9V6RJ3rpFgRWRKz9atzwHWSEAzE Useful Articles Hard To Ignore: Arthritis

Showing posts with label Arthritis. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Arthritis. Show all posts

Tuesday, January 24, 2012

Homeopathy and Arthritis Pain

By Sandra Fierling

Homeopathy was discovered by a physician in Germany called Samuel Hahnemann at the end of the 18th Century. It is known as the 'law of similars' or 'like can be cured by like'. These remedies are often toxic (for example the herb belladonna) but they are diluted so much that often only miniscule amounts or sometimes nothing remain. Apparently the higher the dilution, the more effective they are!

It is a form of alternative medicine which has become popular over time and many people swear by its use. Fortunately there are many recognized homeopathic doctors and if you wish to look into this form of treatment if you have arthritis, it is best to visit with a doctor who specializes in homeopathy. This way the doctor can examine you and work out a treatment plan with you and then monitor your progress.

It is also important to know that homeopathic medicine (as with many 'alternative' therapies) is not evaluation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. If you go regularly to a doctor of your choice for your arthritis, it may be a good idea to ask him his opinion of seeking homeopathic remedies in your particular case.

There are many homeopathic remedies that could help with arthritis in its many forms, depending on which type of pain you experience.

For example, Calcarea Fluorica can be beneficial when the joints of the fingers have become enlarged or when joints crack when moving and a sharp pain is experienced. This remedy is also recommended when warmth provides relief and when changes in the weather can affect arthritis pain adversely.

Another remedy for arthritis is Sulphur. This can be used when joints are not only painful but are itchy with a burning feeling. Also when damp weather causes additional pain and any form of heat means even more soreness.

Arnica is a great remedy to mention. If you have sustained an injury and arthritis has been a result of this, then Arnica could help you. If your arthritis pain is such that you are fearful of being touched because of the increased pain this may cause, then Arnica could be the remedy of choice. Arnica is good for soreness and is a great remedy to keep in the bathroom cabinet even if anyone gets bruised.

As you can see, homeopathy can get very specific when it comes to symptoms. It could also be why it has enjoyed success. Many people swear by it and others think it is hocus pocus!

Find out more about Arthritis And Homeopathy and how it can help. For more resources visit http://arthritisreviews.com

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A Variety of Natural Arthritis Remedies

By Anna Hugi

Are you suffering from arthritis? Did you know that there are natural ingredients that can cure arthritis that are right in your supermarket? It's true. A couple of proposed natural treatments for arthritis have been proven to be successful over the years. The most common and widely used natural remedy for arthritis is the use of heat and cold to treat the disease. Applying heat to a joint can provide significant relief and you can use electric blankets and even hot packs. Taking a bath can also play a significant role. Cold can also be used as a natural remedy for arthritis in that by wrapping an ice cube in a piece of cloth and pressing it on the joint will relieve pain.

most effective natural cure for arthritis is by mixing dilute garlic, lavender, sage, rosemary, thyme or juniper oils in the proportion of one part to ten of olive oil and applying the oil combination on the painful joints can lead to immediate relief and curing of arthritis. Another simple treatment for this illness is the use of hot vinegar, which can also be applied on the joint as it helps reduce the pain and swelling around the joint. Using 1 to 2 teaspoons of cod liver oil is likewise known as an effective way to lessen the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis. Adding alfalfa seeds to your tea and drinking it up to 3 to 4 cups daily will also reduce inflammation on your joints.

The most attractive feature of these natural arthritis remedies is that they are safe and have not been shown to cause the same adverse reactions as the pharmaceutical anti-inflammatory drugs. Below are some of the more well-known natural remedies for arthritis:
  • Glucosamine & Chondroitin These compounds are naturally found in the body and can aid in promoting joint health and repair.
  • MSM A naturally occurring sulfur compound that reduces swelling much like other arthritis medications
  • Manganese An important antioxidant nutrient that is useful in treating rheumatoid arthritis
  • Niacinamide This is also known as Vitamin B3. It helps maintain the integrity of cells and tissues, slowing the progression of arthritis.
  • Turmeric and ginger extract Both are anti-inflammatory herbal extracts that are effective in curing rheumatoid and osteoarthritis.
The Home Treatment Programme, which was developed by Charles de Coti-Marsh over 60 years ago, offers a natural method of managing your arthritis and relief from the associated pain. This program presents three essential components; namely: diet, supplementation and postural management.

Weight loss can be considered one of the natural cures for arthritis, as the joints affected get relief when there is less weight and stress placed upon them daily. There might be natural cures for arthritis that meet with the body's needs for healing. Again, be sure and check with a doctor before taking large doses of any supplement or when using a program with prescription arthritic drugs.

Is arthritis making your life miserable but don't want to take harsh chemical supplements? Natural arthritis remedies may be the answer to ease your pain. For initial information visit Natural Remedies at Joint Pain Supplements and Advice website and then ask your doctor which solution is going to be the best for you.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anna_Hugi
http://EzineArticles.com/?A-Variety-of-Natural-Arthritis-Remedies&id=6804115

Arthritis In Hands: Symptoms And Treatment Options

By Marcus Maloney

Arthritis in hands is quite common, however the affected areas are usually at the palm end of the thumb, the knuckles and joints in your fingers. This form of arthritis is usually known as osteoarthritis, and can affect the hips and knees as well as the hands.

Swelling or stiffness in the fingers is most commonly associated with this and this may reduce as time passes. The symptoms of arthritis in hands often flare up when you have had to constantly use your hands, this may be through a typing job, or maybe even sending text messages.

Many people think that cracking your fingers can cause arthritis but this is not the case. It usually starts because of repetitive actions.

Some of the symptoms of arthritis in hands are:

Slight pain in the fingers,
Short periods of stiffness, this may improve during the day.
Difficulty in moving your fingers.

Some people with arthritis in the hands may not have noticeable symptoms. This can be as a result of arthritis developing at a slower rate than usual.

If you suffer from osteoarthritis, there are some natural treatments readily available. These can include:
Red pepper, this food has many medicinal properties. It is thought to aid the circulatory system when applied to the skin, also it may help to ease the pains that you may be experiencing.

Cayenne pepper, this acts as red pepper does, you can apply this externally as I mentioned above or you can consume this pepper with foods. If you consume this it can acts as a stimulant thus aiding the heart, it may strengthen the arteries and act as natural pain relief.

Ginger, this is present in many foods. Many old wives tales include the use of ginger for common ailments such as sickness. Ginger has anti-inflammatory like properties. Research has concluded that ginger may significantly reduce the pains and swelling of arthritis.

Garlic, aids blood flow in the body, it has been proven to be very effective in reducing inflammation caused by arthritis.

Some people have found that 10 minutes of slowly massaging the hands can help keep the symptoms at bay.

By incorporating these into your daily diet you may reduce some if not all of your symptoms. If these changes are not easily done then you may find tea infused with ginger, whilst this is only one of the herbs that may help it could ease your particular symptoms.

If you suffer with arthritis and you are having trouble coping with the pains, seek advice from your doctor or other health professional they will be able to advise you on the best course of action.

Arthritis in hands is very common, the symptoms can be dealt with effectively although there is no cure as of yet. If your symptoms are getting worse or the pain is becoming unbearable then your doctor may suggest regular consumption of an anti inflammatory or pain relief. If you require more information on the symptoms of arthritis your doctor or other health professional will be happy to help.

For more health related information be sure to visit Health Ezines

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http://EzineArticles.com/?Arthritis-In-Hands:-Symptoms-And-Treatment-Options&id=6509376

Will Tiny "Pillows" Provide Relief From Spinal Arthritis Pain?

By Michael Soltoff

A revolutionary treatment currently being used in England may help spinal arthritis sufferers. The technique involves the surgical implant of a small cushion into the spine, relieving pressure and pain.

One of the many causes of back pain is spinal arthritis. Spinal arthritis is caused when the protective cartilage that cushions the joints in the spine degenerates, creating pressure on the vertebral joints. Sometimes, this pressure impacts the nerves extending through the spinal column, causing numbness, weakness, and pain.

Spinal arthritis most commonly affects people over 55 years of age. The condition can be made worse by repetitive stress on the vertebral joints and by obesity. Over eight million British residents suffer from various stages of spinal arthritis. While many can continue normal life activities, others are severely impacted by the pain.

Since spinal arthritis is largely incurable, treatment has historically been limited to painkillers (including NSAIDs), corticosteroid injections, physical therapy, and behavioral changes to limit back stress.
In England, a new treatment is being tried. Surgeons implant a small, gel filled cushion to relieve symptoms.

Recently, the British NICE (National Institute for Clinical Excellence) approved the "DIAM" implant (short for "Device for Intervertebral Assisted Motion"). The United States FDA has not yet approved the device. The DIAM device is a small, H-shaped cushion filed with silicone gel, surrounded by a polyester mesh with polyester ties. The DIAM implant acts as a pillow - cushioning and stabilizing the patient's vertebral joint. The DIAM implant is placed between the patient's spinous processes. These are the bony parts of the vertebrae that protrude from your back (you can feel them by running your finger down your spine).

The DIAM implant was developed by Medtronic, a United States medical product manufacturer. A study of patients show that the implant both cushions the area and restores mobility in the joint, relieving arthritis pain. Medtronic studied 68 recipients of the implant, who ranged in ages between 23 and 75 years old. Patients' movement improved by an average of 64%, and their pain decreased by an average of 71%. All of the studied patients showed improvement. The age of the patient did not seem to have an effect on the results.

Surgery is usually accomplished on an outpatient basis in a procedure taking approximately 45 minutes. The surgery is conducted with the implant recipient lying on his or her stomach. The doctor makes a small incision in the affected area. He then uses a retractor to gain access to the spine. The area is cleaned by the surgeon removing any required material, including any bony overgrowths caused by the arthritis. The implant is inserted onto the spine between two of the bony protrusions from the spine known as spinous processes. The device is then stabilized by tying it adjacent vertebrae. The incision is closed with a few stitches.

Implant recipients can usually go home as soon as they recover from the anesthesia and are able to walk. While sometimes, physical therapy is used to improve the patient's core strength and stability, most of the time no rehabilitation is required.

There is no reason to suffer through arthritis pain. In addition to the novel DIAM implant, there are many additional types of arthritis treatment and osteoarthritis treatment, including traditional medicines, surgical methods, exercise, and alternative treatments.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_Soltoff
http://EzineArticles.com/?Will-Tiny-Pillows-Provide-Relief-From-Spinal-Arthritis-Pain?&id=6518385

Monday, January 23, 2012

Top Natural Remedies for Arthritis

By Michael N Martin


A Conditioned Society
It's a shame, but the majority of us are so conditioned into believing that the health care system has all the answers and if they allegedly have no cure or effective treatment, then it doesn't exist. Because of this, few people bother searching for natural remedies for arthritis. However, people's awareness is on the rise.

Whether you want to believe it, the health care and drug industries in North America, are massive moneymaking giants.

It's obvious to me, that a life-long treatment can produce far more income than a cure. Did you know that in 2010 the largest drug companies in North America pulled in a combined 47 trillion dollars off chronic disease alone?

With fact such as this one publicly available, the world's population is becoming more and more educated as to the real state of our society.


Easy Natural Remedies for Arthritis
Good natural remedies for arthritis need to accomplish at least one of these things:

  • Reduce Inflammation/ ease arthritis pain
  • Recover joint tissue, or prevent its loss
  • Prevent arthritis from forming in other joints
  • Or fight the theoretical causes of arthritis

Luckily for us, there are quite a few remedies that accomplish one of these desired effects, some can even accomplish more than one or even all of them.

One of the most commonly used remedies for arthritis, is fish oil. It's also one of my favorite because it is so easy to use and it has a ton of other amazing health benefits. Why is fish oil a natural remedy for arthritis? It's because fish oil is the best source of the fatty acid omega3.

There are two main components of omega3. One is EPA and the other is DHA. DHA is known to be the brain food of the two, while EPA in known to be the stronger anti-inflammatory.

How is omega3 a strong anti-inflammatory? When omega3 is consumed in the recommended amount, it has the ability to suppress the expression of COX-2.

What is COX-2? It is an inflammation creating substance within the body that Non-steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs, (NSAID), goal is to inhibit. NSAID do this, but at the price of also inhibiting COX-1 production. This COX-1 suppression effect that NSAID have, can cause a few unwanted side effects. Fortunately, omega3 achieves the suppression of COX-2, but with no side effects and a whole ton of positive health benefits.


Fish Oil Usage
Fish oil can be easily added into your diet by simply consuming a teaspoon (5mL) with two meals of the day; preferably breakfast and dinner. Because fish oil is healthy and side effect free, you can increase the dosage if 10mL a day isn't sufficient.

Because of the quantities of fish oil needed, it is best to buy it in a liquid form and not a capsule. If you find the taste or smell is undesirable, there are quite a few brands that supply unscented fish oil.

Want to learn more about natural remedies for arthritis? Or maybe Osteoarthritis and exercise? Just click the links and check them out.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Michael_N_Martin
http://EzineArticles.com/?Top-Natural-Remedies-for-Arthritis&id=6644207

Psoriatic Arthritis - More Than Just Joint Pain

By Riley Hendersen

What could be worse that this awful joint pain and stiffness, you wonder as you try to will yourself out of bed. While the pain and fatigue that goes along with rheumatoid arthritis can be excruciating and is without a doubt a possibly debilitating condition, there is actually a form of arthritis that is worse. Psoriatic arthritis is a form of the disease that affects not only the joints, but also the skin, and possibly the tendons, eyes, spine, heart and lungs.

In most people who suffer from psoriatic arthritis, the first sign that something is wrong is the inflammation of the skin. Patients can develop psoriasis on their elbows, knees, scalp, and area around the navel and around the anus or genitals. Psoriasis causes red, raised areas of scaly skin. The signs of the skin disease are first seen in the forties or fifties and generally precede joint pain by several months to years. Once the joint pain starts, it generally involves the joints in the feet, ankles and knees. Inflammation can cause the joints to become red, hot and swollen. Often toes and fingers swell so badly they can resemble sausages. Psoriatic arthritis can also affect the spine.

In addition to skin inflammation and joint pain, psoriatic arthritis also attacks the ligaments and tendons of the body. One of the most common tendons to become affected it the Achilles tendon. This Achilles tendonitis causes the patient to have pain when walking and when climbing steps. Along with affecting the tendons in the heels, the arthritis can also inflame the chest wall and the cartilage that links the breast bone and ribs. This inflammation can cause chest pain and shortness of breath.

Along with the joints and tendons, psoriatic arthritis can also affect the major organs of the body such as the heart and lungs. The lungs can become inflamed causing both shortness of breath and chest pain, especially with deep breathing. If the heart becomes inflamed by the disease, the aortic valve can leak. This leak could result in breathing trouble as well as heart failure.

In its rampage on the body, psoriatic arthritis can also damage the eyes. Redness and itching are common results of the condition. The iris or colored area of the eye can also become painfully inflamed, especially when exposed to bright light. Often the only way to relieve this irisitis is to inject cortisone directly into the eye.

Psoriatic arthritis can often be difficult to diagnose especially in the early stages. One common symptom of this form of arthritis, however, is the pitting of finger or toe nails. Sometimes the disorder can cause the nails to turn loose and fall off completely.

Like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis results from the body's own immune system turning against itself. Unlike the rheumatoid variety, however, psoriatic arthritis can affect not only the joints, but also the skin, eyes and many of the major organs of the body. Left untreated this disease can progress until it become debilitating and sometimes even life threatening.

For more information on arthritis, try visiting http://www.easyarthritistips.com a website that specializes in providing arthritis related tips, advice and resources to include information on psoriatic arthritis.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Riley_Hendersen
http://EzineArticles.com/?Psoriatic-Arthritis---More-Than-Just-Joint-Pain&id=562004