What Are Mesenchymal Stem Cells And Why Are They Important for Arthritis?

Mesenchymal stem cells, also known as MSCs, are cells that can differentiate into a number of cell types.

The distinction here should be made between the term "multipotent" and the term "pluripotent."

Stem cells (SCs) obtained from an adult are multipotent. While they can differentiate into a number of different cell types, their ability to differentiate is somewhat limited. That makes them different from embryonic stem cells. These are SCs obtained from fetuses. Embryonic SCs are "pluripotent" meaning they can differentiate into virtually any type of cell. While this makes them almost ideal for tissue repair, there are potential problems. The first is the ethical one that is still being debated in many quarters. The second is that while their power to differentiate is unquestioned, the ability to turn them off at the right time is a concern.

Adult MSCs can differentiate into various types of connective tissue which makes them valuable as a potential source of regenerative tissue for the treatment of disorders such as arthritis. In fact, adult MSCs are often referred to as "repair" SCs.

MSCs are found in the bone marrow, synovium (lining of the joint), the pulp of deciduous (baby) teeth, fat, and muscle.

Another source of MSCs is the umbilical cord.

Researchers are now discovering the various factors that cause MSCs to home in different areas of disease and damage.

Small proteins called chemokines apparently attract MSCs because these cells have receptors for chemokines on their surface. When a tissue is damaged or diseased, there is a release of chemokines which then travel via the bloodstream. When these chemokines bind to receptors on the surface of MSCs, they cause the stem cells to migrate to the site of injury.

In addition, other substances, called adhesion molecules, also present on the surface of MSCs play a role in cell migration to an area of injury.

To date, multiple methods for introducing SCs have been used. For example, orthopedic surgeons tout the benefits of microfracture. While short term benefit may be derived, microfracture surgery requires lengthy recuperation. Also, studies have demonstrated that the type of cartilage produced by microfracture is weaker fibrocartilage as opposed to the more desirable and stronger hyaline cartilage.

Recently, some studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of MSCs in combination with fat and platelet rich plasma in the treatment of osteoarthritis. Further studies need to be done to corroborate the early research.

What is unknown at the present are the following:

How many MSCs are required for repair of large areas of damage such as is found in osteoarthritis?

What is the role of MSCs in modulating immune system function? Some studies indicate these SCs have immunomodulatory effects.

While marrow contains a large number of MSCs, fat actually has a greater number per unit volume. Therefore, what is the role of fat in tissue regeneration?

Is there a method for inducing the chemokine and adhesion molecule functioning so as to enhance stem cell repair?

What is the optimal environment which permits SC reparative function?

Easy Uric Acid Cure - How to Eliminate Uric Acid Gout in 2 Hours With Bicarbonate of Soda

Here, you'll discover a simple uric acid cure using bicarbonate of soda. When suffering from gout many folks first thoughts are drug-based treatments. But something as simple as a bicarbonate of soda drink can eliminate the pain and symptoms of gout pretty quickly. More and more sufferers are turning to natural treatments to eliminate their gout symptoms.

The benefits of using bicarbonate of soda as an easy uric acid cure are that it can help;

(1) dissolve uric acid crystals
(2) reduce pain
(3) make uric acid more soluble and easier to excrete
(4) increase body fluid volume which helps the kidneys do their job more effectively
(5) boost urine pH which helps reduce the risk of uric acid kidney stone formation

But before I show you your uric acid cure in detail, let's quickly go over what causes your gout symptoms of redness, swelling, heat, inflammation and extreme pain. These are actually caused by crystals which have formed in your joints; most usually the big toe, although other joints can be affected. They are so painful because the crystals are in the form of tiny 'needles', which can be clearly seen under the microscope.

The crystals themselves are formed out of excess uric acid in your bloodstream which your kidneys have been unable to process properly. Uric acid is a byproduct of the breakdown of natural purines in your body cells and food. Purines are chemical compounds that play an important role in providing our protein and energy needs. Normally, your kidneys then process and flush excess uric acid out of your body via urine. But sometimes this doesn't happen properly and you end up with excess acid in your blood, hence the crystals and a gout attack.

And because many gout victims suffer really nasty side effects using mainstream drug-based treatment, they are turning more and more to natural gout remedies that don't have these side effects and are way cheaper too. These are things like dietary changes (remember purines!), herbs, natural supplements, particular fruits and berries such as cherries and strawberries, etc.

One natural remedy that many folks don't know about is bicarbonate of soda. When mixed with water and taken over a period of time, it can relieve the symptoms quite quickly; in as little as 2 hours depending on the severity of the gout attack.

Here's how to take your uric acid cure...

Add half a teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda to 8 ounces of water (a typical 8 oz glass). Make sure to mix thoroughly. Stick to the following schedule: Drink a glass just before going to bed; a glass immediately on getting up in the morning; a glass every 2 to 4 hours in between meals. Do not take more than 4 teaspoons of bicarbonate of soda per day, i.e. 8 glasses per day. Continue with this regimen until the symptoms disappear.

Since bicarbonate of soda is high in sodium, you need to reduce your salt intake (salt and diet). And if you suffer from hypertension, keep checking your blood pressure. If it rises, stop the treatment immediately. In any case, seek your doctor's advice before starting the course.

Now many folks have found this uric acid cure to be very effective. However, it's used simply to eliminate the symptoms of an actual gout attack, it cannot prevent your gout returning. And recurring gout has to be avoided at all costs since -- apart from the excruciating pain -- it can cause you permanent joint damage and kidney problems down the line. So it isn't enough just to keep treating the symptoms when they occur, you need to prevent them from returning ever again.

Using Massage Therapy to Treat Arthritis

Arthritis is a rampant disease that does not discriminate, and negatively affects the lives of millions of people in all parts of the globe. It makes the simplest of tasks seem like the most difficult of endeavors, and that is no way to live. Due to the severity and widespread impact of arthritis, dozens of treatments have been developed to combat it. Some of them are standard prescription drugs from pharmaceutical companies, but there are a multitude of alternative therapies to consider. This includes the field of massage services, through which specific techniques have been developed just for the treatment of arthritis.

Massage therapy is great for reducing the symptoms of many types of arthritis. Unfortunately, no amount of massage can cure or physically affect the progression of arthritis, so other medications or techniques would be needed for that. However, temporary relief from pain is the next best thing for those who are out of options or whose current regiment is not very effective. Having a regular massage attacks arthritis from many different angles, which results in great feelings of painlessness and calm.

The main cause of arthritis is inflammation of the joints, and getting a massage quickly relieves inflammation anywhere in the body. When the joints are less inflamed or not inflamed at all, they are safe to touch and move more intensely. Remember, the decrease in inflammation is only temporary, but it can last a good few hours or the rest of the day, sometimes longer.

Extensive movement throughout the day puts a toll on your joints and muscles, and a massage is an ideal way to relieve the stiffness and exhaustion that naturally comes with extended releases of energy. When receiving massage services, the professional exerts his power over all parts of your body, so even parts that are not affected by arthritis receive benefits. In addition, regular massages improves the circulation of your blood, which not only helps ease the pain of arthritis, but can be good for avoiding other debilitating diseases as well.

As you can see, massage therapy is an excellent treatment technique for arthritis, especially if the professional conducting the massage has had experience working with arthritis patients before. Since those with arthritis are more sensitive than those without it, the massage must be gentler than usual and focus on different areas. Since arthritis sufferers regularly go to massage service centers to find relief, odds are that whoever you go to will have experience with arthritis as well.

How Arthritis Viciously Strikes Young People

You might think being in your 30's is far too young to develop rheumatoid or osteoarthritis, but if you just take a glance at some of the popular health forums in the U.S and the West, arthritis - which we think of as gently creeping into our lives beyond 70 is striking people quite cruelly at a very early age.

There are a number of attributing factors which cause this although a bad diet is the obvious culprit and doesn't need too much explaining.

High acid diets are terrible for the health of the bones as when calcium levels are low, calcium deposits in the bone are used by your body to buffer the high acid content.

Calcium isn't solely responsible for bone strength and it's debatable whether high calcium diets can actually help you rebuild bone structure, but it's clear that depleting it through a bad diet in the first place in your teens and twenties makes it very difficult to replace.

People that have grown up on these high acid diets are therefore at a greater risk of developing arthritis and statistics over the last two years back this up.

Nearly 175000 people in the U.S were hospitalized through the sudden onset of an arthritic condition in 2011, with 16000 deaths directly attributed to arthritis.

Early Violent Symptoms

• Struck down literally overnight with fatigue


• Dangerously quick drop in red blood cell volume


• Immediate and constant joint pain in not one - but many joints


• Lack of sleep for pain


• Swollen elbows


• Carpal tunnel in wrists


• Unable to kneel or walk long distances


• Depression from pain

There are ways though to avoid these rather quite worryingly sinister symptoms.

1. Diet

Change your diet from a high acid to a high alkaline diet. Not all high acid content is bad but don't let it become your staple food. Some wonderful high alkaline foods include bok choy, broccoli and salads with balsamic vinegar.

2. Magnesium not Calcium Supplements

So many doctors in the West still plug the calcium angle - that because there is so much calcium in bone structure that calcium rich foods and supplements will help rebuild it.

There is no evidence of this to prove this on a grand scale.

Rather, tests concluded on a 9 month trial by the Medical Journal Medicine in 2009 saw the bone structure of women rebuilt by some 11% from a daily magnesium intake.

3. Exercise

Exercise is key, preferably low impact sports like swimming. This way you strengthen the muscles that surround the joints providing immediate support, pain relief and higher energy levels.

4. Natural Supplements not NSAID's

NSAID's are for people when the pain is unbearable or aren't willing to explore additional, safer and just as effective options.

This way you don't put yourself at risk of rashes, liver or heart disease, heart palpitations or worse.

Rather natural arthritis treatment should include a daily intake of:

• Omega 3, 6 and 9 proteins


• Vitamin D in 800mg capsules


• Real natural anti-inflammatory compounds like Reishi, Capsaicin, Tongkat ali, Vitamin C, Ginger, White Willow Bark


• Supplements that contain Glucosamine Complex, Chondroitin Sulfate, MSM

Eczema Vs Psoriasis

Although they are both skin conditions, by assessing the areas of the skin that are affected, it is possible to see what the differences between these two skin complaints are. They are both types of dermatitis, which simply means 'inflammatory conditions relating to the skin.'

Eczema is made up of very dry, scaly and itchy skin patches, that are also often red and inflamed. There may also be small blisters present in these areas, which can 'weep' and become infected. The areas most affected are the insides of the elbows, the hands, and neck and the inside of the knees, as well as other areas of the legs. Some people even have dry, itchy areas on their faces, including their eyes and scalp. Scratching the itchy skin makes the itch worse and can break the skin too, which can lead to infection.

This skin condition can be worsened by skin irritants, like certain washing powders, clothing, soaps, perfumes, animal fur and other household and industrial chemicals that the skin comes into contact with. Specific foods can also make the condition worse, and gluten and dairy are often the culprits.

The immune system of the person afflicted reacts to either the environmental triggers, or specific foods, or both, and the skin reacts by becoming inflamed, causing the symptoms of distress, which manifest as eczema. Stress can also worsen eczema.

However when the body is provided with specific nutrients, to heal the skin and enable it become healthy and retain moisture, then the skin becomes more resilient to external triggers. When the immune system is nourished, it becomes better able to cope with both internal and external triggers. Strengthening the digestive system also facilitates less food sensitivities. Addressing all these issues leads to healthier skin.

Psoriasis consists of raised areas of skin, often on the opposite area to where eczema usually appears, like the outside of the elbows, and the knees. The skin also has a rough, flaky, silvery appearance and can appear red too. When the condition gets severe the skin will also start to itch, and can even flake off, leaving bleeding skin underneath. This condition can accompany sore joints, and then the condition is called psoriatic arthritis.

Psoriasis is an auto-immune disease, and is caused by a the skin receiving a faulty signal that speeds up both the growth of new skin cells and the turnover of existing skin cells. This means that the skin builds up extra layers, leading to dry, hard and itchy patches on various parts of the skin.

There are certain environmental factors that can worsen this skin condition, such as stress, extremes of temperature, and infections. There may be a genetic predisposition to this affliction.

Once again, when the body is provided with specific nutrients, it is capable of addressing this problem. When the cells are given what they require to function optimally, the skin is one of the first areas that will reflect this improvement in cellular functioning.

These skin conditions are not contagious, but do cause untold misery for the sufferers, with many millions of people, all over the world, suffering from them.

Cortisone creams are often prescribed to help address the irritation and inflammation that accompany these skin conditions. Over time this form of treatment can make the skin more sensitive and doesn't solve the underlying cause of the condition.

(If you are still unsure of what your particular skin condition is, it is advisable to see a dermatologist to make the final assessment.)

Although prescription medicine and OTC (over the counter) compounds are used by millions of people, every day, in an attempt to solve these skin conditions, the underlying cause is very seldom addressed. Essential fats have an enormously important role to play in every single cell in your body. The skin needs these specific nutrients in large quantities, to remain healthy and robust, therefore it is the first issue in the diet that should be addressed. Removing specific foods, as well as environmental triggers is the next step, although the essential fats also play a role in modulating the immune system, so these triggers could become less irritating to the body and therefore the skin, when the immune system becomes healthier. Digestive enzymes may also be helpful as they help with protein digestion, which when hampered, often leads to food sensitivities.

Arthritis Knee Pain Causes, Symptoms and Natural Relief

Arthritis is a joint disorder resulting in joint inflammation and pain. Knee joint is a major weight bearing joint of our body, and therefore is quite vulnerable to increased rate of wear and tear. Before learning about arthritis knee pain management, we have to understand the structure and functioning of the knee joint. Knee joint is, by nature, a hinge joint, allowing flexion normally to a maximum of 135 degrees but no extension. The functioning of knee joint allows free movement of the legs, and the joint is also capable of bearing the entire body weight.

The knee joint is the point where the femur or thigh bone and the large shinbone or tibia meets. The joint is comprised of three compartments: the inner or medial compartment, outer or lateral compartment and the knee cap or patella joining the femur to form the third compartment named as patellofemoral joint. The knee joint lies protected within a capsule and collateral ligaments are there both on the inside and outside of the joint, and also ligaments cross each other within the joint, and are known by the name of cruciate ligaments.

These ligaments hold the bones in place, and also impart strength and stability to the joint. The junction where the femur and tibia meet, the cartilage meniscus occurs. Meniscus serves as a cushioned pad allowing the bones to move freely without friction, and also absorbing the load of body weight above knee while standing. Below the knee cap, a large tendon called patellar tendon occurs. This tendon is attached to the front part of tibia bone. The thigh muscles, quadriceps muscles and hamstring muscles surrounding the knee relax and contract to allow knee movement.

Cause and Symptoms of Arthritis Knee Pain

Arthritis knee pain occurs due to degeneration or wear and tear of the meniscus or inflammation of soft tissues surrounding the knee. Aging of body makes the meniscus weak and incapable of repairing itself after the daily wear and tear. As a result of which it may start tearing or flaking. Once the cartilage is lost due to degeneration, the shin bone and thigh bone are exposed to friction which may develop bony outgrowths or spurs called osteophytes. The above occurrence makes the knee painful. Pain may occur also when rheumatic arthritis invades the delicate tissues around the knee joint.

Another cause of knee pain due to arthritis is the crystallization of uric acid within the joint cavity. This actually occurs in case of gout. Swelling of knee due to arthritis may lead to accumulation of fluid in a cyst behind the knee. Such a cyst is called Baker's cyst, and it is one common reason for pain at the back of the knee. The common symptoms associated with knee pain due to arthritis are swelling, warmth in the joint, inflexibility or stiffness, redness of skin around the joint, locking sensation in the joint, crunching sound while moving knee.

Rumatone Gold Capsule and Oil are natural remedies for arthritis knee pain relief. These herbal supplements and anti-inflammatory massage oil are specifically formulated to ease pain and inflammation associated with knee pain.

Chest Arthritis in Women - Treating Inflamed Cartilage Attached to Breast Bone

Unlike the common symptoms of osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis where it occurs in the knee, hip, feet, hands and fingers - these two types of the disease can also flare up in the chest.

Both women and men can develop chest arthritis but for women it can be particularly uncomfortable.

When it spreads to the breast bone, simple functions like breathing, coughing, sneezing and laughing cause the lungs to press against this bone which creates pressure against the inflamed region.

Some women describe the feeling as similar to being given a bear hug, while lying down on ones side may provoke the same lung restricting pain.

However, if this restrictive feeling is just starting to affect you and you haven't been diagnosed as of yet, you could well be experiencing Costochondritis.

This is not incurable and may go away after a few weeks or months, but the symptoms are very similar, but this time it's just a temporary inflammation of the cartilage of the breast and ribs that are causing the chest pain.

If unfortunately this isn't the case and the cartilage attached to the breast bone continues to flare up then there are a combination of treatments that may work for you:

Treating Arthritis in the Chest:

1. Minocycline

This is in fact used to treat severe cases of rheumatoid arthritis, but sometimes when breathing can become so restricted that it becomes life threatening, then Minocycline may be prescribed to treat osteoarthritis in the chest.

Some patients may go on using this indefinitely, so bear in mind it is an NSAID and there will be risks involved if used long-term, but for short term-term it may provide the relief you need.

2. Cortisone injection

A steroid injection into the swollen cartilage to reduce the inflammation may provide the relief you need if it's flared up.

You may only need this once or not, impossible to tell with this disease.

3. Tylenol Extra Strength

Supposedly, this is one of the few NSAID's that work well for chest arthritis.

Celebrex was also once touted as an effective NSAID, but this has now been taken off the shelf due to the inherent health risks patients experienced, so be careful using any NSAID long-term.

4. FDA homeopathic pain relievers

If the pain isn't too unbearable then FDA homeopathic natural supplements are as good if not better than most NSAIDs, plus they're completely safe and are used long-term.

The common ingredients now most people are familiar with are Glucosamine Complex, Chondroitin Sulfate and MSM.

They work on three fronts.

They alleviate the swelling, reduce the pain and help re-build bone density.

Dead Sea Salt - Experience the Healing Power of Dead Sea Salts

A large salt lake, located between the shores of Jordan and Israel, is the source of the popular Dead Sea salt. This unique salt is prized for its therapeutic and beautifying effects.

So what makes the salt from this Middle Eastern sea so special?

Minerals!

That's right... this body of water, and the mud surrounding it, are filled with health and beauty promoting minerals. Mineral salts, and those from the Dead Sea in particular, share a long history.

Enjoying a mineral soak is an honored custom in many countries. This bathing ritual has been a long held tradition in many places around the world such as Europe and Japan. Now, a growing body of scientific research is offering support for this custom. As evidence of the health benefits of mineral salt mounts, popularity of the product increases.

Salt Therapy

The therapeutic benefits of Dead Sea salts are abundant. In addition to easing the annoying symptoms of dry skin, there are reports of improvement or relief from...

* Rheumatologic conditions. Symptoms of Rheumatoid Arthritis, Psoriatic Arthritis, and Osteoarthritis are eased. The skin absorbs the minerals during a bath. In turn, blood circulation is stimulated.

* Skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, and eczema. These ailments often improve. Research suggests relief may be due to the high level of magnesium. This increases skin hydration as it reduces inflammation.

But that's not all. Dead Sea salt also facilitates relaxation and aids stress reduction. It enhances both skin and health. Plus, a long soak in this compound is an easy prescription to follow. In fact, it is a pure pleasure.

All this from a package of salt!

Unique Qualities

Of course this is no ordinary salt. But what makes it different?

Compared to regular salt water, this sea is quite low in sodium chloride. Ocean water is comprised of 97% sodium chloride whereas the Dead Sea contains only 12 to 18%. This leaves lots of room for powerful minerals such as:

* Bromide

* Calcium

* Magnesium

* Potassium

The combination of these minerals, in concentrated form, delivers powerful therapeutic benefits.

Bath and Beyond

Today, just as in ancient times, this distinct salt is not limited to bathing. In fact, its use in skin care creations has a long history... it can be traced way back to the early Egyptians. Cleopatra, the famous Queen of the Nile, is said to have soaked and slathered her body with this natural beauty product.

These wise people were definitely ahead of their time!

You'll find a large assortment of products, in addition to bath salts, that take full advantage of this ancient beauty secret...

* Foot soaks

* Foot and body scrubs

* Soaps

* Cosmetics

* Mud masks

* Body wraps

* Foot and skin creams

* Pain relief balms

There certainly is no lack of mineral solutions on the market!

Arthritis Knee Pain Natural Home Remedies - Safe and Effective Methods to Treat Arthritis Pain

Knee pain may be the result of overuse, inadequate warm-up or cool down, inadequate stretching and also poor form during physical activity. People suffering from knee pain due to simple causes often clear up on their own with simple care and applying simple remedy. Due to excess weight also there may be a greater risk for the problems of knee pain.

Usually knee pain is caused by -

1. One of the causes of the arthritis may be bursitis. It is an inflammation from the repeated pressure on the knee like if any one kneels for a long period, overuse or injury.

2. It is also caused due to arthritis which includes rheumatoid, gout, osteoarthritis or some other connective disorder like lupus.

3. It is also caused due to the baker's cyst. It is a fluid-filled swelling which is behind the knee and this problem is accompanied by inflammation due to other causes like arthritis. If there is a rupture in the cysts then it causes pain in the back of your knee which may travel down to your calf.

4. Tendinitis is also one of the causes of knee pain. It is related with the pain of the knee and especially in front of the knee which get in worse condition while going up and down stairs or inclines.

Severe pain and instability of the knee joints can be caused due to torn or ruptured ligaments. It may be caused due to strain and sprain, minor injuries to the ligaments.

Some of the remedies for knee pain

Yoga is very effective for treating knee pain. Doing regularly yoga with breathing exercises help you to relax and also to cure knee ache because it is caused by the mental stress also. Yoga helps to bring flexibility in the knee joint by natural way.

Warrior posture is also very helpful for reducing the joint pain. You can try this by standing with your feet 4 foot apart. Then turn your left foot in inward direction and right foot in outward direction. Keep your chests facing straight and in front. Stretch your both the arms and bend in the direction of right knee and also turn your head to look at your right knee. Repeat this process with each leg.

Usually the specialist also recommends that if you want to take off the load of the knee then perform at least 5 squats daily and once a day.

Osteoarthritis Pain Relief Can Be Accomplished Without the Use of Medications With Side Effects

Osteoarthritis pain relief is a very common desire, with more than 16 million people suffering from this debilitating disease. Because symptoms tend to develop and worsen over time, individuals who have pain and stiffness caused by degeneration of the joints are constantly seeking better ways to manage their pain. In recent years, more and more of these individuals have been turning to natural products to provide a safer, gentler and less costly alternative to more traditional forms of treatment.

Osteoarthritis is the term given to a condition resulting from the breakdown of the protective layer of cartilage which surrounds the joints. Whether as the result of an injury or just the result of routine wear and tear, the cartilage wears away, causing the bones of the joints to rub against each other, resulting in pain and even malformation of the bones. Osteoarthritis treatment can range from prescription medicine to exercise to surgical intervention. Topical analgesics can offer temporary relief from pain, but have proven ineffective for tong term relief.

Treating Arthritis With Natural Alternatives

Natural remedies for arthritis, which can contain anti-inflammatories and even antioxidants, can ease swelling and promote development of new cartilage. Rather than just treat the pain itself, these products target the cause of pain and provide the most thorough approach to treating arthritis symptoms. In terms of osteoarthritis pain relief, nothing has proven more complete, and more successful, than a comprehensive natural course of treatment.

Proven ingredients such as glucosamine and chondroitin, which help repair damaged joints; manganese and other antioxidants, which remove harmful free radicals and combat the signs of aging; and ginger extract and other anti-inflammatories provide a new, more thorough form of osteoarthritis treatment. With ingredients like these combined in carefully measured amounts, these new products eliminate the need to take several different supplements, thereby reducing the threat of dangerous results from pill interactions and reducing overall cost.

No matter what course of treatment you choose, maintaining a healthy, balanced diet and getting proper exercise are also important steps when it comes to osteoarthritis pain relief. Since stress on the joints is a main factor in osteoarthritis, ridding yourself of excess weight can significantly help in reducing symptoms. Reducing fat intake and eating foods rich in sulfur, which helps to repair and rebuild cartilage, can also help the body to heal itself without the use of potentially harmful prescription medicines.

While exercise can cause some wear and tear on the body, being inactive can be just as detrimental if not more so. Therefore, some level of exercise is recommended as part of a successful osteoarthritis treatment program. Swimming, walking, low impact aerobics and range of motion exercises can all help to improve overall health and reduce pain and stiffness.

Healing At The Source of the Problem

The key to successful treatment of osteoarthritis symptoms is enabling the body to heal itself by addressing the underlying cause of pain and stiffness. This has never been easier than it is with the availability of natural remedies for osteoarthritis pain relief. These treatments should not be considered, however, without first consulting your doctor. Since each product works differently for each person, it will be up to you and your doctor to determine which is right for you.

Osteoarthritis can be a fact of life for many of us. There isn't much you can do to avoid it, but you don't have to live with debilitating symptoms. Natural remedies made from botanicals and other similar ingredients can offer a safe, gentle alternative to help your body heal itself from the inside out. Talk to your doctor today and find out which product will work best for you. Don't let pain become a way of life for you...make the natural choice and live your life pain free!

How Natural Remedies for Arthritis Calm the Nerves

Arthritis has turned out to be one of the greatest health challenges that are haunting the elderly generation today. The condition comes with severe pain and reduces movement, making patients immobile in extreme situations. If you are someone experiencing the extreme pain that has kept you on bed over the years, you can calm the pains the natural way. Natural remedies for arthritis have been tested and established to be effective compared to the drug prescriptions which can generate more pain than good.

Individuals whose condition is not extreme can greatly benefit from food supplements which contain glucosamine. This relieves the pains experienced in the joints of arthritis patients. There is evidence that the supplement is a great pain reliever and regulates the cartilage loss in the joints resulting to pains and cracks. Contrary to anti-inflammatory drugs that come with side effects when patients consume them, the remedy is effective and with no side effects.

Other than the supplements, another natural remedy that is effective for arthritis is applying heat and cold to the painful joints. Arthritis patients can reduce the pains on the joints heating up the painful joints. This is possible by using items such as electric blankets and heating for some minutes. If this procedure is repeated over time, the pain resides. Taking hot baths can also ensure the pain is reduced. For joints that are burning from the inside (inflammatory joints), cold treatments can be used to reduce the pains. Patients can wrap ice bag round the painful joints for sometime and a calming relief will be felt.

Another simple but effective remedy is wearing gloves and tight clothes to bed. Arthritis results to swollen hands and legs and to avoid such, patients can wrap the joints and avoid the swelling. By simply wearing a pair of gloves to bed, arthritis patients can be able to calm their situation over time. The selected Natural remedies for arthritis are an effective alternative to the prescribed drugs and medicines that are sold over the counter. When the joints of arthritis patients start itching, it is possible for them to calm the itchy feeling eating foods that are rich in healing oil. This is the case with cold water fish such as salmon. Omega 3 salmon have fatty acids that greatly reduce inflammation of joints. Patients who supplement their foods with omega 3 salmon supplements or tablets manage the pains. Nuts are also essential since they contain oils that are essential.

Natural remedies for arthritis are a cheap and effective alternative to manage arthritis pain and inflammation. Rubbing pepper on the joints that are painful can end the pains as well. Since it irritates the skin, the patient's focus is altered from the pains caused by arthritis. This may sound ineffective but patients who have tried it have ended up with amazing experiences. Eucalyptus oil is equally effective and though some skins may develop irritation, it is an effective remedy. No treatment fully treats arthritis but remedies can greatly improve a patient's situation. They calm the discomfort and patients can move again easily and without much pain.

What You Ought to Know About Reactive Arthritis

ReA also known as reactive arthritis is not the actual illness itself, but rather an autoimmune response to any type of infection in any part of the body.

In its simplest term, this type of arthritis is the natural reaction of the body when it encounters a particularly virulent strain of bacteria. This medical condition is highly dependent on the onset of another, more grievous ailment; hence the term, "reactive" or reacting to another.

These infections are not only dangerous and potentially life threatening; but its aftermath leaves so many drastic changes in the body that trying to sort out the initial cause may take some time. And while that goes on, the symptoms of ReA also escalate.

To make matters worse, it sometimes takes 1 to 3 weeks after initial infection before a person develops ReA. Some people are therefore more likely to believe that these aches may be irrelevant to the earlier ailment, and would delay medical consultation. This can be unfavorable to the person because arthritis has a high debilitating rate.

It is essential that this condition is detected and handled with at its earliest stage so that no permanent damage can happen to the affected joints. Unfortunately, without the correct diagnosis and the recommended treatment option, the symptoms of ReA would not go away on its own. It is necessary to treat the first condition before any successful arthritis treatment option can work.

As such, reactive arthritis is commonly triggered by a bout of bacterial infection - but fungal and viral infections are not unheard of. Some of the most common bacterial infections that lead to reactive arthritis are: Campylobacter spp., Chylamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Ureaplasma urealyticum, Salmonella spp., Shigella spp., and Yersinia spp. Bacterial infection through food poisoning may also lead to this painful condition. Fungal infection after an unhealed fracture or trauma of the bone is another likely culprit. Virulent viruses, especially the human immunodeficiency virus or HIV can have ReA as one of its degenerative aftermaths.

Although this kind of arthritis may have different causes, health care providers can usually detect the onset of this medical condition via 3 avenues: the eyes, the knees and the urinary tract.

The patient usually complains of pains at the back of the eyes, and there are visible inflamed areas either all over the eyeball (conjunctivitis) or in the middle layer of one or both eyes (uveitis.) The larger joints of the knees are also severely affected that the person has a hard time bending these without pain, or using these to sustain his or her weight while walking. The joints of the hips and the joints that attach the shoulder and the forearms are also likely candidates for pain. And lastly, reactive arthritis can also cause a burning sensation in the urinary tract, while also increasing the frequency that a person has to urinate per day. These conditions are called dysuria and polyuria, respectively.

For people who have acquired genital bacteria, other urinary tract complications may occur like cervicitis (inflammation of the cervix); salpingitis (infection of the fallopian tubes); and vulvovaginitis (inflammation of the vaginal mucosa) in women. Meanwhile, men may suffer from prostatitis or the infection of the prostate glands.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms: Listen To Your Body

What happens if you don't pay attention to the rheumatoid arthritis symptoms that you feel? It doesn't matter how old you are or what you have going on in your life. Paying attention to the problem at hand, which has to do with your health, is incredibly important. If you don't take care of your arthritis pain, you could find yourself unable to do the things that you are worrying so much about right now. Do you know what the symptoms of arthritis are? If so, you should also know why its important to listen to your body so that the worst of the complications from the rheumatoid arthritis symptoms you face can be avoided.

What Are The Symptoms?

The symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis are in fact fairly simple. For starters, you are likely to feel pain. The pain is likely to be in joints throughout your body. The most common places for this pain to be in is the smaller joints in your body including your fingers and feet, but it can be felt anywhere. You are also likely to feel aching in those joints from movement. For some, moving your joint after it has been sitting for a few minutes will cause soreness and pain.

In addition to those symptoms, you are likely to experience swelling in the joints which is caused by the inflammation there. The amount of swelling and pain that you have is an indication of just how severe your condition is. Those that have extreme levels of pain are often facing rheumatoid arthritis symptoms that are advanced. That can lead to a very urgent need to seek out help. When the symptoms progress, you may have loss of range of motion in that joint that may lead to deformity. You may notice this in knuckles that are no longer aligned or in swollen knees.

The Complications That You Face

As your rheumatoid arthritis symptoms progress, you are likely to see increased amounts of pain and discomfort. The stiffness that you feel can also lead to fatigue in the muscles of that area of your body, which can ultimately limit the use that you can use them for. In addition, some patients end up facing depression from the loss of quality of life that they are used to. But, they don't stop there. Many patients with rheumatoid arthritis can also develop osteoporosis and some may develop a heart condition that some believe is caused by the arthritis itself. They believe that the inflammation of your joints can cause your arteries and the tissue of your heart to become affected.

Probably the last part of the process of rheumatoid arthritis symptoms is that you will find yourself unable to use that joint any longer because the pain and deformity has removed that from you. For some, that means being in a wheelchair and for others that means a treatment like joint replacement. In either case, there are risks that can be important to consider. But, if you listen to your body and get the help you need for the arthritis that you feel, you can severely slow the progression of the condition and even restore some of the motion you need.

Arthritis Treatment Using Ayurvedic Herb Guggul

If you have any form of arthritis, I'm sure you've considered using lots of different options to ease your arthritis pain. Ayurveda is an ancient healing art that has been practiced in India for centuries and has naturally also been used for arthritis treatment.

Mukul Myrrh is a small, thorny plant which is common in India and guggul comes from the yellow-colored resin produced by the stem of the plant. Guggul is one of the most used herbs in Ayurvedic medicine. It is because it has amazing properties - it is anti-inflammatory, analgesic and is an immune enhancer. It is used for joint pain, arthritis and sciatica, among others.

This is not all, this wonder herb can reduce existing plaque in arteries and improve the body's metabolic rate (therefore the fat burning activity) and improves the function of the thyroid. It also helps lower cholesterol. It decreases the platelet 'stickiness' in the blood, thus reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke. This is why it is one of the best herbs used in Ayurveda to treat obesity and related disorders. This herb, however, should not be used during pregnancy as it promotes menstrual discharge and is a uterine stimulant.

Another Ayurvedic herb (well it's a combination of 3) is Triphala and this is a good thing to take as well when you are using guggul as this supports the herb gugul and also helps to detox your body.

As arthritis thrives in an acid environment (which is why acid forming nutrition is counter-productive - coffee, for example), it is important to rid your body of unwanted toxins and then add foods to your diet that are alkaline forming. This includes lots of vegetables and most fruit. Cut down on meat, coffee and alcohol. Smoking is very acid forming and should also be avoided.

You can also do research online to find out more information why Ayurveda can be a great help with arthritis treatment.

Psoriatic Arthritis Symptoms And Treatment Fully Explained

Psoriatic arthritis is a condition that causes swelling in the joints and can result in considerable pain and also scaly patches on the skin. It is linked to the skin condition psoriasis and can also cause problems with other parts of the body, such as the scalp, elbows and knees. It has also been known to be the cause of lesions on the finger and toenails. Another symptom is pain and swelling in the joints and swelling in the toes and fingers. The causes of the disease are not well understood at the moment but it is possible that it may be inherited and that environmental factors could also play a part. If you suspect that you may have the condition it is essential to contact your doctor as soon as possible so that he can make the appropriate tests for a diagnosis.

When diagnosing psoriatic arthritis your doctor may conduct a physical examination, use x-rays and run some blood tests. This helps him to separate the suspected condition from other similar conditions and allows for a proper diagnosis. As with most diseases it is a good idea to see your doctor as early as possible as this can have a beneficial effect on the treatment. One of the best indicators for your doctor is if your nails and skin as well as your joints are affected. When treating the effects of the condition on the skin, doctors will commonly advise you to avoid powerful chemicals and soaps and to use a good skin cream that is lanolin based. Using simple and non-perfumed soaps can also be a good idea. Your doctor should be able to give you a good idea of the appropriate products and where to find them

Many doctors also recommend exercise as being beneficial for sufferers of psoriatic arthritis. This can have an overall beneficial effect on the patient, such as reducing swelling of the joints, improving mobility and increasing the general health and well-being of the patient. Also a good diet is important to your body's ability to deal with the disease.

Psoriatic arthritis is an unpleasant disease but with good treatment you should still be to live a relatively normal life. Although drugs are usually used to treat the pain associated with psoriatic arthritis there are also simpler treatments such as hot and cold compresses that can be of benefit to some patients. Although some people require surgery this is not often necessary and good treatment with drugs, diets, exercise and other alternatives will usually work well.

Know How to Identify An Arthritis Symptom

There comes a time in everyone's life when age starts to creep up on us. In some cases, the amount of damage we've done to our bodies in our youth has a way of coming back to haunt us, especially when it comes to certain types of arthritis.

As we grow older, most people wake a little stiffer in the morning and experience typical aches and pains, but how do you know if it's arthritis that's troubling you? Knowing how to identify an arthritis symptom can take a load of worry off your mind.

First of all, it's important to know what arthritis is. It's not just a disease that strikes old people. Many children, teens and young adults are diagnosed with some form of arthritis every day. While over 40 million adults suffer from one form of arthritis in the United States, nearly a quarter million of those are children.

As a matter of fact, most people who suffer from arthritis are under the age of 65, and nearly 60 percent of those are women. In addition, there are over 100 different forms of the disease, though the two most common, and generally known, are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

An arthritis symptom can be one issue, or a multitude of issues. For most, the classic symptom is joint stiffness, followed by swelling, redness and even warmth in the affected joint area. For some, these symptoms may be fleeting and may occur more often in cooler weather than warm. For some, joints may be painful and tender to the touch, while for others, pain is felt as a persistent ache that lingers for days.

Because arthritis is a rheumatic disease, arthritis, especially rheumatoid arthritis, can affect more than just the bones, muscles and other connective tissues to involve major body organs. For some, arthritis symptom signs may also include fever, as well as an unexplained weight loss, fatigue and a general feeling of blase.

Early diagnoses of many forms of arthritis can prevent future damage to bones and tissues as well as to prevent loss of joint movement through various treatment methods such as exercise, medications and rest. If you feel that you may have an arthritis symptom, or are uncertain, schedule a visit to your doctor and explain your concerns. Your doctor may ask for a series of x-rays to determine bone health and size, and he or she may also request blood work to determine what's going on.

In many cases, primary care physicians will refer people to a rheumatologist, or in plain English, an arthritis doctor, in order to determine exactly what form of arthritis you may be suffering from. However, keep in mind that just because you wake up occasionally with achy joints doesn't mean you have arthritis. Knowing your body is the key.

Most people are able to determine when something's not quite right with their body, and accompanying pain is often an indication that it's time to visit the doctor. Early diagnosis of arthritis can prevent further damage and help you to get back to that healthy, active lifestyle that you've always enjoyed.

Knowing your body and understanding different arthritis symptom clues may greatly enhance your chances of maintaining that lifestyle, so always listen when your body is trying to tell you something.

Managing Rheumatoid Arthritis - Five Steps to Manage RA Pain

To avoid preventable joint strain and added rheumatoid arthritis discomfort, try to follow these five useful steps. Remember, Rheumatoid Arthritis is an incurable disease, its not going to disappear, its not going to get better However, it can be managed effectively.

Step One: Mobilize every joint throughout its complete pain-free range of movement at least one time a day

This will help you keep liberty of movement in your joints. The volume you're able to Mobilize every joint devoid of rheumatoid arthritis pain may change daily be careful not to do too much. Keep activities gradual and smooth abrupt jerking or bending can cause pain your joints.

Steer clear of leaving your joints in the same position for a lengthy amount of time. Don't allow your joints the possibility to grow to be rigid, keep them mobile. After writing or doing handiwork, loosen your hold every 10 to 15 minutes, or as soon as your hand feels tired. On lengthy car journeys, exit the car, relax and walk about at least each hour. During watching tv, stand up and move around every half an hour.

Step Two: Try to understand and have respect for your rheumatoid arthritis discomfort

Understand the differences involving the common soreness of rheumatoid arthritis and the tenderness from overworking a joint. By knowing the movement that overworked a joint, you can keep away from continuing that motion. Pain that remains for more than an hour following an activity may suggest that the activity was too demanding. Consider ways that you can change the activity.

Exert yourself at a steady, careful pace and steer clear of hurrying. Rest before you become tired or in pain. Switch between easier or more difficult activities all through the day. And make use of occasional relaxation breaks.

Step Three: Use sensible body mechanics

The way you posture your body greatly changes how much stress you place on your joints. True body mechanics enable you to use your body more effectively and save energy. When you're sitting down, the correct height for a working surface is 2 inches lower than your cocked elbow.

If you type at a computer for extended lengths of time and your chair doesn't boast arms, think about using wrist or forearm supports. An angled working area for reading and writing is more helpful on your neckline. When you're standing, the height of your working area should allow you to work in comfort without lowering the head. To pick up objects from the floor,lower yourself by bending your knees and hips.

Hold weighty items close to your body, sustaining the load on your forearms, and keep up good balance. Poor posture creates uneven load distribution and can stress your ligaments and muscles.

Step Four: Be sensible how you use your hands

You use your fingers in several daily pastimes. Demanding positions and techniques may intensify the threat of pain. You can complete most tasks in more helpful ways with the aim to put a reduced amount of deforming pressures on your joints.

Keep away from situations that bend your other fingers in the direction of your little finger. As an example, steer clear of tasks that need stressful or lengthy gripping or clamping. Finger movements should be in the direction of your thumb when feasible. Avoid forming a clenched fist. Use utensils with ergonomically formed handles, that yield them more helpful to clutch.

Step Five: Make use of the strongest joint available for the task

Save your less strong joints for the particular tasks which only they can carry out. During the day, choose large joints. For example, hold objects with your palm wide open, distributing the burden equally above your forearm. Slide items across a counter instead of lifting them. When opening cabinets or weighty doors, use a strap that you can draw with your wrist or forearm to lower strains on your fingers.

Arthritis and Marijuana Use

It is estimated that over 30 million people suffer from arthritis each year. Arthritis is a painful condition that can affect your joints and the ability to use them. Many with severe joint pain find that it prohibits them from doing the activities they love and confines many to relying on stair lifts and hand rails just to move from one room in their home to another.

While there are many treatments available for this condition, medical research has yet to find a definite and effective cure that reverses the symptoms - most treatments are focused mainly on pain relief medications or taking supplements that can help with rebuilding cartilage. For this reason it is not surprising that some may be interested in learning how marijuana, a natural narcotic derived from the cannabis plant can be used in treating their pain.

There has been a lot of controversy over the use of this plant for treating illness and disease as well as its recreational use which can be habit forming and potentially detrimental effects. Marijuana is also illegal to use in many parts of the world, making it difficult to obtain and putting anyone at risk who uses it for legal punishment which can include fines and jail sentencing.

Limited research has been done to learn the effects of using the drug in treating joint conditions and as an alternative for other available prescription pain relievers. It is still often a debate whether smoking weed is habit forming or addictive, and if so whether these disadvantages would make it no better of an alternative than existing treatments.

While many would expect that addiction to weed would occur only in teenagers and young adults, a surprisingly increasing amount of people who are using it as a treatment for chronic pain are also finding themselves becoming dependent on the drug. For many it is a toss up between choosing over drug dependency or being dependent on friends and family to help them with the daily tasks in life.

It may be several more years before we finally know the answer to how to treat and cure arthritic symptoms. If you believe that you may have arthritis or the pain has become severe, there are many options available to explore and talk about with your doctor. Your doctor should be the most up to date and best resource for learning about ways to cope with your condition and adapt your lifestyle so you can enjoy life to the fullest.

Vitamin B: Arthritis Cure?

Vitamin B is not only essential if you suffer from arthritis, but it is also vital for general health. It is involved in hundreds of bodily functions. Amongst other benefits, it is involved in energy production, a healthy nervous system, good skin, hormone production and balance and prostaglandin production- a function that makes it key in controlling the inflammation in arthritis. Another key link is its involvement in keeping homocysteine levels under control. Homocysteine plays a vital role in your general health. Let us look at the different types of vitamin B and how it will benefit you if you suffer from arthritis:

Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic acid)

For about 60 years now, it is known that a vitamin B5 deficiency in animals causes osteoarthritis and osteoporosis. When animals deficient in B5 received supplements, their arthritis improved and their inflammation levels (ESR levels) dropped. Since then, it has been confirmed that people with rheumatoid arthritis are nearly always lacking in B5. Studies show that when deficient patients receive B5 injections, their symptoms improve in about seven days. When the injections stop, their symptoms return. Also, when rheumatoid arthritis patients received 500mg of pantothenic acid four times a day, they experience a reduction in morning stiffness and pain after about two months.

So how does it work to improve your joint pain? There are a few theories as to how exactly it works, but the one that makes the most sense is that B5 is required for the body to make its own corticosteroids. That will explain why it improves rheumatoid arthritis. As for its benefits for osteoarthritis, it might improve the body's calcium balance. Calcium is essential for joint health. You could probably benefit by taking about 500-1000mg per day for a trial period of two months.

Vitamin B3 (Niacinamide)

Vitamin B3, also known as niacin or niacinamide, has been used to successfully treat arthritis for many years. Its beneficial effect for arthritis was discovered when niacin was used to treat schizophrenia and cholesterol. Patients receiving this treatment reported improvements in their arthritis. More recent studies conclusively show that B3 supplementation reduces inflammation and improved range of motion. Most patients supplementing with B3 are able to reduce their pain medication. Vit B3 is also very effective in controlling high cholesterol. Note that the niacin form of B3 causes a blushing and a feeling of pins and needles. This reaction is normal and actually shows the power of this nutrient. If the blushing reaction is too severe, you can opt for the niacinamide form, which doesn't cause blushing. Some companies also have a non-blushing form of niacin. Taking more than 2000mg of any B3 is pushing the limit. Take between 500mg-100mg vitamin B3 for arthritis and cholesterol.

Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine)

Vitamin B6 benefits arthritis patients by controlling pain and improving joint mobility. It works by shrinking the synovial membranes of weight bearing joints. It is also involved in the production of anti-inflammatory prostaglandins. Studies have found that when the body is an inflammatory state, as with rheumatoid arthritis, the body uses up more B6 and overall levels drop. This indicates that the body uses this nutrient to fight inflammation. B6 is also used very successfully to treat carpal tunnel syndrome. Often, surgery is avoided after sustained B6 supplementation. 50mg can be taken to improve joint pain.

Folic Acid and Vitamin B12

In a study of 26 people that suffered from osteoarthritis in their hands, most patients showed less pain in their hand joints after supplementing with a combination of folic acid and vitamin B12. The study reported that the patients experienced no side-effects like those associated with taking pain medication. You probable need about 200mcg of folic acid and 10mcg of B12 to benefit the most.

What Is A Good Fish Oil Supplement for Osteoarthritis

Although a fish oil supplement for osteoarthritis, as well as other nutritional and natural products may be helpful, consumers are wise to carefully investigate anything that is advertised as a "natural cure for osteoarthritis". Some can be a waste of time or money. Others could even cause additional health problems.

Choosing the right fish oil supplement for osteoarthritis can be a chore. There are a large number of products on the market. Dietary supplements are a big business. In the United States, 74% of adults use some form of Complementary or Alternative Medicine, abbreviated CAM. Many are looking for a natural cure for osteoarthritis.

Of the adults who use CAM, mind-body medicine, including prayer for health reasons, is used the most. About 19% use natural products, such as dietary supplements or mega-vitamins. 11.7% use a fish oil supplement for osteoarthritis or for other health reasons. Back pain, neck pain, joint pain and arthritis are among the most common conditions for which CAM therapies are used.

Omega 3 fatty acids derived from fish oil have been shown in numerous studies to reduce inflammation. For example, on the University of Maryland Medical's website, they state:

"Several articles reviewing the research....conclude that omega-3 fatty acid supplements reduce tenderness in joints, decrease morning stiffness, and allow for a reduction in the amount of medication needed for people with rheumatoid arthritis."

Also the same website mentions: "....several test tube studies of cartilage-containing cells have found that omega-3 fatty acids decrease inflammation and reduce the activity of enzymes that destroy cartilage. Similarly, New Zealand green lipped mussel....another potential source of omega-3 fatty acids, has been shown to reduce joint stiffness and pain, increase grip strength, and enhance walking pace in a small group of people with osteoarthritis.

When choosing a fish oil supplement for osteoarthritis, consumers should avoid products that contain vitamin A, which is found in cod liver oil and other oils derived from fish liver. At large doses, vitamin A from fish or other animal sources can be toxic. Beta-carotene is a safer choice for vitamin A supplementation.

The recommended daily intake of omega 3 fatty acids is at least 1000mg for adults. Men need a little more. Although recommendations vary, a fish oil supplement for osteoarthritis should contain at least this amount. The oil should also be molecularly distilled or pharmaceutical grade and contain no contaminants, such as mercury or PCBs.

Although it would not be described as a natural cure for osteoarthritis, an extract from a shellfish known as the New Zealand green lipped mussel (which is mentioned by the University of Maryland's Medcial Website, is renowned in New Zealand but obscurely known in the United States, even though it is available here. In a clinical study at the Yonsei Medical Clinic, 80% of patients participating in the trial reported significant pain relief and improvement in joint function after 8 weeks of use.

In a statement released by the University of California, researchers refer to the mussel extract as showing "significant anti-inflammatory activity". After comparing the anti-inflammatory action to that of other plant and marine oils, researchers found that the extract was much more potent. So, while it may not be a natural cure for osteoarthritis, a product that contains a combination of New Zealand green lipped mussel extract and a fish oil supplement for arthritis may relieve the pain and inflammation, while protecting the cartilage cushions in the joints from additional damage.

Aromatherapy and Ayurvedic Medicine for Osteoarthritis

For temporary relief of stiff, achy joints, try massaging a blend of 15 drops of rosemary oil, 15 drops of Roman or German chamorllileoil, and 1 ounce of soybean oil into the affected joints. You might also try a warm bath laced with rosemary and chamomile; soak for about 20 minutes. Other essential oils to try include camphor, peppermint, lemon, or marjoram

Ayurvedic Medicine

Ayurveda views inflammatory diseases. as energy and digestive imbalances, in which the body is unable to eliminate toxic waste. To treat the disorder, ease discomfort, and increase range of motion in affected joints, Ayurvedic practitioners may recommend trying one or more of the following remedies:

Take triphala to cleanse your intestines, aid indigestion, and stimulate the immune system.

Use boswellia, flaxseed, and fish oils to protect your joints and increase joint mobility. You might also try rubbing warm sesame oil into the affected joints.

Soak in hot water laced with baking soda, eucalyptus, ginger, peppermint, or salt to decrease discomfort and loosen joints.

Follow a pacifying diet, depending on your Ayurvedic category of arthritis. You might also add hot spices, such as cayenne, to your diet to loosen joints and control pain.

Bodywork and Somatic Practices

Depending on the severity of the pain, and degree of immobility, it may be best to start wIth more gentle techmques such as CranioSacral therapy, reflexology, Feldenkrais, Trager, Chinese Medical Massage (acupressure), polarity therapy, Therapeutic Touch, and Reiki.

Chiropratic

Specific chiropractic adjustment (SCA) can help patients With osteoarthritis by: increasing joint flexibility, decreasing swelling in the joint areas and joint capsules, and decreasing the fluid accumulation that accompanies arthritic changes. Chiropractic care for patients with osteoarthritis typically include SCA of the affected joints, moist heat application, and hot water soaks with Epsom salts to promote mobility. In some cases, care may also include paraffin (hot wax) baths.

A recent and widely-accepted treatment for arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, uses glucosamine. This dynamic substance can actually repair damaged or eroded cartilage. Glucosamine is made up of glucose, the sugar that the body burns for fuel, and an amino acid called glutamine. It provides structure to the bone and cartiage as well as to skin, nails, hair, and other body tissues. Glucosamine sulfate is the most popular form used in the United States. This sulfate acts as a liquid magnet, attracting proteoglycan molecules (which fill in the spaces within the cartilage "netting"). This is important because the fluid acts as a shock absorber while it sweeps nutrients into the cartilage. Without this nutritional fluid, cartilage becomes fragile, thin, and malnourished.

Daily dosage depends on your weight. If you weigh less than 120 pounds, take 1000 mg glucosamine. If your weight falls between 120 and 200 pounds, take 1500 mg glucosamine. If you weigh over 200 pounds, take 2000 mg glucosamine. Because everyone's needs are different, you may need more or less than the preceding dosages, but they are good starting points. Vitamin C and manganese help increase the effectiveness of glucosamine. Manganese is safe up to 50 mg per day.

If you decide to take these supplements, you would be wise to have a thorough consultation with your healthcare provider.

What Is Seronegative Arthritis?

There are more than a hundred different types of arthritis, with each form affecting differing areas of the body, having different root causes and at times symptoms that cannot be found in the other forms of arthritis. The common symptoms of all forms of arthritis, however, is joint pain and difficulty resulting from damage to the connective tissues of the joints. Because each form is different, proper diagnosis is required in order to get correct treatment.

One of the forms of arthritis that gives doctors difficulty in diagnosis is seronegative arthritis. This disease is actually a collection of different forms of arthritis that have symptoms that are similar to rheumatoid arthritis. This similarity is what makes the different forms of seronegative arthritis sometimes be misdiagnosed as rheumatoid arthritis, but there are distinct differences between them.

The main difference, and the reason for the name "seronegative" is that those with rheumatoid arthritis are found to have the autoantibody called rheumatoid factor, while those with seronegative arthritis are found not to have this autoantibody. This, combined with an analysis of the different symptoms, can lead to a proper diagnosis of whether the form of arthritis present in an individual is rheumatoid arthritis, or one of the types of seronegative arthritis.

As previously mentioned, there are different forms of seronegative arthritis, and each of these forms affect different areas of the body. As with rheumatoid arthritis, seronegative arthritis does not only attack the joints, but also different organs of the body, which again is one reason that the two can often be confused with each other.

Examples of this disorder include but are not limited to: psoriatic arthritis, Reiter's syndrome or reactive arthritis, and ankylosing spondylitis.

Psoriatic arthritis is a result of psoriasis, which is a chronic skin condition. Up to thirty percent of those with psoriasis will eventually develop psioriatic arthritis about ten years after developing psoriasis. This form of arthritis is inflammatory in nature, and has five different types, which can further complicate diagnosis.

Reiter's syndrome or reactive arthritis is caused by a bacterial infection. Often this form of arthritis is difficult to diagnose, as the infection that caused the arthritis has often been cured or in remission by the time the symptoms are observed. In most cases, reactive arthritis is a temporary condition, though up to twenty percent of those who develop reactive arthritis will develop a chronic form of this disorder.

Ankylosing spondylitis is a seronegative arthritis that affects the spine. It typically affects young males, aged twenty to forty, who will first experience chronic pain in the lower spine. This pain often spreads throughout the spine, into the neck, and may also affect the ribs, shoulder blades, hips, thighs and heels. Often those with this disease also feel fatigue, experience fever, and may be anemic as well. Up to forty percent experience inflammation of the eye as well.

Arthritis and the Lower Back Pain Relation

Arthritis is one of the most pervasive diseases in the United States and is the leading cause of disability. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention one out of every three Americans is affected by one of the more than 100 types of arthritis. Arthritis simply means a painful condition of the joints. There are different types of the disease - many inflammatory and others more degenerative in nature. Across the world there are 350 million people suffer from the chronic joint inflammation of Arthritis. In US the number reaches to the 37 to 40 million. All of us know that there should the joint pain that is accompanied by the arthritis. The joint pain referred as the arthralgia. To suppress the join pain all of the people search for the natural arthritis treatment.

There are many forms of arthritis (over one hundred and growing). The forms range from those related to wear and tear of cartilage (such as osteoarthritis) to those associated with inflammation resulting from an over-active immune system (like rheumatoid arthritis).Together, the many forms of arthritis make up the most common chronic illness in the United States. People are spontaneous to react in way of finding the treatment of arthritis symptoms and anxiety of its various forms.

In the world there are two types of arthritis- 1) Osteoarthritis and 2) Rheumatoid arthritis. The Osteoarthritis mainly affects the cartilages of or around the bones. The cartilages provide the bone with the cushion and thus to protect it from the rubbing friction. On the other hand the Rheumatoid arthritis is the joint chronic inflammation that also the affect the body autoimmune system. Rheumatoid arthritis is also the main disease that causes the pain in or around the joints. Only the arthritis low back pain relief is the main pain suppression methodology for both of the arthritis. Here Autoimmune disease must be explained. The autoimmune disease is that illness by the blood antibody or the cells whose main job is to seeking and destroying body invaders preferably the infections mistakenly attack the body tissues.

For most people arthritis pain and inflammation cannot be avoided as the body ages. In fact, most people over the age of 50 show some signs of arthritis. Joints naturally degenerate over time. Fortunately, arthritis can be managed through a combination of medication, exercise, rest, weight-management, nutrition, and, in some cases, surgery. Your doctor can tell if you have arthritis through blood tests and x-rays. He or she will then be able to help you decide on the best treatment for arthritis for your case.

Do It Yourself Arthritis Treatment

Arthritis Treatment

If you see your joints getting large, you must first dissolve the salt in your joints.
Make a pair of little bags into which you can put your hands, or your feet, or get some thick stockings or socks.

Prepare a poultice of onions and raw potatoes ground fine. Grind them with a vegetable grinder, then mix them and put enough into your bag or stocking so that there will still be room for your hands or feet. Tie it well above the ankle or wrist. Have a string through it like a sack, and draw it tight at the top. Then for something to keep the juice from coming through, use a paper bag for that. A twenty pound sugar bag will be all right. That will finish the job. Go off the bed and leave the wrapping on all night. Next morning take it off and wash the leg or arm thoroughly. Also wash out the bag and hang it on the line to dry. Do the same thing the next night again. Keep that up regularly.

Arthritis is a very difficult disease to cure because you have to dissolved a deposit in your joints. When this is dissolving, you are going to have pains, as in rheumatism. Why? Because of the uric acid which was first eaten in food. This gave rheumatic pains.
These were caused by acid then in your blood. Later, the acid settled in the joints. This uric acid slowly changed into urates, really salt by reason of age. The uric liquid has evaporated and left only the sediment of salt in the joints. If you choose to live on natural food and vegetable juices, the urates dissolve and are redeposited in the blood. You will perhaps blame the juice for giving you rheumatism, but oranges never gave anyone rheumatism. They only reliquify deposited urates in order to get them out of the system.

But to get rid of arthritis, get plenty of exercise. Bathe daily. Stimulate the muscles to throw off the impurities collected there. The more you perspire the quicker you will get rid of your arthritis. You must get the waste matter out. Neither fever nor perspiration will take it out-nothing but living as nature intended you should. You must live on live foods and natural juices as beverages between meals. You must give your body the organic salt it needs.

After two or three weeks of poulticing, change from monion-potato to flaxseed. Get some ground flax meal, put some into your bags, and dip into boiling hot water. Then take them out and let cool long enough so that you can comfortably put your hand into them. Tie just as you did the other poultice. Do that for two or three nights and then commence using half onion and potato, half flaxseed meal. The flaxseed poultice will furnish the lubricant and will take away the extreme skin dryness. Patience and endurance will be very essential, but you will be rewarded by complete freedom from arthritis.

This reconstruction work may cause an affliction of the heart for the period of the elimination, because all blood that is saturated with uric and other wastes will also affect the heart. Do not be alarmed. The fresh juices and other raw foods will counteract this condition. Drink as much natural fruit juice as you care to. Choose quantity, as well as variety, by taste.

Hand Pain From Arthritis Joints

Your hands are involved in almost every activity that you do and degenerative arthritis is highly likely to impact you at some time in your life. Everything you do, during your waking hours, involves the use of your hands. There are very few jobs that do not require strength and/or dexterity in the hands, whether it be a surgeon or a bricklayer.

Everyday jobs in the house, such as cooking, cleaning and particularly D-I-Y, can be a real concern if you have pain and stiffness in your hands. If your grip is weak or insecure, there is definite danger in the kitchen, with hot liquids and heavy utensils.

INFLAMMATION: is defined as a localized reaction of tissue to injury, infection or irritation,and that is the cause of the pain, stiffness and swelling in your joints. Inflammation symptoms certainly include pain and stiffness and may also show redness and swelling and, in some serious cases, distortion of the joint We commonly think of inflammation as the painful element of arthritis.

TREATMENT: is designed to relieve pain and restore function. Anti-inflammatory or other analgesic medication, with or without food supplements, such as glucosamine and/or chondroitin, may be of benefit in relieving pain.

You must take care not to over-use anti-inflammatory drugs. Arthritis sufferers with other medical conditions may find these drugs can have adverse reactions and exacerbate these other conditions, resulting in heart attacks, strokes or intestinal bleeding. An alternative way to get the anti-inflammatory effects is to use a cream or lotion to rub on the joint and therefore avoid ingesting the drug. This is best applied at bedtime. (See comments below on anti-inflammatory foods)

Heat treatment, either in the form of warm wax or paraffin baths, or by heat from a radiant health lamp may provide alleviation from the pain but it won't cure the condition. It is important to sustain motion in the fingers and use the hand as successfully as possible.

Plunging the hand in hot water, followed by cold water or ice and repeating the process will improve the circulation and bring temporary relief. A cortisone injection can often provide relief of symptoms, but does not cure the arthritis.

Surgery is a last resort, when the pain has become too great or where the stiffness and lack of movement has rendered the hand unusable. Sometimes the surgeon will decide to fuse the joint, by inserting a screw or a plate, which will unfortunately curtail the movement in that joint.

Depending on the patient and the severity of the operation, it can take a long time to recover from this operation. I had this operation on my right wrist and it was six months before I could hit a golf ball.

DIET: You can do a great deal to reduce your arthritis symptoms by eating a sensible diet.

Many foods have strong anti-inflammatory properties, including vegetables, fruits, herbs and spices. Ginger and turmeric are particularly good.

Fish oils, which contain two Omega 3 fatty acids, called EPA and DHA, are vital in keeping us in top form, particularly when it comes to heart and joints. Oily fish, such as sardines, tuna, mackerel and salmon are an important part of your diet, to provide Omega 3 oils, or an alternative to fish is cold pressed flax seed oil.

Foods containing a lot of animal fats are best avoided, together with preservatives and sugar. Processed foods and ready meals contain high levels of saturated fats. Processed meats such as lunch meats, hot dogs and sausages contain chemicals such as nitrites that are associated with increased inflammation and chronic disease.

Reduce smoking, which reduces the amount of oxygen in the tissues.

Pay attention to the Body Mass Index (recommended between 20 and 25) as an indication of your optimum body weight.

Minerals, vitamins and antioxidants are vitally important. Vitamin E combined with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids has been shown to reduce the severity of the arthritis and reduce the pain. Fruit and vegetables are a fundamental component of a healthy diet, because they contain a rich supply of antioxidants.

Vitamin D is not present in many foods. It plays a crucial part in helping the body absorb calcium, which is necessary for bone strength and in fighting osteoporosis. So, it's a good idea to take vitamin D supplements, but an even better idea is expose your skin to sunlight daily (always with caution), in order to force your body to produce more vitamin D.

EXERCISE, however painful and distasteful, is essential if the disease is not to get progressively worse. If you don't keep your fingers moving, the stiffness and pain will surely get worse. Just going about your daily household tasks will ensure you get some movement but some specific exercises each day will improve flexibility. Just washing your hands in a basin of hot water will help to increase the circulation and reduce the pain.

HOUSEHOLD AIDS: There is a great and varied selection of devices to help you cope more easily in the home.

One small tool removes pills from various pill packs and collects them in the handle.

A key turner has a curved built in handle to fit yale or mortice type door keys, providing extra leverage.

You can buy a tool, with a long handle, which fits over most types of tap and will give you much more leverage with little effort.

Special Pencil and Pen Grips make writing more controllable.

Wearing oedema gloves during the night may bring comfort and relief from the pain. They provide gentle compression which acts to reduce swelling and the pain of arthritis in the wrists and hands.

A handiplug consists of a standard three pin plug base with a looped handle to facilitate removal.

Mounted table scissors can be operated by the pressure of one hand depressing the "T" shaped handle. Once pressure is released, the scissors open automatically.

Most telephone companies supply phones designed especially for customers with weak or stiff fingers and easy-to-operate light switches are also available.

Arthritis Pain Relief - Can Topical Creams Really Help?

Topical remedies tackle mild arthritis pain.

If your arthritis pain is mild and you don't take oral pain medication every day, rubbing a topical pain reliever on the bothersome area can be a good alternative. Following are the most widely used topicals.

Counterirritants mask arthritis pain by stimulating the nerves to produce a slightly uncomfortable warm or cool sensation. That distractts you from the more intense joint pain. These products may contain menthol, camphor, eucalyptus oil, or oil of winter green. Brand names include Icy Hot Chill Stick, Ben Gay, and ArthriCare. These products cause a temporary redness of the skin and work best on joints near the surface, such as fingers, elbows, and knees.

Topical NSAID's contain salicylates, chemical cousins of aspirin, and relieve pain the same way oral NSAID's do. Their effects, however are restricted to the surface and avoid some of the problems associated with oral NSAIDs. Topical NSAIDs include Aspercreme, Sportscreme, and Myoflex. People who are allergic to aspirin or who take medications that interact adversely with aspirin shouldn't use a topical NSAID because a bit of it is absorbed into the bloodstream.

Capsaicin. The topical pain relievers Zostrix and Capzacin-P contain capsaicin, the chemical that gives hot peppers their bite. Capsaicin lowers levels of substance P, which relays pain impulses to the brain and is involved in inflammation. Capsaicin-based products must be applied three or four times a day for up to several weeks before their benefits are noticeable. Burning, stinging, and redness often occur in the first days of treatment, but then subside.

Do's and don'ts of topicals: Be sure to wash your hands after applying any topical pain reliever. Avoid contact with broken or irritated skin and the eyes, nose, and mouth. If severe irritation develops, stop using the product immediately. Some products warn users not to apply a bandage or heat to the treated area. Don't use a topical medication just before a workout, as perspiration can cause the skin to absorb too much of it.

Three Reasons Why Spinal Arthritis Is More Difficult To Treat Than Hip or Knee Arthritis

The joints of the spine are called facet joints. They are located on both sides of the spine at every level up and down the spinal column all the way from the skull down to the sacrum.

Each of these joints combines to allow humans an incredible range of motion of the spines, permitting bending and twisting to an exceptional degree. Unfortunately though, each of these joints has cartilage and it has the potential for arthritis either due to age with loss of cartilage or trauma with damage to cartilage and subsequent arthritis pain.

Spinal arthritis is more difficult to treat than that of an extremity such as the hip or the knee. Here are the three main reasons why this is the case.

1. The number of joints in the spine is much higher. When you're dealing with hip or knee arthritis, there is one on each side. When you're dealing with spinal joints, there is one on each side at every level. Each of them is prone to developing arthritis and pain. even though the joints are considerably smaller, arthritis at any one facet joint can cause just as much pain as arthritis in a knee or a hip joint.

Typically when a person develops arthritis in a facet joint, he or she has arthritis in multiple facet joints which would need to be treated. Figuring out which is causing the pain and treating appropriately is much more difficult in a spinal arthritis situation than for the hip or knee.

2. Figuring out the source of the pain is more difficult. Even the best trained spine doctors who are board-certified can only tell people 50% of the time exactly why their back hurts. This is one of the shortcomings of back pain treatment, that the world of modern medicine is simply farther along when it comes to hip or knee arthritis than for that of the spine.

What this means is that if a pain management doctor does an injection into one of the facet joints of the lumbar spine, it may relieve part of a person's back pain, but a decent amount of the time they will still have significant residual pain. Pain management doctors have developed some more specific techniques to delineate the source of a person's pain, including facet joint injections and medial branch blocks as diagnostic tools. This will continue to improve, however, currently it makes spinal arthritis more difficult to deal with than that of the hip or knee.

3. Surgical outcomes for spinal arthritis treatments are not as good as that of total joint replacement for the hip or knee. Out of all the surgeries done for quality-of-life in the world, total hip and total knee replacement are in the top five overall. They are unbelievable game changers when it comes to decreasing pain and increasing function.

The same cannot be said for surgery for spinal arthritis. Although artificial disc replacement has been in existence since 2004, it has not been shown to be as good of a procedure as extremity joint replacement. In addition, there is no FDA approved procedure for replacing the facet joints in the back of the spine. What this means is that if a person undergoes surgery for facet arthritis, it will involve a spinal fusion. Satisfactory results after these treatments are in the 50 to 75% range, whereas knee replacement surgeries are typically over 90% satisfactory with outcomes.

The hope is that with modern medical techniques advancing, diagnosing the exact areas of spinal arthritis will become more exact and the results will be better with surgery. For now, nonsurgical pain management treatment is actually very good at reducing pain. it just takes more diagnostic tools and thought-provoking maneuvers to make sure the proper levels are being treated with the appropriate procedures.

Arthritis Prevention And Relief

About 50 million people in the U.S. have some form of arthritis. Arthritis is a general term that means inflammation of the joints and is often accompanied by symptoms such as redness, swelling, stiffness, and pain.

There are more than 100 types of arthritis with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis being the most common. Causes vary depending on the type of arthritis. However, in all arthritic conditions, the degeneration of joints involves some ongoing biochemical processes which negatively alter the metabolism that is essential for maintaining healthy joints.

Common Forms Of Arthritis

Here is a brief explanation of some frequently diagnosed forms of arthritis:

Osteoarthritis (OA), also known as degenerative arthritis or wear-and-tear arthritis, is the most prevalent type of arthritis affecting over 20 million Americans. OA is the degeneration of the cartilage within a joint. The synovial fluid that keeps the joint lubricated and cushioned is typically reduced as well, eventually leading to abnormal bone changes. OA is the most common form of arthritis. It is not a systemic condition and does not spread throughout the body. It affects only the joint(s) where the deterioration has occurred, of which most common are the knees, hips, spine, hands, and toes.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic inflammatory disease which manifests itself in multiple joints of the body, especially the fingers, wrists, feet, and ankles. It primarily affects the lining of the joints (synovial membrane), leading to erosions of the cartilage and bone and sometimes, joint deformity. RA may also affect nearly every other part of the body. It is an autoimmune disease, which means the body's immune system mistakenly attacks the healthy tissues. RA usually affects joints on both sides of the body equally and is often associated with fatigue and prolonged stiffness after rest.

Gouty arthritis is a defective metabolic disease of uric acid crystals depositing in the smaller bones of the feet and is usually accompanied with acute pain. Uric acid is a metabolic product of fructose and purines (nitrogen compounds) found in meats and organ meats.

Juvenile arthritis refers to all types of arthritis that occur in children.

Adkylosing spondylitis affects the spine. Due to inflammation, the bones of the spine grow together.

Fibromyalgia affects the muscles and attachments to the bone. It is most commonly found in women.

Infectious or septic arthritis is infection of one or more joints caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi. In some cases, infectious arthritis can occur as a manifestation of Lyme disease, which is transmitted through the bite of an infected deer tick.
Psoriatic arthritis is a form of inflammatory arthritis that is associated with the autoimmune skin disease called psoriasis.

Systemic lupus erthematosus (lupus) is an autoimmune disorder that can inflame the skin, joints and connective tissues, kidneys, brain and other organs throughout the body.

Causes Of Arthritis

The causes associated with inflammation of the joints depend on the form of arthritis. They may include:

Age: The older you are, the more likely you are to develop arthritis, especially osteoarthritis.

Autoimmunity: Rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and lupus arthritis are examples of autoimmune disorders in which the body's tissues are attacked by its own immune system.

Heredity: Scientists have discovered that the genetic marker HLA-DR4 is linked to rheumatoid arthritis, and HLA-B27 to ankylosing spondylitis and psoriatic arthritis. Although having the gene doesn't mean that you will absolutely get this form of arthritis, you can if the conditions are right.

Infections: Some forms of arthritis are the result of bacteria, viruses, or fungi that can either cause the disease or trigger it in susceptible people. Lyme arthritis comes from bacteria transmitted by the bite of a deer tick. Rheumatoid arthritis may be triggered by a virus in people with a certain genetic marker.

Metabolic abnormalities: Gout, which affects mostly men, is the result of a defect in body chemistry, and in this case, the metabolism of uric acid.

Overuse: Repetitive motions can put tremendous strain on joints. Sustaining an injury to a joint further increases the odds of developing osteoarthritis in that joint.

Eat Right To Beat Joint Inflammation

Check for food sensitivities

Researchers found that rheumatoid arthritis and many other autoimmune disorders are highly related to food sensitivities, one of which is gluten. Gluten is a protein composite found in grass-related grains such as wheat, rye, barley, spelt, and kamut.

When the immune system misidentifies certain foods as "foreign", chemicals are released from immune cells to destroy these "invaders". As a result, tissue inflammation and damage occurs.

Overtime, food sensitivities compromise the integrity of the gastrointestinal lining and lead to a condition called "leaky gut syndrome", whereby molecules that are usually too large to exit through the gastrointestinal lining escape to the bloodstream, causing systemic inflammation and in some cases, joint destruction.

If you have autoimmune-related arthritis, you should get a blood test, such as the Mediator Release Test (test for IgG, IgM, C3, C4), for food sensitivities. You can contact me if you need to do this test. Once you have determined your reactive foods, abstain from eating them for 3-6 months. The best way to be sure that a reactive food is safe again to eat is to challenge it by having it three times a day for three consecutive days. If no adverse symptoms appear, you are no longer sensitive to it.

More Omega-3, Less Omega-6

Cyclooxygenase or COX is an enzyme your body produces that regulates prostaglandins, which are mediators and messengers. There are two different COX enzymes - COX-1 and COX-2. COX-1 is an enzyme that regulates prostaglandins that maintain the health of your stomach and kidneys. COX-2 is an enzyme created when there is inflammation.

When you take a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as aspirin, acetaminophen, or ibuprofen to treat pain and inflammation, it inhibits the production of COX-2, hence, reducing pain and speeding up the recovery. However, one of the side effects of NSAID is that it also inhibits COX-1. Since COX-1 keeps your stomach lining healthy and affects blood clotting, NSAID has the tendency to cause stomach irritation and ulcers.

Fortunately, there is a non-drug way to cut down your inflammation. Researchers learned that COX-2 enzymes become more active and cause more inflammation when you take in too much omega-6 fatty acids relative to omega-3 fatty acids in your diet.

Omega-6 fatty acids are abundantly found in corn, cottonseed, safflower, soybean, sunflower, and vegetable oils. Beware that many processed foods, snack foods, deep fried foods, and restaurant foods are prepared with such oils, so you want to keep consumption of these products to a minimum.

Foods that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids are fatty, cold-water fish such as Alaskan salmon, anchovies, sardines, and herrings and meats from grass-fed animals. Numerous studies have shown that omega-3 fats are remarkably effective in combating inflammation-related disorders, including arthritis.

Lastly, you should never use canola oil although it has been marketed as "heart-healthy" and is higher in omega-3 and lower in omega-6. The reason is that canola does not come from a natural plant but instead, the genetically engineered rapeseed plant. What's more, a recent study indicates that canola contributes to vitamin E deficiency, a vitamin that's essential for a healthy heart.

Eat Your Vegetables

Have generous servings of organically grown vegetables every day. They are low in sugar and full of antioxidants which help reduce tissue damage from inflammation.

However, when you have arthritis, you should avoid the nightshade vegetables (eggplant, all kinds of peppers, white potatoes, and tomatoes). They contain a substance called solanine, to which some people are highly sensitive. Solanine interferes with enzymes in the muscles and may cause pain and discomfort.

Other Nutrients For Joint Health

Astaxanthin

• Belongs to a group of natural pigments in the carotenoid family. Sea creatures with a red or pinkish color such as salmon, lobster, shrimp, and crab get this color from a diet of krill and other small organisms that eat astaxanthin-rich algae and plankton.


• Research found that astaxanthin is the strongest natural antioxidant known. It is many times more potent than vitamin C, E, beta-carotene, lutein, or pycnogenol. However, you need a higher concentration than what you normally get in seafood to reap the benefits.


• Astaxanthin is a very effective remedy for joint pain from osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.


• If you have arthritis, start with 2 mg a day and gradually build up to 8-10 mg a day. Make sure your astaxanthin supplement is derived from marine algae and not synthetic.

Vitamin D

• Cartilage loss, one of the distinctive signs of osteoarthritis, is associated with low levels of vitamin D. If you have joint pain due to osteoarthritis, get a blood test for your vitamin D level. The optimal is between 50-70 ug/ml.

Glucosamine

• Provides joints with the building blocks they need to help repair the wear-and-tear on cartilage.


• Takes a few months to build up enough to see a benefit. If you have arthritis, you need to take up 2-3 grams a day.


• Many glucosamine supplements come with chondroitin or MSM (methylsulfonylmethane). Studies on the effectiveness of chondroitin and MSM have been inconclusive.


• Glucosamine supplements are always attached to salt. If your body is sensitive to salt, you should be careful with it.


• Most of the glucosamine on the market is derived from shellfish. If you are allergic to shellfish, you should avoid it.


• Some studies found that glucosamine may raise blood sugar levels in some people. If you are diabetic, you should be very cautious.

Concentrated tart cherry juice

• Most effective for gouty arthritis. Drink several tablespoons per day.

Exercise To Keep Joints Healthy & Flexible

Exercise is a must when you have arthritis. It helps build muscles, increase joint flexibility, and improve your general sense of well-being. If you have not been exercising regularly, start slowly and build up to higher activity levels to prevent injuries. Avoid intense activities that may strain the affected joint(s).

Your goal is to keep moving and commit yourself to regular exercise that includes these three types of activities:

• flexibility exercises (such as stretching, tai chi, yoga)


• weight training to strengthen surrounding muscles that support and protect the joint(s)


• aerobic exercises (such as walking, swimming, stationary cycling)

If you have significant pain with movement, you should consider working with a physical therapist or qualified personal trainer who can develop a safe and effective workout program for you.

Lose Weight If You Are Overweight

One of the benefits of exercise is its ability to help you achieve and maintain your ideal weight. Arthritis rates are more than twice as high in obese people as those who are normal weight. If you are overweight or obese, you have a higher risk of developing osteoarthritis. Each additional pound of body weight increases the compressive load over your knee by roughly four pounds. Fat cells also produce cytokines which are proteins that encourage inflammation. The more fats cells you have, the more inflammation in the body.