Joint Supplements To Treat Osteoarthritis

The treatment of osteoarthritis has been done with the use of the joint supplements glucosamine as well as chondroitin since about two decades. Osteoarthritis is a condition which occurs due to the smooth cartilage surfaces of the joints wearing out. This is also called wear-and-tear arthritis.Osteoarthritis leads to joint pain, swelling, as well as deformity. Osteoarthritis is one of the most common types of arthritis.

Glucosamine as well as chondroitin are joint supplements that make up the kind of cartilage that is found within the joints. The cartilage inside your joints undergoes a continuous process of breakdown as well as repair. In order to be repaired properly, the building blocks of the cartilage have to be present as well as available. This is the theory behind using these glucosamine as well as chondroitin joint supplements. This ensures that the cartilage building blocks will be present for the repair of the cartilage.

Glucosamine is basically a precursor to a molecule known as glycosaminoglycan, which is required in the formation as well as repair of cartilage. Chondroitin is a highly abundant glycosaminoglycan in cartilage. It is basically responsible for the resiliency found in cartilage.

The oral consumption of glucosamine as well as chondroitin increases the rate of formation of new cartilage due to the increased availability of the required building blocks. Research has shown that patients experienced reduction in pain reduction while taking glucosamine as well as chondroitin. This improvement was quite similar to the improvement which was experienced by patients who take nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs). The main difference is that NSAIDs tend to have an increased risk of side effects such as gastrointestinal complaints as well as bleeding as compared to the joint supplements glucosamine and chondroitin. Thus their use is preferred, especially since the effects of pain reduction are the same. Furthermore, these supplements also offer more protection to the cartilage surface.

Brace Yourself For Painful Knees Due to Osteoarthritis - Stop Those Cracking Noises & Popping Sounds

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common types of arthritis. Statistics show that more than 10 million Americans suffer from this condition with it being one of the most common cause of disability in the United States.

1.) Causes of Knee Osteoarthritis

This type of arthritis is characterized by the deterioration of the articular cartilage, which is also the main problem associated with the disease. Causes of this condition include:

A.) Excessive strain on the knee

B.) Ligament tear, bone fractures and meniscal injury

C.) Genetics

D.) Obesity

E. ) Problem with the bone layer underneath the cartilage

2.) Diagnosis of Knee Osteoarthritis

A.) X-rays are particularly helpful as they allow the doctor to determine whether there is a narrowing of the joint space and thus rule out other causes of painful knees.

B.) MRI can also be done in cases where a detailed imaging is essential. Arthroscopic surgery is another procedure used to view the condition of the knee.

3.) Symptoms of Knee Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis gradually progresses over a period of years. The primary symptoms of knee osteoarthritis include:

A.) Pain

B.) Stiffness

C.) Limited range of motion of the knee

D.) Swelling

The pain experienced as a result of knee osteoarthritis can be very severe especially following a heavy activity. The stiffness felt can be aggravated by prolonged sitting. As the condition worsens, the pain can become intense and may lead to a debilitating condition.

4.) Treatment of Knee Osteoarthritis

Treatment of knee osteoarthritis is focused at managing the symptoms and the deterioration of the articular cartilage. Conventional pain medications such as acetaminophen can help relieve pain. NSAIDs are also very effective at relieving painful knees in osteoarthritis sufferers.

Other modalities used for knee osteoarthritis include:

A.) Management of weight

B.) Application of topical cream

C.) Knee brace or support

D.) Joint protection techniques

E.) Hot and cold compress

F.) Glucosamine and Chondroitin supplementation

G.) Surgery

Early management and treatment of knee osteoarthritis is most beneficial. Knee osteoarthritis, if treated early, can be effectively managed and treated.

5.) Using a Knee Brace to Manage Painful Knees due Osteoarthritis

The types of knee braces include:

A.) Single-Piece Sleeves: This brace made of neoprene, or drytex (an elastic-rubbery material), is the simplest type of support. The device is put on over the foot of the affected leg and is pulled until it is over the knee. The type of support provides compression, warmth and support and is best for mild to moderate osteoarthritis.

B. ) Unloader Knee Brace- This type of support is made from molded plastic and foam. The steel struts that are inserted on the sides limit lateral knee movement and enhance stability. This support is custom-fit to each individual patient with medial component osteoarthritis.

If you are concerned about your current pain problems, it is also wise to consult your physician.

What is Arthritis? Rheumatoid Arthritis and Prognosis of Osteoarthritis Symptoms & Treatments

Arthritis is a common disease in the modern world. It has been a disease known since the ancient periods of time and is never referred to a single disease. The arthritis, in general, is an inflammation of the joints with numerous conditions attached to it. This is the only reason why it is being mentioned as a group of conditions. There are various forms of arthritis but the root case is the same in all cases.

What is the root case?

What is arthritis? This question often arises in our minds. The root case in arthritis is that there is inflammation of the human joints that resorts down to tautness, bumps and agony. Arthritis may cause enough stiffness of the joints and it might result into life threatening situations. Arthritis must be well looked after and any signs and symptoms must be reported to the physician without any negligence. Any sort of negligence might result into muscle damage, bone damage and also damages to the internal body parts.

The most common cases of arthritis are the rheumatoid arthritis and the osteoarthritis. No matter whatever may be the form of arthritis, the fact of the matter remains the same that arthritis can affect a human body at all ages? The rheumatoid arthritis is a typical form of the arthritis that results due to the faulty immune attacks on a human body. The rheumatoid arthritis is therefore an "autoimmune disease "which generally causes joint pain, swelling, stiffness and joint dislocation. The rheumatoid arthritis is a difficult disease when it comes to diagnosis and the most common cause is the hereditary presence or the genetic factor.

Osteoarthritis is the other most common case of arthritis in human beings. Osteoarthritis is a disease featuring degeneration of joints and most often lead into swelling, pain and tenderness of joints. Any king of gravity pressure leads into wear and tear and thus physical damage to the human joints. If you are interested to know the prognosis of osteoarthritis, symptoms, treatments and causes then you must go through the following sections.

The causes of osteoarthritis may be varied and dynamic according to human beings. There are abounding causes of osteoarthritis, which comprise endocrine cause or diabetic problems, metabolic malfunctions, anatomical abnormalities, or congenital causes, inflammatory joints, post traumatic causes, genetic causes, improper nutrition and also from the improper functioning of the nervous system.

The symptoms of osteoarthritis are specific and affect the fingers, spines, hips and knees. The fingers are affected with swollen and reddish enlargements. The hip joints are severely affected and this occurs mostly among men. The knee joints are affected in many individuals by excessive squatting. The spine is affected with weakness of the legs and arms.

The treatments that follow in case of osteoarthritis are essentially bringing down the weight, providing nutritious diet, antioxidants, vitamins, Acetaminophen, hot or warm baths and through artificial devices known as orthoses. The prognosis of osteoarthritis, symptoms, causes and treatments must have been clear by now with all those features discussed.

Fish Oil Supplement For Osteoarthritis - Discover the Amazing Ingredient For Pain Free Joints!

Fish oil supplements for osteoarthritis can be very beneficial for alleviating the symptoms and providing excellent pain relief. In fact, many brands go as far as claiming it as "natural cure for osteoarthritis". Find out the expert facts in this article to make the best health decision.

Due to the various side effects of prescription based drugs for combating inflammation and pain relief, people are looking for natural cure for osteoarthritis. Fish oil supplements for osteoarthritis are among the topmost choice due to their numerous health benefits on overall health.

Fish oil is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. They have excellent natural anti-inflammatory properties and also play a key role in improving brain and cardiovascular health. Research has shown that they help to reduce tenderness in joints, reduce inflammation, decrease morning stiffness and reduce the amount of medication required for controlling inflammation for people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.

They also play a key role in reducing the activity of the enzymes that destroy cartilage in joints. Green lipped mussel that is found in New Zealand is also an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. It has great anti-inflammatory properties and helps in reducing pain and joint stiffness, improving grip strength and enhancing joint mobility in osteoarthritis patients.

A special consideration while looking for fish oil supplement for osteoarthritis is that you should avoid supplements that are rich in vitamin A - such as cod liver oil and those derived from fish liver. This is because vitamin A is toxic when consumed in large doses from animal sources. Beta-carotene is a much safer choice when it comes to vitamin A supplementation.

Adults should consume around 1000 mg of Omega 3 fatty acids on a daily basis. While looking for fish oil supplement for osteoarthritis, make sure that it is "pharmaceutical grade" or molecularly distilled. Molecular distillation is a process that separates toxins and contaminants such as mercury, lead, PCBs, etc. from the fish oil and the resultant oil is then encapsulated into supplements.

This is essential to ensure maximum product safety and effectiveness. It also guarantees that you do not consume harmful toxins that are generally found while consuming fish directly.

Although it might not be a natural cure for osteoarthritis, using fish oil supplements for osteoarthritis in combination with green lipped mussel extract of New Zealand is one of the most effective natural alternatives for achieving relief from inflammation and pain, as well as protecting the joint cartilage from additional damage.

Arthritis - Are You Crippled by Ignorance?

Rheumatism is a general term for pain and stiffness in the muscular-skeletal system. Muscles, ligaments and tendons and the skeleton are all very interdependent upon one another for their shape, support and function. Trouble in any one will usually have an effect upon the rest.

Arthritis simply means inflammation of a joint and may be considered a form of rheumatism in a joint or joints have become inflamed. There are many different forms of arthritis - around a hundred different types - with a variety of causes. We are not going to explore them in detail in this article, but we will give a broad view of them.

Arthritis is derived from Greek - arthro means joint while "itis" stands for inflammation. Arthritis is the name for a group of conditions involving damage to the joints of the body.

OSTEOARTHRITIS

Probably the most common or at least the best- known form is Osteoarthritis (OA) or Degenerative Joint Disease (DJD). It tends to affect the large weight-bearing joints such as hip and knee and is often found in one joint rather than multiple sites. It may be the result of trauma, infection, obesity, aging, instability, an after effect of surgery, or a "perk" of certain occupations such as farming and horticulture. Often described as "wear and tear" and is one of the major causes of joint problems involving erosion of bone and cartilage in your joints. It's also usually really painful..

Osteoarthritis is frequently thought of as an older person's disease, although in reality it can affect younger people, especially sportspeople who put their joints under a lot of strain to maintain the levels of fitness required for them. This causes wear and tear at the joint surfaces. Footballers regularly damage their knees, causing premature muscular-skeletal changes. In some cases theres also a hereditary factor. It's most often seen in the over 60 age group and can be confirmed clinically or with x-rays where bony changes such as spurs or osteophytes can be seen.

It may also be seen in the hands and feet in which case nodules, or Heberdens nodes, may be seen on the joints at the ends of the fingers and frequently runs in families. Bunions may be present on the feet.

RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS

Another form of arthritis is Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and this is 3 times more common in women than men. This is a disease where the immune system starts to attacks itself.

RA has the potential to be a significantly disabling disease with destructive changes to the joints but modern medication has turned it into a much less crippling illness. Hands and wrists, legs and feet plus the neck are often affected. Left untreated, the lining of the joints thickens and excess synovial fluid is produced, which in turn alters the lubrication of the joint through changes to the composition of the fluid. Antibodies attack articular cartilage and gradually destroy it. Bone surfaces may become exposed and fuse to give considerable loss of function.

Initial symptoms are pain, tenderness, swelling, stiffness. These are often in the smaller joints and will affect joints symmetrically. So if you've got it in your right hand, then your left is probably affected too. It can happen at any age with the most common occurrence being between 40 and 50 years of age.

If you think you might have RA then it's important to get prompt attention as early treatment can have a big impact. Blood tests and x-rays are used to diagnose the disease. Today's medicine can go a long towards preventing deformity, disability and instability and there are many effective drugs available that control it but sadly they can't cure it.

GOUT

Another form of arthritis is Gout. This almost always occurs in men and is characterised by raised levels of uric acid in the bloodstream - either because your body is producing too much uric acid, or you can't remove it once its there.

Crystals of uric acid build up on the cartilage of your joints, tendons and surrounding tissues. The pain is excruciating with a sudden burning pain often in the foot, where there is swelling, redness, heat and stiffness, often in the big toe.

Traditionally Gout is associated with rich food intake and grain alcohol. Meat, game, scallops, offal are often thought to be implicated becase of their high purine levels. A plant based diet seems to be low in purine levels.

Knowing a little about about the conditions affecting you is the first step to undersatnding what is happening and can often take away a lot of the fear and uncertainty. The next step is to get some professional advice on the specifics of your own unique circumstance and to work with your therapist to develop a plan for managing the condition so it doesn't take over your life.

Arthritis Sufferers and Mobility Scooters

It is estimated that around 10 million people in the UK today suffer from some form of Arthritis.

Arthritis is a group of conditions that can effect people of all ages, and commonly causes joint pain, inflammation and stiffness.

Some sufferers experience inflammation of the joints, coupled with restricted movement leading to weakness and muscle wasting.

There are some 100 different known types of Arthritis, the most common being Rheumatoid Arthritis, and Osteoarthritis.

Rheumatoid Arthritis is a chronic disease, currently without cure that causes most sufferers to experience "flares" of pain, inflammation, swelling and reduced movement of joints. It tends to be symmetrical in that if a joint on one side of the body is effected the joint on the other side will also show symptoms.

Whilst there is no cure for Rheumatoid Arthritis, early diagnosis and treatment can help to give remission from the symptoms.

There are more than 400,000 sufferers in the UK today, starting usually in people aged between 40 and 50 years old, with women 3 times more likely to be affected than Men.

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis in the UK, affecting an estimated 8.5 million people.

Osteoarthritis is where the cartilage between the bones gradually wastes away, leading to painful rubbing of bone on bone in the joints. The most frequently affected joints are in the hands, spine, knees and hips.

Osteoarthritis often develops in over 50's, however can occur at any age due to injury or other related joint conditions.

Common causes are:

1. Age - Wear and Tear plays a part in the onset of Osteoarthritis, the older you are the more your joints will have been used, however whilst your risk factor is increased with age it is not inevitable you will suffer from it.

2. Obesity - The heavier you are the more pressure your body places on your joints. Hips and knees in particular carry the burden of excess weight. Scientist also believe that excess body fat causes chemicals to travel throughout the body which can cause joint damage.

3. Injury or over use - Athletes or people with repetitive jobs that require the same motion being performed over and over again (typists, machine operators) have a higher risk of developing Osteoarthritis due to increased use and stress to their joints.

4. Genetics - Inherited abnormalities of the bones that affect the shape or stability of a joint can lead to osteoarthritis, although it isn't a certainty.

Osteoarthritis mostly develops slowly, starting with soreness and stiffness that is more an inconvenience than a concern. For some it will develop no further, but for others their arthritis will progress to a level where it interferes with daily activities, and the pain and stiffness make it difficult to walk, climb stairs or sleep.

A healthy lifestyle, and regular exercise are all recommended to improve the physical and mental health of arthritis sufferers, as is making the most of independent living aids on the market today designed to help with a variety of daily tasks.

Whilst it is vital to maintain as much physical activity as possible there will be times when the symptoms are so bad that this becomes unbearable and another solution needs to be at hand.

A Mobility Scooter may be the answer for those times when you simply cannot manage your daily routine, and need a solution to maintain your independence. This may only be a temporary solution until the symptoms subside, or a more permanent arrangement to give you the additional help you need.

Mobility Scooter manufacturers have been developing and designing new and improved features on their Scooters for years to help to make using a Scooter easier and more enjoyable to those with reduced joint flexibility, pain and stiffness.

Features such as fully swiveling seats to enable the user to sit comfortably on the seat before turning onto the Scooter. This reduces the need for climbing, straining, and twisting to get on.

Fully adjustable seats and armrests to give maximum support for good posture, and a comfortable riding position.

Delta handlebars, designed to reduce the pressure on the wrists from standard handlebars and with thumb or finger controls for ease of use. Fully adjustable tillers to get the right riding position for you ensuring no additional pressure is put on your joints. Dual controls allow the rider to use one side or the other, ideal if discomfort is centralised to one joint only.

Mobility Scooters which provide additional legroom to allow you to stretch out, reducing pressure on your knees, and ankles.

Portable Mobility Scooters which can be dismantled with "one hand" are perfect if you need to take your Scooter with you, but need to be able to transport it yourself, without strain on your joints.

There is such a wide variety of Scooters on the market today that it is possible to find one which will enhance your life, and give you the freedom and independence to maintain an active lifestyle.

Is There Any Hope For Osteoarthritis Pain And Aches?

If you suffer from osteoarthritis pain, you are certainly not alone. According to the Mayo Clinic, osteoarthritis affects nearly 21 million people in the United States alone.

Osteoarthritis of the knee - Pain Relief

Although many people suffer osteoarthritis of the knee, it can afflict any of the jointed areas: fingers, hands, neck, and more.

Osteoarthritis causes damage to the cartilage over time....by engendering stiffing in the joints. This stiffness, in turn, results in loss of elasticity.

The cartilage, in short, can be worn down in such jointed areas. As the cartilage wears away, osteoarthritis pain increases because the cartilage's job was to act as a protector -- a shock absorption mechanism, in other words, that prevents bones from literally rubbing against each other.

Now when it comes specifically to osteoarthritis of the knee - pain relief, there are many people who suffer from this because our knees are used a lot in our daily activities. Constant bending of the knees, sports and certain exercises like running or jogging can exacerbate and speed up the condition.

Regardless if you suffer osteoarthritis pain in the hands, the knee, or elsewhere you undoubtedly want to know what you can do to alleviate the pain.

One thing that many people may not know is that increasing your intake of omega 3 fatty acids may help a great deal because they are naturally rich anti-inflammatories.

Inflammation can result because of the stiffness in the joints, making the situation much worse.

But don't just take my word for it.

According to the University of Maryland's Medical website:

"Based on laboratory studies....many researchers suggest that diets rich in omega-3 fatty acids....may benefit people with other inflammatory disorders, including OA [Osteoarthritis]. In fact, several laboratory studies of cartilage-containing cells have found that omega-3 fatty acids decrease inflammation and reduce the activity of enzymes that break down cartilage. Patients also showed increased improvement when fish oil supplements were used...."

The University of Maryland's Medical Website also mentions an interesting source very high in omega 3 fatty acids that most people in the United States are not aware of, but is available to them. This source is called the New Zealand green lipped mussel and is used in that country for osteoarthritis pain, among other things.

On their website, they state:

"....New Zealand green lipped mussel ( Perna canaliculus ), 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."

Now, none of these statements should mean that omega 3 fatty acids are going to cure your condition if you have osteoarthritis. That's just wishful thinking.

However, omega 3 fatty acids are well known to benefit both brain and cardiovascular health. So to think you can take something that will improve your overall health while also possibly alleviating your osteoarthritis pain, it makes a lot of sense.

You should note, however, that fish oils and omega 3 fatty acids are natural anti-coagulants. This means they help thin the blood, which can be a good thing. However, if you are already on blood thinners, especially prescription blood thinners, check with your doctor before using fish oil or green lipped mussel supplements for osteoarthritis pain.

Given that the prescription COX-2 inhibitor drugs, like Vioxx, have proven themselves to have serious health risks -- having been implicated in the deaths of tens of thousands of people with ongoing class action lawsuits -- it makes sense to us to try natural alternatives and remedies as the first resort.

Arthritis Diet - Best Anti-Inflammatory Foods

When it comes to eating correctly to avoid as much joint pain as possible, there is a certainly an argument to be had that particular foods can definitely help alleviate the inflammation around the joints and provide considerable more pain relief than if you consumed other types of food.

For both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, the significant evidence points at plant based foods at reducing inflammation.

Arthritis Diet - Foods to Eat

Vegetables: Brocoli, boc choy, romaine lettuce. These vegetables contain magnesium which while they act not so much at reducing swelling but rather a natural way of re-building bone density, which should be part of every arthritis sufferers diet.

Reishi Mushroom: The spores inside the reishi mushroom according to medical science contain the most powerful natural active inflammatory compounds known to man.

When consumed orally as they have been for some centuries now in the Far East to treat such conditions; in the West, the chitin around the mushroom is cracked in pharmaceutical labs and manufactured into supplements. The cracked reishi spores are claimed to be 70 times more powerful at reducing inflammation than if consumed orally.

Fruit: The tart cherry and pineapples The tart cherry contains a great deal of anthocyanin, this is the active compound that blocks the Cox-1 and Cox-2 enzymes, those enzymes in part responsible for inflammation in the joints.

Pineapples on the other hand contain the ingredient bromelain. Excellent when it comes to assisting with digestion, bromelain also helps soothe flared up joints, along with muscle injuries, gout and menstrual cramps.

It is also capable of soothing swollen tissue, but to capture as much bromelain as you can, you would need to eat the stem of the pineapple, so search for bromelain supplements online if you want to get the most out of this fruit.

Additional foods to eat: Low fat yoghurt and fish - especially sardines, mackerel and salmon, the Omega 3 trio and steamed turkey and chicken in small quantities would seem OK for some but not for others.

Plus some good fats are advised like fish oil, avocado, olive oil, nuts and seeds.

Arthritis Diet - Foods NOT to Eat

Gluten: On all accounts do not eat foods which contain gluten. It's a binder, thickener and flavour enhancer of food containing manufactured proteins, which even doctors will even point out, that in almost all cases when a person removes gluten from their diet, swelling of the joints subsides.

Nightshade plants: Avoid these also which include bell peppers, paprika, blueberries, potato, tomato, cayenne and okra.

Poultry: Although some light servings may not affect you, for others it can, so chicken or turkey may or may not be advised - down to the individual.

Additional foods NOT to eat: Eggs, sugar, caffeine, all dairy products, citrus and especially high fatty processed foods and trans-fats found in fast food - a definite NO.

These ingredients alone on what to eat and what not to eat, should give you a good basis on which to begin a diet which targets reducing inflammation around the joints completely naturally and healthily, and gives you some insight on why perhaps your joints in your hand feel particularly painful after a BBQ for example.

Arthritis Treatment: Is There Data About Effectiveness Of Stem Cells For Osteoarthritis Treatment?

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis. It is a disease that affects articular cartilage.

Cartilage is a complex tissue that consists of a matrix substance made up of water, collagen, and proteoglycans (proteins mixed with sugars). In addition, cells, called chondrocytes, sit inside the matrix and are responsible for manufacturing the matrix.

The development of OA is a complicated process that is hastened by genetic factors, trauma, and aging.

The exact sequence of events that leads to OA is still a subject of conjecture. However, because it is the most common form of arthritis and affects so many people (approximately 20 million Americans), it is the subject of intense investigation.

Unfortunately, the treatment of OA, to date, is poor. It consists primarily of symptomatic relief.

Anti-inflammatory medicines, ice, injections of cortisone and viscosupplements (lubricants), physical therapy, and eventually joint replacement are the current forms of treatment.

The ideal treatment for OA should, of course, include pain relief. But also, slowing down the rate of cartilage loss or even reversing it by building new cartilage should be a major goal. And so is avoidance of joint replacement surgery.

That is why the use of autologous stem cells (a patient's own stem cells) has garnered so much interest. Here are the results of a patient who underwent an autologous stem cell procedure for OA of the knee at our center last year...

- Started having considerable pain in my right knee in January 2010

- Diagnosed with irreversible arthritis of my right knee in October 2010 by both Rochester (Michigan) Knee and University of Michigan Orthopedists

- Knee stem cell procedure on December 10, 2010 performed at the Arthritis Treatment Center

- 3 months recovery and physical therapy

- Bay Shore Marathon May 2011

- Solstice 10 miler in June 2011

- Peterborough 70.3 July 2011

- WAM 300 mile /3 day bike tour July 2011

- Crim 10 miler August 2011

- Ironman Wisconsin Sept 2011

- Completed the Marine Corp Marathon October 2011

While these results aren't meant to show the typical outcome, many of the active "Boomers" who have undergone this procedure at our center have done well and been able to return to a high level of activity.

Our results involving the first 22 patients with OA of the knee, which is what we specialize in, are reported here.

(Wei N, Beard S, Delauter S, Bitner C, Gillis R, Rau L, Miller C, Clark T. Guided Mesenchymal Stem Cell Layering Technique for Treatment of Osteoarthritis of the Knee. J Applied Res. 2011; 11: 44-48)

Who knows...someday... joint replacement surgery may be a thing of the past.

Goji Berries Help Provide Relief For Arthritis Sufferers

Tibetan Goji berries have been around for many years. They have become known for having the most nutrients, of any fruit in the world. With their abundance of antioxidants, the health benefits of Goji berries seem endless. From preventing heart disease and diabetes, to improving your skin, Goji berries also help provide relief to arthritis sufferers.

Arthritis is one of most painful and debilitating diseases. Though, more common in the elderly, arthritis strikes people of all ages, including children. Arthritis is when your joints become inflamed, causing a lot of pain and discomfort. The most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis also known as degenerative joint disease. In osteoarthritis, the cartilage that serves as a cushion between the joints of the bones wears away causing bone against bone. Swelling usually occurs and this can be very painful. Osteoarthritis is usually due to aging, but can be caused by an injury, being overweight, and stressing the joints.

Studies have shown that antioxidants can help in the fight against the free radicals, responsible for the inflammation in arthritis. The free radical, superoxide anion, is the inflammation factor in arthritis, and our body produces the enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD) to help neutralize this free radical. In some cases of arthritis, the production of superoxide anion is greater than what the body can handle, and is unable to produce enough of the SOD enzyme to protect against the inflammation of the joints.

Foods with high levels of antioxidants are key to fighting free radicals, and eating Goji berries, known for the high levels of antioxidants, help produce the anti-inflammatory enzyme SOD therefore, reducing the inflammation and pain. SOD also plays major role in protecting the body against other diseases. This is most powerful natural free radical fighting antioxidant the body has.

Eating a natural healthy diet is beneficial to everybody. Including Goji berries in your daily diet will help your body maintain its natural defense against free radicals.

Market Ready for New Knee Arthritis Treatment: APOS Device Gets Funding

APOS Medical and Sports Technology Ltd., an Israeli company, recently announced that it has raised $8 million in venture capital funding for further development and marketing of its unique device designed for osteoarthritis treatment for knee pain sufferers. Pitango Venture Capital, a large VC firm also located in Israel, made the investment. The VC firm has a history of investing in successful technology companies, with over 120 investments since 1993.

The APOS device is designed to treat knee osteoarthritis by creating multi-directional instability. The device looks like a shoe with two half balls glued to the sole. APOS is an acronym for "All Phases of Step Cycle" and was developed by Dr. Avi Elbaz and Dr. Amit Mor in Israel. Development of the device has been underway for over 10 years.

The APOS device, which contains the semispherical balls, is attached to a patient's shoes. The platform's balls create an unstable gait, mimicking natural walking on uneven surfaces. While seemingly odd, the instability both relieves pain and strengthens a person's muscles. Patients use the APOS device for 30 to 60 minutes each day. As the patient uses the device, the instability forces the patient's body to a proper alignment, reducing pain. Also, the person's muscles are retrained, creating improved motion and increased function. The treatment is administered by specially trained physiotherapists, and includes computerized gait analysis.

Clinical trials have shown that the device improves the patient's posture and walk, and relieves knee and other leg joint pain. The system was designed around the concept of functional rehabilitation. The APOS device simulates real life conditions, where many current techniques teach a patient to stand in a clinic. APOS' designers attempted to simulate the way mammals rehab in nature.

APOS has conducted trials that have shown the platform can

* reduce the intensity of knee pain by 66% after eight weeks

* eliminate most lower back pain in 70% of patients

* enhance patient's quality of life by significantly improving joint function

Drs. Elbaz and Mor have seen over twenty thousand patients to date with the APOS device. Half of the treatments were conducted in Israel Additionally, in 2009, the company jointly conducted a commercial trial in the United Kingdom with Bupa, Britain's largest private health insurance company. As a result of the trial, the companies formed APOSTherapy, which is now a stand alone entity that is a member of the Association of British Healthcare Industries.

Dr. Mor, APOS' CEO says, "The product has several applications. It can be used for stabilization, improve athletes' performance, and prevent knee injury." The device can also treat knee damage caused by aging, or injuries from sports or accidents.

So far, APOS markets its product in Israel, Singapore, and the UK, where it operates with Britain's largest private health insurance company BUPA Ltd. APOS intends to use the proceeds from Pitango's investment to finance the launch of its device in other countries, especially the US, Germany, and Japan. APOS is currently seeking US FDA approval.

Obesity and Arthritis

Arthritis, in general terms, is wearing out of the lining of the joint, which is called cartilage. Every joint- knee or hip joint, which moves has a layer of about 8 to 12mm of cartilage, which is as smooth as a billiard ball. If cartilage is injured or eaten away or goes through natural wear and tear, it leads to arthritis.

Osteoarthritis is a form of arthritis which can affect any joint, including the spine. It is the form of joint disease and is more pronounced in the case of elderly persons. Wear and tear of joints, due to aging leads to osteoarthritis. But this is not the single reason for the disease. There are other contributing reasons such as genetic factors, lack of nutrition and vitamins, (Vitamin A, C and E have the potential to protect against tissue damage. Vitamin D plays an important role in bone mineralisation). Female hormonal deficiency in the case of post menopausal women, leading to estrogen deficiency is also considered a risk factor and women are more susceptible to osteoarthritis.

In most of the cases, increased body weight contributes to the increased load transmitted across the weight bearing knees by a factor of three to seven times the body weight and leads to accelerated damage of the cartilage.

Obesity is a potential risk factor for the onset and deterioration of musculoskeletal conditions of the hip, knee, ankle, foot and shoulder. Majority of research have focused on the impact of obesity on bone and joint disorders, such as the risk of fracture and osteoarthritis. However, evidence indicates that obesity may also have a profound effect on soft-tissue structures, such as tendon, fascia and cartilage. Although the mechanism remains unclear, the functional and structural limitations imposed by the additional loading of the locomotor system in obesity have been accepted to unduly raising stress within connective-tissue structures and the potential for musculoskeletal injury. Considering the global increase in obesity and the rise in musculoskeletal disorders, there is a need to determine the physical consequences of loading of major structures of the locomotor system in the obese people and to establish how obesity may interact with other factors to potentially increase the risk of musculoskeletal diseases. Besides, the relationship between obesity and osteoarthritis is stronger for the disease and is greater in women. The load transmitted to the knees varies with increased body weight.

Increase in life expectancy, coupled with overweight/ obese conditions of the population shall lead to a larger number of patients with knee problems due to osteoarthritis . Several changes, metabolic as well as functional, connect obesity with Osteoarthritis. Random trials show substantial and clinically relevant disability and symptoms - relief in obese patients with knee osteoarthritis following moderate weight loss. While exercises are good for the functional status in general, it is advisable initially to prescribe weight loss as therapy for patients with a combination of obesity and osteoarthritis.

Treatments / Tips to avoid Osteoarthritis:

1. Avoid being obese/ overweight, with weight management diet schedule and proper exercise.

2. Ensure intake of vitamins A and C, through food and nutrient supplements.

3. Ensure muscle strength in quadriceps (thigh muscles).

4. Increased activities of kneeling, squatting, climbing stairs and lifting heavy loads cause abnormal loading across the knee joint and cartilage damage. To the extent possible, this may be reduced.

5 Emu oil is considered to provide relief for joint pains and arthritis.

7. Liberal intake of orange juice, sweet lime juice or Vitamin C enhance the efficacy of any anti-rheumatic drug, since Vitamin C can reduce skeletal pain.

8. Body massage with sesame or mustard oil helps to reduce the pain. The joints affected by pain can be massaged for longer time for pain relief.

9. Guggul, as a medicine for traditional Ayurvedic treatment is prescribed for osteoarthritis and obesity. However patients electing to undergo this treatment should be closely monitored and counseled about the need for dietary modifications and exercise.

Arthritis Treatment: Does Stem Cell Treatment for Osteoarthritis Really Work?

The most common form of arthritis, osteoarthritis (OA), affects more than 20 million Americans. One of the primary targets for this disease is the knee.

Osteoarthritis is a wear and tear disease involving hyaline articular cartilage. It arises as a result of the lack of ability of cartilage to keep up with excessive breakdown.

The basic treatment approach for osteoarthritis has not changed in more than 50 years. Basically, physicians have been trained to treat the symptoms of pain and try to restore function and wait for the inexorable journey to joint replacement.

Different modalities such as physical therapy, analgesics (pain relievers), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), exercises, braces, topical agents, and injections of either corticosteroids ("cortisone"), or viscosupplements (lubricants) are all tried and then the doctor throws up his or her hands and says to the patient "you need a knee replacement."

So essentially there is a huge void between management of symptoms and eventual surgery.

Recently, excitement has swirled around the role of regenerative medicine techniques in solving the osteoarthritis conundrum. These include the use of platelet-rich plasma and stem cells.

Unfortunately, this interest has had untoward side effects. The first is the proliferation of practitioners who have jumped on the band wagon without the requisite training.

The second is the media hype generated by this relatively new treatment approach.

An example recently is the headline in an Australian newspaper, "A "MIRACLE" cutting-edge stem cell operation could have saved Sharks forward Anthony Tupou's career."

In case you're not up on rugby, Anthony Tupou was a former star in the sport. He underwent a stem cell procedure involving the use of fat-derived stem cells for a knee issue. And this procedure has apparently resurrected his career.

Dr. Paul Annett, a sports physician, raised an interesting counterpoint on his blog. He quite rightly pointed out that many procedures performed in the realm of sports medicine are performed because they "might be helpful" and are relatively innocuous.

He then posits that "there are many potential reasons this procedure may of benefit to some patients, including the 'placebo effect', the normal fluctuation of arthritic disease or some mechanical effect of the injection itself. Anthony's knee may just feel better as he had an off-season without running!

And he then goes on to say, "The ethical way of getting around this is for the proponents of this technique to perform some randomised double-blind clinical trials (the 'gold standard' of studies) to rigorously confirm the relative benefits..."

And I couldn't agree more. While there is abundant anecdotal evidence that these procedures have benefit, there are no rigorous double-blind controlled trials. The reasons are probably two fold.

First, it's difficult to get a biotech or pharmaceutical company to fund a study involving the use of a patient's own body tissue. Where's the profit?

The second is that the process of getting grants from institutions such as the National Institutes of Health (NIH) or the Arthritis Foundation in the U.S. is unbelievably arduous.

At our center we have done what we can to systematize the procedure as well as document various measures so that while uncontrolled, there is at least data collection being done. (Wei N, Beard S, Delauter S, Bitner C, Gillis R, Rau L, Miller C, Clark T. Guided Mesenchymal Stem Cell Layering Technique for Treatment of Osteoarthritis of the Knee. J Applied Res. 2011; 11: 44-48)

Relieving Arthritis Pain With EFT

Arthritis is a painful and frustrating diagnosis for many in our society today. Odds are, the doctors say, that if your mother had arthritis, then of course you will also. However, a simple technique of tapping acupuncture points, called EFT, or Emotional Freedom Technique, can relieve arthritis pain and swelling for many.

EFT really likes to 'break the rules' of what we have to experience in our bodies. My clients have seen incredible relief when using EFT and clearing any generational beliefs about arthritis. This process can really assist in relieving swelling and pain. EFT is really an easy healing modality to learn and utilize in your daily life. Through tapping certain points, EFT is painless and a quick process to learn, whether you are 8 or 80. I've used EFT in my Reflexology practice, but I am finding that it is such a beneficial technique that I often use it on its own, to impressive results. I now provide sessions through the phone as well as in person.

One client of mine has been diagnosed with osteoarthritis, a common form of arthritis that can be traced through genetics, often through female side of the family. This is a very important concept to remember when working with clients with arthritis. My client had pain and swelling in her left hand and was barely able to squeeze her fingers into a fist without pain. She said the pain level was at about a four, at the current moment. When we did a few rounds of general tapping on the EFT, she did not feel any difference or change in the pain level in her hand.

This is always where persistence takes center stage! If I'm ever stuck in wondering why the EFT didn't "work", I find that just by talking to my client about their situation, the answer will undoubtedly present itself. We talked a little bit about arthritis and what it means to her, what she thinks of when she thinks about it. She mentioned that her mother and grandmother also had severe arthritis. What an interesting link, I thought. It was this link that I thought was worth a round of EFT!

After one round, the pain had lessened. After an additional round, the pain was almost completely gone.

I have seen this client since for several sessions and I am continually amazed at the new fluidity of her hands as she waves goodbye to me after our sessions.

I've also worked with a client struggling with Rheumatoid arthritis. Through EFT, she has been able to find relief on those days where there is particular pain and swelling in her joints. Over time, she is finding it an invaluable tool in her journey back to health.

10 Million Americans Have Osteoarthritis of the Knee

According to Medical News Today, you have some options:

If you're among the estimated 10 million Americans who have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis of the knee, take heart in knowing that several nonsurgical options, pharmacologic and otherwise, are available for easing the pain of an arthritic knee, according to Cleveland Clinic's Arthritis Advisor. In addition to the judicious use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids, options include weight control, leg-strengthening exercises, and the use of assistive devices, such as a cane or walker.

Knee braces are also being advertised as helping to relieve knee pain of all sorts. It is logical that a brace would be effective if you have stability problems such as ligament damage and you don't want to add to existing injury. However there is disagreement as to the actual results of braces and whether or not they are the answer.

An article in American Family Physician, January of 2000, we read this: Methods of preventing and treating knee injuries have changed with the rapid development and refinement of knee braces. .... However, no conclusive evidence supports their effectiveness, and they are not recommended for regular use.

Well folks, that leaves us with the prospect of getting a cane, using a walker, having knee replacement surgery, (and now they are saying that is being done too much!), or trying a brace, or taking good old pain killers. Not much for options that sound appealing to me, how about you?

Fortunately there is another option that not enough people talk about or are even aware it is an option and that is helping our bodies heal from the inside out. How can that be? Your body is a miracle and knows how to heal itself but it does need the proper fuel or nutrition in order to do so. What if we could find the right combination of fruits, vegetables, grains, etc. that would promote knee and all joint healing? That would probably take years and then would be just luck if you happened onto it.

To our benefit there are nutrition scientists who have done all of that work for us and put it into a bottle of juice that we can just drink 4 oz. of each day. I have gone from chronic knee and back pain and 40 ibuprofen every week to having no pain whatsoever! Yes, just by drinking 4oz of this product everyday. If you would like to see what it can do for you please contact me soon. What do you have to lose? Pain?

A Battle Plan For Osteoarthritis Pain

Are you finally at your breaking point with osteoarthritis pain? You've literally beaten the streets seeking out all the various doctors and specialists you can afford and are not quite sure where to turn next. Perhaps you've been working too hard looking in all the wrong places. Did you know that there are many pain fighting nutrients found in everyday foods that can substantially reduce the inflammation so common in osteoarthritis. These very same nutrients just by being present in the body can and will, if in adequate supply, begin repairs on damaged tissues and the surrounding joints.

This isn't news for Naturopathic doctors or the many health enthusiasts out there. Naturopaths and health enthusiasts alike focus all of their energies on looking for natural remedies. One of their other goals is to avoid causing additional unwanted problems with a treatment meant to heal. With all of that in mind, they have chosen the route of nutrition and have met with a good measure of success without the back draft of side effects from excessive drugs and pharmaceuticals.

We're talking about a lot of nutrition here. The main dilemma with osteoarthritis is the rapid speed at which the cartilage breaks down. The cartilage actually deteriorates much faster than our bodies can rebuild it so the solution is certainly not drugs. That's a pretty one-sided treatment. While you're being medicated, you're probably losing a ton of nutrients as well as more cartilage. Doesn't make much sense unless you're comfortable with the eventual loss of all of your cartilage. Nutrition and plenty of it is the definite answer. Especially the kind of nutrition that's contributive to joint strengthening and rebuilding. The hard facts are if you don't eat the nutrients, your body won't have what it needs to strengthen and rebuild cartilage. You've got to have these nutrients. It's that simple.

Even if you've had unbearable joint pain from osteoarthritis for years you can begin to do something about it now and see results soon by getting healing nutrients in your body by putting them on your breakfast, lunch and dinner plates.

Before we talk about the specific nutrients be sure you understand how important water is to this solution for pain. It will do little good if you consume a bunch of nutrients and drink no water. Water is vital. Every bodily function is dependent on water. The water you drink will carry all those wonderful nutrients you consume to your bloodstream and then directly to your cartilage. If you don't drink any water your body will have a tough time utilizing the nutrients. You might as well say that you're wasting your money on nutrients that your body will never get to use.

Studies have found that particular phytochemicals reduced the risk of osteoarthritis in the knees to almost 40 percent. The phytochemicals singled out were vitamin E, lutein and lycopene. Most of your brilliant colorful fruits and vegetables are loaded down with these beneficial phytochemicals. For vitamin E, head for the wheat germ, olive oil, nuts and seeds.

Get a bit of sunshine for that necessary vitamin D. Just five minutes a few times a week in the sun is plenty. No need to subject yourself to skin cancer. Vitamin D helps protect your cartilage and your bones. If you don't get enough your risk for problematic osteoarthritis increases.

Your body needs vitamin C too. It requires it to make collagen, a fundamental part of your cartilage, muscles and bones. Without vitamin C to build with, your joints tend to weaken. Deficiencies speed up the rate of deterioration and weakness. If you feel that your osteoarthritis has gotten worse, it just might be that you're not getting enough C. Typically, those who get lots of vitamin C in their diets experience an easier time with symptoms.

The bottom line again is nutrition. Do all you can to get as much as you can into your body. And drink lots of water; at least six to eight glasses a day. You can win this battle.

Dog and Cat Osteoarthritis - What You Need To Know

Just like people, arthritis also affects our pets, sometimes because of a genetic predisposition, but there are other factors that increase the susceptibility to osteoarthritis.

25-30% of our canine and feline family members will show the effects of osteoarthritis, and up to 70% of dogs in specific breeds such as German Shepard, Golden Retriever and Labrador Retriever. Dog arthritis comes with age and it mostly affects large size dogs.

If your dog or cat is overweight, it will accelerate the arthritic disease process and symptoms by placing additional pressure on joints. On average, obese dogs are likely to develop osteoarthritis three years earlier than lean dogs. If you can't feel the animal's ribs anymore, your dog is becoming overweight. Gentle exercise is helpful for any pet; swimming, if possible, is ideal.

Osteoarthritis in dogs and cats is caused by the deterioration of the cartilage surrounding the joint and progresses slowly over a long period of time. This condition can be brought on by an earlier injury or genetic disease such as hip dysphasia, more common in the large dog breeds. Very active and working dogs are involved with physically demanding activities which put repeated stress on their joints, making them more susceptible to osteoarthritis.

Restricting jumping activities is very important in preventing immediate and future cartilage and spinal disc damage. This is especially true with the smaller breeds and dogs with very long backs, such as Dachshunds and Basset Hounds. When a dog jumps down instead of using portable steps or a dog ramp, the impact pressure is absorbed into the front legs. The line of force is directed down the length of the spinal column, causing compression of the individual discs, inviting osteoarthritis risks as well as spinal cord damage.

Viral, fungal, and bacterial infections can contribute to the development of arthritis. Conditions include Ehrlichiosis, Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, carried and spread by ticks.

If you are interested in natural/holistic prevention and treatment there are good natural remedies and solutions available, designed to support healthy strong joints, muscles, tendons, cartilage and bones.

Orthopedic memory foam dog beds improve the quality of life for dogs and cats with hip or elbow dysplasia, arthritis and joint problems associated with large breeds and older pets, by reducing pressure on joints and other jutting body parts. These beds are firm enough to satisfy your dog's instinctual need to sleep on solid ground, while assisting healthy circulation. Traditional material is susceptible to sag. If possible, lifting the sleep area several inches to a foot off the ground will help in the dog's comfort.

A high quality glucosamine/chrondroitin sulfate supplement is a good defense and treatment for arthritis in dogs and cats. Glucosamine/chrondroitin sulfate stimulates the production of important proteins found in cartilage and proteoglycans, which are the water-holding molecules that cartilage is comprised of; helps reduce pain and, over time, rehabilitates damaged cartilage.

MSM (methysulfonylmethane): Another supplement to maintain healthy connective tissue that is a naturally occurring sulfur compound found in the cells of the body. It helps prevent arthritis in dogs and cats and can assist in reducing inflammation and swelling that accompany arthritis, disease and injuries.

Digestive enzymes and probiotics: Essential in aiding digestion and nutrient assimilation. They help avoid inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, allergies and degenerative conditions by maintaining a healthy gastrointestinal system in our dogs and cats.

Essential fatty acid supplements: Preferably with fish oil, will help reduce inflammation and aid in the treatment of joint problems and allergies.

High potency antioxidants: Inflammation of arthritic joints contributes to the oxidation activity of free radicals that are damaging to the cells of the body and can increase the risk of cancer.

Acupuncture: Dramatic improvement is possible for arthritic dogs and cats with regular treatments.

What Is Voice Box Arthritis?

Most people think rheumatoid arthritis affects only the small joints of the hands of feet. However, any joints in the body that contain cartilage and synovial fluid are targets for the disease.

Small joints in the voice box can be affected by arthritis. The larynx, or voice box, actually contains joints, called cricoarytenoid joints, that move the vocal cords to produce sound. If these joints become inflamed, which causes pain, then the vocal cords are not in the correct position to produce clear sound. As with other joints affected by rheumatoid arthritis, joint erosions and rheumatoid nodules also can be found, which may cause further damage. If these joints are affected to the point that they become fixed in place unable to move, there can be difficulty breathing. This constitutes a medical emergency.

About 25% of rheumatoid arthritis patients experience the symptoms above, plus a sense of fullness in the throat when swallowing or speaking, as well as occasional pain in the ears. There are small bones in the ear that are responsible for sound conduction. These bones, called ossicles, also have joints. When rheumatoid arthritis inflames or erodes those joints, they become less mobile.

Rheumatoid arthritis patients who have larynx or ear involvement as described above should have an ear, nose and throat specialist involved in their care, along with a rheumatologist. Ear, nose and throat specialists have special scopes to examine the throat and ears to make a correct diagnosis. If you have any of these symptoms and are bewildered by them, get to your doctor quickly.

Osteoarthritis and Animals

For most animal owners the idea of their furry companion developing a disease such as osteoarthritis seems unlikely; that is until it happens. This potentially disabling condition is the number one type of joint disease in cats, dogs, and horse. It also occurs in almost all other animals with a backbone, including fish, amphibians, and birds. In this informational article titled osteoarthritis and animals we will be focusing on the defining the condition along with a few simple ideas that could be helpful in reversing its impact.  

Osteoarthritis in past years was simply called degenerative joint disease. It is a chronic condition affecting joint cartilage and surrounding tissue that is recognized by pain, stiffness, and in extreme cases immobility.   While this osteoarthritis is primarily seen in older animals, it is not caused primarily by the wear and tear that occurs with years of use. Instead, microscopic changes in the makeup of the cartilage (structure and composition) appear to be the culprit.   When an animal walks or runs they have an amazing ability to make it look easy. Their amazing mobility is enhanced by joints which have a very low friction level that will protect their joints from wearing out, even after years of use.

Current research suggests that osteoarthritis in animals begins with an abnormality of the cells that synthesize the components of cartilage such as collagen (a durable, fibrous protein) and proteoglycans (substances that provide resilience).  Once the process has begun the next step is likely swelling due to water retention. As the process continues cartilage becomes soft, and then develops cracks on the surface. Tiny cavities form in the bone beneath the cartilage, weakening the bone. Bone growth may then become irregular, producing sharp edges and bumps.

The result is that the once smooth surface that allowed your animal to move so gracefully becomes rough and pitted, so much so that the joint can no longer move smoothly and absorb impact producing pain and immobility.   Osteoarthritis in animals is incurable, but there are a number of steps you can take to improve their quality of life.

The different size and shape of animals makes universal treatment ideas few and far between but nevertheless let's explore a few of these.  

*Provide a warm place for them to sleep and rest: Often times joints will stiffen up during a nap or overnight.   *Weight management: Not only is excess weight one of the major contributing factors in the onset of osteoarthritis in animals it also plays a major role in its progression.  

*Water therapy: This is not for all animals but if you can use water to take the stress off of the impacted joints during joint therapy it could be beneficial.  

*Sensible exercise: Sensible exercise is essential in maintaining muscle mass and preserving the remaining joint flexibility.  

Additionally, there are a number of excellent bone and joint supplements formulated specifically to restore cartilage health in animals. If your furry companion is struggling with joint mobility supplementation is worth considering.

Joint Pain - A Symptom Of Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is one of the common infections that have negative effects on the joints of the body, as it causes the joint's cartilage to break down over a period of time. In the case of osteoarthritis, the cartilage is usually torn. The major symptom of this disease is joint pain. Osteoarthritis often affects the back, knees, fingers, hips, neck and toes. The nature of pain associated with osteoarthritis could be mild, moderate or severe. Millions of people are victims of osteoarthritis and its associated joint pains due to age related-wear-and -tear. At the early stage of osteoarthritis, the symptom of may be indistinct and then develop gradually. Yet most people may not even experience the early symptoms at all.

Joint pain cause by osteoarthritis can lead to difficulties in moving as well as disability. Unfortunately, there is no definite cure for osteoarthritis but it is possible to delay or reduce joint injuries and complications of disease with proper exercises, adequate rest and physical therapy. This article does not support the ideal of medication and surgery for the treatment of osteoarthritis, because most of the prescribed medications for joint pain resulting from osteoarthritis are not only very expensive but they end up hiding the pain. Even if the brain does not recognize the pain, it is still there and continues to damage and disfigure the joint. But with nutrition, rest, natural therapy and most importantly simple exercises, you can treat osteoarthritis and at the same time save hundreds of dollars.

Treatment of osteoarthritis.

Body flush: juice fasting and adequate water intake will help to flush out alkaline in your body system, thereby reducing your chances of suffering from osteoarthritis and its associated pains. As water drains the impurities and toxins in your body, the symptoms of osteoarthritis will naturally begin to disappear. Therefore, you are advised to take 10-12 glasses of water daily. Also liquids like soda, tea, coffee and all sorts of ready-made juices with high content of sugar and flavor should be strictly avoided, as they will not only worsen your health problems but they can also lead to severe joint pain.

Nutrition: Nutrition is one of the major factors that can determine whether you will be able to treat the symptoms of osteoarthritis or not. Fresh and raw foods with little or no processed foods will be of great help in relieving pains associated with osteoarthritis. Consumption of more water-soluble fiber like fresh foods and raw vegetables are also recommended for the treatment of osteoarthritis. Processed foods, fast foods and foods with high sugar content must be avoided if you really want to be free from joint pain that comes from osteoarthritis.

Exercise: exercise is the most effective way of treating osteoarthritis. It will assist in re-building your muscle mass and body tissue, and as well increase your immune system helping your body get rid of the free radicals in your joint. The following simple exercises are very relevant in the treatment of osteoarthritis and its associated pains; swimming and water exercise, squatting exercise, walking and stationary bike.

Joint pain is one of the symptoms of osteoarthritis. This pain can cause discomfort and disability if not properly taken care of. But with simple exercises like swimming and water exercises, squatting exercises etc, you can effectively treat osteoarthritis and its associated pains.

Treatment of Degenerative Knee Disease - What to Do When Your Knee is Screaming in Pain!

Effective Management and Treatment of Degenerative Knee Disease

Degenerative knee disease or Osteoarthritis of the knee is a progressive, irreversible condition that is typically seen in people over 50 years of age. It is brought on by the loss of cartilage in the knee, which can lead to stiffness, pain and eventual deformity and loss of motion.

Although this condition more commonly affects the inner (medial) aspect of the knee it can also either affect one (unilateral) or both (bilateral) sides of the knee. Symptoms for this condition typically develop slowly over several years.

Primary Causes of Degenerative Knee Disease

Apart from direct causes such as aging, being overweight and direct injury to the knee, the incidence and progression of osteoarthritis is also related to a few other factors. These factors range from high impact stresses at one end to prolonged inactivity at the other.

o Sports : Activities that result in high impact stresses on the knee joint affect the chondrocyte and matrix of the hyaline cartilage. This can lead to initial blistering and, when not properly managed, can lead to joint surface fissuring and erosion, which are precursors to degenerative knee disease.

oRepetitive motion and excessive pressure: When applied to the knee joints can lead to the degeneration of the hyaline cartilage. Although the articular cartilage possesses high tolerance for such overload, severe and prolonged impact can lead to its deterioration.

o On the other end of the spectrum, prolonged inactivity can also lead to degeneration of the articular cartilage. Although it is far less common, management and treatment are important especially in situations that require prolonged immobilization.

Treatment Components of Degenerative Knee Disease

The effective treatment and management program focuses on the pain and mechanical components of the degenerative knee disease.

Pain control and management is done by providing appropriate intervention to treat both local pain and systemic pain. Over the counter pain medication and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications are typically recommended to manage the systemic pain whereas cryotherapy, intra-articular cortisone injections and electrical stimulation can be done to control the local pain. Always speak to your physician regarding the use of any medication.

The mechanical component of the treatment regimen involves a comprehensive weight reducing program. Being overweight puts excessive strain on the knees and even if this was not the direct cause of the condition, it can aggravate the knee and cause it to deteriorate even faster. Contrary to popular misconception, exercising can actually be good if you have degenerative knee disease. Not only does it help keep your weight down, it also helps keep the knee flexible. The recommended activities will typically be low impact such as swimming.

The use of unloader knee braces is particularly essential for effective management and treatment of osteoarthritis. Studies have shown that the device can effectively normalize joint mechanics and relieve pressure on the affected knee allowing for increased mobility and reduced pain in the joint.

If you wish to use a conservative and cost effective treatment style you should consider an unloader knee brace today.

Massage Therapy Provides Pain Relief From Osteoarthritis

One of the many pitfalls of aging is that our bodies become physically less able to keep up with the hectic pace of our daily lives. The result: arthritis. Unfortunately, arthritis has seemingly become an almost unavoidable part of the aging process, with osteoarthritis being the most common form of this condition. This loss of joint cartilage can be quite painful and may even limit the amount of physical activity you're able to do each day.

Just as we can't stop the aging process, once cartilage deterioration begins, there's little we can do to slow its progression. This makes prevention of utmost importance. Many of the treatment methods used for osteoarthritis are also preventive measures. The most obvious method, and perhaps most beneficial, is weight loss. Simply put, the less weight your body has to carry, the less stress placed on your joints.

Unfortunately, Western medicine's primary solution for the pain of osteoarthritis is through the use of pharmaceuticals, a method proving to be less popular among the American public. More people are cutting back on the number of prescription medications they take, for reasons that vary from their undesirable side effects to simple ineffectiveness. Massage therapists who recognize this trend toward alternative therapies are in a prime position to help those suffering from this condition.

Restoring cartilage back to its original, healthy form would be ideal, but is a feat the medical community has yet to accomplish. Massage therapy is the perfect fit for arthritic clients because of its reputation for improving blood circulation in the body, which increases joint mobility and flexibility, two of the most common limitations for someone with osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis in Cats

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis found in cats. It is often referred to degenerative joint disease or simply degenerative arthritis. This condition occurs when the cartilage covering the articulating surface of a joint wears out and the underlying bone becomes jagged or rough; thus leading to joint damage. Osteoarthritis in cats occurs primarily in joints that have been negatively impacted by some form of trauma. Examples of this would be fractures, extreme overuse, and dislocations.

Osteoarthritis frequently occurs after the age of 7 or 8 but can occur at any time. Common signs typically seen in cats with osteoarthritis are lameness and stiffness. Lameness is the most apparent when the cat wakes up but tends to get better as the day wears on. Jumps that your cat regularly made without hesitation will be met with reluctance due to pain and/or stiffness. Cold temperatures and/or dampness only exacerbate the condition. Cats may show swelling around the damaged joint and muscle atrophy on legs with arthritic conditions.

If you think your cat may be struggling with this condition pay close attention changes in behavior. The symptoms will likely be obvious. If you feel additional confirmation is needed an x-ray is the most reliable option. The x-ray will show bone spurs at points where the ligaments and joint capsule attach to the bone. There may be an increase in bone density around the joint with varying degrees of joint space narrowing.

In review, at some point joints simply wear out. While osteoarthritis in cats in not a curable there are a four simple step you can take to help reduce the pain and discomfort.

* First, make sure your cat has a warm place to sleep. We use a heating pad at our house and it seems to work well. If you do decide on a heating pad use low to medium heat and make sure your cat gets plenty of water.

* Second, make sure your cat gets moderate exercise. The key word here is moderate. This will keep the muscles strong and joints flexible. Combining water therapy with exercise would be an excellent option if your cat will tolerate it.

* Third, osteoarthritis in cats can be accelerated by obesity. If your cat is over weight consider a diet plan.

* Fourth, learn more about supplemental formulas for cat osteoarthritis and joint health. Look for products that contain glucosamine and chondroitin. These natural pet joint health formulas have been shown to repair joint cartilage and prevent further damage.

Hip Arthritis Symptoms - How Can I Tell If I Have This Disease

When an individual suffers from hip arthritis, she or he will, under most circumstances, have a condition known as osteoarthritis which a particularly common form of arthritis, and which is often sometimes called wear-and-tear arthritis and even degenerative joint illness. This form of hip arthritis is distinguished by steady damage to the cartilage of an individual's joints and when the cartilage that protects the joints becomes worn out due to such a kind of arthritis, the bones become exposed in the person's joints leading to a great amount of trouble.

Though anybody can have hip arthritis, it is usually related to folks that are 50 years old or older, and the issue is also more ordinarily seen in patients that are large, and also that when the same person starts to lose pounds there's a gentle improvement in the condition and indications of arthritis begin to fade away. Doctors also believe that hip arthritis can be caused due to genetics and so if you belong to a family in which someone has this form of arthritis, then you may be in danger of affected by the same.

There are certain other considerations too that will result in a person to be afflicted by hip arthritis and these include having shock with the hip and even due to fracturing of bones that are located close to joints. There are certain symptoms that you're going to notice if you suffer from hip arthritis and these symptoms have a tendency to get worse as the condition deteriorates further.

However, it's also not true the symptoms will become worse with the passage of time and it can happen a patient has some months that are good so far as their status is concerned while other months may turn out to be bad, and symptoms might also are influenced due to changes in the weather conditions. So , hip arthritis symptoms spotted on a selected day may not appear on other days, and they could also not be a correct illustration of the way in which the condition is progressing.

Common indicators of hip arthritis include agony when performing activities, limitation to how much somebody can move about, hips becoming stiff and needing to limp while walking. It's also advised to be treated as fast as the symptoms appear, and the treatments can either are very basic in some instances, while other examples may even warrant surgery to be performed. In any case, you'll need to get expert medical recommendation to grasp what the best treatments for your personal case of arthritis warrants.

Arthritis and Spondylolisthesis

The term arthritis refers to inflammation of a joint anywhere in the body, including the spine. The condition may result from, or be associated with, various disorders including infection, degenerative disease, metabolic disturbance and tumors. Types of arthritis include ankylosing rheumatoid spondylitis, a chronic progressive disease that usually affects the spine and adjacent structures.

Osteoarthritis affects mostly the weight bearing joints, but also others such as the facet joints, and rheumatoid arthritis, which can sometimes produce crippling deformities. Osteoarthritis related degenerative changes in the spinal bones and joints, which are common among people over forty, are known as spondylosis.

The prefix spondyl means vertebra. They can result in an abnormal curvature of the thoracic chest spine in older people, a condition known as kyphosis. For accurate diagnosis, x-rays are required. Treatments include rest immobilization, pain relieving and anti inflammatory medication, followed by graduated exercise and postural training by a physiotherapist.

Surgery is necessary only in extreme cases. What is spondylolisthesis? In this condition, one vertebra slips forward or subluxates on top of another. This movement narrows the spinal canal through which the spinal cord passes. Although it can occur anywhere along the spine, it most frequently involves the slipping of the bottom lumbar vertebra over the sacrum.

Spondylolisthesis may be the result of trauma, a spinal fracture or arthritis. Its symptoms include mild low back pain, muscle spasm and sciatica, or it may produce no symptoms whatsoever. Practicing good postural habits and strengthening the muscles of the trunk are good preventive measure to take.

Normal disc is the inner soft core is held within the tough, fibrous outer shell. Bulging disc with aging small tears may occur in the outer shell or annulus fibrosus, allowing the inner core or nucleus pulposus to bulge. Herniated or prolapsed disc is when tears in the outer shell increase in size or number, the inner core may spill into the surrounding area and impinge on an adjacent nerve, causing both inflammation and pain.

What Are the Effects of Exercise on the Osteoarthritis?

As with many things in life, the short answer is "it depends"! There are many different forms of exercise, that all work different parts of the body, and that all do different things. Many people cite exercise as one of the best ways of dealing with osteoarthritis, so long as it is done the right way. There is no single right or wrong answer, but here is a general guide:

Different types of exercise will have different effects. Anything that puts your joints under a large amount of stress (such as road running) is likely to cause problems - osteoarthritis (often mis-spelt oesteo arthritis or osteoarthritis) is caused by the cartilage around your joints wearing thin, and high-impact exercise could risk wearing the cartilage further. Running on a treadmill or on grass would be a better option, since these surfaces will normally have a little more 'give', however, you should always consult a physician before undertaking any high-impact exercise or training.

At the same time, taking part in some gentle exercise each day will increase the durability of your muscles which will aid in keeping your joints decently aligned, thereby diminishing the chance of osteoarthritis. Doing some gentle weight lifting is often quoted as being a good exercise to do, since it is low impact, but will help strengthen your muscles. Another good option for exercise is power walking. One of the best options is swimming, and other water-resistance exercise. Swimming puts almost no pressure on your joints whatsoever, and so is a great choice for any arthritis sufferer, not just osteoarthritis sufferers who wishes to be more active.

As always, not doing any exercise at all will cause many more problems than it will solve - keeping active will help keep a person's body weight down, which in turn puts less pressure on the joints, and thus will not wear the cartilage so much. Additionally, not working your joints at all would simply cause extra stiffness, making the already existing pain worse.

How to Manage Osteoarthritis Pain

Millions of people suffer with osteoarthritis pain and many spend their later years in chronic pain because of osteoarthritis, believing painkillers to be the only solution. So can sufferers expect an improved quality of life and at least reduce their osteoarthritis pain or will they to just have to knuckle down and make the best of it.

Advice from the medical profession varies so much. One GP can be an angel sent from heaven and another can be a complete waste of time. I have personally spoken to hundreds of people who have been suffering with osteoarthritis pain and some say the doctors are marvelous and others just throw away lines like, it's just wear and tear, it's your age, there's nothing you can do but take pain killers.

Since I am not a doctor nor am I willing to stand in judgment I have to believe that most doctors are diligent hard working, caring people, who are doing their best to cope with a massive workload and they just don't know all the answers. None of us knows all the answers but I believe we are all free to look for alternative ways to improve our own situation, especially where our health is concerned.

I am happy to tell you that my own father is alive and well and looking like emulating his father who reached the grand age of 93. Unfortunately Dad is going to reach that age without all his original parts. When he was in his mid fifties he had a painful calcium spur on his shoulder. His doctor told him he had too much calcium in his blood. They would do keyhole surgery and take the spur off but he must cut down on calcium.

Even then with my limited knowledge of alternative therapies and remedies I knew this was the opposite of the truth. I said Dad, you have too little calcium in your blood, not too much and its leaching what it needs from your bones. But my Dad comes from a generation who believe the doctor is next to God in terms of wisdom and is one of the few people in society that cannot be questioned. Believe it or not his bank manager is another. Well he cut down his already low calcium intake despite my advising him to supplement his diet with Calcium, Magnesium and Vitamin D for maximum absorption. By 65 he was the recipient of two new knees and since they were done 6 months apart he hardly walked for best part of his retirement year. And do you know Dad is eternally grateful for the wonderful job the doctors have done even though he fully expects to have them done again when 10 years has passed. And he still thinks he's got too much calcium in his blood!

I guess what I am saying is, you are your own doctor first and foremost. Nobody knows how your body feels like you do. If you took a supplement for a month or six weeks and it made no difference you may have wasted a few pounds but you could just stop taking it, it certainly won't hurt you. But what if it did make a difference, then you'd feel the benefit and be glad to pay for it, wouldn't you? Only make sure you buy a decent one, you get what you pay for. I pay 40GBP a month for my supplement regime, I have done for years and it has been worth every penny.

So eat right and take supplements. A lot of older people just don't feel like cooking a meal, especially if they are on their own and so the quality of the building blocks they give the bodies to repair itself is often poor. Their circulation system is not what it used to be so the goodness they do get doesn't get to the parts that need it.

The lymphatic system is the wonderful mechanism that keeps our bodies clean right from a cellular level but as we get older and especially if movement becomes painful the whole system slows down. This can leave toxins in the body and as they build up a downward spiral begins. More pain, less desire to exercise, less lymphatic drainage, more toxins. Where toxins are left in the joints they can crystalize and exacerbate the problem.

It is important for osteoarthritis patients to get exercise although they don't always feel like it and often they really can't manage it. The goal is to keep the joints mobile and functioning properly. Regular exercise also wards off muscle loss and may be key to managing osteoarthritis pain. Patients should consult with a physical therapist or qualified personal trainer which they would find at a good fitness centre. They will always tell them to check first with the doctor before starting a fitness program and that is good advice.

One therapy I like to use myself and to recommend to our customers is a powerful electric massage that was invented 62 years ago and has been used all over the world in hospitals and clinics and in hundreds of thousands of private homes too. Because it aids the circulation and increases the throughput of blood in the muscle being massaged it acts as a kind of passive exercise. We have been in the health business for 14 years and mainly providing condition specific herbs and vitamin supplements but when we discovered this massage it revolutionized our business because of how quickly our customers felt the benefits. We regularly have measurable results on the first treatment with further improvements on subsequent treatments if these are done within a few days of each other.

I have personally applied it to hundreds of people some of whom could hardly walk without extreme pain. In a 20 minute massage many have experienced amazing relief. Some have even cried as they told me it is years since they felt that good. Cycloidal Vibration Therapy (CVT) definitely works for at least 80% of osteoarthritis sufferers. It improves the circulation, relaxes the muscles around the joints and enhances lymphatic drainage.

There are a couple of drawbacks though. First it can be a little difficult for a person alone to treat themselves with the hand unit that I use to demonstrate the therapy. Even when there is a couple they tend to do it every day at first but eventually the partner starts to find it tiresome. Of course it loses its benefit if it is not done regularly and the benefits are cumulative if it is. At least 20 minutes three times a day is recommended.

That's why I use Cycloidal Massage built into a specially constructed chair. Many of my clients find it hard to get out of an ordinary chair so there are extra benefits to using a rise and recline chair. The chair has multiple massage motors built into the electrically adjustable footstool, the seat and the back so the whole body can be treated while the client watches TV. The second drawback is the cost of course, they certainly don't suit every budget. Unfortunately cheaper alternatives do not contain the deeply penetrating therapy that Cycloidal Massage provides. It's probably best to take advantage of trial massage at home and then measure the benefits against the cost. Some customers who could not afford the cash price have found it is worth the 25 pounds a week or so that it costs to buy on a finance deal.

Cycloidal Massage Therapy is available in most countries and I am sure there will be someone willing to demonstrate the benefits without obligation wherever the need arises. Certainly I have traveled the length and breadth of Northern England and Southern Scotland doing just that. Our reputation is very important to us, so we do a massage in the customers home and only if they feel a marked difference in the affected parts to we recommend a purchase.

A marked difference means greatly reduced pain or even no pain at all, together with increased functionality and movement in the affected joints.

There are lots of things a sufferer can do to help themselves at least to manage the pain of osteoarthritis. To remain dependent on the medical profession is a matter of choice but our philosophy is to encourage people to help themselves as far as they can, they should seek expert medical advice as soon as symptoms are noticed in order to maintain good health and if the problem does reach crisis level we would hope they don't just go straight for the surgery. They should carefully think through what alternatives are available, look at what others have tried successfully and try it for themselves.

Arthritis of the Knee - Types and Treatment

Arthritis is a form of joint disorder that involves symptoms like pain, inflammation, and swelling in is the area where two bones meet.

The knee joint, for example, is where the ends of lower leg bones (the tibia and the fibula) and the thighbone (the femur) meet. Likewise, the hip joint is formed between the thighbone (femoral head) and a concave portion of the pelvis (the acetabulum).

Medically known as the tibiofemoral joint, knee joint is the largest joint in the body and is most frequently affected by arthritis.

This joint disease affects more than 46 million American adults and this number is expected to increase to 67 million by the year 2030. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS), about 580,000 knee replacement surgeries are performed every year in the U.S. and the number is growing.

Types
There are three major types of arthritis that may affect the knee joint- Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis and Post-Traumatic Arthritis.

Osteoarthritis (OA): Also referred to as the "wear and tear" arthritis, Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, affecting 33 million people in the United States.

It is a condition that is caused by the combination of several factors, including overuse of joints, obesity, or aging. Also called 'degenerative arthritis', osteoarthritis is usually a slowly progressive degenerative disease in which the cartilage covering the bone ends gradually wears away.

It usually causes pain and limited motion, and often occurs in joints that bear weight, such as the knees, hips, feet, and spine. It is most prevalent among middle-aged and older people with active lifestyles.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA): It is an inflammatory type of arthritis that can destroy the joint cartilage. It is a systemic, autoimmune condition that causes the body's immune system to produce substances that attack the body's soft-tissues and joints.

Rheumatoid arthritis can occur at any age and generally affects both large and small joints in the body as well as the spine. Swelling, pain, and stiffness are often quite pronounced in rheumatoid arthritis, even when the joint is not used. The condition affects approximately 1.3 million Americans, and about 75% of them are women, according to the American College of Rheumatology.

Post-traumatic Arthritis: This form of joint arthritis can develop after any kind of physical injury to the knee in which the bone and cartilage were deteriorated. After the injury, the cartilage separates from the joint and bone and shatter into several fragments which float around freely and cause severe pain and joint stiffness.

A military injury, injury from sports, an accident, a fall, or any other source of physical trauma can damage the joint surface cartilage (osteoarthritis), destructing the mechanism of the joint and making it wear out. This disease may not surface until several years after a fracture, ligament injury, or meniscus tear.

The post-traumatic arthritis symptoms include severe joint pain, swelling, fluid accumulation in the joint, tenderness, and decreased tolerance for walking, sports, climbing stairs and other physical activities which stress the joint. It affects about 5.6 million people in the United States. The risk may be minimized by preventing injuries.

Treatment Options
The treatment for arthritis of the knee starts with nonsurgical measures, including lifestyle modifications; exercise; supportive devices; non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines; heat or ice treatments and elastic bandages.

But when arthritis reaches to a point where nonsurgical treatments have failed to relieve pain and other symptoms, surgical treatment will be considered.

There are a number of surgical treatments that can offer lasting relief. Cleaning out or repairing torn cartilage and reconstructing or replacing the worn out joint surfaces are the common surgical treatments for arthritis in the joint.

Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis and Other Joint Disorders, and Some of the Methods of Treatment

Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, erosive arthritis and others are suffered by many who can't find absolute relief. Today's modern medicine does have some level of effectiveness, such as some physical therapies and prescription drugs, but that largely depends upon the person and the level of advancement of each individual case.

The most effective treatments tend to be the most drastic, such as the use of surgery and chemotherapy. However, even after these have been undertaken, arthritis isn't totally eliminated from having a foothold in our bodies... the end result? It returns again in time, in full force, and you have to decide if you're going to go through surgery or chemotherapy - again.

As the various levels of today's modern medicine's effectiveness continues to frustrate those who suffer the pains of arthritis, the more effective medicinal system to use seems to be naturopathy. Studies have been made into natural remedies for osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, etc., which have been proven to eliminate conditions which cause joint deterioration within the span of about a month, safely and naturally, and without the adverse side effects of lab created chemical drugs.

Many in the medical field (doctors, therapists, pharmacists, etc.) have written extensively on these breakthrough methods, even recommending them. However, until this information becomes part of today's mainstream medical knowledge, the medical industry will continue to have a heavy reliance on the administering of lab created drugs of varying effectiveness to the public at large.

Until then, a few sufferers in the know have been able to eliminate osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and various other related conditions including gout and subchondral sclerosis, without the condition recurring in the body. Using nature to maintain health is also much more accessible, inexpensive, and easily accepted into our bodily systems, safely. Clearly, nature once again proves to be the best and most benevolent source of curative medicine.

Arthritis Treatment: Assistive Devices for Osteoarthritis of the Knee

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis and is characterized by progressive deterioration of joint cartilage. Cartilage is the gristle that caps the ends of long bones and provides shock absorption and gliding properties. OA is also characterized by decreased regeneration of cartilage.

While it typically occurs after the age of 40, it is becoming clear that OA can actually begin much sooner, sometimes as early as the teen-age years.

OA incidence does increase with advancing age. While joint damage from osteoarthritis progresses relatively slowly, the inexorable progression leads to joint stiffness and pain, gradual deformity, joint instability and eventual loss of function.

The standard approach to OA involving the knee is fairly straightforward. Analgesic and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), thermal modalities (ice), physical therapy, exercises, and injections of glucocorticoids and viscosupplements (lubricants), are pro forma. These measures are, at best, palliative.
Eventually, most patients go on to have joint replacement surgery.

[Recently, the use of mesenchymal stem cells for treatment of OA of the knee has been found to be effective in many cases, extending the time or even reducing the need for replacement.]

Studies looking at gait have shown that patients with OA of the knee shift their weight to the medial (inside) compartment of their knee while walking.

In addition, the pain, deformity, and instability of knee OA leads to gradual quadriceps weakness and atrophy. All of these play a role in the altered gait characterized by patients with OA of the knee.

In addition to quadriceps strengthening exercises, measures that unload the medial compartment of the knee may be effective in improving exercise tolerance, reducing pain, and improving function.
There are two types of devices that can accomplish this.

The first is an unloading type of brace. These braces, made of lightweight polymer materials, are designed to "open up" the closed medial compartment. When this is accomplished, there is a marked improvement in gait, as well as reduction in pain.

Another very effective device that's overlooked and sometimes even resisted by patients is a cane.

"The use of a cane with the purpose of reducing the biomechanical load on the joints of the lower limb is part of the treatment for patients with knee osteoarthritis. This strategy is expected to increase both independence and tolerance to exercise, allowing a more efficient gait, with a reduction in joint stress." (Jones A, Silva PG, Silva AC, et al. Impact of Cane Use on Pain, Function, General Health and Energy Expenditure During Gait in Patients With Knee Osteoarthritis. Ann Rheum Dis. 2012;71(2):172-179)

A cane should always be used in the hand opposite to the affected knee. Studies have shown this reduces the load on the medial compartment of the knee and also normalizes gait mechanics.

At our center, following stem cell procedures, we almost always temporarily have patients use an unloader type brace after the procedure and advise the use of crutches early on and a cane after that in most cases.

Arthritis - Foods That Harm, Foods That Heal

Two of the most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

People suffering with osteoarthritis should avoid or cut down on highly refined and processed foods, sugar, salt and saturated animal fats. A healthier diet would be to include wholegrain cereals, fresh fruit and vegetables. By eating a more healthy diet sufferers can boost their immune system and provide them with extra energy they need to fight the disease.

Through scientific research, it has been shown that fish oils are beneficial to people suffering from arthritis. Oily fish such as salmon, mullet, sardines and trout provide the omega-3 fatty acids that can have an anti-inflammatory effect. Inflammation is the natural body's reaction to arthritis resulting in pain, swelling, redness and heat. For people who cannot eat fish, fish oil capsules or liquid taken in the prescribed dose can help in managing the disease.

Seafood provides omega-3 fats which help to regulate the body producing inflammatory chemicals known as eicosanoids. As well as seafood, canola oil, soy oil, flaxseed and walnut also provide omega-3 fats which help to suppress the inflammatory chemicals.

Some studies have found that rheumatoid arthritis sufferers have benefited from a vegetarian diet. Celery and ginger contain an anti-inflammatory agent and celery and bananas are a good source of potassium. Green vegetables should be included in the diet as they are a good source of beta carotene, calcium, iron, folate and vitamins.

Pineapple contains an enzyme called bromelain that is effective in breaking down protein. Researchers have been looking into the medicinal properties of bromelain since the mid 1950's. It has been used in treating the inflammatory symptoms of both Rheumatoid arthritis and Osteoarthritis and it thought to aid in tissue repair.

Healthy eating habits essential for our total wellbeing, but when diseases such as arthritis are evident, what you eat can be extremely important for your immune system, blood circulation, weight control and of course nutrition. The following dietary guidelines may help with choosing foods that assist the body to repair itself.

o Maintain an ideal weight by eating a variety of foods. Include foods from the 4 basic food groups (fruits and vegetables, meats, dairy, breads and cereals) to ensure the intake of the more than forty essential nutrients to maintain good health.

o Include adequate amounts of starch and fiber. Starches such as potatoes, rice, bread, beans and pasta provide the body with energy. Fiber, the undigested portion of the plants we eat, adds bulk and helps with the elimination process.

In some cases of rheumatoid arthritis, it is thought that food intolerance and allergies may contribute to the disease. It can be extremely difficult discovering what, if any, food could be the culprit and an exclusion diet may be the best way to identify the allergy source. For anyone considering following this type of diet, they should first consult their medical professional or qualified dietician.

A number of foods that are believed to exacerbate arthritis or are associated with arthritis "flare ups" are -

o Caffeine

o Red Meat

o Dairy products

o Processed foods

o Sugar

o Salt

o Vegetables of the nightshade group (tomatoes, peppers, etc.)

o Preservatives and additives

o Chocolate

As with many allergy triggers the effects are not always consistent with everyone, what triggers a flare up or allergy on one person may have no affect on another.

o Avoid too much sugar. Sugar provides calories but little nutrition and too much will contribute to excess weight gain.

o Avoid too much sodium. Excess salt can contribute to water retention and also lead to high blood pressure.

o Avoid alcohol. Alcohol can deplete the body of vitamins and minerals besides being high in calories. It also potentially can interact with medications for arthritis and in some cases can be extremely harmful when mixed with prescribed and non prescribed medications.

The overall aim is to reduce the causes of arthritis pain and discomfort by ensuring the foods you eat are right for your condition and are not harming your body further.