Arthritis and osteoporosis affects over 3 million Australians

Arthritis and osteoporosis are among the most common long term chronic health problems in Australia, affecting 1 in 6 Australians, according to a report released by the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare.

The report, Arthritis and osteoporosis in Australia 2008, examines the 'big issues' in arthritis and osteoporosis - issues such as disability, falls and fractures, treatment and management.

Arthritis affects about 3.3 million Australians, including more than one-third of people aged 65 or over and more than half of those aged 85 years or over.

According to the report the most common form, osteoarthritis, affects over 1.3 million Australians or more than 6% of the population - up to 1 in 3 people over the age of 85 - and is one of the top 10 problems managed by GPs.

Almost 2.7 million Medicare-paid GP consultations in 2007-08 included management of osteoarthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis (which is almost twice as common in females as it is in males) affects almost 400,000 Australians.

Parental reports suggest that over 2,000 Australian children - mostly girls - have been diagnosed with juvenile arthritis. A similar number of parents report children with symptoms of arthritis but no formal diagnosis.

Use of medications such as analgesics, anti-inflammatory drugs and anti-rheumatic drugs is the most common management strategy for arthritis. In addition to GPs, allied health and complementary practitioners play an important role in improving and maintaining body structure and function.

Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding repetitive joint-loading tasks (such as kneeling, squatting and heavy lifting) can help to prevent or delay the onset of osteoarthritis.

Due to the mostly symptomless nature of osteoporosis, the almost 600,000 Australians (mostly women over the age of 55) who have been diagnosed with osteoporosis probably represent only a small portion of the actual number.

Osteoporosis is largely preventable. Key preventive actions include regular weight-bearing exercise, a balanced diet including calcium-rich foods, adequate vitamin D levels and maintaining a healthy weight. Childhood and adolescence is a key time for building healthy bones and ensuring high peak bone mass.

Osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis, and juvenile arthritis are the focus of the Better Arthritis and Osteoporosis Care (BAOC) 2006 Federal Budget initiative, which aims to improve awareness, diagnosis and management of these conditions.

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Australian Fact Sheet: Vitamins for Arthritis

About Arthritis

Arthritis is the general term given to more than 100 conditions affecting the joints which cause pain or stiffness in one or more joints of the body. Arthritis affects around one in five Australians and about one third of people over 65.

The most common forms of arthritis are:

• Osteoarthritis – Generally caused by brittle cartilage
• Rheumatoid Arthritis – Thought to be caused by the immune system attacking the joints
• Gout – Created by the build-up of Uric Acid
• Ankylosing Spondylitis – Chronic pain and stiffness in the lower part of the spine

Management of Arthritis

The methods for treatment of arthritis vary with the type of arthritis, its severity and the affected areas. Methods for the management of Arthritis may include:

• Exercise Physiology
• Physiotherapy
• Occupational Therapy
• Chiropractics
• Acupuncture
• Osteopathy
• Naturopathy
• Exercise
• Medication

Vitamins for Arthritis

Vitamins with substantial evidence of benefit for Arthritis treatment include:

• Glucosamine
• Chondroitin
• Omega-3

Vitamins with some evidence of benefit for Arthritis treatment include:

• MSM
• Turmeric
• Ginger
• Vitamin D
• Rosehip extract

Here's a brief summary about these vitamins:

Glucosamine:

Glucosamine is a sugar that is naturally produced by the body that helps to repair and renew the cartilage tissue that covers and protects the ends of the bones, allowing them to move smoothly against each other. The benefits of Glucosamine for Arthritis sufferers are so widely documented that the nutrient is now being actively prescribed by many doctors.

Glucosamine comes in two forms – Glucosamine Sulfate and Glucosamine Hydrochloride. Glucosamine Sulfate is widely accepted to be preferred over the Hydrochloride form. Both forms of Glucosamine are made from crab, lobster or shrimp shells.

The recommended daily dosage of Glucosamine is 1500mg per day and it takes around 4-6 weeks to see noticeable affects.

People with shellfish allergies, on blood thinning medication, with diabetes or pregnant or breastfeeding women should be wary of glucosamine supplementation.

Chondroitin:

Chondroitin is a natural substance that is believed to help draw water and nutrients into the cartilage, making it spongier and improving its shock-absorption qualities. Chondroitin Sulfate vitamins are made from cow or shark cartilage.

The recommended daily dosage of Chondtroitin is 800-1000mg per day and it takes around 4-6 weeks for users to notice the effect.

Chondroitin has been found to cause upset stomachs in a few cases and people on blood thinning medication should be wary.

The combination of Glucosamine and Chondroitin:

Glucosamine and Chondroitin are often used in combination and recent trials have seen better effects for Arthritis sufferers using both nutrients at their recommended daily amounts used in tandem than on their own.

Omega-3:

Omega- 3s are found in fish and cod liver oils and have been found to relieve joint pain and improve joint mobility. Omega 3 fish oil contains two active ingredients: EPA (Eicosapentaenoic Acid) and DHA (Docosahexaenoic Acid).

Fish Oil is notorious for the fishy reflux which is often associated with supplementation. Some manufacturers add polysorbate 80 to stop this reflux action. Polysorbate 80 is an artificial surfactant present in detergents to dissolve fats and is used as an emulsifier in shampoo and conditioner. There are other more 'natural' ways to reduce the fishy taste including 'masking' it with natural flavours.

Another factor to consider when purchasing fish oil includes the type of fish used. If larger fish are used, there is a risk of increased levels of heavy metals due to their longer reproductive cycle and biological accumulation. You should consider smaller non-endangered fish varieties, sourced from non-polluted 'free range' waters.

The recommended daily dosage is 450mg of Omega-3 fish oil per day.

MSM (Methylsulfonylmethane):

MSM is a natural source of sulfur. Some researchers have suggested that MSM has anti-inflammatory affects and is sometimes used in combination with Glucosamine and Chondtroitin to treat the symptoms of Osteoarthritis.

The recommended daily dosage of MSM is 1500mg.

Curcumin (Turmeric):

Curcumin (an active ingredient in Turmeric) has been scientifically proven to have significant anti-inflammatory action with very few side-effects, however it must be ingested in large amounts to be of benefit.

The recommended daily dosage of Curcumin is 500mg per day for a minimum of 12 weeks. This is equivalent to 6g of the turmeric herb.

Ginger:

One study has shown that concentrated ginger extract may be of benefit to arthritis sufferers for reducing knee pain.

Vitamin D:

It is vital for the body to have sufficient levels of Vitamin D to allow for calcium absorption. Insufficient levels of Vitamin D may indirectly lead to low bone density and increased risk of Osteoarthritis.

Vitamin D is produced by the body when skin sees direct sunlight. It's important for the body to see 10 minutes of direct sunlight per day.

Rosehip Extract:

The use of Rosehip Extract has been said to promote an improvement in the reduction of pain and stiffness in arthritis sufferers.

Where to get help for Arthritis

Arthritis Australia: 1800 011 041

Disclaimer

Healthy Comparisons does not give or purport to give any medical or healthcare advice and is not qualified to do so. You should not under any circumstances substitute qualified medical advice with information found in this fact sheet. The information contained in this fact sheet does not take into account the physical state, medical status or health requirements of any particular individual which are relevant to the proper diagnosis and treatment of any problem, condition or disorder. You should never use or act upon this information without first properly consulting, and seeking proper information and advice from, a qualified healthcare professional. Healthy Comparisons, its related companies and its licensors expressly disclaim all responsibility for and liability in respect of the accuracy of the information provided in the website, its improper application and the consequences of anyone's failure to obtain a proper medical examination and advice from a qualified healthcare professional in the relevant circumstances.

© HealthyComparisons.com.au 2008

Is there something 'fishy' in your fish oil supplement?

We've all seen the research and heard about the benefits of taking a regular fish oil supplement. Where dietary intake is inadequate it can have anti-inflammatory effects for Arthritis sufferers, support healthy brain function and slow the onset of degenerative diseases like Alzheimers. It's a nutrient that many Australians take as part of their daily routine alongside their multivitamin.

When purchasing your fish oil supplement, there are a few important things to consider to ensure that your supplement delivers its intended benefit.

The body relies on enzymes to convert fish oil into Eicosapentaenoic Acid (EPA), and Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) which are the nutritionally essential Omega 3 fatty acids.  Manufacturers can choose to include EPA and DHA in these active forms which does not rely on the body and have been shown to be therapeutically beneficial. The higher quality fish oil supplements include EPA and DHA in these active forms.

Another important factor is the type of fish used and the impact this has on heavy metal levels. As a general rule, the larger the fish, the higher its propensity for carrying heavy metals like magnesium. Try to choose a fish oil that is derived from small fish types in clean waters to reduce this risk.

The 'Greenie' in you might also like to know whether the fish come from environmentally sustainable and renewable waters or whether the fish are farmed or free range. Many Australian manufacturers go to great lengths to ensure that their fish sources are sustainable and humane, while others take less care.

Rest assured that the Theraputic Goods Association (TGA) approves every ingredient in every product before it may be legally sold in Australia so it will never be harmful to you. Rather these fish oil tips are points to look out for when you compare one fish oil to the next.

For more information or to read fish oil product reviews from industry professionals visit Australia's vitamin information website HealthyComaprisons.com.au.

Disclaimer

Healthy Comparisons does not give or purport to give any medical or healthcare advice and is not qualified to do so. You should not under any circumstances substitute qualified medical advice with information found in this fact sheet. The information contained in this fact sheet does not take into account the physical state, medical status or health requirements of any particular individual which are relevant to the proper diagnosis and treatment of any problem, condition or disorder. You should never use or act upon this information without first properly consulting, and seeking proper information and advice from, a qualified healthcare professional. Healthy Comparisons, its related companies and its licensors expressly disclaim all responsibility for and liability in respect of the accuracy of the information provided in the website, its improper application and the consequences of anyone's failure to obtain a proper medical examination and advice from a qualified healthcare professional in the relevant circumstances.

© HealthyComparisons.com.au 2008

Blackmores puts elbow grease into Arthritis products

A recent independent review conducted by a panel of respected Australian Naturopaths has found Blackmores Arthritis products to be the highest quality in the category.

The panel of health professionals reviewed 20 of Australia's highest selling Arthritis products for quality and effectiveness and found Blackmores products to take 1^st, 2^nd, 3^rd and 4^th position with their Odourless Fish Oil product taking the lead.

Blackmores' Lyprinol product derived from New Zealand Green Muscle Oil is a relatively new product which was praised in the review due to the significant research supporting its benefits for Arthritic inflammation.

The review was published by Australian vitamin information website HealthyComparisons.com.au which displays vitamin supplement product ratings out of 100 for quality and effectiveness and presents written reviews from the individual panel members.

Surprisingly, the review pushes some top-selling Australian products to the bottom of the quality list for a variety of reasons including manufacturers' use of poor quality inactive ingredients and/or the use of Glucosamine Sulfate instead of the Hydrocholoride form which is deemed to be more effective.

For more information about the Arthritis vitamin supplement reviews or to download a summary of the results visit HealthyComparisons.com.au.

Disclaimer

Healthy Comparisons does not give or purport to give any medical or healthcare advice and is not qualified to do so. You should not under any circumstances substitute qualified medical advice with information found in this fact sheet. The information contained in this fact sheet does not take into account the physical state, medical status or health requirements of any particular individual which are relevant to the proper diagnosis and treatment of any problem, condition or disorder. You should never use or act upon this information without first properly consulting, and seeking proper information and advice from, a qualified healthcare professional. Healthy Comparisons, its related companies and its licensors expressly disclaim all responsibility for and liability in respect of the accuracy of the information provided in the website, its improper application and the consequences of anyone's failure to obtain a proper medical examination and advice from a qualified healthcare professional in the relevant circumstances.

© HealthyComparisons.com.au 2008

Note: This article has been submitted by the manufacturer

Krill Oil, the new “supercharged” fish oil

You may have seen the TV ads for OmegaGen NKO http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BmcnN_BjUoA talked about it with your friends or had it recommended to you in-store, but for those that haven’t yet caught on to this impressive new kid on the block, krill oil is the most potent source of omega-3 currently available, even compared to fish oil.

Unlike fish oil, the omega-3s in krill oil are carried in the form of phospholipids which allows greater bioavailability and absorption. It also has 47 times more antioxidant protection than most fish oils.

But before I go too far, it’s probably best that I start from the beginning in introducing you to the benefits of krill oil as a source of omega-3.

Natural Therapies for Osteoarthritis

Arthritis - Nutrition & Environmental Medicine Fact File

Management of any form of arthritis should always include a search for the underlying cause.

Areas to investigate further include:

Over-Acidification of blood and tissues

Food allergies

Gluten Intolerance

Chronic Infections

Elevated heavy metal burden

Hormonal Imbalances

Temporary Pain Relief

Boswellia

Devil's Claw

Pharmaceutical Grade Fish Oil

Wobenzym

Glucosamine and Chondroitin

About the Author

Dr Greg Emerson is the Founder and Medical Director of the Emerson Health and Wellness Centre which opened in October 2005. He is a consultant in Nutritional and Environmental medicine. He is also a senior specialist in Emergency Medicine and in Diving and Hyperbaric Medicine. For 18 years he practiced in several large public hospitals including a period of time as an Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine at a major trauma hospital in Canada and as the Director of a leading Diving and Hyperbaric Medicine Unit. He is a lecturer, examiner and current board member for the Australian College of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine and a past-examiner for the Australasian College of Emergency Medicine. A long personal battle with illness led him on a profound exploration of healing processes and the prevention of illness. He reappraised both his medical focus and the way he approached health care delivery.

He believes in the intrinsic ability of the body to heal itself if the underlying cause of the illness is addressed. His practice revolves around three core principles, in the belief that almost all non-traumatic illnesses will respond to these principles:

• Elimination of food and chemical sensitivities
• Alkalinisation and detoxification
• Balancing of hormones

Dr Emerson regularly lectures both within Australia and internationally on Nutritional and Environmental medicine. He also runs his own successful international medical conference. His mission is to provide people with the knowledge, tools and motivation to live a life of extraordinary health, vitality and longevity.

Glucosamine and chondroitin - Nutrition & Environmental Medicine Fact File

Dr Greg Emerson is the Founder and Medical Director of the Emerson Health and Wellness Centre which opened in October 2005. He is a consultant in Nutritional and Environmental medicine. He is also a senior specialist in Emergency Medicine and in Diving and Hyperbaric Medicine. For 18 years he practiced in several large public hospitals including a period of time as an Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine at a major trauma hospital in Canada and as the Director of a leading Diving and Hyperbaric Medicine Unit. He is a lecturer, examiner and current board member for the Australian College of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine and a past-examiner for the Australasian College of Emergency Medicine. A long personal battle with illness led him on a profound exploration of healing processes and the prevention of illness. He reappraised both his medical focus and the way he approached health care delivery.

He believes in the intrinsic ability of the body to heal itself if the underlying cause of the illness is addressed. His practice revolves around three core principles, in the belief that almost all non-traumatic illnesses will respond to these principles:

• Elimination of food and chemical sensitivities
• Alkalinisation and detoxification
• Balancing of hormones

Dr Emerson regularly lectures both within Australia and internationally on Nutritional and Environmental medicine. He also runs his own successful international medical conference. His mission is to provide people with the knowledge, tools and motivation to live a life of extraordinary health, vitality and longevity.

Using Fatty Acids for Reducing Joint Pain 

Rudy Silva 

Joint pain as experienced in arthritis occurs in both men and women. Osteoarthritis is the most common arthritis, but there are other types of arthritis:

* rheumatoid arthritis

* arthritis from lupus

* gout

* psoriatic arthritis

* reiter's disease

* infective arthritis

As you age, the constant movement of the joints creates wear and tear. Toxic wastes that circulate in the blood, dead cells, uric acid, inorganic acids and liquid can accumulate in the various joints and cause inflammation and pain.

Continual inflammation can cause damage to the joints. In some cases, the cartilage that coats the bone ends, wears down and joints then rub bone to
bone causing extreme pain. There are several conditions and lifestyles that contribute to arthritis:

* Obesity

* Diabetes

* Heredity

* Poor nutrition

* Poor digestion

* Lack of water

* Allergies

* Repetitive use of fingers, hands, legs or arms

* Body injuries - sports or accidents

Arthritis is a difficult disease to treat because there is usually more than one cause. Just working on one cause may not help enough to give pain relief. But it always helps to know the many things the contribute to arthritis so that different nutritional and lifestyles changes can be made.

The use of omega-3 is known to provide anti-inflammatory benefits. In my other fatty acid articles, I point out that the breakdown of omega-3 eventually produce prostaglandins. It is the prostaglandins that provide the anti-inflammatory relief.

So by using the omega-3, GLA, and EPA/DHA or Fish Oil supplements,
you can get some pain and inflammation relief from arthritis. This will prevent some damage from occurring in your joints. It is recommended that you use a good dose of,

* Borage oil

* Primrose oil

* NKO oil

* Fish oil

* Flax seed oil

Using these oils spread across the day provides the benefit of feeling reduce joint stiffness and pain in the morning. One additional benefit of using these oils is the coating protection that GLA has in your stomach lining.

The standard treatment for arthritis is the use of NSAIDs and COX-2 inhibitors. These, however, have undesirable side effects such as attacking the stomach lining. Thousands of deaths and visits to the emergency are associated with the use of NSAIDs. You can benefit greatly if you use NSAIDs by adding fatty acid oils to your diet.

By using fatty acid oils your can reduce arthritis pain and protect your stomach lining from acid attack.  

Rudy Silva has a degree in Physics and is a Natural Nutritionist. He writes a newsletter call "Natural Remedies Thatwork." For more information and remedies on arthritis and essential fatty acids, visit his web site at http://www.arthritis-remedies.for--you.info

Natural Arthritis Treatments as Complementary Medicine

Because arthritis can be such a painful condition to grapple with, and since many traditional medications have not been proven to be completely successful at alleviating the pain effectively, many arthritis sufferers are turning to natural arthritis treatments that they can use in conjunction with traditional therapies.

As a result of the interest in natural arthritis treatments, many doctors are becoming much more open to advising their patients on different types of natural arthritis treatments that have been proven effective for some arthritis patients in clinical trials. However, the field of holistic and natural medicine is an unregulated one, and care must be taken to ensure that you are not taken in by a scam or a quack that is more interested in making a quick buck than in helping you to manage your pain.

Types of Natural Treatments

There are a number of natural arthritis treatments that you can try for your symptoms, including dietary supplements, acupuncture, biofeedback, therapeutic massage and hypnosis. Another popular arthritis treatment is chiropractic therapy, which has been around for some time, and can help with a host of painful conditions, including arthritis.

Some arthritis sufferers have even turned to aromatherapy, hypnosis and meditation as a way to relax and ease the pain and stiffness that arthritis can bring. With so many natural arthritis treatments to choose from, it is tempting to jump right into the world of holistic healing and try every one to see which treatments will bring relief from the pain. However, it is prudent to exercise some caution and do your homework before you try out any natural arthritis treatment to ensure that the treatment and the professional administering it are both legitimate.

Your doctor can be a good source for natural arthritis treatments, especially if you are considering any types of herbal remedies or dietary supplements. It is important to make sure that these natural medications will not have a negative impact on your current medications that you might be taking. It is never a good idea to stop a traditional medicine in favor of an herbal one, but some herbal remedies can be effective when taken in conjunction with prescription medicines.

Your doctor can advise you as to which herbal remedies are safe, and how to know if you are purchasing one of good quality. It is also a good idea to talk to your doctor before seeing an acupuncturist, chiropractor or massage therapist, since your doctor can advise you as to which treatments might be most effective for you. He may even be able to provide a referral to a professional in the field that he has confidence in.

Natural arthritis treatments can be an effective complement to the traditional medications that you might already be taking. Talk to your doctor today about the best choices in natural arthritis treatments for you.

About the Author

Find more Helpful Arthritis Herbal Remedies tips, advice. A Popular website that specializes in tips and resources to include natural remedy for arthritis

Rheumatoid Arthritis - Nutrition & Environmental Medicine Fact File

About the Author

Dr Greg Emerson is the Founder and Medical Director of the Emerson Health and Wellness Centre which opened in October 2005. He is a consultant in Nutritional and Environmental medicine. He is also a senior specialist in Emergency Medicine and in Diving and Hyperbaric Medicine. For 18 years he practiced in several large public hospitals including a period of time as an Associate Professor of Emergency Medicine at a major trauma hospital in Canada and as the Director of a leading Diving and Hyperbaric Medicine Unit. He is a lecturer, examiner and current board member for the Australian College of Nutritional and Environmental Medicine and a past-examiner for the Australasian College of Emergency Medicine. A long personal battle with illness led him on a profound exploration of healing processes and the prevention of illness. He reappraised both his medical focus and the way he approached health care delivery.

He believes in the intrinsic ability of the body to heal itself if the underlying cause of the illness is addressed. His practice revolves around three core principles, in the belief that almost all non-traumatic illnesses will respond to these principles:

• Elimination of food and chemical sensitivities
• Alkalinisation and detoxification
• Balancing of hormones

Dr Emerson regularly lectures both within Australia and internationally on Nutritional and Environmental medicine. He also runs his own successful international medical conference. His mission is to provide people with the knowledge, tools and motivation to live a life of extraordinary health, vitality and longevity.

Home Remedies for Arthritis

According to the modern medical system, there is no cure for arthritis and the patient must learn to live with it. Naturopathy, however, believes in dietetic cure of the disease. Most chronic arthritis patients are heavy eaters and often take food furnishing 3,500 to 4,000 calories. As they cannot utilise all the starchy elements of this intake, toxins accumulate and an excessive acid waste results in the aggravation of prevalent joint condition. A low-calorie diet, consisting of about 2,000 calories with a minimum carbohydrate content, is advisable. The diet should, however, include an adequate amount of vitamins, calcium, phosphorus and iron.

The diet of the arthritis patient should be planned along alkaline lines and should include fruits and vegetables for protection and proteins and carbohydrates for energy. It may consist of a couple of fresh raw vegetables in the form of salad and at least two cooked vegetable, Cabbage, carrot, celery, cucumber, endive, lettuce, onion, radishes, tomato, and water cress maybe used for raw salad. The cooked vegetables may include asparagus, beets, cauliflower, cabbage, carrots, celery, brinjal, mushroom, onions, peas, spinach, squash, tomatoes and turnips.

In severe cases, it will be advisable to put the patient on vegetable juice therapy for about a week. Green juice, extracted from any green leafy vegetable mixed with carrot, celery and red beet juices, is specific for arthritis. The alkaline action of raw juices dissolves the accumulation of deposits around the joints and in other tissue. Fresh pineapple is also valuable as the enzyme in fresh pineapple juice, bromelain reduces swelling and inflammation in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Repeated juice fasts are recommended at intervals of every two months.

Certain foods are harmful for arthritis patients and these should be excluded from the diet. These include aerated waters of any kind, all cheese except cottage cheese, bacon, ham, sausages and preserved meats, pastries, cakes, pies, sweet buns and white bread, all salad dressings, all soups from meat stock, rice and white flour products. Candy, sweetmeats, sugar, ice cream, condiments, tea and coffee should also be avoided. Fruits permitted in arthritis are apples, lemons, oranges, banana, pears, the various berries, apricot, pineapple, plums and melons.

The raw potato juice therapy is considered one of the most successful biological treatment for rheumatic and arthritis conditions. It has been used in folk medicine for centuries. The old method of preparing potato juice was to cut the potato into thin slices, without peeling the skin, and place overnight in a large glass filled with cold water. The water should be drunk in the morning on an empty stomach. Fresh juice can also be extracted from potatoes and drunk, diluted with water on 50:50 basis first thing in the morning.

Garlic is another effective remedy for arthritis. It has shown to exhibit an anti-inflammatory property which could account for its effectiveness in the treatment of this disease.

The tea made from the herb alfalfa, especially that from its seeds has shown beneficial results in the treatment of arthritis. The patients benefit greatly by the alkalizing of food residues aided by this tea. Six or seven cups of this tea should be taken daily by arthritics for at least two weeks.

Vitamin A and D play an important role in warding off infections, thereby preventing arthritis. Orange, papaya, carrot, whole milk and butter, all green leafy vegetables, tomatoes and raw bananas are rich in Vitamin A Vitamin D is chiefly obtained from exposing the skin to natural sunshine. Sunlight is an important factor in the prevention of arthritis.

Constipation should be avoided as it poisons the system and adds to the irritations and inflammation of the joints. Light exercises such as walking, cycling and swimming are beneficial. Maintaining a normal body weight is also an important factor in preventing arthritis. Obesity places stress on weightbearing joints and interferes with the smooth funtioning of tendons, ligaments and muscles.

Source: http://www.healthguidance.org/authors/371/Krishan-Bakhru 

Krishan Bakhru

Krishan Bakhru is the editor of http://www.easyhomeremedy.com. 

Pay Attention to Those Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms! 

Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most common variations of arthritis, and it usually affects those between the ages of 25 and 55, most of them women. It's an autoimmune and systemic disease that gives rise to many rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and signs. The most overriding of all these symptoms is the unremitting pain and discomfort that sufferers experience on a regular basis, and which most often restrict their ability to move about freely and adversely affect their quality of life.  

Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms usually manifest themselves in the small joints of the feet and fingers, although they can appear in joints in other locations as well, such as the hips and knees. In autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, the immune system misfires and turns on healthy cells and tissues -- in this case, the synovium or the lining of the joints. Pain and inflammation are the most prominent results of this "friendly fire" by the immune system.  

The majority of patients awake to stiff and painful joints in the morning, which can last for an hour or more. A long period of inactivity or rest can also trigger this pain and stiffness. The disease usually affects more than just one joint and appears bilaterally or symmetrically. That is, a person can experience symptoms in the fingers of both her left and right hands or the toes of both her left and right feet. It becomes harder to move the affected joint in its full range of motion, and even the least amount of pressure on it can cause a lot of pain. Also, the skin covering the joint can become red and inflamed, and at times the patient can feel either a tingling sensation or numbness in her skin. A low-grade fever is common among sufferers of this disease.  

Small nodules or 'tophi' appear under the skin of about 25 percent of people with the disease. These lumps and bumps are about the size of a pea and are usually painless. They are the results of inflammation and scar tissue, and can appear in areas such as the arms, ankles, and elbows. Even though the tophi are not painful, they should not be dismissed because they could indicate other, more serious conditions than rheumatoid arthritis.  

Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic disease, meaning it affects not just the joints but many other parts of the body as well. Inflammation can occur in the lungs, giving rise to a condition called pleurisy. Inflammation of glands in the mouth and in the eyes can cause mouth dryness and eye irritation, also called Sjogren's syndrome. Inflammation can calso occur (though quite rarely) in the blood vessels and the pericardium, or the membrane enclosing the heart. Another complication of rheumatoid arthritis is anemia, where the bone marrow is unable to produce the adequate amount of red blood cells needed to keep it healthy.  

The disease does not only affect the body, many of the symptoms manifest themselves in psychological ways as well. For instance, patients complain of a feeling of listlessness or an overall feeling of not being well. This condition is also known by the term malaise. Getting tired easily, a feeling of fatigue, loss of appetite, and weight loss -- these are all rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and contribute greatly to the patient's perception of a reduction in her quality of life.  

It is important to remember that no two persons will have exactly the same symptoms. Just as each person's bodily make-up and metabolisms are different, so too will rheumatoid arthritis symptoms will become manifest in each individual. Some men and women experience sudden flare-ups of the disease, with the symptoms disappearing after several days or weeks while others will experience continuous pain and swelling for several years. Aside from the constant pain, long-term rheumatoid arthritis that is left untreated will lead to gross deformities and permanent joint damage.  

Knowing about the various rheumatoid arthritis symptoms will help each person be aware of what to look out for, especially if she is already predisposed to the disease. It will save the trouble and expense that could result from misdiagnosis and guesswork. A person who presents with one or more of these symptoms should seek immediate medical attention so that the progress of the disease can be slowed down or even halted at the earliest possible time.  

By: Trevor Mullholland

Source: http://www.healthguidance.org/authors/447/Trevor-Mulholland 

Arthritis

Avoiding colds and flu is what most of us have to worry about throughout winter, however people with arthritis are likely to dread the cooler months as they can cause a significant increase in pain and lead to reduced mobility.

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, and affects more than 1.3 million Australians. It is caused by the gradual wearing down of the cartilage that is found in all of the joints of the body, which is why it is often called "wear and tear" arthritis. The most common symptoms of osteoarthritis are pain, stiffness and reduced movement of the affected joints, it may also lead to disability, psychological stress, depression and a reduced quality of life.

Osteoarthritis can affect any joint in the body, however the joints that are most commonly affected are the fingers, hands, knees, hips and neck. The risk of developing osteoarthritis increases with age and is most common in people over the age of 45, although it can sometimes occur in people of a younger age.

It is not surprising, given the high prevalence and disabling symptoms of the condition that osteoarthritis is the 9^th most common reason for people to see a general practitioner. The standard medical approach to treating osteoarthritis involves the use of anti-inflammatory drugs and possibly surgery to replace the joint if it is badly affected.

Anti-inflammatory drugs have a very poor safety record, many cause an increase in the risk of bleeding within the digestive tract, a very serious and sometimes fatal condition, and others have been shown to cause an increase in the risk of heart attack. In 2004 the popular arthritis drug Vioxx was withdrawn from use due to research that showed an increase in heart attack and stroke in people taking the drug. Another popular arthritis drug Celebrex, which is still used by thousands of Australians each year to help manage the pain of osteoarthritis, has been shown to double the risk of heart attack and stroke. Given the chronic, long-term nature of the condition anti-inflammatory drugs are often used for long periods of time, further increasing the risks posed by these medications.

Glucosamine

Approximately 60% of Australians with osteoarthritis use dietary supplements to help manage their condition. Many of these people use glucosamine, either on its own or in combination with other ingredients such as chondroitin or anti-inflammatory herbal extracts.

Glucosamine is a naturally occurring compound found in many types of seafood and plant foods, which has a regenerating effect on the cartilage found in joints. It has been shown in clinical trials to reduce the symptoms of pain and swelling associated with osteoarthritis and also to reduce the severity of the condition if used long term. It is the only arthritis treatment that provides pain management and also improves the health of the joint tissue, thereby treating the cause of the condition. Doses of 500mg of glucosamine taken three times a day have been shown to be most effective. It is unclear whether being taken with chondroitin offers any additional benefits.

Supplements contain either the sulphate or hydrochloride form of glucosamine. While most of the research has been on the sulphate form, glucosamine hydrochloride has been shown to have similar therapeutic effects to the sulphate form. Some Australian supplements have been found to have lower levels of glucosamine then stated on their label, therefore it is important to always choose a reputable brand of glucosamine or ask your practitioner for a recommendation.

Other Treatments

In my practice I find combining therapeutic doses of glucosamine with anti-inflammatory herbs such as Turmeric, Devils claw, Rosemary and Ginger achieves a reduction in pain rapidly and if used long term also reduces the frequency and severity of all symptoms.

Nutritional supplements may also help with osteoarthritis, such as high dose fish oil and magnesium. However it is crucial for people with arthritis to improve the overall nutritional content of their diet and not just rely on supplements. As being overweight puts a huge amount of stress on your joints, it is also important to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. This can be the hardest part of any treatment program, but it is the one that has the most positive long-term health benefits.

I hope you have enjoyed this instalment of my blog. If you have any questions or requests for topics to be discussed on this blog please contact me at gerardelms@gmail.com

A Natural Remedy For Arthritis In Your Kitchen

Arthritis, whether it is osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, or gout, have the common symptoms of inflammation of one or more joints. This is accompanied by pain, swelling and sometimes joint deformity. Traditionally, with herbal medicine, anti-inflammatory herbs such as black cohosh, feverfew, yucca and wild yam were recommended. And a naturopath might prescribe vitamins like vitamin A, the B complex, vitamin C, and vitamin E. Plus a host of minerals like chelated zinc, chelated calcium and magnesium, copper salicylate, selenium and bromelain. And supplements like evening primrose and fish oils, glucosmaine, and superoxide dismutase, which is found in good quality dehydrated (but not juiced) green barley powder.

But scientists have found some very effective anti-inflammatory agents in our own kitchen. Some of them, like ginger, can be bought as a supplement. And due to ginger's strong taste, this might be a preferable way of taking it to get the quantities you need for a significant anti-inflammatory effect. But others, like olive oil, can easily be integrated into the daily diet. Cinnamon is not commonly used as a supplement here, but in India it has a rich traditional use and may be available as part of an Ayurvedic supplement.

Ginger.

One of the active constituents in ginger is a phenolic compound known as gingerols. These have been found to have a strong anti-inflammatory effect. In a study reported in the Osteoarthritis and Cartilage Journal, the participants who took the ginger compound had significantly less pain during movement than those who took the placebo. This study followed 29 people over 12 months, and also found that swelling in the knees was also reduced. However, if you are taking blood thinning medication like warfarin, you may need to be careful about the amount of ginger you take, as ginger can thin the blood also. (Australian Healthy Food).

Cinnamon.

This rather delicious spice has a number of health benefits. Specific to inflammation and arthritis, cinnamon can help inhibit the release of inflammatory fatty acids. (Australian Healthy Food).

Yellow and Orange Fruits and Vegetables.

Some of the carotenoids in yellow and orange fruit and vegetables help reduce inflammation. Carotenoids are what gives these vegetables and fruit their color. (Australian Healthy Food).

Olive Oil.

Extra virgin olive oil acts similar to the anti-inflammatory drug ibuprofen, though it doesn't have the immediate pain relieving effects that ibuprofen does. But a compund found in extra virgin olive oil, called oleocanthal has been found to inhibit the COX enzymes like ibuprofen, in what researchers describe as a 'dose dependant' manner. This research was originally reported in the September, 2005 issue of Nature magazine by Paul Breslin and his associates from Monell Chemical Senses Center. He describes oleocanthal as a natural anti-inflammatory compound that is potentially as strong as ibuprofen. He suggests that taken over the long term, it will have the same potential benefits that long term use of ibuprofen does. Their results found that taking 50 grams of extra virgin olive oil is equal to approximately 10% of the dosage of ibuprofen recommended for pain relief for adults. Olive oil also has a host of other benefits, including a heart protective effect.

Interestingly, scientists have also found that a diet high in refined grains, sugary soft drinks, processed meat and even diet soft drinks can encourage both inflammation and type 2 diabetes.

Source: http://www.healthguidance.org/authors/144/Rebecca-Prescott 

Rebecca Prescott

Rebecca Prescott provides information about popular supplements with a philosophy that is grounded in getting your body working to its optimum. And if you're looking for a natural supplement to boost metabolism, be sure to check out this article at http://www.vitaminstohealth.com for some of nature's little helpers.