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.

Many people are turning towards natural remedies for treating gout. These are much safer, with little or no side effects.

There are certain foods which are thought to lessen the occurrence of gout attacks. These include foods high in potassium, cherry juice, blueberries and dairy foods. You should aim to eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables, and drink plenty of water each day (six to eight glasses) to help your body excrete uric acids. Foods containing a high level of purines should be avoided- these include alcohol, kidney, liver, creamy sauces and shellfish.

Lemon juice is very good at preventing gout attacks as it stimulates to body’s ability to form calcium carbonate, which neutralizes acids in the body. Drink lemon juice in hot or warm water.

Apple Cider Vinegar helps the body to break down uric acid deposits. Drink two teaspoons per day. This can be rather bitter so it may be more palatable mixed with honey or water, or used as a salad dressing.

Baking soda helps to alkalize the body and prevent gout attacks. Try taking ½ teaspoon with your meals.

Try bathing the affected leg or foot in Epsom salts added to hot water. This will help break down uric acid deposits.

In addition to diet, there are several supplements you can try;
Fish oil can be beneficial- take supplements or aim to include oily fish regularly in your diet.

Glucosamine or Shark Cartilage can promote regeneration of cartilage affected by arthritis.

Vitamin B Complex will enable the body to eliminate uric acids.

Vitamin C will help to lower uric acid levels in the body.

Vitamin E may be useful as a deficiency can contribute to the formation of uric acid.

Bromelain is a useful anti-inflammatory supplement.

L-glutamine, L-glycine and L-glutathione are antacids and will help the body eliminate deposits of uric acid.

Black Cohosh and Ginkgo Biloba have proved beneficial in treating arthritis and lessening symptoms.

See this article for other herbal remedies which can help arthritis.

Some people find relief in other natural remedies such as acupuncture or acupressure. You should also make sure you keep the affected leg elevated as much as possible.

Black Cohosh has pain- relieving qualities similar to aspirin. It has also been shown to reduce joint inflammation.

Celery also has anti-inflammatory properties, as well as being a good source of potassium. Potassium deficiency can aggravate arthritis pain.
Feverfew is another herb containing anti-inflammatory properties, and also stimulates the circulation.

Angelica can reduce inflammation and natural pain relievers. It will also relax the muscles, which can be beneficial as muscle tension can aggravate arthritis pain.

Devil’s Claw is a fairly new remedy which has shown to enable healing of affected joints.

Turmeric is a herb traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine. It has been shown to significantly reduce symptoms such as stiffness and pain in a number of arthritis suffers.

Boswellia is another herb containing anti-inflammatory properties.
Other herbs shown to be beneficial in treating and relieving arthritis symptoms include Chaparral, Ginseng, Liquorice, Oregano, Rosemary and Wild Yam.

These herbs can either be supplied in a paste to be rubbed into the skin, whereby they are absorbed into the body, whereas others may be consumed as a dietary supplement. A herbalist will be able to advise on correct dosage. It is also a good idea to consult with your doctor before trying alternative treatments.

People are choosing to take herbal remedies to treat their arthritis rather than prescribed medication, with products such as Synflex, Supple and Joint Advance becoming increasingly popular.

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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Holistic medicine approaches are that diseases tend to develop from several different causes, varying from person to person. Contributory factors for disease development also include imbalances caused by environmental, mental and other physical factors.

Physicians practicing holistic medicine always try to find the root cause of any disease, and patients will usually undergo a variety of diagnostic tests, including examination of diet, digestive function, immune system, stress levels and emotional/ mental condition.The idea is to treat the body and mind as a whole- hence ‘holistic’.

Holistic medicine usually involves treatment from a range of natural or homeopathic remedies. These are also supplemented by a change of diet/ detox program, proper nutrition, a program for the reduction of stress levels if required and maybe even counseling.

Chinese herbs are often used to restore energy and balance to the body’s system- Chinese beliefs are that disease in the body is caused by obstructions which affect the flow of energy through the body to the organs. Other treatments such as massage and acupuncture may also be used.

The patient may also find meditation to be beneficial, in both reducing stress levels and pain. Various supplements, such as minerals, vitamins or herbs can provide relief from pain and swelling and tend to have very few side effects.

Holistic medicine tends to work on treating the whole body and mind, in the belief that imbalances in one area will impact upon others. Many arthritis sufferers have found considerable relief through these methods.

For natural products to relieve the symptoms of arthritis, visit Native Remedies.

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Painkillers or Analgesics
Painkillers come in different strengths, from those that can be bought over the counter to the strongest ones which must be prescribed by a doctor. They may also contain anti-inflammatory medication.

Ibuprofen
Rheumatoid arthritis in particular causes pain from inflammation, which can be eased by taking Ibuprofen based medication or other anti-inflammatory drugs. Ibuprofen also provides some pain relief, but there is a risk of ulcers if it taken over a long period of time. Ibuprofen can also irritate the stomach, so is best taken with food.

Acetaminophen
Osteoarthritis, on the other hand, is often accompanied by very little inflammation. Acetaminophen based medications relieve the pain but not inflammation. There is less risk of irritation of the stomach which can be caused by ibuprofen, and less likelihood of long term damage. However, if you are taking blood thinning medication such as Warfarin, or have a history of liver disease, then Acetaminophen based medication should be taken with caution.
Other painkillers include Aspirin and Codeine.

Glucosamine Sulphate
Glucosamine Sulphate is the same compound produced by the body and found naturally in cartilage and connective joint tissue. Cartilage lines the joints and acts as a natural shock absorber. As the body ages, its ability to manufacture Glucosamine reduces, which can lead to joint problems and eventually arthritis. When taken as a supplement it can stimulate the natural manufacture of Glucosamino-glycans, which can improve and repair joint function, lead to greater flexibility and prevent further degeneration. It can also help to reduce joint pain caused by arthritis. There are few side effects associated with Glucosamine.

Prescription Medication

Prescription Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)
NSAIDs help to reduce swelling in the joints and inflammation and also provide pain relief. These include ibuprofen and aspirin based medication prescribed to reduce pain and inflammation. More NSAID’s include Naproxen, Diclofenac, Piroxicam, and Nabumetone. Newer types of NSAIDS have recently been developed, such as Celebrex, Rofecoxib and Bextra. These are classed as COX-2 inhibitors and are designed to lessen the risk of stomach irritation. Side effects can include the risk of cardiovascular problems, so if you have a history of heart disease or strokes, you will need to discuss this with your doctor.

Corticosteroids
Corticosteroid medication are either injected directly into the arthritic joint (corticosteroids) to reduce pain from osteo and rheumatoid arthritis, or given by mouth (Prednisone) to reduce the inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis. However, the Corticosteroid injections, although effective at treating the condition, can cause damage to the cartilage, so are usually limited to one or two injections in a year. It is also recommended that those taking steroid medication have annual flu and pneumonia vaccinations.

Anti- TNF & Biological Response Modifiers
These drugs work by blocking the reaction of a chemical known as tumur necrosis factor (TNF). TNF is thought to exacerbating the inflammation and degeneration prevalent in inflammatory arthritis. They include Enbrel, etanercept, infliximab and adalimumab, usually administered by injection or infusion.

There are some associated side effects, and they won’t be suitable for everybody. However, people with psoriatic arthritis and very severe rheumatoid arthritis may find these drugs beneficial. They are often taken in conjunction with Methotrexate.

Disease modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) These are often used to treat forms of inflammatory arthritis such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus.
They  include immunosuppressants which slow down the activity of the immune system. This can therefore slow the progress of the disease and can be instrumental in reducing the amount of damage it does. They are often used very soon after the condition has been diagnosed. These include leflunomide, sulphasalazin, ciclosporin and methotrexate.
However, the side effects can be severe, so use must be carefully monitored by a doctor.

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Diet The importance of a healthy diet cannot be underestimated, and will enable the body to heal itself from within. It is thought that some dietary carotenoids can alleviate arthritis symptoms. Carotenoids are nutrients found in foods such as sweet potatoes, pumpkins and other yellow, red, deep green and orange vegetables.

For more information on foods to eat to alleviate arthritis symptoms, click here

Being overweight can exacerbate the symptoms of arthritis, so a reduction of weight if required would be beneficial. Excess weight can place extra stress on load bearing joints, especially hips and knees. Even a relatively minor reduction in weight could have a big impact on relieving pain and discomfort, and maintaining a healthy weight can help to prevent arthritis developing. Exercise can be difficult for arthritis sufferers, so low impact exercises such as walking and swimming are recommended.

Regular exercise can also increase joint mobility and function, plus reduce joint stiffness and pain. Targeted exercises can also alleviate symptoms and increase joint function; a physical therapist should be able to work with you to plan a suitable exercise program.

Read more about the best and most effective exercises for arthritis, click here.

Massage This includes light kneading or gentle stroking of the affected muscle to stimulate increased blood flow to the area. This will provide temporary relief from the symptoms of pain and discomfort. Make sure that you use a massage therapist who is familiar with the condition as the affected joints will be very sensitive.

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) machine This is a device which can be placed over the affected area. This then directs mild electrical ‘pulses’ to the nerve endings in and around the affected joints. Although this doesn’t reduce inflammation it helps to relieve joint pain by blocking the pain messages to the brain.

Joint supports Some people use a brace or splint can ensure that joints are rested and not subjected to overuse, which could exacerbate symptoms and pain. If you would like to try this, ensure that a brace is fitted by a qualified physical therapist or doctor.

Heat and Ice Packs; These have been found to provide some pain relief, but use should be discussed with your doctor or physical therapist to determine which kind of treatment is best for your condition.

For more ways of treating and relieving the symptoms of arthritis without medication, click here

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