Posted by herbmaster on Jul 12, 2010 in Uncategorized
It is estimated that over 46 million people in the US alone suffer from a form of arthritis. This debilitating joint disease forces into early retirement employee who cannot perform physically to the fullest. Even outside the workplace, it is nearly impossible to live normally. Pain restricts mobility so much, that one is forced to embrace a sedentary lifestyle instead.
To cope better with arthritis, it’s important that one knows what it is. Arthritis is actually a collection of joint diseases, the number of which amounting to more than 100 types. Causative factors and indicating signs are the basis for classifications. Although there are several different forms, it is said that there are two that are the most prevalent of all.
As we age, cartilage between joints goes through wearing and tearing. In severe cases, this could lead to osteoarthritis (OA). Obesity and repeated demanding physical activities also contribute to the development of OA. Joints that usually suffer from it are the weight bearing ones, like the knees and hips. But it may also attack other frequently used and abused joints, such as the shoulders, elbows and hands.
On the other hand, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder. This means that your own body is responsible for the joint disease. Your immune system, for unknown reasons, attacks you joints. This chronic and painful inflammatory disease can affect people at any age, even those in their early 20′s. Also, RA affects both sides of the body in a symmetrical fashion. For example, if the fingers on your right hand got RA, those on your left hand also suffers from it.
Doctors prescribe analgesic to help with alleviating the pain. Persons suffering from arthritis usually take acetaminophen or ibuprofen. But with inflammation involved, NSAIDs or Non Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drugs are prescribed. Steroids are also being used for swelling. However, oral intake is accompanied by some side effects, especially in long-term use. Steroids directly injected into the joint help minimize side effects.
Gentle exercise can help improve the mobility of the joints. However, during flare ups, this may not be possible at all. For instance, if you have leg arthritis, walking may help prevent stiffness, but not when it’s around accompanied by pain. During such time, mobility is greatly reduced.
There are also natural means of coping with the signs and symptoms of arthritis. Some people who aren’t satisfied with the results of prescribed medications resort to such alternatives. Many swear by the alkaline diet – a diet composed of mainly fruits and vegetables. This diet is great for offsetting excessive acidity in the body, which is linked to arthritis. Also, there are supplements like fish oils, vegetarian glucosamine and chondroitin that help repair worn cartilages and lubricate the joints.
Tags: arthritis, autoimmune disorder, coping mechanisms, joint pain, osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis
Posted by herbmaster on Mar 14, 2010 in Uncategorized
Although arthritis won't really kill you, it can literally cripple you. Arthritis causes so much restriction and cuts back even the most undemanding activities such as bathing, walking or dressing. Arthritis can be rather debilitating because of extreme pain on the joints Added to that, it's also a recurring disease.
Thousands are afflicted with arthritis each year and statistics show that one in every three adults over 40 suffer or will suffer from arthritis as they move on to the retirement years. There is no specific age or gender for susceptibility since arthritis can develop even in infants, but most sufferers begin to experience symptoms when they near their fifties, with more than 50% occurring before the age of 65. The sad thing about arthritis is that it can be debilitating both to the body and to one's finances. It is estimated that an average person will spend close to USD 150,000 in medical expenses and lost wages just coping with arthritis during his or her lifetime.
Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the two most common forms that afflict the greater majority. Osteoarthritis is a condition that results from normal wear and tear of the knees, hips, or ankles since they bear much of the weight in the body. Arthritis also invades the shoulders and other highly mobile joints in the cervical and lumbar spinal regions. Like grease on joints and gears in a mechanical structure, synovial fluid maintains lubrication and ease of movement within our joints. It is also responsible for overall health and maintenance of the cartilage. Synovial fluid inevitably shrinks with age and cartilage undergoes wear and tear with heavy use, eventually causing the bones to grind against each other. Pain and difficulty associated with arthritis are caused by this grinding action on the bones.
Rheumatoid Arthritis on the other hand is caused by anti-bodies attacking the synovial lining of the joints. These anti-bodies are produced by the body's immune system but genetics, certain infections or environmental factors can trigger a misdirected immune system and cause destruction of the synovial membrane and the cartilage. This results in inflammatory conditions which include soreness, pain and tenderness in the joints. Rheumatoid Arthritis affects any age group, and this type of immunologically induced arthritis is also prevalent in other systemic illnesses such as Lupus and Scleroderma.
Symptoms of arthritis are not permanent – when inflammation is present, the disease is active and that period is known as a “flare”. As the symptoms subside, it is said that the disease is “in remission”. Remission can be accomplished through treatment or may occur spontaneously and may last for months or even years.
Arthritis has long been successfully treated with the use of anti-inflammatory drugs and steroids. Typically, these come in the form of cortisone injections or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or what is commonly known as NSAIDs. These types of treatment bring pain relief, unfortunately they don't repair the damaged tissues – hence relief is said to be merely symptomatic.
NSAIDs and steroids are also known to produce adverse effects. Osteoporosis and skin thinning are two of the most common side effects, and NSAIDs also tend to irritate the digestive tract and cause stomach ulcers.
No cure for arthritis has been discovered yet, but there is growing evidence that tissue repair and replacement can arrest disease progress. In fact, this has been the focus of controversial stem cell replacement studies over the years. Whether or not stem cell replacement will eventually emerge as the cure for arthritis, it is a welcome relief to know that natural substances are available to relieve arthritis pain and discomfort, and slow progression of the disease – without the side effects.
One of the best known natural substances for its anti-inflammatory properties is Aloe Vera. Aloe generally provides analgesic relief but it has also been observed to stimulate the immune system and speed up cell growth and replacement. Aloe Vera contains basic sugars which are also found in every cell of the body – it is rich in nutrients that include vitamins E, C, and the B series, as well as iron, manganese, calcium and zinc. Aloe Vera also contains essential amino and fatty acids needed by the body.
Possibly more than its nutritional benefits is the ability of Aloe Vera to assist the body in repairing damaged tissue by regenerating cells. A breakthrough formulation combines aloe with glucosamine and chondroitin, two joint supplements that are building blocks of cartilage found within joints. Glucosamine increases fluid maintenance in the cartilage, while chondroitin, an ingredient of cartilage tissue, takes charge of drawing in fluids and nutrients. As the body ages, its capacity to produce these natural elements of healthy cartilage is diminished, thus leading to painful joint conditions. Naturally occurring substances combined with Aloe Vera may work best for arthritis pain relief, tissue repair and cell regeneration without the nasty side effects!
Learn more about breakthrough aloe formulations that relieve arthritis symptoms and help to rebuild healthy cells in your joints at Forever Freedom.
Tags: aloe and arthritis, arthritis, arthritis pain relief, chondriotin, glucosamine, joint pain, natural arthritis pain relief, osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis
Posted by herbmaster on Dec 28, 2009 in Uncategorized
Arthritis can affect you no matter what your age. Rheumatoid arthritis in particular is not just for the older population. But even with arthritis, you can still keep up the activities you enjoy.
When arthritis strikes, it is especially difficult for people who are physically very active. Just imagine if you have just purchased the best in Salomon ski equipment and are getting ready for your trip to Tahoe. Then what was a little occasional twinge in your knee inflames and becomes irritating just to walk on it.
Among the places that arthritis commonly affects first are knees and hands. When you experience leg arthritis you start to realize how much you use them every day and in everything you do. This is even truer with hand arthritis. However, there are things you can do to help you relieve the aches and pains and continue with your active life.
There are many different supplements on the market for the aches and pains in the joints that are the main symptoms of arthritis. Two of the most common of these are chondroitin and glucosamine. These have been used for a while so there are many studies showing their usefulness.
In the fluid and cartilage that cushions your joints, you will find glucosamine. As the cartilage gets worn down, which is the case with osteoarthritis, the joint starts experiencing stiffness, swelling and pain. Supplementing with glucosamine has been found to reduce loss in cartilage and to alleviate the accompanying symptoms.
Generally, the glucosamine is taken from the shells of prawns and crabs or other shellfish. If your diet cannot include these, there is also a vegetarian glucosamine supplement. Whether you choose to eat a vegetarian diet or you are allergic to shellfish, as many people are, this is an alternative.
Many herbal supplements are also available to treat arthritis and other joint pains. You can purchase these yourself but you will get the best results if you visit with an herbalist. For example, different Chinese herbal formulas will be used depending on your individual condition. They are not used simply to treat symptoms.
But the bottom line is, do not let arthritis keep you for pursuing an active lifestyle. There are many different alternative therapies and supplements out there. The sooner you start investigating them, the sooner you can get that ski equipment out and head for the slopes.
Tags: arthritis, arthritis supplements, Rheumatoid Arthritis
Posted by herbmaster on Dec 19, 2009 in Uncategorized
It is estimated that over 46 million people in the US alone suffer from a form of arthritis. This debilitating joint disease forces into early retirement employee who cannot perform physically to the fullest. Even outside the workplace, it is nearly impossible to live normally. Pain restricts mobility so much, that one is forced to embrace a sedentary lifestyle instead.
To cope better with arthritis, it’s important that one knows what it is. Arthritis is actually a collection of joint diseases, the number of which amounting to more than 100 types. Causative factors and indicating signs are the basis for classifications. Although there are several different forms, it is said that there are two that are the most prevalent of all.
As we age, cartilage between joints goes through wearing and tearing. In severe cases, this could lead to osteoarthritis (OA). Obesity and repeated demanding physical activities also contribute to the development of OA. Joints that usually suffer from it are the weight bearing ones, like the knees and hips. But it may also attack other frequently used and abused joints, such as the shoulders, elbows and hands.
Rheumatoid arthritis, or RA, on the other hand, is a form of an autoimmune disorder. For reasons unclear, your own immune system attacks your joints, thinking they are foreign bodies. RA can strike anyone at any age, even those in their early 20′s. A common indicator of RA is it attacks joints located on both sides of the body, in a symmetrical fashion. For instance, if your left knee is affected, it’s likely your right knee has RA too.
Pain is usually dealt with through medications. Analgesics such as ibuprofen or paracetamol are used for pain. But with inflammation around, NSAIDs (Non Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drugs) are administered to reduce swelling. Steroids are also being prescribed, but long-term use poses some side effects. Steroids injected directly to the joints, instead of orally taken, may limit such side effects.
Gentle exercise can help improve the mobility of the joints. However, during flare ups, this may not be possible at all. For instance, if you have leg arthritis, walking may help prevent stiffness, but not when it’s around accompanied by pain. During such time, mobility is greatly reduced.
Some people suffering from arthritis prefer to deal with the signs and symptoms the natural way. This is because either they’re looking for inexpensive treatments, or prescription drugs fail to deliver results. Supplements such as vegetarian glucosamine, chondroitin and fish oils help in repairing damage connective tissues, and lubricate the joints. A diet composed mainly of fruits and vegetables decreases the acidity of the body, which is linked to arthritis.
Tags: arthritis, autoimmune disorder, coping mechanisms, joint pain, osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis
Posted by herbmaster on Dec 15, 2009 in Uncategorized
There are three common types of arthritis. They include osteoarthritis (the most common), affecting around 16 million Americans with an average age of 45. Osteoarthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease (DJD), usually attacks weight-bearing joints like the knees, hips, and ankles. It is also frequently found in the fingers, neck and back. Each of our joints is cushioned by cartilage. Osteoarthritis attacks that cartilage and gradually wears it down.
Another type of arthritis is known as rheumatoid arthritis. Extremely painful and inflammatory, it strikes the lining of the joints and leads to severe joint destruction. It attacks millions Americans, many in their younger years.
Psoriatic arthritis is not as well known as the previous two, but actually eats away at the joints and can also manifest as psoriasis lesions on the skin.
The term arthritis literally translates to “joint inflammation.” If you suffer from any of the different types of arthritis listed above, chances are you have taken drugs (either prescription or over-the-counter) to combat the pain, or tried alternative or “home” remedies.
If you haven’t yet tried “urtication,” it may offer some help. The term “urtication” comes from the botanical name, Urtica dioica and dates back some 2,000 years to biblical times. Urtica dioica is also known as stinging nettle. The treatment is to grasp the nettles in a gloved hand and swat the sore joints with the nettles. This may sound quite bizarre, but the practice has proven to be so effective for some sufferers of arthritis that they now maintain a nettle plant on their window sill.
Here are a few more natural herbs that are used by many people to treat arthritis:
Black cohosh: Also known as black snakeroot, bugbane, rattleroot, and squawroot. This herb is a relaxant as well as being extremely effective in easing painful menstrual cramps. It is also effective in the treatment of osteoarthritis, rheumatic pain and nerve pain. In small doses, appetite and digestion are greatly improved and it can be very beneficial for the nervous system in general.
Bogbean: Useful for treatment of rheumatism, osteo-arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Also has a stimulating effect on the colon.
Celery Seeds: Use dried ripe fruits as an anti-inflammatory, anti-rheumatic, diuretic or anti-spasmodic. Great for treating rheumatism, arthritis and gout.
Chapparal: Useful in cases of acne, arthritis, chronic backache, warts and skin blotches. Also alleged to be one of the best cancer-fighting herbs.
Feverfew: Use the leaves to treat migraine headaches, arthritis, dizziness or vertigo, and tinnitus (ringing in the ears).
Nettle: This is the herb we referred to earlier and is another one of those “universal” plants that is found all over the world. Rheumatism, arthritis, eczema, nosebleeds, high blood pressure are just a few applications. Nettles contain calcium, chlorine, iron, potassium, silicon, sodium and sulfur.
Saffron: A natural form of hydrochloric acid, saffron helps arthritics get rid of the uric acid which holds onto the calcium deposited in the joints. Also reduces lactic acid build-up. Said to be good for measles, skin problems, scarlet fever and perspiration.
Yucca: Hope for arthritics. The extract from the plant has been used with surprising success on arthritis and rheumatism sufferers.
All of the herbs mentioned here should be available at your local health food store along with suggestions on how to prepare them for use. Some applications will be to ingest in teas while others may require the creation of a topical treatment.
No matter what natural remedies you choose please consult your physician to make certain that your course of treatment does not interfere with any other medications that your doctor has prescribed for your treatment.
Aching joints runing your life? Are you looking for joint pain relief? Visit our site: joint pain. Our joint pain site will help you to find the best natural supplements and lubrication for your joints. Get the most up-to-date joint health information, articles, and products at our site: joint pain.
Tags: arthritis, body, health, knee, Rheumatoid Arthritis
