Arthritis - Symptoms and Treatment

What is arthritis?

The word arthritis originated from the Greek word arthro which means "joint" and itis which means "inflammation". Arthritis thus literally means inflammation of the joint. A joint is an area of our body where two or more bones meet. Joints connect the various bones within our skeleton. The ends of our joints are covered with cartilage, a soft and pliable material which acts as a cushion between the bones of the joints. When the cartilage breaks or wear and tear because of age, disease, injury and excessive activity, one may suffer arthritis.

What are the symptoms of arthritis?

Arthritis symptoms vary from person to person but generally, they include: joint pain, deformity, swelling, redness and warmth, limited function of the joint, muscle and joint stiffness, loss of appetite, fatigue or exhaustion, fever, unexplained weight loss and crepitus (also known as creaky joints, popping joints, snapping joints).

Persons afflicted with arthritis would experience pain usually in the joints of the hands, knees, hips and spine. They would have difficulty in writing, holding an object, getting up from a chair, walking, bending, or kneeling because of joint pain. The areas around their affected joints would become red, hot and swollen. Sometimes, their fingers and toes would look like sausages. Their joints also become stiff for hours. When they stand or get out of bed, a crackling noise would be heard. The creaking may occur with or without pain. Person with arthritis would experience weakness, fatigue and exhaustion because of their limited physical mobility. They would also lose appetite. When their condition worsens, they would contract fever.

What is the treatment for arthritis?

Arthritis treatment would depend largely upon the type of arthritis a person has. It is thus necessary to consult a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and correct treatment.

Treatment for arthritis includes hot pack and cold pack application, lifestyle change, medication, physical and occupational therapy, dietary supplements, splinting, injections and surgical operations.

Cold pack is applied to an inflamed joint while hot compress is to used address joint pain and stiffness. Lifestyle change which includes weight loss and exercise is suggested to reduce stress on the joints and to improve joint function. Physical therapy is recommended as it has been shown to delay surgical operation in advance cases. Exercise helps improve muscle strength, endurance and flexibility. Occupational therapy teaches ways and techniques on how to minimize stress on the joint from everyday activities.

Medications used to treat arthritis include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (Ibuprofen, Aleva) and pain relievers (Celebrex, Tramadol). Medications usually start with drugs that have few side effects and shift to stronger ones as the disease advances. Dietary supplements like Glucosamine and Chondroitin are also used to treat arthritis. Such supplements ease pain of arthritis. Injection of hyaluronates (gel-like substance) into the knee joint to supplement the viscous properties of synovial fluid is prescribed in knee arthritis. Joint surgery is resorted to when the damage is severe and when all the other treatments failed.

Signs You Need a Knee Replacement

What are the signs you may need knee replacement surgery? Knee replacement surgery has a long recovery process and the physiotherapy can be extremely painful at times. Although, if the quality of life has deteriorated due to a lack of mobility, knee arthritis or knee pain, it may be time to consider surgery. The National Institutes of Health reported knee replacement improves the quality of life and mobility in over 90% of the patients. Knee joint replacement is the most performed joint replacement surgery done today. Many people continue to suffer knee arthritis because it is difficult to know if surgery is needed.

There are simple signs that may mean you need a knee replaced. One indication is if the pain in the knee keeps you awake at night, or causes you to wake up when you roll over. If the problem persists for more than a couple of days you should consult your doctor. The knee arthritis pain in your knee may limit your activities, particularly if walking half a mile can be too painful to bear. If the pain persists, even after other forms of treatment, then you speak to your doctor. Just stiffness in the knees or the occasional sharp pain does not mean you need full or partial knee joint replacement surgery. Try doing some light stretches and walking. If the symptoms ease than you probably just need some recovery time.

If you have knee arthritis, surgery might be a viable option. Arthritis is actually an inflamed joint. People think of arthritis as an abnormal growth of cartilage or when the cartilage has worn away, causing inflammation around the joint. There are many types of arthritis, but the most common is osteoarthritis. This results in the cartilage wearing away until the bare bone is exposed. This type of arthritis in the knee can definitely benefit from knee replacement.

The conditions that can be treated with full or partial knee replacement surgery are: severe osteoarthritis, Ligament damage, osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, hemophilia, crystal deposition diseases, avascular necrosis and bone dysplasias. Some of these can be resolved with partial knee replacement, which is much less invasive and provides for a faster recovery. In the case of arthritis, crystal deposition, avascular necrosis and bone dysplasias, partial replacement would only be a stopgap measure. If you have any of the above-mentioned signs it may be time to speak to your doctor.

Natural Pain Relief For Arthritis - Massage Therapy

Unfortunately there's no cure for arthritis and the arthritic changes that arthritis brings to your joints, but you can relieve the pain that accompanies this medical condition.

Two treatments which are easy and are worth trying are massage therapy, and also massage with essential oils.

Massage Therapy: Gentle Massage Can Relieve Pain

When you massage a painful arthritic joint, you help the blood circulation to the joint, and this aids healing. Another benefit is that the muscles relax, and this relieves pain too, because tight muscles around the joint make it even more painful.

Although you can massage painful joints yourself, for best results visit a massage therapist, because the therapist will know the best way to massage your hands, or whichever joints are affected. Ask to be shown some easy massage techniques that you can perform at home.

Massage therapy can't reverse arthritis, but many people find that they can keep arthritis at bay with massage therapy.

Essential Oils For Arthritis Pain Relief

Massage therapy can help even more if you massage your joints with essential oils. Essential oils are fragrant oils which are refined from plants, roots, and trees. Pain relieving essential oils for arthritis treatment include ginger, lavandin, and eucalyptus.

For an arthritis joint massage, very small quantities of pure essential oils (about one drop per teaspoon) are added to a carrier oil like apricot or almond oil. You can make up your own massage oil from essential oils and a carrier oil, and can use it to massage painful joints twice a day.

Not only do the essential oils smell wonderful, but they're also very relaxing.

As with massage therapy, it's best to get advice and a couple of treatments from a professional aromatherapist at the beginning, and then you can continue the treatment with essential oils at home.

Although massage therapy and essential oils massage therapy are not a cure for arthritis, they do relieve the pain. These treatments can also help you to regain and maintain movement in your joints, so that you live your life.

Glucosamine Chondroitin Sulfate for Athletes

Our joints and the tissue that envelope our bones, enable us to move without experiencing pain. However, some factors may affect the performance of our joints. For instance, everyday wear and tear due to repetitive activities, such as running and walking, can contribute to the degeneration of the joints. Apart from these, healthy joints may deteriorate with dehydration and lack of proper nutrition. Although our joints may also be affected by inactivity, joint problems can occur from overuse and abuse. This is often the case with athletes.

Being an athlete demands a lot of one's time and body. Athletes train almost everyday for at least an hour or two a day. Without an adequate amount of rest and without proper stretching for flexibility, athletes are in danger of incurring traumatic injuries which may lead to osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis is the most common joint problem that affects adults. Most cases of osteoarthritis involve the normal wear and tear of the joints where joints become unhealthy due to the imbalance of bodily glucosamine with the frequency and intensity of everyday use. Most experts would say that this inadequacy in bodily glucosamine is a consequence of aging. In athletes, the degeneration of joints is more probable since the intensity of training could lead to injuries. Athletes are generally goal-driven and to attain their goals, they will push themselves to the limit and further. Overuse of the joints through overtraining will definitely strain and affect the joints.

Osteoarthritis often happens when cartilage in the joints fails to provide the padding or cushioning that would enable one to perform without the sensation of pain. A sharp pain in the joints could be the results of bone spurs.

Treatment for osteoarthritis begins with diagnosis. It is not always easy to detect and diagnose osteoarthritis because it is often mistaken with normal muscle pain. Careful observation is necessary to treat osteoarthritis because this is a long-term ailment that affects the joints. When arthritis is mild, it can often be treated with painkillers or NSAIDs (non- steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs). Along with these, a person or an athlete suffering from arthritis pain has the option to take dietary supplements that would help in rehabilitating damaged joints. These are called glucosamine dietary supplements.

Glucosamine dietary supplements reviewed in the latest studies in 2006, and reported by "The New England Journal of Medicine" showed that glucosamine chondroitin, (the same found in Syn-flex) reduced arthritis pain in those suffering moderate to severe joint pain more effectively than Celebrex (NSAIDs). Higher quality glucosamine supplements like Syn-flex Liquid glucosamine have anti-inflammatory ingredients such as yucca and manganese ascorbate that provide pain relief to the arthritis sufferer. Apart from this, Synflex Liquid Glucosamine also has ingredients that help to rehabilitate damage cartilage in the joints and build new and stronger ones such as glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate and bromelain. . What's more is that glucosamine supplements that come in liquid form such as Syn-flex is more effective because the minerals and vitamins could easily be digested by the body's cells. Syn-flex Liquid glucosamine treats different forms of arthritis and is believed to be a long-lasting treatment for osteoarthritis pain in both people and pets.

10 Home Remedies for Gout Pain

The best home remedies for gout are the old fashioned methods that
grandparents used. To relieve gout pain and suffering, the "old timers"
had to use products that were
readily available at home. These products went out of vogue as medical
scientist and researchers touted new remedies for this old problem.

Treating gout with old home remedies has come full circle. Now the old
home remedies that grandma used are now gaining in popularity.

1) Apply Ice to the area. - To reduce pain, applying ice directly to the
area was the first line of defense in most homes. Applying cold packs to
the inflamed swollen joints for 10-15 minutes still works.

Applying ice will reduce the pain and the inflammation. This may feel
uncomfortable for the first few minutes but be persistent.The pain of Gout

is worse the feeling of cold on the skin.

2)Take ibuprofen to help ease the pain.

3)Exercise the joints. Put each of the joint through a full range of motion.
Try doing this exercise 1-2 times per day.

4)Soak the feet in Epsom Salt if the pain is concentrated in the big toe.
Epsom Salt is a staple in almost every grandma's house. Older people use Epsom
Salt for everything from a laxative to a bath salt to sooth aching muscles.

Epsom salts contains Magnesium. Raising your magnesium levels may improve your
heart and circulation and lower blood pressure. It will also help flush
away the toxins and heavy metals from the body. Most importantly it helps to
reduce stress. Soaking your feet in a warm tub of Epsom salts will give you
almost immediate relief from gout pain.

For a leisurely bathe: Add two cups of Epsom Salt to the warm water as the bathtub
fills. Soak leisurely in the tub until the water starts losing heat.

For an extra treat, add a few drops of scented essential oil.

5) Eat strawberries fresh strawberries also help neutralize uric acid, as do nuts,
seeds, and grains, although to a lesser extent. The berries contain high concentrations

of vitamin C as well as fruit acids and minerals, like potassium, magnesium zinc,
manganese, calcium and iron.

6) Eat some cherries - Consume cherries and cherry juice often. Cherries are an
old nutritional remedy known to help reduce uric-acid levels

7) Drink water in abundance 8-10 glasses per day will flush way toxins and dilute
the uric acid levels.

8)Increase your consumption of foods such as citrus fruits, berries, tomatoes,
green peppers, and leafy greens, which are high in natural vitamin C and the
bioflavonoids that reduce inflammation.

9)Exercise regularly. Regular exercise can relieve or prevent joint pain.
Exercise is needed to nourish the joint cartilage. regular exercise helps
the body remove waste products. Exercise strengthens the muscles around the joint.
Developing strong muscles will support the joint more effectively and reduce
injuries. Stretching your muscles helps you maintain a range of motion

10) Apple Cider Vinegar is a wonderful old-timers home remedy, cures more
ailments than any other folk remedy. Try 2 tbsp of organic apple cider
vinegar mixed with 2 tablespoons of organic honey (2 times daily).
within a few hours the pain of gout will start to subside.

Arthritis Pain Relief Through Herbal Treatment

Arthritis is one of the biggest problem that has been faced by million of people worldwide. Arthritis is a general term that literally means pain and inflammation in joints. Though previously it was believed that only old people suffers from arthritis but now it has been seen that people of younger age group are also being affected by this disease. Arthritis is not a disease in itself. There is a general condition in which the joint becomes inflamed and causes great pain. Arthritis can be of many types but commonly three types are frequently seen. These are: -

(a) Rheumatoid arthritis

(b) Osteoarthritis

(c) Gout

(a) Rheumatoid arthritis - it is a kind of arthritis that is more associated autoimmune disorder that occurs due to attack of our immune system on the joints. It is also associated with the deformity in the body. It is commonly seen in people who are in their mid forties.

(b) Osteoarthritis - it is another form of arthritis that occurs due to age related changes. In this condition there is formation of osteophytes in the joints. The cartilaginous structure gets ossified and gets converted in the bone. This bone formation in the bone leads to the hindered movements and causes extremes pain whenever the joint is made to move.

(c) Gout - it is concerned with the formation of uric acid crystals in the joint. Due to any kind of deformity there is decreased in the serum uric acid metabolism thereby leads to the accumulation of uric acid in the joints. It is commonly called as the riches disease as it is more commonly seen in people who are well off.

Causes

· Ageing

· Over use of joints

· Hereditary factors

· Wrong feeding habits

· Infections

· Metabolic disorder

Symptoms

· Pain in joints

· Swellings in joints

· Restricted movements

· Redness over joint

· Deformity of the joint

· Cracking sound on movements.

Treatment

Though the anatomical changes are very difficult to be reversed but their have been certain ayurvedic preparations that are extremely helpful in suppressing pain and prevent any further damage to the joint. Belo are few ayurvedic herbs that are very effective in curbing arthritis.

· Ashwagandha (withinia somnifera) - it is one of the best herb that has the potential to suppress pain and inflammation. It has certain properties that are very helpful in reducing the vata dosha in the body that is solely responsible for causing all pains and inflammation in the body. Ashwagandha is a medium sized plant that is easily found in areas having warmer climatic conditions. The roots of Ashwagandha are the plant parts that are being used to make medicines. Generally Ashwagandha is taken in as powder form but it is now available in capsules and syrup forms also.

· Guggul (commiphora mukul) - Guggul is one of the most prestigious herbs that has been very popular among ayurvedic physicians. Guggul is vata suppressant and hence is widely used to treat vata related disorders. Guggul not only reduces pain in the body but is also responsible in suppressing any kind of inflammation and edema that occurs in the body. Various preparations like mahayogaraja Guggul, laxadi Guggul, rasnadi Guggul and gokshuradi Guggul that are being widely used to curb any kind of pain in the body.

· Rasna (pluchea lanceolata) - Rasna is an excellent analgesic and has excellent results in suppressing pain in the body. It is a small plant that can be used in preparing various forms of preparations. It is used as powder, decoction and oils. It has the potential to reduce the vata dosha in the body and is very successful in curbing its effect.

· Arthcare oil - arthcare oil is one of the prestigious ayurvedic preparations that have been found extremely helpful in treating various pain disorders like arthritis, musculoskeletal disorders, backache, joint pains, wounds etc. It has been empowered with the wonders of certain ayurvedic herbs like errand (ricinus communis), Rasna (pluchea lanceolata), devdaru (cedrus deodara), shuddha Guggul (commiphora mukul), rasone (garlic), marich (black pepper), nirgundi (vitex negundo), ajwain (trachyspermum) and til tail (seasum). These all herbs are famous for their activities in suppressing and curbing any kind of pain and inflammation that might occur in the body. The oil is gently massaged on the affected part and then hot fomentation is done. This is the simple procedure that is all you have to do to get relief from the pain and arthritis.

Fish Oil Arthritis Treatment - What You Should Know

When pharmaceutical COX-2 inhibitors turned out to be not all they were touted, and even dangerous, many perplexed arthritis sufferers started looking for help. And this is where fish oil high in omega 3 fatty acids may be just what they are looking for...

Fish Oil Arthritis Treatment

If you haven't heard, omega 3s help prevent heart disease and are crucial for brain health, but many studies have shown how these nutrients can help with certain arthritic conditions.

If you're suffering from morning stiffness (and it seems to be getting worse), limited mobility and joint pains then what you need to tackle is inflammation.

And this is exactly what omega 3's can help your body fight... and even cure. What we're talking about is osteoarthritis where the cartilage protecting your joint bones from rubbing against each other begins to wear down.

Fish Oil Arthritis Remedy

Omega 3 fatty acids serve up a double dose of help by reducing joint inflammation and promoting joint lubrication. When combined with Glucosamine, MSM and Green Lipped Mussel powder you have some serious anti-inflammatory fighting power.

The thing to remember when it comes to using this treatment regimen is to stick with it long enough so you'll see the benefits. Sometimes it can take up to 12 weeks to see results. My mother suffered with arthritic fingers and regained full function after only 8 weeks!

It also helps to eat a better diet that reduces the acidity in your body. A good idea would be to eat more fiber in the form of raw veggies and whole grains. Cut back on high-acid promoting foods like raw meat, saturated fats, fried foods, refined carbohydrates and dairy products. And avoid too much alcohol and coffee, and drink more water.

If you do this and include a high quality, molecularly distilled fish oil supplement you should see results fairly quickly.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Medication

Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease that has no cure. This inflammatory disease leads to swollen, stiff, and painful joints. It will also reduce movements affecting the person mentally and physically. As such, the only way to cope with the situation is by educating people with rheumatoid arthritis about the disease. This education will help them to think positively and to cope with the chronic disease. Exercise, proper rest, and a balanced diet will ensure flexibility of joints and keep inflammation under control.

Rheumatoid arthritis has a symmetrical pattern. That is, two joints--for instance, the elbow of both the hands--develop pain, swell, and stiffen together. There is no specific cause for its occurrence or a specific cure. But once diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, a person is treated with medicines.

Medication is administered for relieving pain and also to reduce the inflammation of the joints. It is recommended based on the severity of the disease. There are other types of drugs that also try to reduce the intensity of the disease. While analgesics such as paracetamol are taken as painkillers, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) help to reduce inflammation and relieve pain in the joints. The analgesics always come in combination with some of the recommended drugs, as do the non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs. There are also disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) that reduce or control the intensity of the disease, reducing pain and stiffness of the joints. These are found to be very effective in combating the illness. For instance, injecting gold intramuscularly is one such disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug. All of these medications, whether controlling pain or intensity, have side effects. These may include constipation, skin irritation, bleeding in the stomach, kidney problems, and so on. As such, one must take the medicines as instructed by a medical practitioner.

The most recent set of medications, however, are biological therapies or biologic-response modifiers. These are considered more "body-friendly" drugs. Biologic-response modifiers stop or block the components, especially the proteins, which trigger inflammation normally as a defense mechanism. For instance the protein called interlukin 1 (IL-1) is blocked by anakinra drug. As a result, the deformity caused by damaged and destroyed bones and cartilages is reduced along with the inflammation. Often, the doctors recommend a combination of drugs. But the present sets of drugs are definitely more effective in controlling rheumatoid arthritis.

Ahhh, What A Relief! - Green Lipped Mussel Oil For Arthritis Pain

You may know about green lipped mussels from your last seafood dinner, but did you know that there is more to this shellfish than a tasty meal?

If you suffer from arthritis pain and hate taking NSAIDs because of their side effects, you may be interested to learn about the natural pain relief which can be achieved by supplementing with green-lipped mussel oil.

As you may already know, arthritis is a progressive and debilitating condition, in which individuals are afflicted with severe pain and inflammation of their joints. The usual medical treatment for this condition involves the use of pain relievers, which can be either steroidal or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory products. Both these classes of medications have significant unwanted side effects, including stomach irritation, bleeding and ulcers. Obviously, a much better product is needed for arthritis pain relief.

Green mussel is a name frequently utilized to describe a shellfish more commonly known as the New Zealand green-lipped mussel, which is native to the seas around New Zealand. The oil produced by this mussel is known by the native people of New Zealand, the Maori, to possess remarkable anti-inflammatory properties.

For anyone experiencing osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, joint mobility conditions or any other inflammatory problems, oil from the green mussel provides an effective, all-natural treatment alternative to NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs).

Tests carried out on human and animal subjects found that this oil has achieved superb results in quelling inflammation in conditions impacting the joints. People with ailments such as injuries in connection with sporting activities and, most particularly, arthritis, have encountered great improvements with use.

In a preliminary scientific trials, individuals taking either a lipid extract (210 milligrams daily) or freeze-dried powder (1150 milligrams daily) of green-lipped mussels experienced decreased joint inflammation and a decrease in a.m. stiffness, plus an improvement in overall functionality.

In an additional double-blind trial, forty-five percent of individuals with osteoarthritis who took the extract (350 milligrams 3 times daily for 3 months) documented improvements in discomfort and stiffness. Other research also has shown that the oil is beneficial for the treatment of the pain connected with arthritis of the knee.

Finding a good source for this oil is crucial to receiving the full benefits of this amazing supplement. First of all, to preserve all the nutrients, the mussel must be used in its raw state as cooking and even freezing it destroys the nutritional value very quickly. It is just about impossible eat fresh, raw mussels unless you live seaside and are able to stomach the taste.

The answer to this problem is to find a source of this oil which has been carefully processed to preserve the qualities of the green-lipped mussel so that you can reap the extraordinary benefits of it, without the inconvenience of harvesting fresh mussels all day!

Finding natural and safe pain relief is of the utmost importance to anyone who suffers from joint inflammation and arthritis. It seems that the extract from this shellfish certainly fits the bill.

Fish Oil Supplement For Osteoarthritis - Discover the Amazing Ingredient For Pain Free Joints!

Fish oil supplements for osteoarthritis can be very beneficial for alleviating the symptoms and providing excellent pain relief. In fact, many brands go as far as claiming it as "natural cure for osteoarthritis". Find out the expert facts in this article to make the best health decision.

Due to the various side effects of prescription based drugs for combating inflammation and pain relief, people are looking for natural cure for osteoarthritis. Fish oil supplements for osteoarthritis are among the topmost choice due to their numerous health benefits on overall health.

Fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. They have excellent natural anti-inflammatory properties and also play a key role in improving brain and cardiovascular health. Research has shown that they help to reduce tenderness in joints, reduce inflammation, decrease morning stiffness and reduce the amount of medication required for controlling inflammation for people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.

They also play a key role in reducing the activity of the enzymes that destroy cartilage in joints. Green lipped mussel that is found in New Zealand is also an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. It has great anti-inflammatory properties and helps in reducing pain and joint stiffness, improving grip strength and enhancing joint mobility in osteoarthritis patients.

A special consideration while looking for fish oil supplement for osteoarthritis is that you should avoid supplements that are rich in vitamin A - such as cod liver oil and those derived from fish liver. This is because vitamin A is toxic when consumed in large doses from animal sources. Beta-carotene is a much safer choice when it comes to vitamin A supplementation.

Adults should consume around 1000 mg of Omega 3 fatty acids on a daily basis. While looking for fish oil supplement for osteoarthritis, make sure that it is "pharmaceutical grade" or molecularly distilled. Molecular distillation is a process that separates toxins and contaminants such as mercury, lead, PCBs, etc. from the fish oil and the resultant oil is then encapsulated into supplements.

This is essential to ensure maximum product safety and effectiveness. It also guarantees that you do not consume harmful toxins that are generally found while consuming fish directly.

Although it might not be a natural cure for osteoarthritis, using fish oil supplements for osteoarthritis in combination with green lipped mussel extract of New Zealand is one of the most effective natural alternatives for achieving relief from inflammation and pain, as well as protecting the joint cartilage from additional damage.

Arthritis - Can it Be Prevented?

Overview of Arthritis

Effective help is currently available for people to pro-actively manage arthritis and enjoy life to the fullest. But the actual prevention of arthritis itself is yet another story.

With rheumatoid arthritis (RA), the membranes or tissues lining the joints become inflamed. There is no known way to prevent any form of this disease, including osteoarthritis, adult-onset arthritis and juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. The exact causes of all these conditions are unknown.

It's very important for people who fear they are at risk of rheumatoid arthritis to realize that at this time there are no medications to take or lifestyle modifications to make that can completely prevent this crippling disease. However, by making changes to your weight and diet and engaging in moderate exercise, you may be able to slow or even halt the disease's onset and progress.

But you can only really take the measures needed to control arthritis after it is diagnosed. Until it is known for sure if certain bacteria or viruses trigger the disease, contact with people suffering from it will not change your risk of developing it.

Traditionally, medications and physical therapy have been used to manage the disease. A massive amount of nutrient research has also shown the effect diet and supplements have on the body's healing processes. Lifestyle changes can also make a big difference.

Causes of the Disease

Joint injuries caused by accidents or overuse increase the occurrence of some types of arthritis. You can also inherit certain genes that may increase your risk. More research is needed to find out how to reduce the disease's onset from these factors.

Some individuals have an inborn tendency to degenerative joint disease because they have changes in the structure of the important protein-building blocks of the articular cartilage which covers the surface of their joints. These seemingly small but significant abnormalities predispose their joints to wear and degeneration. In other cases, joint injuries may contribute to the development of DJD.

No foods have been definitively shown to cause or exacerbate arthritis in most individuals. A variety of diets and "hand-me-down" information exists about certain foods and arthritis, in particular the night shade plants, but none of it has been proven.

There is a rare form of arthritis called Spure which is caused by allergies to wheat products. Avoiding those will eliminate this disease. Associated features include weight loss, diarrhea and osteoporosis. Consult your health care provider if this is a concern.

There are things you can do to reduce your risk for getting certain types of arthritis or to reduce disability if you already have arthritis.

Overweight and obese people have a higher frequency of arthritis. Excess weight increases risk for developing osteoarthritis in the knees, and possibly in the hips and hands. Women are at special risk. In men, excess weight increases the risk for developing gout. It's important to maintain your recommended weight, especially as you get older.

Arthritis Prevention Programs

The Center for Disease Control has implemented programs in several states to reduce the onset and consequences of arthritis. The National Arthritis Action Plan: A Public Health Strategy delineates the actions necessary to better understand the arthritis burden in the USA and helps to fully apply known and effective interventions.

This document represents the combined efforts of nearly 90 organizations, such as the Arthritis Foundation, government agencies and many other groups and individuals with an interest in arthritis prevention and control.

The NAAP proposes a nationally coordinated effort for reducing the occurrence of arthritis and its accompanying disability by focusing on these three areas:

1. Surveillance, epidemiology and prevention research to strengthen the science base.

2. Communications and education to increase awareness and provide accurate information about arthritis.

3. Programs, policies, and systems promoting increased quality of life for people with arthritis and facilitating arthritis prevention measures.

The CDC continues to accumulate scientific knowledge on the benefits of physical activity. Because healthy eating reduces a person's risk of becoming overweight, good nutrition plays an important role in preventing knee osteoarthritis. In addition, moderate physical activity is essential for maintaining the health of joints.

Resources/The information outlined in this article is originally from:

HealingWithNutrition, Arthritis Facts, Disease Prevention and Treatment Strategies http://www.healingwithnutrition.com

Center for Disease Control, Framework for Arthritis Prevention and Control http://www.cdc.gov

The University of Washington Orthopedics and Sports Medicine Frequently Asked Questions About arthritis.

How to Prevent Arthritis

Arthritis is a condition that causes pain, inflammation, and stiffness of the joints. Approximately 40 million people in the United states are affected by arthritis. Some of those are adults and some are children. There are a number of reasons why people develop arthritis ranging from hereditary factors to old age. Less than half of the individuals affected by arthritis today are over the age of 65. Most are middle-aged or younger. It can strike at anytime, but luckily, it can also be prevented.

Arthritis can influence nearly all aspects of a person's life depending on how bad it is. Some people are unable to walk and work because of their condition. For some, the arthritis they suffer from only moderately limits them. For others, it is completely disabling. There are a number of different types of arthritis conditions - over 100 to be exact. A few of the different types of arthritis conditions are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Out of the total number of those affected by arthritis in the United States, 65% of them are women.

Other symptoms of various types of arthritis conditions include warmth, swelling, redness, tenderness of the joint, and inflammation. Symptoms will vary depending on how long the condition has been present, the cause, and type of arthritis. The good thing is that arthritis can be effectively treated and prevented if the right action is taken. One of the things that may help is to lose weight if an individual is overweight. Being overweight or obese increases a person's chances of developing arthritis due to increased pressure on the joints. Another way to prevent and treat arthritis is to stretch every single day, preferably twice per day.

People tend to complain of their symptoms usually first thing in the morning, so it is best if stretching is done at that time and then again right before going to bed at night. It is important to make sure that the stretches are basic, slow, and do not contain any bouncing or jerking movements. Be sure to perform a full movement. Ten minutes of slow, relaxed stretching along with some deep breathing is usually just enough to loosen the body up. A lot of people will develop arthritis from not getting enough physical activity. A simple 45-minute walk on most days of the week should be enough to help prevent arthritis.

Sitting and standing up straight are also great ways to take pressure off of the back and neck, two places where arthritis can develop rather quickly. If possible, it is recommended to also practice resistance training three days per week for at least 30 minutes at a time. It may seem like a lot, but it lowers the chances of develop some types of arthritis. When exercising, it is important to make sure that there is no discomfort or straining. Lifting too much can also increase a person's chances of developing arthritis.

Changing your mattress may also help, especially if you are suffering from arthritis in your back and neck areas. Getting the right amount of daily nutrients will help your body in a big way. Always make sure to get enough vitamin D for bone health. When it comes down to it, preventing arthritis is all about taking extra good care of yourself.

What Dog Arthritis Means For Your Pooch

No one ever said that arthritis was just for humans - arthritis is quite common throughout all dog breeds as they get older. About 1 of every 5 dogs over the age of seven suffers from this disease or between 20-25% of the dog population.

Veterinarians treat dog arthritis, easily defined as inflammation of the joints, more than just about any other ailment. The arthritis can be caused due to aging, excessive exercise, or injury. As a dog jumps, walks, and runs, their bones rub together and if the joints become inflamed, the result is arthritis.

Joints commonly affected with arthritis include the knee, shoulder, ankle, elbow, and most commonly, the hips.

Which Dogs Get Arthritis

The most common form of arthritis in dogs is degenerative joint disease (synonymous with osteoarthritis). Osteoarthritis is a slowly progressing disease that occurs due to the breakdown and destruction of the dog's cartilage. As it gets worse, the bones begin to grind against one another causing pain, reduced flexibility, inflammation, and a reduction in mobility.

Arthritis is almost inevitable with age but dogs that are overweight and put undue stress on their joints can suffer more than others. Pure bred dogs are generally more susceptible to arthritis as well as larger dogs whose size puts weight on their joints such as Rottweilers, German Shepherds, Great Danes, Labrador Retrievers and Mastiffs. Some small dogs like Dachshunds or Beagles are also more likely to have joint problems due to their oddly shaped bodies which put stress on their joints.

Symptoms

Signs that your dog is experiencing arthritis include favoring a limb, having difficulty sitting or standing, acting like his joints are sore or stiff, hesitating to jump or climb stairs, or evidence that his range of motion is decreasing. As arthritis pain affects your dog, his behavior or attitude may start to change; he may sleep more and show less interest in playing with you. Because of their lack of activity, they may also experience some weight gain and may not be as alert as they were previously.

If any of the symptoms persist for two weeks or longer, you should make an appointment with the veterinarian. Your vet will do a full physical exam and possibly run some X-rays to see if there is any other damage that is causing your dog to lose full limb capabilities.

As soon as your dog is diagnosed with arthritis, the vet can recommend the best course of treatment. He may prescribe some anti-inflammatory drugs as well as over the counter treatments that contain Omega fatty acids and glucosamine. Changes in diet may also be recommended.

Treatment

There are a number of choices for treating pets with arthritis. Every pet and every owner presents a unique situation so there is no "one treatment fits all" approach. Some people do not want their pets taking medications so they look for more natural or holistic therapies. Other owners are comfortable with their pet taking corticosteroids or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs.

A number of medications are available to reduce pain and to improve range of motion, especially helpful if your dog needs a certain activity level to maintain his optimum weight.

How You Can Help

Weight loss to correct obesity, dietary changes, and carefully managed exercise levels can have huge benefits for pets suffering from arthritis. In fact, the single most important factor in controlling pain associated with arthritis is for your dog to be at his optimum weight.

You may need to change your dog's exercise routine - instead of going with you on your morning jog, he may have to settle for an evening walk. Make sure that he's not trying to be a "weekend warrior" - active during the weekend when your family is home from work and school - but showing obvious signs of pain and stiffness come Monday morning. A good exercise routine of regular, short to medium length walks and/or swimming will help to strengthen his muscles and reduce the effects of arthritis.

Make sure that he has a comfortable bed to sleep on which will keep him from lying on a hard floor surface. If he's older, he may need a soft mattress and blankets. Raise his food and water bowls to relieve pressure on his spine.

Pet stairs can help him get to places he can no longer jump to easily. If he has a dog ramp to get in and out of your car or truck, he won't have to jump from the car onto the concrete driveway which puts a lot of strain on his joints.

Are Your at Risk For Painful Psoriatic Arthritis?

Unfortunately, the causes of psoriatic arthritis are, as of yet, unknown. It is thought that a combination of immune, genetic and environmental factors are the culprits. For those patients who have psoriatic arthritis in the spine (called spondylitis), there is a gene marker named HLA-B27 which is often found. Blood testing is now available to see if this gene is present.

For instance, the decline of T cells in AIDS patients may be important when psoriatic arthritis develops. Something else that is under investigation by researchers is the relationship between infectious agents and other environmental factors as psoriatic arthritis progresses.

Doctors choose to treat either these symptoms of the disease only, or new psoriatic arthritis treatments may also target the causes of the disease.

Symptoms of psoriatic arthritis

In many patients, psoriasis comes initially but psoriatic arthritis may not present for months or years later. Psoriatic arthritis symptoms frequently involve the ankles, knees and joints in the feet. There are only a few joints that get inflamed at a time. They become painful, hot, swollen and red. If a patient happens to have symptoms in the fingers or toes, this can cause the entire digit to swell up, giving it the appearance of a "sausage".

Psoriatic arthritis symptoms usually involve joint stiffness which is worse early in the morning. At times, it may involve the joints of the body symmetrically just like rheumatoid arthritis. Other psoriatic arthritis symptoms include inflammation of the spine as well as the sacrum, stiffness in the buttocks, lower back, neck and upper back.

Patients with psoriatic arthritis symptoms may also develop tendonitis or inflammation of the tendons. Inflammation may also occur around the cartilage. Psoriatic arthritis symptoms may also cause inflammation of the tendon that lies behind the heel. This can lead to Achilles tendonitis leading to awful pain when trying to climb stairs or walk. Chest pain is another symptom of this disease.

Aside from spondylitis and arthritis, psoriatic arthritis symptoms can cause inflammation in the lungs, eyes and aorta. When the iris of the eye becomes inflamed, it can be aggravated by bright light. It may be necessary to inject corticosteroids right into the eyes to decrease inflammation and prevent blindness. When the area in and around the lungs become inflamed, this can cause chest pain, especially when a deep breath is taken. It can also cause shortness of breath. When the aorta becomes inflamed, this can cause leakage around the aortic valves which, in some cases, can lead to heart failure.

Psoriatic arthritis symptoms can cause acne and nail changes. In 80% of patients with this disease, pitting and ridges are seen in finger as well as toe nails. Acne occurs in a high number of patients who have this disease. A new syndrome has been seen in those who have psoriatic arthritis. It is characterized by an inflammation of the lining of the joints, acne and pustules on the palms or on the feet, inflamed and thickened bone and bone inflammation.

What Can Be Done to Treat Arthritis in Cats?

A recent study shows that more than 20% of the older cats in the USA suffer from arthritis. Arthritis in cats causes their joints to deteriorate and cause pain in the tendons, most commonly due to their old age and athleticism. Arthritis is found normally even in people due to less movement and also in other pets mostly due to their high age, high level of activity and also their fatness. Other reasons causing feline arthritis can be due to stress or mental trauma. Osteoarthritis arthritis in the most commonly found kind in cats where the joints wear and tear due to age causes inflammation and dislocation of joints, severe pain, limping, stiffness and lameness.

Due to the technological advancement, arthritis in cats can now be properly treated with the help of effective medicines and natural remedies that will help maintain the vitality and health in future. Although it has been noted that in some cases the disease is not curable due to the stage of the disease, nature of arthritis and cat's physical condition at the time when the disease was spotted. Unlike dogs, cats are difficult to be identified when having pain or when limping, because slow movement is already an issue of old age and it is difficult to be distinguished with arthritis. However the following symptoms will help you diagnose any probable condition of arthritis in cats. There might be a different walking style, signs of limping or inflexibility, having more sleep, unwillingness to jump, urinating or defecating outside the space allotted, losing weight, appearing thinner due to muscle loss and other mental attitude changes such as more depression and annoyance.

To diagnose the arthritis properly, your veterinarian would examine the cat thoroughly at all stances after considering any possible symptoms. Additional blood tests, screening, X-Rays and joint juices would be taken from the affected joint and a detailed analysis procedure would be performed. The vet also may have to control the joints in order to know the state of stiffness and the necessary steps that would have to be taken.

Cats suffering from Osteoarthritis can be treated in a number of ways such as medicinal and natural treatments as well as physical in-home therapies. It can be difficult for cat owners to see their pets under distress. Even before their treatment, cats suffering from arthritis can be comforted through low-surfaced orthopedic beds, short-sided litter boxes and healthy food to compensate the strength lost due to arthritis. Cure for arthritis in cats is most commonly provided with the long-term use of dietary supplements such as Glucosamine, Chondroitin and fatty acids. These are components in the fluid of the joints and cartilage in a cat's body and regular quality dosage of these drugs can lead to fast recovery of the joints tissue damage. Steroids such as Tramadol, corticosteroids such as Prednisone, and anti-inflammatory non-steroidal drugs such as Metacam work as quick pain relievers but their expenditure has dropped due to their side effects. Such medications are popular among athlete-pet owners. Acupuncture, acupressure, swimming, massage, exercise, encouraging more activity and other such physical therapy supplemented with an above-stated medication greatly increases the chances of recovery and even strengthens the body, giving you a more energetic and in shape cat that you wanted, always wandering around and being with you during your loneliness.

Rheumatoid Arthritis - Better Management Through Knowledge

Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease that affects joints and may affect other systems in your body. As yet, there is no known cure. But recent research means that people with rheumatoid arthritis can have relieving treatment that lessens the pain and discomfort.

Rheumatoid arthritis affects approximately 3% of the population and effects 3 times more women than men. The disease usually develops between the ages of 25 to 50 but can occur really at any age. A similar type of arthritis affects children as well.

Rheumatoid arthritis may develop gradually or can start with an unexpected sudden attack. It is a chronic disease that may last a lifetime. Some people may often have times when the arthritis goes away, this is called a remission. These remissions can last weeks or even years.

What causes rheumatoid arthritis?

Although we know a lot about what happens in rheumatoid arthritis, we do not know the underlying causes. Research has come to the conclusion that triggering agents may cause the onset of the disease only in patients who have a tendency towards the disease. The triggering agent at fault is most likely a virus or bacteria.

If you have a close relative with rheumatoid arthritis, the risk of you developing the disease is a possibility at some time in your life. Diet, stress, trauma, hormones and weather probably do not cause rheumatoid arthritis but these areas may affect the amount of discomfort and pain experienced.

Rheumatoid Arthritis - What Happens?

Rheumatoid arthritis results from the changes in your body's immune system. No one quite understands why but when you have rheumatoid arthritis your body's immune system attacks its own organs and the tissues of the joints. This attack on your immune system makes many different things happen.

• Your joints and synovial membrane that lines them become inflamed


• This causes too much fluid to be produced in your joints


• The fluid and inflammation make your joints swollen and painful


• If this keeps happening your cartilage and other soft tissue can be damaged, causing joint deformities

Other happenings in your body when you have rheumatoid arthritis include:

• anaemia


• small swellings called nodules


• swelling around the eyes, blood vessels and heart


• enlarged lymph glands


• dry eyes and mouth

Juvenille Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease that attacks the joints in the body, causing inflammation and pain. It can affect anyone at any age. Children are no exception to rheumatoid arthritis. In children, this chronic disease is called as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, and it also causes inflamed and stiff joints.

Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis mostly affects children below the age of 16. Unlike the rheumatoid arthritis of adults, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis is a group of several diseases. The only common characteristic of the adult and child rheumatoid arthritis is the "inflammation of joints and pain".

Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis is a collective disease. The three identified forms are pauciarticular, polyarticular and systemic. In pouciarticular juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, a child may suffer from inflammation in few joints such as the knee and shoulder. If it is polyarticular, then many joints get inflamed simultaneously, for example knees, wrists, elbows, and so on. Polyarticular rheumatoid arthritis attacks symmetrically; for example, the joints of the left and right hand become inflammation at the same time.

Unlike pauciarticular and polyarticular, in systemic cases, parts of the body become affected along with the inflammation of some organs. Skin rashes, fever, inflammation of the joints and internal organs such as the spleen and liver may accompany systemic disease.

The cause of the disease is unknown, even in the case of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. The child complaining of joint pain is often examined to confirm for rheumatoid arthritis. The symptoms include difficulty to get up after sitting down, pain in the mornings while waking up--everything that is caused by the stiffness and swelling of the joints. They are also asked for a family history of rheumatoid arthritis. Once the disease is suspected, preliminary tests are conducted to understand the intensity of the disease. On the basis of the test results, the child is given treatment and medication. While some have an easy recovery, others suffer from more complicated symptoms. Sometimes, in some children, the symptoms of juvenile rheumatoid arthritis remain dormant for a period of time. It may suddenly emerge or "flare up" when the child least expects it.

Alleviating the Most Prominent Symptoms of Osteoarthritis

Some symptoms of osteoarthritis are rather subtle, while others are more obvious. Because the joint damage itself is progressive, it may be physically unnoticeable at first. Men and women may feel soreness within their hips, knees, and ankles, which can usually be alleviated by prescriptive pain medications. Individuals who have suffered with the disease for many years may eventually notice that the joints themselves have become deformed. If this occurs in the wrists and fingers, for example, they will likely have problems holding and gripping material objects.

When the joints weaken, the muscles may deteriorate as well. When this happens in the knee area, men and women may experience difficulty remaining upright for long periods of time. They may even eventually require a cane in order to get around. If they seem to be having a particularly difficult time walking, they should rest their legs until the feel a bit better. A few days of inactivity can be quite the boon for bone health. If the knee grows progressively worse, they can then see a specialist and have the area carefully x-rayed.

Their range of motion may also be limited. Some men and women first begin to notice this when they play sports. For example, if they are avid players of tennis or golf, they may find that they cannot follow through on their swings as they used to. In other cases, they may also notice significant pain, especially when they move their bodies in an unnatural way. Athletes who begin to experience signs of osteoarthritis should see their physical therapist as soon as possible. If the symptoms persist, they'll likely receive a formal diagnosis within a few days or weeks.

Though some people may notice that their joints hurt after a day of physical activity, they should pay particular attention to how they feel when they sleep. If they wake up during the night with joint pain, this could be a very real sign that their osteoarthritis is getting worse. If the pain is also accompanied by sensitive swelling, then they should revisit their physician for a routine examination. Doctors can gently perform some tests, which should pinpoint the source of the new pain.

In the end, osteoarthritis can be effectively dealt with in most people. As long as patients listen to their bodies and alert their doctors whenever significant changes are noticed, they can move forward with their treatment. Family and friends will surely be glad to help out when it comes to scheduling medical appointments and running errands around town.

The information contained in this article is provided for informational purposes only and is not, nor is it ever intended to be, a substitute for professional medical advice or professional recommendations, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician(s) or other qualified healthcare provider(s).

Is it a Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptom?

A serious disease of the autoimmune system, rheumatoid arthritis mostly affects the joints. Nonetheless, since it is a systemic autoimmune disease, rheumatoid arthritis may also affect other body areas. Here are some of the other symptoms that can be linked with a diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis.

Heart

One area that may be unfavorably affected due to rheumatoid arthritis is the heart. It is common for fluid to collect near the heart as a result of inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis. Although such symptoms are frequently fairly mild, this problem may potentially develop into something more serious.

If severe inflammation occurs, it can affect the heart muscle. Coronary arteries may swell, making the heart muscle work harder. The lungs might also be involved in rheumatoid arthritis. Similar to the heart muscle, fluid may collect around the lungs, and the lung tissue may stiffen. Rheumatoid arthritis related inflammation can make breathing difficult.

Skin

It is not uncommon for rheumatoid arthritis patients to report small nodules that are formed under the epidermis, as one other area that may be affected is the skin. The majority of the time, these small nodules are located in close proximity to a joint area. These skin nodules become most noticeable when a joint is flexed.

Purpura is another skin condition regularly associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Purpura are purplish patches on the skin which develop due to damage to blood vessels. Rheumatoid arthritis can make blood vessels develop damage, triggering them to rupture and bleed into the skin, a process known as vasculitis. Another skin problem associated with rheumatoid arthritis are skin ulcers; they appear because of vasculitic lesions.

Musculature

Rheumatoid arthritis can severely affect the body's musculoskeletal structures. As inflammation strikes the joints, muscles can become shrunken and weak. This is called as atrophy. The hands are the area most vulnerable to atrophy.

Atrophy is the result of not using a muscle or set of muscles for an extensive period of time. Muscles joints affected by arthritis are prone to becoming the source of discomfort, pain, and swelling. In turn, the patient does not use the stricken muscles, and this causes atrophy.

Gastrointestinal

The digestive tract is also affected. The most common effect is known as dry mouth, which is related to Sjogren's syndrome. Most digestive complaints associated with rheumatoid arthritis seem to come as a result of medications taken for it. Typical digestive conditions related to these medications comprise stomach ulcers and gastritis.

Eat Healthy and Do Exercise To Combat Arthritis

When you feel tremendous pain in your shoulder, back, joints or wrists, you may be suffering from arthritis. In such a condition you need medications as these pains are unbearable sometimes, causing even fainting in a person.

Arthritis may occur at any stage of life but the aged people suffer the most because of this. It's caused due to loss of bone mass, bone cartilage. Arthritis results in progressive disorder of spines and hips, shoulders, joints with loss of bone mass.

Arthritis is of two types, Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid and can be identified by inflammation, pain and cartilage loss in an individual.

No permanent cure is available for this but medication and precautions can be of great help sometimes. Doctors recommend NSAIDS, Non Steroidal anti inflammatory drugs in certain conditions. One can also go for arthritis cream. However, these creams are known to provide temporary relief. So, eat healthy and exercise to remain fit--- is the ultimate source of prevention and managing for arthritis affected people.

Arthritis is a disease which may be fought back with articulate life style.

o Doctors also recommend precautions and prevention for arthritis and these include calcium and vitamin D intake.

o To deal with arthritis you must stop puffing/smoking or intake of alcohol, which may enhance the problem.

o There are others precautions also you should take like doing light exercises, walking, jogging, cycling, etc. to remain free from joint locks and pain. Also you must consult your physiotherapist regularly when undertaking exercises related to arthritis.

o You can also go for acupuncture to get relief from pain. Acupuncture may be well used along with pain killers or NSAIDS (Non Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drugs)

o You must take good nutritional diet to keep yourself fit enough so that there remains sufficient supply of minerals in your body that prevents bone mass loss.

When your body hurts or you feel pain, your body is talking to you. And it might be arthritis. In such a case you need to take some steps in order to live a complete light even with a health condition like arthritis.

What's New for Rheumatoid Arthritis?

One source of new information about rheumatoid arthritis is the annual American College of Rheumatology meeting. This year's meeting was held in Atlanta, Georgia from November 7-11.

Some of the interesting findings ion rheumatoid arthritis are summarized below...

One study described the combination of etanercept (Enbrel) and methotrexate in rheumatoid arthritis. The study found that disease progression is less frequent in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who haven't responded to methotrexate alone if it is continued at the same time the biologic drug etanercept (Enbrel) is started. After randomizing "151 patients with active RA to etanercept, 25 mg twice a week plus methotrexate 6mg to 8 mg/week, or to etanercept alone," researchers found the following... Significant differences in joint erosion scores (joint damage scores) were seen after two years of combined etanercept plus methotrexate compared with etanercept alone. These results were reported by Hideto Kameda, MD, of Keio University in Tokyo, and colleagues at the annual meeting of the American College of Rheumatology (ACR).

Another hot topic at the American College of Rheumatology meeting is an investigational compound called JAK. JAK has attracted increasing interest as a drug target in rheumatoid arthritis because it's pivotal to the inflammatory response. It's an enzyme that serves as the traffic director for the release of tumor necrosis factor and other cytokines (protein messengers) that accelerate inflammation in diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis. The weakness of JAK is that it is an enzyme whose effects can be blocked by an oral, small-molecule drug.

There are three forms of JAK simply known as JAK 1, JAK 2, and JAK 3. Pfizer has a JAK inhibitor called tasocitinib. Earlier reports from the ACR meeting about this compound showed that it was extremely effective as well as possessing an acceptable safety profile. Tasocitinib blocks JAK 1 and JAK3.

Tasocitinib is taken twice a day.

Another JAK inhibitor, called INCB028050, is a product from the Incyte company. Incyte has partnered with Eli Lilly to manufacture and market this compound. The drug produced ACR20 responses (at least 20% reductions in symptom scores) in up to 70% of patients after 24 weeks, and ACR70 responses in nearly 30% of patients, reported Maria Greenwald, MD, of Desert Medical in Palm Desert, Calif. INCB28050 selectively blocks JAK1 and JAK2.

INCB28050 is taken once a day.

Side effects of the JAK drugs include elevations in both HDL and LDL cholesterol of up to 25%, depending on the dosage.

Other side effects that have been seen in the clinical trials with these medicines include an increase in respiratory tract infections, viral infections, including shingles, drops in white blood cell count, increases in platelet count, and slight abnormalities in both kidney and liver function.

On a more mundane note, the drug, leflunomide (Arava), may be an acceptable alternative to methotrexate for use in combination with rituximab (Rituxan) in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who can't take methotrexate.

Katerina Chatzidionysou, MD, of the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm, reported a study showing these findings at the American College of Rheumatology meeting.

A total of 29.1% of patients on leflunomide and rituximab had a good response at the six month mark. A number of research studies have shown that the B-cell targeting antibody drug, Rituxan, is beneficial in RA, and it has usually been given in combination with methotrexate.

But a big question for doctors has been how to deal with patients who have side effects with methotrexate.

Those of us who see a lot of rheumatoid arthritis patients find this information to be "old hat." But patients with the disease should find some helpful nuggets here.

Is There a Better Way to Treat Arthritis?

Bone and joint pain is on the rise, especially with increased fitness activities, injuries and the aging population of baby boomers. Management of bone and joint disorders and chronic bone pain can be very difficult. Follow up is frequently needed for established and chronic problems for the best management. Proper evaluation is essential and there are multiple ways to protect and improve your joint health.

I am including general information about bone & joint health including arthritis. I find that reducing inflammation, no matter what the cause, is always helpful for joint pain. The major purpose of drugs/medications has been to reduce inflammation. Changing your diet is helpful. Exercise of some sort, especially resistance exercises are very important. Weight management is important as obesity is a major risk factor for the well being of your joints.

The evaluation process must consider previous injuries/surgery, tendonitis, congenital disorders, arthritis, degenerative joint disease, osteoporosis, bone spurs, disc problems, fibromyalgia, neuromuscular and autoimmune disorders, multiple myeloma, bone cancers, rotator cuff tears, pelvic instability syndrome, vascular problems, etc. requires a thorough and ongoing review of your history and a (repeat) physical exam.

A review of family history for arthritis and autoimmune disorders, injury and work history for possible wear and tear or overuse problems, previous surgery, a dietary and nutritional review, weight issues such as chronic obesity, and a smoking history is important in the evaluation of bone, joint and muscle disorders.

Diagnostic tests might include x-rays of affected joints, a bone density test to rule out osteoporosis, DEXA scan, a bone scan, BIA (bioelectrical impedance analysis) test, and lab tests that include bone markers including calcium, phosphorus, alkaline phosphatase and vitamin D (25-OH D3 levels), thyroid and parathyroid studies, hormone studies, immunoglobulin studies, a PET scan, a bone scan, RHEUMATOID FACTOR, an ANA and possibly an MRI, and an EMG, or biopsy, as indicated, just to name a few.

Nutritionals include: Omega three fatty acids -fish oil-- (epa/dha) Higher doses from two to five grams) , SAMe, hyaluronic acid (collagen type II), strontium, chondroitin sulfate, glucosamine, and natural progesterone support bone health. In addition, adequate intake and a good source of Vitamin D (not milk (100 IU) and at least 1000-2000 IU (testing is recommended for the best dose) of vitamin D3 (and sunshine, if tolerated--20 minutes without sunscreen is 25, 000 IU) are now recommended, calcium, magnesium and vitamin K are very useful for bone health. Vitamin K cannot be used if on blood thinners, such as coumadin. Glutathione (IV, inhaled or via oral liposomal products) and it's precursors (alpha lipoic acid, glutamine and cysteine/N-acetylcysteine) along with Vitamin C, are very useful for helping to reduce pain.

Additional supplements that are very useful for bone and joint health are Kaprex, Kaprex AI, EC Matrixx, Cal Apatite and Ostera which are all made by Metagenics.

Acute pain management needs the immediate attention of your doctor, a specialist or the emergency department. For more resources, or product information, please email me.

How to Understand Rheumatoid Arthritis & Osteoarthritis - Chronic Pain and Treatment Strategies

The previous two articles in this series analyzed and discussed rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in some detail. The link between chronic pain and RA was analyzed and the progression of the RA chronic pain complex was revealed. Particular attention was paid to small joint pain, usually involving the neck, hands, and feet in the early stages of the disorder, then spreading as the disease takes hold and progresses. The progression of chronic, often acute pain affecting the larger joints, to include the upper, middle, and lower back, hip and knee pain, and even leg pain, usually expressed as sciatica, was discussed. As discussed in "Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis - Dealing With Chronic Pain Associated With RA Part I & II," RA is a chronic and systemic disorder, widespread throughout the body, and without cure. In this article we will discuss the differences between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and an often misdiagnosed, misunderstood "cousin," osteoarthritis (OA). We will discuss diagnostic features distinguishing the two disorders, the symptoms of RA versus OA, and some treatment variations and similarities. The very different outcomes, or prognoses, as well as certain strategies for confronting the two conditions head on will also be explored. Finally, strategies for alleviating, and in some cases eliminating, the chronic pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis will be offered. Chronic pain treatment strategies, to include treatment for neck pain, back pain, hip and knee pain, and sciatica, will be compared and analyzed.

As noted above, rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, systemic disorder. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease occurring when the individual's immune system doesn't work properly or malfunctions. Rheumatoid arthritis causes chronic, often acute pain, stiffness and swelling, and progresses from small joint involvement, to large joint involvement, and ultimately to multiple organ consequences. Chronic pain associated with RA is usually the result of an inflammation of the synovial membrane, synovitis. The inflammation of the synovial membrane leads to friction, the friction leads to joint degeneration, which leads to more inflammation, which leads to more friction and joint degeneration. As the disease progresses, and begins to affect other organ systems, the result is usually total disability. The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis has not been established. Many experts believe that RA may be the result of genetics, environment, and/or a number of other factors to include hormones and the body's reaction or response to stress. Onset of RA typically occurs in women between the ages of 30 and 50 years of age. However, rheumatoid arthritis has been known to strike the very young, men, and certain ethnic groups, to include a disproportionately high number of Native Americans. RA is also seen in higher numbers among smokers. Rheumatoid arthritis is generally not attributed to such things as aging, trauma and injury or obesity. Beginning with small joint pain and stiffness, the disorder culminates in deformity and chronic, often acute, back pain, hip and knee pain, and sciatica.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is generally considered an age-progressive phenomenon. Sometimes called the "wear and tear" disorder, OA may also be attributed to injury, trauma, stress, and/or obesity. Osteoarthritis typically expresses with joint pain, stiffness, and loss of function and did decrease in the range of motion. Unlike rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis generally affects weight bearing joints, particularly the spine, the pelvis or hips, and the knees. Chronic back pain, particularly of the lower back, and leg pain (sciatica) are quite common. However, OA may also be present in the neck, the hands, particularly the finger joints, and even the big toe. Osteoarthritis generally worsens later in the day or after considerable activity. Alternately, rheumatoid arthritis is generally known for morning stiffness or stiffness occurring as the result of a lack of activity or after periods of prolonged inactivity.

Significantly, while as many as 1.5 million individuals in the United States have been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, over 20 million people have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis. While diagnosis for osteoarthritis is usually established with the use of x-rays, in some cases CAT scans, rheumatoid arthritis usually takes a more comprehensive battery of diagnostic tests to properly diagnose. RA sufferers may require extensive blood tests, x-rays, CAT scans, and in some cases even an MRI to properly diagnose the disorder. The very different symptoms of the two disorders, one systemic and the other a "wear and tear" disorder, are evident in the laboratory and radiographically (x-rays).

Treatment strategies for RA and OA are often remarkably similar. Although RA requires pharmacological intervention, generally in the form of disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs or DMARDs, to reduce stiffness and chronic pain, as well to inhibit joint damage, this should not be the only treatment strategy employed. DMARDs often take weeks, even months to build up in the bloodstream and fully take effect, so NSAIDs are often used synergistically, and as a stop-gap until DMARDs are effective. Osteoarthritis, on the other hand, may also be treated by NSAIDs. However, ibuprofen and acetaminophen are routinely prescribed for pain associated with osteoarthritis.

In addition to medication, both rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are responsive to physical therapy and ice to reduce inflammation and swelling. Individuals suffering from RA or OA typically respond well to exercise. Exercise is particularly effective for RA sufferers in order to offset periods of inactivity and the stiffness associated with a sedentary lifestyle or simply the stiffness related to characteristic morning stiffness. Osteoarthritis, on the other hand, responds well to exercise for different reasons. Individuals affected by OA, a typically age-progressive, trauma, and stress related phenomenon, respond quite well to strengthening of the musculoskeletal system, particularly the core muscles responsible for posture and overall strength. As muscles atrophy, deterioration of the bones, particularly the vertebrae and weight-bearing joints, is quite common, leading to "wear and tear" and an exacerbation of the overall condition and subsequent degeneration. The degeneration leads to a constellation of chronic pain symptoms, to include neck pain, back pain, and sciatica.

Ultimately, while etiology or cause of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are quite different, symptoms, such as swelling, inflammation, stiffness, and chronic pain are characteristic of both conditions. Individuals suffering from RA and OA are affected by a progressive disorder, both leading to total disability if not properly treated. Individuals diagnosed with osteoarthritis, because of the very nature of the disorder, have a much better chance of alleviating and even eliminating the long-term effects. RA is, by its very nature, more problematic. That being said, individuals suffering from rheumatoid arthritis may take control of the outcome, their prognosis, by engaging in an aggressive, holistic treatment strategy, one typically designed to treat the symptoms, since etiology is still unclear. In both instances, medication, ice for inflammation, swelling, and to reduce pain, and a medically approved, individualized program of stretching and exercise should be commenced as soon as possible. Chronic pain associated with both conditions should be taken as a warning to do something, rather than to do nothing. To do nothing will exacerbate either condition, leading to further degeneration and the progression of both disorders and their symptoms, to include chronic pain in the form of joint pain, neck pain, back pain, and/or sciatica.

Arthritis in Cats - Treatment Options Beyond Steroids

Just as it is for humans, arthritis in cats treatment options have come a long way in the past few years. Not so long ago the options for treating your cat for arthritic pain and inflammation were very limited. Veterinarians relied upon NSAIDS and steroids to help to reduce the inflammation that the disease brings on.

This has had limited success as it could only be used for short periods of time to treat the animal and if the cat happened to have heart or kidney problems as well then it made them not very good candidates for the treatment. This meant that a cat with arthritis on top of an existing illness was left to suffer in agony.

Many owners have had to look to euthanize their pets because they could not bear to see them in pain any longer. Often this was thought to be the more humane way of treating the condition. Thankfully, modern medicine progresses at a rapid speed nowadays and with it has come some great breakthroughs in treating the condition of arthritis in cats. The great thing is that both traditional medicine and modern medicine are now working together to provide better treatment options for pet owners and getting some good solid results.

Glucosamine and chondroitin have both been found to be an effective preventative measure in the battle to slow arthritis down. Both of these properties are evident in the cartilage. Arthritis in cats is essentially the breakdown or deterioration of cartilage around the joint. When this occurs, the joint rubs against hard bone and it proves to be an incredibly painful existence for the sufferer.

Omega-3 fatty acid is also found to be a positive factor for arthritis in cats treatment. This can be found in a high quality cat food, usually canned or wet food, or can be found in particularly high concentrations in the green-lipped mussel from New Zealand. This is a product that is now shipped world-wide and can be purchased dry and ground up and added to your pet's meal.

NSAIDS have been modern medicines answer to pain relief and inflammation problems. However, they have been very unpopular for some time along with the use of corticosteroids as they have very negative side effects which essentially can negate the reason for using them.

There has been a development of a long-term arthritis treatment medication that has had limited effect on cats. This is not due to the medication's efficacy, but due to the fact that cats have a unique metabolism and one of the side effects of this drug is nausea and vomiting. Unfortunately, this counteracts the drugs efficiency in treating and relieving pain from the arthritis.

Obesity and Osteoarthritis - A Clear Path to Joint Pain and Damage

Being obese is the most common cause of osteoarthritis and pain in the joints. In other words, the heavier your weight, the more susceptible you are to such health problems. Of course, osteoarthritis is more common among the elderly. Still, being overweight can greatly reduce the age at which you might develop this disease.

Osteoarthritis is caused by the wearing out of the substance between the joints which is called cartilage. Once it is no longer there, the bones start rubbing against one another thus causing a great amount of pain. Just think about the pain in your wrists, knees and your spine.

It is only natural to conclude that the heavier we are, the more loaded our joints are. Being overweight, however, does not harm your joints only mechanically. According to research the abdominal fat produces chemicals that may cause joint inflammation.

Contemporary life seems to do its best to serve osteoarthritis. The sedentary lifestyle affects mostly the lumbar region of the back, as it is the one body area that undergoes the greatest pressure. Factors such as ageing, sitting all day long in the office in that uncomfortable chair and bending over the computer for hours are enough to cause you back pain. Just think about adding obesity to the picture.

The lumbar region (the lower area of your spine) consists of five lumbar vertebrae, which are separated by five intervertebral discs. These discs help the bones remain a little bit apart, not allowing them to rub against one another and basically act like shock absorbers. What they actually do is to absorb the weight of the body and its muscles and ligaments.

Another one of the discs' functions is to allow movement in the waist. It permits the spine to bend or twist. As you may guess, the lack of movement and sedentary way of life often cause the muscles to weaken. Of course, this is one of the problems of contemporary life and especially of white-collar jobs. Adding obesity to the equation does not help your body cope with these issues. It is quite the opposite.

So the advice is to exercise more. This would prevent or lessen the pain in the back and joints and help you lose weight. Of course, being obese obstructs exercising, but there are a number of ways to strengthen your muscles without straining them. Swimming and walking are only some of the possibilities.

Arthritis In Fingers: Treatment Options That Are Available

Arthritis in fingers is known as osteoarthritis, it is the most common form of arthritis. Osteoarthritis happens when the cartilage of the joints wears away, this eventually leads to the bones being exposed causing inflammation and pain.

The joints that are the most affected are usually finger tips, and knuckles. The pain that arthritis in fingers can cause are easily managed with pain relief such as paracetemol, or ibuprofen.

Rheumatoid arthritis can also affect the fingers, this is a more aggressive form of arthritis it can cause other problems and the soft tissue around the joints may even become inflamed. This form of arthritis usually affects the bottom of the fingers.

Signs of arthritis in fingers are;

- Pain in the joints
- Swelling around the joints
- Periods of stiffness
- Movement difficulties

Arthritis in fingers can cause bone like lumps on the knuckles, these lumps can sometimes swell and feel stiff for long periods of time. Those with rheumatoid arthritis can suffer with more severe bone deformities this in turn can cause extreme pain.

If arthritis in fingers is diagnosed early, treatments can be given almost immediately this can prevent the need for surgery in the future.

These treatments can include;

- Anti inflammatory medication
- Massage
- Pain relief such as paracetemol, or ibuprofen or a stronger painkiller like codeine
- Supplements which aid cartilage growth/repair
- Complimentary therapy such as heat and ice treatment
- Supportive splints may be needed in some cases of arthritis in fingers

If all of the treatments are tried and no particular one is effective, surgery may be the only option. If surgery is the answer the surgery could be;

- Removing the bone deformities
- Fusing the joint to allow no more movement
- Straighten deformities

If you have arthritis in fingers and you are not able to cope with the symptoms any longer speak with your doctor he will be able to recommend an appropriate course of action. It may be that you require stronger medication, this is easily dealt with.

Red pepper, has many pain relieving properties. It aids the circulatory system when applied to the affected area, relieving the aches and pains that you may be feeling.

Cayenne pepper, you can apply this externally as mentioned above alternatively you can consume this with food. This acts as a stimulant aiding the heart, it can strengthen the arteries and act as natural pain relief.

Ginger, this is present in many foods. This has anti-inflammatory like properties and may significantly reduce the pains and swelling of arthritis.

Garlic, aids blood flow in the body, and possibly reduces inflammation.

If these foods are incorporated in your daily diet you may start to notice positive results after 1 week. There has been no evidence to suggest that these foods can help, although other arthritis sufferers have confirmed that they did notice a positive change.

Arthritis in fingers has been known to be extremely painful, a daily hand massage with scented lotion will not only promote a sense of well being, it may improve blood flow through the fingers, reducing inflammation.

What Type of Arthritis Do You Have?

Arthritis dates back to prehistoric times and is seen all through the ages in the joints of the skeleton remains.

Most of you will have problems with your joints and it may be arthritis. Arthritis is associated with aging but it is not caused because you are aging. Arthritis is caused by the body not been fed the proper nutrients that keep your joints health and free of wear and tear.

There are plenty of joints in your body and typically there are only specific joints that have arthritic pain. Those are the ones that you use frequently. For men it is knees, spine, and feet. For women it is fingers, hands, knees, and spine.

Arthritis means inflammation of the joint. When your joints have bone-to-bone contact and grind against each other that area becomes swollen and inflamed.

There are two main type of arthritis - osteoarthritis and rheumatoid - and others that are less known.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis means inflammation of the bony part of your joint. As your joints move against each other, the protective coating and surrounding material - membranes, oil sacs, cartilage - wear down. This wear down occurs when the joints see excess activity.

Normally you would not expect to see this wear down condition since there are many joints that see excess activity and don't become inflamed or arthritic. There millions of people who don't get arthritis, yet the use their joints are used just as much and perhaps even more. Then there are people who don't use their joint to excess and still get arthritis.

So the actual cause of arthritis is more than excess activity.

The cause of arthritis has come down to a single or combination of nutritional deficiencies, excess joint activity, and emotional issues.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid means "similar to flowing pain." It is an autoimmune disease where good cell and tissue are attack by the immune system. Rheumatoid first affects the joint membranes and later the bone structure at the joint. Rheumatoid arthritis occurs in people of all ages. As this arthritis progresses it can becomes crippling.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a recent disease, which appeared at the turn of the 20th Century. Its cause can be associated with diet where the balance of the joint structure receives chemicals that destroy its balanced condition.

Gouty Arthritis

Gout is a disease where uric acid deposits in the joints of feet and legs. When the body has an excess of uric acid, which it can't eliminate through normal channels of elimination- the kidney - the uric acid settles in the joints and soft tissue causing pain.

Gout is more common with men, people with high blood pressure, alcoholics, diabetics, and obesity. Gout means drop. It was thought by Romans that gout was caused by poisonous crystals coming from the blood, drop by drop, and depositing in the toes.

There is some evidence that gout is related to the amount of wine that is drunk with the meal. This put an extra strain on the liver that tries to detoxify the wine and the meal at the same time. Result is the liver is unable to detoxify the complete meal.

Other Types of Arthritis

There are other types of arthritis. These account for a small amount of the types of arthritis that most people have. Here is the list:

Bursitis - inflammation of the shoulder joints and muscles.

Neuritis - is know as rheumatism of your nerves. When the sheaths of your nerves dry out you have neuritis

Myositis - pain that comes from working hard and muscles have friction between them.

Fibrositis - is when your connective tissue become inflamed
Lumbago - occurs before you get arthritis of the spine.

Which arthritis doe you have? In other articles, I'll tell you what you can do to prevent or eliminate arthritis of any kind.

Symptoms of Arthritis - What to Look Out For

Symptoms of arthritis can be vague and confusing but it is important to recognize them. Some of the early symptoms of this condition are joint pains, joint stiffness and tenderness in and around the joints. Other symptoms include restricted motion in the joints as well as redness and warmth in the affected joints. There are more than 100 types of this disease and for a doctor to determine the type that you have, he or she will have to evaluate your medical history and do a physical examination. Diagnostic tests as well as an assessment of the progression of the disease will also be carried out.

Major types of this condition have a set of symptoms. Signs of rheumatoid arthritis include inflammation and swelling of the affected joints. The joints will also feel painful, warm and stiff especially in the morning. This may also happen after a prolonged periods of inactivity. Increased stiffness particularly early in the morning is a major feature of the inflammatory disease and may last for more than an hour.

Osteoarthritis is another type and the signs include pain, sharp ache or a burning sensation in the affected muscles and tendons. Other symptoms are stiffness, inflammation and a crackling noise when you move or touch the affected joint. Muscle spasm and contractions in the tendons are also other symptoms.

Psoriatic arthritis leads to psoriatic nail lesions characterized by pitting of the nails. In severe cases, this condition can lead to loss of the nail. Apart from causing joint inflammation, this disease can also lead to tendinitis and dactylitis or sausage-like swelling of the digits.

Rheumatoid Arthritis - Massages and Hydrotherapy For Pain Relief

Massages are known worldwide known for their multiple benefits. Depending on the receiver's need, massages can enhance muscle performance or relieve the deep tension that occurs mainly because of the stress. Recommended by doctors, massages have a strong therapeutic power and are integrated in the recovering process of many patients whether they suffer from osteoporosis, rheumatoid arthritis or need relief from an accident's post trauma.

The Swedish massage is being used worldwide where the patient receives because of the strokes used in it joint and tension relief. Having involved a rather gentle style with rubbing, tapping and kneading of the muscles, the Swedish massage is ideal for minimizing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and because of that it is often prescribed in the rheumatoid arthritis treatments.

The deep tissue massage is a variation of the Swedish massage in which is more pressure applied to the tissues so that the massage effect will be felt on the deeper layer of muscles as well. Involving the use of fingertips and sometimes the elbows, the result of the deep tissue massage is stress relief and deep relaxation. However, more gentle massages like craniosacral therapy will also have as result the desired profound relief.

Hydrotherapy is an alternative for exercise therapy that can be painful for people that suffer from arthritis or osteoporosis and can not benefit from relieving pain and improving mobility because mobility causes pain to people having this autoimmune disease. Hydrotherapy offers the benefits of improving the body functions without putting stress on the joints or other body parts that are in pain because of the disease. Being especially useful for treating joint pain and stiffness, the common rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, hydrotherapy is a great way for patients to learn what exercises are helpful for their disease. The major benefit of the hydrotherapy is that patients do the exercises in warm water where the gravitational forces on the body are reduced and the joint mobility is considerably increased; also because of the water jets, the blood flow is increased as well improving the effective mobility in the entire body.

For people with osteoarthritis, hydrotherapy has been proved to be effective as well by improving the physical function and general health in the knees of the patients. Also, the benefit of having physical exercises impact free and with easier joint movement is a huge plus for people with osteoarthritis.

Combined with a healthy rheumatoid arthritis diet or a nourishing osteoarthritis diet, massages and therapies, especially hydrotherapy will help the suffering people of this disease make progress in recovering and get rid of the arthritis joint pain or knee pain and lack of strength. And for less pain in the joints, don't forget adding Omega 3 in your daily meals that will surely minimize your pain and joints inflammation!

Low Cholesterol Arthritis Diet - No Extra Pounds - Reduce Pain

Every person, young or old alike should have a healthy diet. For arthritis patients, however, a healthy diet is also one way to decrease the frequency their arthritis attacks. Truly there is a connection between one's diet and arthritis. The type of arthritis diet suitable for a person with the disease is dependent on the type of arthritis or certain arthritis conditions being experienced by the individual. An example is a diet with low purine and alcoholic content results to a decrease in levels of blood uric acid thus lessening the likelihood of experiencing a gout attack.

Excess Body Weight and Arthritis

Excess body weight affects a person afflicted with arthritis negatively because it adds more strain on the joints, and according to medical experts, those who are more or less overweight by 20% will have more arthritis attacks as compared to those who have the right body weight. Aside from that fact, it is important to note that there are certain types of food that function as allergens, hence acting as triggers to arthritis and at the same time changes negatively the way the immune system functions.

The bottom line when speaking of the arthritis diet is that one should keep in mind that eating nutritiously and taking in well-balanced meals are vital to the well-being of an individual and that staying away from the so called fad diets and avoiding diet claims that are not proven will help in ensuring that the body is replenished with the nutrients it needs. Studies made which focus on the relationship between one's diet and arthritis state that high cholesterol and high fat found in one's diet contributes a lot to arthritis attacks. Thus, a diet plan for the disease should be designed in order to prevent the pain and even better, eliminate the occurrence of arthritis

In a proper arthritis diet, the foods to avoid are fast food meals and foods high in starch (e.g. potatoes). As for red meat, it can be eaten but only in little amounts and one should also watch out for meals with high saturated fat levels. On the other hand, in order to relieve pain, patients have the freedom to choose having an arthritis diet that consists mainly of fruits that are high in vitamin C like oranges, apples, strawberries, etc. Additional food that could help in the diet is oily fish since it contains a lot of vitamin E, and one should not forget that grains such as brown rice and wheat are also beneficial to the patients.

High fat Western diets should be avoided since they trigger arthritis, meaning they should not be part of an arthritis diet. Everyone who wants to be healthier should avoid that kind of diet. Instead, people should eat nutritious foods and should try a low fat diet or cholesterol lowering diets for weight maintenance to be long term.

Fitness Training to Prevent Falls For Older Adults With Osteoarthritis

As a personal trainer who specializes in helping older adults and seniors maintain and create more independent lifestyles, nothing draws attention more than watching someone "plop" down into a chair, because the intention to move with purpose is lost. To me, this is a clear indication that someone has already taken the first step of muscular deterioration leading down the "slippery slope" towards an unnecessary fall.

Certified as a Senior Populations Specialist through the National Academy of Sports Medicine, my fitness training has shown me that older adults with osteoarthritis experience tremendous lifestyle benefits by performing purposeful exercises just one-two times per week. That is good news, because for folks who don't list exercise as a favorite pastime, starting a fitness program after retirement is a challenge, even when the benefits are well understood.

In fact, the Center for Disease Control reports only six percent of adults over age 64 meet the national objectives for physical activity and strength training!

And the facts about the risk of falling are strikingly clear...

Osteoarthritis affects approximately 49% of seniors over 65 years of age (National Academy of Sports Medicine) and often impacts an individual's strength and sense of balance. Compound that with normal muscle atrophy which occurs every year after age 30, and it's not surprising that the Center for Disease Control states that falls among older adults are the most common cause for injury and trauma-related hospital admissions.

Hire a personal trainer?

While you might choose to hire a professional fitness trainer to help you exercise safely and keep you motivated, there are simple things you can do at home to improve balance, leg strength, and core stability. With targeted exercises to address these three key areas, you'll see strength and balance improvements in a matter of weeks, reducing the chances of a fall.

At my personal training studio, clients with osteoarthritis understand that, even though some joint discomfort may be present during weight lifting and cardio based activity. By contrast, sedentary individuals typically experience more rapid deterioration in cartilage and joint health. This is because cartilage is very avascular (has few blood vessels) and the corresponding lack of blood supply means that the only way to nourish the cartilage is to force nutrients into the joint/cartilage through movement.

Simple exercises can help keep your joints healthy and muscles strong

(*Always consult your physician prior to starting any new exercise program and seek professional guidance to adapt the following exercises to match your fitness level and adapt to restrictions given to you by your doctor).

1) Standing Squat:

Start with your feet hip to shoulder width apart. With (or without) dumbbells held by your side, sit down into a chair and stand up, without gaining momentum on the way up, or plopping on the way down. Keep your knees tracking straight ahead over your toes. Raise or lower your seat to adjust for fitness level.

2) Balance Reach:

Standing on 2 feet hip width apart, reach both arms forward as far as possible, bending only at the hip, and keeping your back flat. Try this standing on one foot if two feet is too easy.

3) Elevated Push up:

Place your hands shoulder width apart on a counter top or the arm of a sofa. While squeezing your butt muscles together and keeping the abdominals braced (as if prepared to be punched in the belly), keep your body as straight as possible. Lower your entire body down in one segment using only your arms. Do not let your back arch or your belly sag. Move slowly through each repetition and find a height that matches your ability.

4) Walking Stairs:

In your house, as you walk up the stairs, consciously try to squeeze the glute (butt muscle) with every step. Drive through the heel and stand up tall.

5) Curl Up:

Laying on your back in bed, do your best to sit up straight, reaching your hands toward your toes. Try to avoid placing your hands down on the bed, unless you need the assist.

6) Hand Walk:

Standing with feet shoulder width apart, place your hands on the ground or elevated surface, allowing the knees to bend if necessary. Walk your hands out toward a push up position, then walk your hands back toward your feet and stand up tall. This is a great technique for getting up or down to the floor for folks with really bad knee pain, but reasonable upper body strength and healthy wrists.

Each of the above exercises should be done in a way that challenges you to perform 12-15 repetitions. If you can do more, it's too easy! If you can't get to 12 reps, the exercise is too hard and you increase your risk for injury.

Strength & balance training in addition to proper nutrition are all critical for fall reduction and injury prevention.