as rich sauces, white wine, white vinegar, and some fruits such as oranges, strawberries and other berries which can aggravate joint problems. It is best to stay off these foods for six weeks and introduce them back into your diet slowly and see if they affect your level of joint pain in certain quantities.

Drink lots of pure, filtered water.

Encourage mobility of the joints through exercise such as water exercises and walking. Running is very aggravating to any joint, especially on a hard surface.

Supplements

Two omega 3 and 6 oil capsules twice daily. It lubricates joints. Double the dose if in severe pain.

One glass of celery juice daily or two celery tablets daily. For taste and health, mix with carrot juice.

Two tablets of the standardized extract of boswellia twice daily or one tablet daily as a preventative. Boswellia, which acts as a natural anti-inflammatory, is excellent for arthritis (and also for inflammation of the bowel). There is often a link between inflammation of the bowel and arthritis. You may find this herb mixed with ginger and turmeric (both natural anti-inflammatories).

One or two ginger capsules three times a day. Ginger tablets have relieved many joint problems because they stimulate the circulation. They are especially useful for those in cold countries, to assist mobility. In fact they are very useful when skiing or participating in water sports in cold water.

Glucosamine sulfate one tablet two to three times a day.

I have made many wonderful tonics for arthritis using traditional herbs, and if the client stays on these daily over the winter period, when joints seem to be at their worst, the aches and pains are kept under control without the long-term effects of anti-inflammatories. The following tonic is recommended. Equal parts of celery, dandelion, prickly ash, boswellia (you can also take this herb separately as a tablet for better results), willow bark, devil's claw, liquorice, ginger and astragalus (which helps the immune system in chronic conditions). Take one teaspoon in water twice daily.

A liniment containing the Chinese herbs kadsura, pothos and curcuma, and menthol, camphor and some wintergreen oil. These are available at your health store. Rub on the affected area.