Many arthritis sufferers have found that taking supplements such as Glucosamine can relieve the symptoms of arthritis, sometimes effectively as other pain killing medication such as Ibuprofen.

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.

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The treatment of arthritis by holistic medicine is becoming increasingly  popular. Once dismissed as mere fantasy or even dangerous, even doctors are now being forced to accept that holistic medicine has been shown to have many benefits in the treatment of chronic conditions such as arthritis.

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’.

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Once a person is affected by Arthritis, it can continue to affect them for life. There is unfortunately no cure for Arthritis, but there are several medicines available which can help to alleviate symptoms. Some work as pain relievers, others reduce the inflammation associated with arthritis, and yet others control the disease itself. Arthritis sufferers may be prescribed just one or a combination of drugs.

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.

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As well as taking prescribed medication for arthritis, and using other treatments such as arthritis creams, there are a few other arthritis remedies which may be worth exploring;

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

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Arthritis isn’t a condition that only affects humans. It can also affect our pets too. It is believed that one in five dogs in the US suffers from arthritis, and arthritic pain is the most common sources of chronic pain.

Since your dog can’t tell you how he’s feeling, you will need to monitor him closely for the tell tale signs he may be suffering from arthritis. These signs include decreased activity levels- he may show less interest in going for a walk or playtime. You may notice him start to hesitate when he climbs or descends the stairs, and he may show reluctance to jump or run. You may notice that he has difficulty when he stands, and there may be more obvious signs of joint pain and stiffness. He may also favor a limb, at some times more than others.

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