The term arthritis doesn’t refer to a single illness, but instead to a grouping of over a hundred different types of a disease, and to explain it’s a kind of umbrella term that is used to refer to these conditions that have an effect on the musculoskeletal system, in particular those joints where 2 or bones meet.
While there are over 100 different forms of arthritis and those are only the ones known and recognized at this time, there are three in particular that are especially significant and common: rheumatoid arthritis, gouty arthritis, and osteo arthritis.
Osteo arthritis is essentially recognized as being the commonest form of arthritis of all, and it is due to the breakdown of cartilage in the body. Over time the cartilage may finish up wearing away completely, and though osteo arthritis is a type of arthritis that’s in a position to affect just about any joint of the body, it most frequently affects the hips, knees, hands and backbone.
Though osteo arthritis is regarded as being a non-inflammatory arthritis, implying that it doesn’t cause soreness of the muscles and joints as most other types of arthritis do, this is really not right, and though there’s generally no swelling in the earlier stages of the illness, as it moves forward there may be redness, and in reality is in just about all cases.
Before any method of treatment can be prescribed, a proper diagnosis has to be made. Establishing the correct diagnosis is vital, because treatment is available but only once this has been accomplished. This is why as soon as you notice any of the signs or symptoms of the disease, or any form of arthritis for that matter, that you seek medical help immediately.
Re treatment for osteo arthritis, your physician will generally kick off with something milder , for example Tylenol or Aspirin and tell you to try that for two weeks. If there are no appearances of improvement or relief of your agony, then they’re going to move on to something stronger, like arthritis creams and gels. These are applied topically, immediately onto the skin and most are usually available over the counter.
Finally there are much more serious methods of treatment, namely arthritis medication that you may be prescribed, especially if your symptoms are causing you serious pain. Codeine preparations are the most commonly recommended here, and this is a combination of codeine and acetaminophen.
For lots all the news and information on osteo arthritis visit our arthritis blog.
Written by Lizzie S Joyner on December 21st, 2009 with no comments.
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Sore joints can have a wide variety of causes. Arthritis in its most common form, osteoarthritis, is the leading cause of sore joints. However, many other factors can also have a negative effect on joints.
The most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis. Most people over the age of 70 are afflicted with severity ranging from mild to severe. However, after the age of 55, the illness affects more women than men. Osteoarthritis is the erosion of the cushion between the bones. The cushion is a layer of cartilage – the same tissue that makes up the bridge of your nose. Age and normal use causes some of the wear. However, with osteoarthritis the cartilage completely disappears, which leaves the exposed bones to rub against each other. Painful outgrowths of bone, called spurs, can also occur.
Osteoarthritis wears away the cartilage between the bones. The cartilage acts as a cushion between the bones. Almost everyone over the age of 55 has some degree of osteoarthritis. As we age the cartilage naturally erodes. Those afflicted with osteoarthritis, though, will eventually have no cartilage left. Once this occurs, the bones rub against each other causing painful bone spurs to form.
Overuse is a common problem among younger people. Tendonitis is usually caused by repetitive motion activities. A common form of tendonitis is called carpal tunnel syndrome which affects the wrists and forearms. Ligaments are the fibrous tissue that holds bones together. Ligaments can be damaged in two ways. A strain occurs when the ligament is stretched too far or used too much. Tiny tears occur in the fibers of the ligament which cause the tissue to swell. Sprains are the result of the joint being bent in an unnatural direction.
Other illnesses that can affect joint health are other forms of arthritis besides osteoarthritis. Just a couple of these other forms of arthritis are rheumatoid and septic arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis has unknown causes but it is believed to be hereditary. It is an autoimmune disease that causes painful swelling in the joints. Septic arthritis is caused by a bacterial infection that enters the joint through the blood stream.
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Written by Samantha Jackson on December 21st, 2009 with no comments.
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There are quite a few options available for arthritis pain relief medications. However you have to know what you are doing before you start popping pills, so the first thing to do is visit your health care provider before beginning to take arthritis pain medication. If you suffer from arthritis and have pain associated with it, you need to be aware of the fact that a few pain killers utilized in the treatment of arthritis can have adverse side-effects if taken over long periods of time.
NSAID pain killers are good for various sorts of arthritis, which is why they are suggested by most doctors. If your arthritis is moderate, Aleve or aspirin can be used as an effective arthritis pain medication. This is best if you only have occasional arthritic pain.
You may also try applying one of the many creams and ointments that are available to lessen arthritis pain. Usually, topical creams will help to minimize the pain from arthritis by going through the skin and deep into the joints. If you have just mild to moderate arthritis you can use an over the counter topical cream like Ben Gay, for which no prescription is needed. Creams are wonderful because they can be utilized as many times in a day as needed because the risk of overuse is minimal. This is unlike orally ingested medication where the risk of overdose is much greater. In addition, topical creams will provide you fast relief and can normally be used together with other oral medications for pain. Before you mix any drugs, though, speak to your physician first.
Corticosteroids are another form of arthritis pain medication that alleviates inflammation and regulates the patient’s immune system. You can administer corticosteroids in pill form or through a shot. Another option for arthritis is Methotrexate, though it is less commonly prescribed than other medications. If you find that none of the other treatment methods are working for you, your health care provider might turn to this medication.
If you decide to take over-the-counter medication to relieve your arthritis pain, take the time to discuss it with your physician before using it. If you have a liver condition you might be unable to take particular pain killers. Additionally, your other medicines may react with a new over the counter medicine you begin taking, and the result could be adverse impacts to your health and overall well being. Be sure to talk about your pain relief plan with your health care provider prior to starting it.
The problem of arthritis isn’t confined to the elderly. It can also develop in younger people. Because of the painful and distressing nature of this disease, many people are becoming concerned about what causes it and how to cope with it. If you’re one of them, visit Arthritis Relief to learn more about rheumatoid or osteoarthritis treatment options.
Written by Kim Archer on December 21st, 2009 with no comments.
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The term arthritis doesn’t refer to a single illness, but instead to a grouping of over a hundred different types of a disease, and to explain it’s a kind of umbrella term that is used to refer to these conditions that have an effect on the musculoskeletal system, in particular those joints where 2 or bones meet.
While there could be over one hundred different types of arthritis and those are just the ones known and recognized at this time, there are 3 particularly that are particularly important and common : rheumatoid arthritis, gouty arthritis, and osteo arthritis.
Osteo arthritis is essentially recognized as being the commonest form of arthritis of all, and it is due to the breakdown of cartilage in the body. Over time the cartilage may finish up wearing away completely, and though osteo arthritis is a type of arthritis that’s in a position to affect just about any joint of the body, it most frequently affects the hips, knees, hands and backbone.
Although osteo arthritis is considered as being a non-inflammatory arthritis, meaning that it does not cause inflammation of the joints and muscles as most other types of arthritis do, this is actually not true, and although there is usually no swelling during the earlier stages of the disease, as it progresses there can be inflammation, and in fact is in almost all cases.
Before any technique of treatment can be prescribed, a correct diagnosis must be made. Building the proper diagnosis is important, because treatment is available but only once this has been accomplished. This is the reason why as quickly as you notice any of the signs or evidence of the illness, or any sort of arthritis in fact, that you seek medical help right away.
Re treatment for osteo arthritis, your physician will generally kick off with something milder , for example Tylenol or Aspirin and tell you to try that for two weeks. If there are no appearances of improvement or relief of your agony, then they’re going to move on to something stronger, like arthritis creams and gels. These are applied topically, immediately onto the skin and most are usually available over the counter.
Ultimately there are loads more major systems of treatment, namely arthritis medicine that you could be prescribed, particularly if your symptoms are causing you significant discomfort. Codeine preparations are the most commonly commended here, and this is a combo of codeine and acetaminophen.
For lots all the news and information on osteo arthritis visit our arthritis blog.
Written by Lizzie S Joyner on December 15th, 2009 with no comments.
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by Kathy Nelson
When sufferers of gout start to suffer bad pain from gout attacks, they will normally start to do some research on the subject. Obviously they are looking for ways to stop the attacks from happening and normally they will start to learn that their diet plays a big part in the gout attacks.
The first question that will come from sufferers of gout is “what is the best diet for me then?” and straight away will picture all of their favourite foods. Obviously none of us wish to give up eating our favourite foods but our long term health needs to come first.
As the pain that a gout attack causes get worse, you will no doubt be thinking about how on earth to stop the pain. Aside from the common treatments that are available to relieve pain for the short term, you should be thinking more about how you can take steps to prevent the pain in the future. One of these steps involves your diet.
Unfortunately if you do not start thinking about the long term then the pain that you get from gout will just get worse. Your diet needs to be improved so that you avoid periods in hospital. The pain is caused by a build up of uric acid around the joints, in particular the joint of the big toe. If you do not take steps to control your diet and eat better, then the pain will continue.
You will not be able to cure your gout by simply altering your diet for a while, instead you need to make changes to your diet which are not just for the present. You need to make changes that will have long term positive effects.
Therefore which changes to your lifestyle should you make at the moment to stop another attack of gout? Firstly try and keep a note of all the things you eat and drink over the next two weeks, this will be much easier to do if you carry some kind of note book around in your pocket. By doing this you will be able to see exactly what you are eating rather than guessing. You will be able to see over these two weeks where you need to cut down on certain foods.
You should avoid foods that are high in purines and that is what allows your body to make the uric acid that crystallizes and causes your gout. So the first thing you need to do is cut items that contain this out of your diet.
Keep your diary for a further two weeks and see how many of these foods you have managed to cut out of your diet, as you reduce these foods and increase your intake of water you should see a decrease in your attacks of gout. I know your next question, Is there anything I can eat that will help my gout?
About the Author:
It is a regular question asked by sufferers of gout,
I have gout what can I eat?. We hear it a lot and it is often difficult to answer because everyone is different and everyones
gout symptoms and problems is often different.
Written by Kathy Nelson on December 10th, 2009 with no comments.
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by Nicholas Somerville
If you have just been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis then you are probably feeling fairly overwhelmed and confused.
There is a vast amount of information on rheumatoid arthritis out there, but here are three simple tips to help you understand your situation.
1. No two patients are ever the same. It is important to remember that you are an individual – you were before you had rheumatoid arthritis and you still are. Your reaction to treatments will be different from other peoples and as hard as it is you must try not to compare your self and your progress with others.
2. The Importance of understanding pain management. There are a lot of side affects to living with pain. There are physical side affects such as stiffness and cramps as you try to compensate for the pain. However, there are also emotional side affects, you may become more easily upset, or more aggressive or even simply appear irrational at times. Although these are not life threatening side affects, they ill certainly affect your quality of life. Pain management is about finding the correct balance for you.
3. Physical changes – there is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, but that does not mean that you will see your body change as per a text book description. There are medications and lifestyle changes which will affect how your body handles the arthritis. It is important to understand the overall picture of your health, but it is most important to deal with each aspect separately and not to get overwhelmed.
Quality of life should be your most important consideration. Living with an illness does not mean that you give up living – but you will probably have to make quite a few changes to keep yourself on track.
Remember that you do not have all the answers and that other people advice always has a value. It is for you to work through this advice and be responsible for your decisions. If you are not convinced by something then it is a lot less likely to succeed.
Remember,a good way to stay positive is to surround yourself with positive people
Written by Nicholas Somerville on December 10th, 2009 with no comments.
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by Amy Clark
One effective method in arthritis pain relief is the use of magnetic bracelets. Such bracelets are devised to enhance circulation and increase the amount of oxygen in affected parts to lessen inflammation.
Essentially, arthritis prevents blood to flow freely into the affected areas, thus hampering circulation and progressively reducing oxygen quantities in and around the affected parts.
The magnetic bracelets, which are negative magnets, enhance blood circulation in the affected regions which in turn have a positive polarity. In consequence, better circulation allows higher levels of oxygen to enter the affected areas and effectively lessens inflammation. As a result, arthritis pain is substantially reduced.
Magnetic therapy and magnetic bracelets have been around for several centuries, but only recently recognized by western science as a reliable pain relief treatment.
British scientists lately experimented on the efficiency of various magnetic fields – one group was given strong bracelets, another group was given bracelets with weak magnetic fields, while another group was given placebo or “dummy” bracelets with no magnetic field. After twelve weeks, it was demonstrated that the group that used the strong magnetic field benefited from a huge pain reduction, whereas the weak bracelet and placebo groups reported minimal to zero improvement. This indicates that the use of magnetic bracelets can effectively relieve pain, provided that the magnetic bracelet has a strong magnetic field (170-200 Tesla).
Regardless of insufficient proof, magnetic bracelets and magnetic therapy are increasingly popular in the United States as well as in most other countries like Britain and Australia. In the late nineties, worldwide sales of magnetic bracelets reached as much as 5 million dollars. This is expected, considering that there are more than a million arthritis patients in Britain alone. At present, there has also been a substantial rise in the use of alternative non-western techniques in addressing pain and other health complaints.
In deciding to try magnetic bracelets, however, you are advised to discuss this with a physician before everything else. Keep in mind that you must not forget any medications or other treatments and trade them totally with magnetic bracelets, unless a physician asks you to do so. Such bracelets should also be avoided completely if you are pregnant, using a pacemaker or electronic implants, or currently using electric blankets or heating pads.
Bear in mind that there are various treatment methods for dealing with arthritis pain, and not one must be discounted entirely. Some methods may remain successful in reducing symptoms even as your magnetic bracelet alleviates your pain.
A main benefit of using these bracelets is the fact that they are inexpensive. Furthermore, such bracelets are non-intrusive and do not cause any side effects unlike other chemical treatments. There is absolutely nothing to lose in trying this method of treating arthritis. Without a doubt, it is well worth your $30 to $100 bucks to try one bracelet.
These bracelets still continue to gain popularity, as more patients commend their efficiency. Furthermore, scientific researchers show proof that magnetic bracelets do work in arthritis pain relief. Therefore, if you’ve been experiencing arthritic pain for a long time, these bracelets can be the solution you’ve been looking for.
Written by Amy Clark on December 10th, 2009 with no comments.
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by E Richards
Rheumatoid arthritis is the most common chronic autoimmune disease, characterised by excruciating pain, & inflammation amongst other symptoms. Rheumatoid arthritis, is a debilitating condition that affects a large number of the world’s population, symptoms of RA normally start over the age of thirty, women tend to be far more likely to suffer with RA than men. A version of RA is known to affect children, known as juvenile rheumatoid arthritis.
Rheumatoid arthritis occurs in all races and ethnic groups. Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory illness that affects the joints and because it is “systemic” (affecting the entire body), it can affect other parts of the body as well. Rheumatoid arthritis treatment includes painkillers and medicines to reduce inflammation and prevent the disease’s progression.
Medications include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), disease-modifying anti rheumatic drugs (DMARDs), biological response modifiers, and corticosteroids. Non-drug treatments include physical therapy; modified exercise programs; devices such as canes, special shoes, and splints (rigid supports that keep a part of the body from moving while it heals); and lifestyle changes–such as balancing activity with rest, eating a healthy diet, and reducing stress.
When the body’s immune system falls completely out of sync, medicines called Immuno-suppressants may be used, Immuno-suppressants are designed to deplete and manage your immune system. These particular drugs are less commonly used due to the fact that they leave the body unable to fight other infection, and illnesses.
An autoimmune diseases is the description given to a condition which causes the body’s own antibodies mistakenly attack their own body tissues (in RA the area normally attacked is the joint synovium), this causes the pain and inflammation.
Commonly affected joints include those in the hands, wrists, feet, ankles, elbows, shoulders, hips, knees and neck. Rheumatoid arthritis varies from person to person, but most cases are chronic, meaning they never go away. Some people have mild or moderate disease, with flares (periods of worsening symptoms) and remissions.
Arthritics should always advise from their doctor regarding suitable medication and and pain relief. As with all medicines, arthritis drugs must be used with caution, patients should inform their doctors about any changes which may occur while using the medication.
Studies indicate the benefits and indeed the damaging effect of some foods in relation rheumatoid arthritis. Some foods are known to help one’s RA, while others will actually make things worse.
A clear link exists between rheumatoid arthritis & food allergy & intolerance
Foods which contain a chemical called inflammatory prostaglandin are known to be bad for sufferers of RA, these natural chemicals can be directly responsible for triggering attacks of arthritis. Many sufferers of rheumatoid arthritis have shown a marked improvement when removing certain foods from their diet.
Foods which should be avoided by anyone suffering with rheumatoid arthritis
1.Processed foods
2.Fat & all fatty foods
3.Sugar
4.Additives and preservatives
5.Citrus fruit
Foods which should shown caution by anyone suffering with rheumatoid arthritis
The following foods cause much confusion amongst nutritionists and professionals alike, these foods are referred to as nightshade foods’
1.Potatoes (especially when green)
2.Tomatoes (especially when green)
3.Hot peppers (all colours)
4.Sweet peppers (all colours)
5.Paprika
Good foods for people suffering with RA
1.Brown rice (a good alternative to potatoes)
2.Sweet potatoes
3.Onions
4.Nuts
5.Celery
6. Most oily fish
This is only a small list of some of the foods which have a link to RA (good or bad). Diet and natural programmes used to treat arthritis may not be quickest rout to pain relief because they first have to tackle the underlying contributing factors, this may take a few weeks, however natural practices do actually address the disease and not just the symptoms.
Natural practices could be the answer to one’s RA,and shouldn’t be discounted.
About the Author:
Reduce your arthritis pain and inflammation…quickly, using
A Simple & Practical Method If your looking for a safe and effective way of treating your arthritis pain without drugs, supplements or complete diet change, visit
Cure Your Arthritis for a drug free alternative.
Written by E Richards on December 10th, 2009 with no comments.
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by Amy Clark
Arthritis, which is described as an inflammation of the joints, can cause agonizing pain. The pain can be so severe that when regular allopathic treatments don’t work, most patients will willingly opt for a number of natural treatment methods. Despite of several breakthroughs in modern medicine, several individuals still swear to the successful outcomes of these natural methods in curbing arthritis.
Apple Cider Vinegar Remedy
An example of a natural remedy for arthritis is the Apple Cider Vinegar Remedy, which includes 1 tsp. (teaspoon) of fresh apple cider vinegar mixed with approximately 16 oz. of water. This may be consumed thrice every day to relieve joint pain. Another recipe contains a couple of teaspoons of vinegar with a couple of tsp. (teaspoons) of honey mixed with 1 glass of water. This should likewise be consumed thrice every day, and some people even use natural apple cider vinegar tablets as an alternative to liquid vinegar, as the former is easier to buy than the liquid form in most locales.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin Supplements
Glucosamine with Chondroitin is a natural supplement suggested by a lot of doctors in arthritis treatment. The recommended dosage is 1,500 mg of Glucosamine plus 1,200 mg of Chondroitin daily. This natural supplement must be consumed for at least one month before results may be observed. If you decide to go for this treatment, you are advised to go for branded products, as Glucosamine and Chondroitin are considered natural therapies and so are not approved by the Food and Drug Authority.
The Natural Curative Properties of Ginger and Garlic
Ginger and garlic are proven to possess an overall improvement in a person’s immune system. If used in preparing food, garlic and ginger help alleviate the devastating symptoms of arthritis. Deemed to be the most effective anti-inflammatory herbs known to man, the extract of ginger and turmeric combined with basic food dishes may prevent and ultimately cure osteoarthritis and rheumatoid. In addition, a couple of tablespoons of blackstrap Molasses daily have been confirmed to effectively alleviate the symptoms of arthritis in a period of just a few days.
Static Magnet Therapy
Another example of a natural arthritis treatment is the use of static magnet therapy, which enhances circulation and gradually eliminates joint pain. However, the effectiveness of static magnet therapy is still a subject of much debate, as some patients have shown mild to zero results. In contrast, some patients swear to the effectiveness of static magnet therapy, claiming that their disease has been cured through this technique alone.
Flax Seed Oil
Putting a little flax seed oil to your breakfast has been known to produce astonishing results. Mixing flax seed to muffins, cereal, bread in addition to strawberry flavored milk can prove helpful. This can additionally be used in preparing traditional dishes during lunch or dinner. Actually, it can be combined with any food type. Just a tablespoon of flax seed at least 3 times daily is advised for better results. Flax seed oil as a remedy for arthritis has been a popular concept for countless of years. A testament to its efficiency is perhaps the decades and centuries of different cultures around the world that continue to benefit from flax seed.
About the Author:
To download your Free Arthritis Relief Guide, and for more articles related to
Arthritis Natural Cures, please visit http://www.ridarthritispain.com .
Written by Amy Clark on December 10th, 2009 with no comments.
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by Debbie Shimadry
It’s very easy for you to wear magnetic therapy straps, wraps or jewellery, which are placed as close to the area of pain as possible. These devices are comfortable and very easy to use. Magnetic therapy devices are made using very strong medical grade magnets, usually made form Neodymium which is both lightweight and high in strength. You should be able to find a magnetic device to fit almost anywhere on the body.
NOTE, regardless of where your pain is and what type of pain it is, there is one rule that applies to all types of pain: Clinical Magnets must be placed directly over the area of pain to have an effect. Unfortunately you cannot treat the whole of the body with just one magnet. And that is because of a very simple physics principal (you may have been taught this at school):
Firstly, quickly cast your mind back to a time when you have dropped a stone into a pool of water. As the stone entered the water ripples were created and the ripples rapidly spread out across the water creating larger ripples which were sent out further and further across the water. The ripples that surrounded the stones point of entry were small and tightly bunched together, but as the ripples fan out across the water they are more widely spaced and less defined and eventually the ripples die away altogether.
Exactly the same happens with the magnetic field when you place it on your skin. As you move away from a magnet the magnetic force decreases. What this means is when you place a magnet on any point of the body, the magnetic field is at its strongest right at the point of contact with the magnet and the body. The farther the magnet is from an area the weaker the magnetic field.
For example if you placed a 3,000 gauss magnet on the wrist the magnetic force around the wrist would be 3,000 gauss, but 4 cm away from the wrist the strength is only 187.5gauss and at 8 cm only 46.88 gauss.
There is a complex equation called the inverse square law which enables you to calculate what the magnetic field strength will be at any distance from a magnet position. You do not have to know how to use this equation in order to use magnetic therapy devices but it is a useful tool for therapists so they can prescribe the correct strength of magnets.
In short, wherever the pain is located you must place magnets within that area or the very close proximity. Wear your clinical magnetic therapy straps or jewellery day and night. Only take them off to wash and then put them straight back on again.
Magnetic therapy should be used continually until your symptoms abate in order to get the utmost benefits. If you remove you magnets before your pain has gone you will be removing the magnetic filed from the body and the action of the magnets will stop. For the magnets to work they have to be in contact with your body, it is as simple as that.
The straps or jewellery should be worn next to the skin but if you are sensitive to synthetic fibres such as elastane or nylon you can wear them over a very thin layer of clothing such as a vest or slip.
On a final note, the absolute best way to maximise the results you get from your magnets is to ensure that you use them during the night. When we sleep our body is very busy trying to heal damaged areas. The immune system is replenishing itself whist the body’s demand for oxygen and nutrients is less.
There is only so much the body can do to heal itself during the night, it uses the excess oxygen and nutrients to renew cells and repair tissue damage. You can aid your body in the repair work by increasing the amount of oxygen and nutrients available to it.
You can enhance this process by sleeping on a magnetic sleep pad which generally has between 20-45 or even upwards of 100 high strength magnets in it. The magnetic field will penetrate into all of the body very quickly aiding the body’s natural healing process.
This process enhances your body’s own healing process and can reduce the overall time it takes for the magnetic therapy device to resolve the pain and aid in the repair of tissue and muscle damage. I advise all of my patients to sleep on a magnetic pad in addition to wearing magnets over their area of pain. The difference in healing time of those who follow my advice is marked. Those using both treatments generally see an increase in pain relief by as much as three times
About the Author:
Author Debbie Shimadry Dip HE Dip MT (MC) a qualified magnetic therapist. she has appeared on numerous BBC radio shows and is a predominent expert in magnetic therapy. see if
magnetic therapy can help your pain
Written by Debbie Shimadry on December 10th, 2009 with no comments.
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