Generally speaking, psoriatic arthritis treatment will be the same as treatment for any other form of arthritis. Your doctor will advise on treatment based on the type or types of psoriatic arthritis you have and the range and severity of symptoms. An early diagnosis will help to slow the progression of the disease and help to prevent further damage to the joints. Ideally treatment for psoriatic arthritis should go hand in hand with treatment of psoriasis.

Natural Treatments

Exercising can be beneficial as it will help to reduce stiffness and pain, and will strengthen the muscles around the joints. Your physiotherapist should be able to show you certain exercises designed to improve joint mobility and function. Low impact aerobic exercise, such as swimming and walking, can improve overall health and fitness, reduce excess weight and improve muscle strength and flexibility.

Physiotherapy can provide relief for some individuals, as can relaxation techniques of using electrotherapy, for example a TENS machine.

Use of ice packs to the affected joints can help to relieve swelling and joint pain.

Prescription Medication

There are also a number of prescription medications which can reduce symptoms.

Non- steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS)

NSAIDS can be prescribed early on to relieve inflammation and swelling. As they are largely aspirin based, they can cause irritation to the stomach so should be avoided if you are prone to stomach ulcers.

Corticosteroids

Steroids are strong anti-inflammatory drugs which may be prescribed if the symptoms are severe, or if the patient experiences a flare-up. If used in high doses, the condition of the skin should be monitored as steroids can affect psoriasis. Steroids are often used in lower doses to reduce the risk of these side effects whilst stabilizing the arthritis.

Steroids can also be administered in injection form directly to the joint. They can be particularly effective when only one joint is affected, but there is a risk of adverse side effects of injections are given too often.

DMARDs

Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) contain agents that target the specific occurrences within the body which cause both psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. They can help to slow the progression of arthritis and help stop further joint tissue damage from occurring.

Systemic Medication

Cyclosporine is an immunosuppressive drug used to treat psoriasis that can also slow the progression of psoriatic arthritis. Prolonged use can cause kidney damage so regular blood tests should be undertaken.

Methotrexate can help prevent joint deterioration and relieve the symptoms of psoriatic arthritis. However, there are a number of potential side effects, including liver damage, so should be carefully monitored.

Sulfasalazine is an anti-inflammatory drug which has been proven effective in the treatment of psoriatic arthritis.

Antimalarials

Antimalarial medication is usually used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, but has also been used to successfully treat psoriatic arthritis. As side effect scan include headaches and blurred vision, regular eye tests should be undertaken. Some antimalarial medication can also exacerbate symptoms of psoriasis.

If you think you may have psoriatic arthritis, you should see your doctor in the first instance for a diagnosis and to discuss possible treatment options.

Treating Arthritis with Holistic Medication
This involves finding and treating the root cause of the disease and treating the mind and body as a whole- hence ‘holistic’. Holistic medicine works on the belief that imbalances in one area of the mind or body will impact upon other areas, resulting in ill health. Treatment usually involves the use of homeopathic remedies such as Chinese herbs, acupuncture and meditation to restore energy and balance to the system.

Treating Arthritis with Massage
Many have found relief from the symptoms of arthritis by using massage techniques on the affected areas. Essential oils can be used to great effect; the best oils for treating arthritis are Lavender, Thyme, Rosemary, Chamomile and Juniper. They should be diluted in olive oil (10 parts of oil to one part essential oil) and should be warmed gently before use. Apply directly to affected joints and massage them in very gently.

Treating Arthritis with Diet
Adding certain supplements to the diet can also help to naturally relieve arthritis symptoms. Garlic contains strong anti-inflammatory properties, so try adding it, either raw or cooked, to your meals. If you don’t like the strong taste, garlic supplements can be purchased at health stores.

Cod liver oil has been proven to slow the deterioration of cartilage and connective tissues. Try taking a supplement or drinking one or two teaspoons a day.

Castor oil can also help reduce arthritic pain. Castor oil should be boiled over a stove burner and mixed into fresh orange juice.

Vitamin B6 can reduce pain and inflammation in the joints. Bananas are an excellent source of this vitamin; it can also be purchased as a health supplement.

Honey has also been proven to reduce symptoms of inflammation and stiffness in arthritis sufferers.

Treating Arthritis with Herbs
Black Cohosh has pain-relieving qualities similar to aspirin, and can help reduce joint inflammation. Ginger can also be used to treat pain and inflammation.

Certain herbs such as Feverfew, angelica, Boswellia and Ginseng have anti-inflammatory properties. Angelica can reduce inflammation and is a natural pain reliever. It also relaxes the muscles, relieving muscle tension which may aggravate arthritis symptoms.

Bathe Those Symptoms Away
Epsom salts can help break down the uric acids in the body which can lead to arthritis, and are also a source of magnesium, which aids bone growth. An Epsom salts bath can be really effective- add three cups of Epsom salts to a hot bath, and soak in it. Have the water as hot as you can stand it, and keep topping it up as required.

Bathing in sea water can be beneficial as the natural iodine found in sea water can alleviate arthritic pain. Iodine can also help repair tissues and regenerate the skeletal frame.

Some people have found relief from their symptoms by using steam baths and saunas.

Other Natural Arthritis Treatments
Using heat pads on the affected joints can also work wonders, although you should be careful not to overheat them or restrict the joints too much.

Exercise is a great way to treat arthritis and help deal with the symptoms. Regular exercise will improve joint stability, reduce joint stiffness and help to reduce excess weight which may be putting more pressure on affected joints. Swimming and walking are ideal exercises as they are low impact but will raise the heart rate.

If you do decide on using natural arthritis remedies, you should always discuss this with your doctor first before stopping any prescribed medication.

Injuries, infections, overactive immune systems, and wear and tear are also common causes of arthritis. Athletes who workout to excess, or over-train for a period of time are at increased risk of developing this ailment. Certain occupations involving repetitive bending and squatting may also increase the risks of developing arthritis.

Arthritis causes painful swelling and inflammation of the joints and is experienced my millions of people around the world. In the United States alone, it is estimated that by 2030 there will be nearly 70 million affected by this disease. Cases of arthritis may be mild or severe, short-term or permanent. Medical researches suggest that there are more than 100 forms of arthritis but the most familiar form is osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis takes place when the cartilage that supports the joints wear out, a process that occurs over a long period and is common among older people. Most people affected by this condition may experience pain, swelling, and stiffness, in the hip, knee, or hand.

Inflamed joints that hurt when in motion are some of the familiar signs and symptoms of arthritis. These joints may be stiff and can be aggravated by movements or activities such walking, writing, or typing. Stiffness is most noticeable after extended periods of rest or after waking up in the morning. Individuals with arthritis may also encounter extreme fatigue, lack of energy, or weakness.

Other symptoms may include:

• Stiffness- people with arthritis may feel stiff and creaky for a short time until the joints get moving again. These individuals may also experience stiffness from sitting.

• Muscle weakness- the muscle around the joint, especially the knees may become weaker.

• Deformed joints- joints may look enlarged and deformed.

• Cracking and creaking of the joints the joints may make cracking and creaking sounds when used.

Presently there is no cure for arthritis, but there are medications that may provide arthritis pain relief. Doctors often prescribe individuals with osteoarthritis large doses of over-the counter pain relievers such as aspirin and ibuprofen. Some prescription drugs such as celecoxib, rofecoxib, and valdecoxib are known to give effective pain relief. However, these drugs may bring minimal or serious side effects to individuals who use them. This is why arthritic individuals should seek the approval of doctors before taking medications for arthritis pain relief.

Many health experts believe that regular exercise and a healthy diet are powerful tools for countering the effects of arthritis. They recommend a combination of stretching, range-of-motion exercises, strength training, and aerobic exercises. Individuals who engage in these activities may develop joints that are stronger, more flexible, and more stable. As the joints strengthen, arthritis pain may reduce or disappear, and medication taken for arthritis pain relief can be reduced accordingly.

Many people have found that drinking Supple beverages helps to relieve some of their painful arthritis symptoms. Read more about Supple and how it could help you here.

Exercise is very important. But what about diet?

For a long time, doctors doubted there could be any link between diet and osteoarthritis. They saw the disease as a natural result of wear and tear on the joints, something inevitable as we age.

But new research is making them reconsider that idea.

It now appears that nutrition plays a vital role in helping to prevent or ease the effects of osteoarthritis. One key element is vitamin C.

Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant, and may protect the joints from the damaging effects of free radicals (unstable molecules that can cause joint inflammation).

Recent research is showing that vitamin C can help prevent bone loss and cartilage inadequacies associated with aging. Specifically, when your joint has cartilage that needs to be repaired, vitamin C is needed for such repairs. It helps to keep your cartilage “young”.

According to Dr. Timothy McAlindon of the Boston University School of Medicine, “Vitamin C may also help generate collagen, which enhances the body’s ability to repair damage to the cartilage.”

When scientists at the Boston University School of Medicine studied the eating habits of people with osteoarthritis of the knee, they found that those consuming the most vitamin C- more than 200 milligrams a day- were three times less likely to suffer deterioration of their condition than those who consumed the least vitamin C (less than 120 milligrams a day).

Dr. McAlindon recommends that people consume a least 120 milligrams of vitamin C every day. “That’s the amount in a couple of oranges,” he says.

Dr. Michael F. Roizen and Dr. Mehmet C. Oz, co-authors of “You: The Owner’s Manual”, recommend even more. “Shoot for 1200 milligrams of vitamin C a day- spread between your diet and supplements throughout the day.”

Be careful not to overdo it however. Some data suggest that more than 2,500 milligrams a day can have the opposite effect and actually increase the risk of osteoarthritis.

Dr. Eve Campanelli, a holistic family practitioner in Beverly Hills, CA, recommends black cherry juice. She advises her patients to drink two glasses, twice a day, of four ounces of the juice diluted with four ounces of water.

Other fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C include oranges, cantaloupe, broccoli, strawberries, peppers and cranberry juice.

A healthy diet, rich in fruits and vegetables, has been recommended by nutritionists for years. Now there’s another reason to pay attention- it can help your joints to stay young!

It can be purchased without a prescription, and does not irritate the stomach like other medication such as aspirin or ibuprofen. It is supplied in time release caplet form, meaning that the drug is released over an extended time period. This means that the medication need not be taken as frequently as other pain killers.

Tylenol Arthritis Pain does not appear to have any side effects, but if you have an existing condition alongside arthritis you should consult with your doctor before taking it or you are taking other medication. Tylenol should not be taken with other pain relieving medication, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, ketoprofen, prescription medication or any other product containing acetaminophen.

Many arthritis sufferers have found some pain relief from taking Tylenol Arthritis Pain, so it may be worth discussing this with your doctor or physician.

Used for arthritis sufferers as well as those who have repetitive motion problems in their joints, the arthritis pain relief gloves offer support for the muscles whilst gently warming the affected areas. The gloves are designed to cover the muscle, ligaments, tendons and metacarpal bones in a protective material. These arthritis relief gloves are usually worn at night while the sufferer sleeps. This helps prevent the stiffening of the joints that can be a nightly torture for those who have acute arthritis. The arthritic relief glove has proven itself so effective that the material is being used to create support sheaths for other parts of the body which are potentially affected by arthritis. Knee wraps are available, which can be worn during your working day and which help keep walking and other daily living activities from becoming unbearably painful.

The arthritis relief material has been fashioned into ankle and elbow braces as well. These arthritis relief gloves are much more effective than the old methods of heating rice filled pads to provide the necessary heat to affected areas for pain relief. The gloves and other pain relief wraps are long lasting and washable. They are available with velcro adjustment strips so can be made as tight or loose as you need. Usually these arthritis relief gloves will cost between $10 and $30 depending on the brand and special features offered. They are available at local pharmacies, major retailers and online directly from the manufacturers.

Symptoms can be reduced by drinking raw juices; celery, red beetroot and carrot are particularly good. Raw juices are alkaline, which helps to dissolve the deposits accumulated around the joints and joint tissues. Pineapple juice can also benefit, as the juice contains bromelain, which is an enzyme proven to reduce swelling and inflammation.

Some foods are thought to help alleviate arthritis symptoms. Bananas are a source of Vitamin B6, which can reduce pain and inflammation. Lime can also be beneficial, as it contains citric acid, which can dissolve the uric acids responsible for some forms of arthritis. The juice is best drunk diluted in water to avoid the bitter taste! Coconut milk is also thought to be beneficial for arthritis sufferers. Avoid excess caffeine and overly spicy foods, although Cinnamon is thought to have arthritis relieving properties.

Honey has also been proven to reduce symptoms of inflammation and stiffness, and Cider Vinegar is very effective at breaking down the joint deposits caused by uric acids.

A small daily amount of cod liver oil can slow the degeneration of joint cartilage and tissue; try consuming 1 or 2 teaspoons of olive oil a day. Garlic can also be effective, as it contains anti-inflammatory properties. Cooked or raw garlic is equally effective.

Castor Oil has also shown some benefits in reducing the symptoms of arthritis; ideally it should be boiled over a stove burner and taken with fresh orange juice each day.

Epsom salts also help break down uric acids in the body, and are also a source of magnesium, which aids bone growth. If the body becomes deficient in Magnesium, it is less able to use and absorb calcium. Try adding 3 cups of Epsom salts to a hot bath, and soak in it. Have the water as hot as you can stand it, and keep topping it up as required. Whilst you are in the water, gently exercise your joints.

Many people have found some relief by bathing in sea water. The natural iodine found in sea water can alleviate the pain of arthritis. Iodine can help repair tissues and regenerate the skeletal frame. It also regulates the acid- alkaline balance in the blood. If you are not able to access the sea, relaxing in a warm bath in which a cup or two of salt has been dissolved.

Symptoms; You may notice increased stiffness in the spine, which can be worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity. There will also be pain, which may be exacerbated by movement and which may come and go. There may be additional pain or numbness in the neck, shoulders, arms or legs, including the Sciatic nerve.

Movement of the spine may be limited and you may find bending difficult. In extreme cases, the spine may become deformed. Often, bony growths occur which can form ‘spurs’, which can cause increased pain or restriction of movement. You may also notice a ‘crunching’ or clicking sound or sensation on moving.

If the arthritis develops in the lower spinal region, it can affect the nerves to the legs and buttocks. Arthritis in the cervical area can similarly affect the arms and shoulders.

If you think you may have spinal arthritis, consult your doctor, who may refer you for an x-ray for diagnosis and the extent of the damage.

Treatment; As with other forms of arthritis, there is currently no known cure, but a range of treatments are available to relieve symptoms.

Medications which may be prescribed include anti-inflammatory drugs, steroids or painkillers.

Losing excess weight will help to reduce pressure on the spine and soft tissue. Diet can be important; eating calcium and nutrient rich foods can help maintain bone density and strength and slow the rate of deterioration. Exercise has also proven beneficial in improving flexibility and relieving pain. A health professional or physiotherapist should be able to put together a suitable exercise or diet program for you.

Heat or ice treatment applied regularly has also proved to relieve pain and discomfort in sufferers.

Arthritis of the spine can cause the invertebral discs within the spine to deteriorate, which may then require further treatment. The joints of the spine can be affected by formation of bony growths on the spine, which may be removed by surgery.

Having spinal arthritis need not restrict you. A lot of people experience only minimal symptoms, and pain can be managed with appropriate medication and support.

Arthritis creams have very few side effects and are generally safe to use, but if you are planning on using them you should consult your doctor as there is a chance that they could affect other medication you may be taking. If you have sore or broken skin, you should also be wary of using them.

The main types of arthritis cream available are;

Trolamine Salicylate Topical Analgesic creams, containing the active ingredient Trolamine Salicylates. These work by reducing the inflammation and swelling in the joints and muscles affected by arthritis. People who are allergic to aspirin or who are taking blood-thinners should discuss with their doctor before taking these as they could affect this medication. Trolamine Salicylate Topical Analgesic creams include Aspercreme and Sportscreme.

Topical Analgesic creams containing the active ingredient, Capsaicin, which is derived from chili pepper seeds. It is thought to work by decreasing the levels of the substance responsible for transmitting pain in the body (substance P). These creams are thought to work best on joints which are closest to the skin, such as finger joints. These creams include Zostrix.

Counter-irritants, which generally contain combinations of eucalyptus, camphor, Methyl Salicylate and menthol. These creams work by causing irritation to the skin where it is applied. This stimulates the body’s sensory receptors to heat and cold, which then produces a counter irritant response which provides a temporary relief from the pain and discomfort of the arthritis symptoms. Counter-irritant creams include Bengay Products

There are also various other arthritis creams available, including;

Voltaren Gel; this is a NSAID product which typically contains diclofenac sodium in a topical gel formation. Voltaren Gel should not be used by patients with a sensitivity to diclofenac. Patients taking oral NSAIDS and aspirin should not use Voltaren Gel as there is an increased risk of adverse side effects.

Glucosamine Cream; the benefits of taking Glucosamine supplements to relieve arthritis symptoms are well known. Glucosamine is also available as a cream, and is known to be effective at relieving joint pain and discomfort and increasing joint function.

Tiger Balm Arthritis Rub;
this is a counter-irritant cream but also works by soothing the joint pain and muscular aches associated with arthritis. Active ingredients include clove oil, camphor, cajuput oil and menthol.

Arthritis is caused by the degeneration and deterioration of the cartilage layer surrounding the joints. This causes the bones to rub against each other, causing discomfort, pain and deformity of the bones. Glucosamine works by stimulating the body’s natural production of the proteins which rebuild and replenish the damaged cartilage. This means that the Glucosamine is treating the cause of arthritis rather than just the symptoms.

Glucosamine is classed as a nutritional supplement rather than a herbal medication. It can be obtained from a variety of sources, including health food shops and online stores. As it is a natural product, any side effects from taking Glucosamine are much milder than those caused by other medications. It is generally not recommended for diabetics, as it is a carbohydrate and can cause fluctuations in insulin levels. Individuals with shellfish allergies should be aware that most Glucosamine on the market is derived from shellfish, although some companies now offer corn derived Glucosamine. It is also recommended that pregnant or breast feeding women do not take Glucosamine; there is no evidence to suggest that it would be harmful, but there is not yet sufficient evidence to guarantee 100% safety.

Generally the benefits of taking this supplement can far outweigh any side effects and it has generally be proven t be safe and effective. It is often marketed as Glucosamine Sulphate, and daily recommended doses vary with each manufacturer. As it can take some time to be absorbed into the system you may need to take it for 1- 3 months before you start seeing the benefits.

Taking Glucosamine supplements, when taken early enough, can also help to prevent joint conditions such as arthritis by enabling the body to repair cartilage on an ongoing basis and maintain joint strength and function.

If you would like to try the benefits of Glucosamine for yourself, click Here.

Joint Advance is a natural product containing Glucosamine and has been proven to be effective at strengthening joints and preventing the symptoms of arthritis. Read more about Joint Advance here.

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