Friday, October 31, 2008

Real Alternative Osteoarthritis Treatments

By Mark John

Studies indicate Osteoarthritis as being the most prevalent type of arthritis. Millions of people livig in the western world are reported to suffer with arthritis, with an annual cost thought to be close to $95 billion. Research has discovered that Osteoarthritis is far more common among women, with less of the male population being effected.

Although osteoarthritis can be linked to age, other risk factors may be evident, such as previous injury or trauma. Unfortunately for today's society, with its ever expanding waistline, obesity can have a detrimental effect on osteoarthritis especially in the load bearing joints. Osteoarthritis symptoms will in most cases attack one's hands, back, knees and very commonly their hips

OA is however far less common in the shoulder area than in other joints, however it can develop in the shoulder joint (the glenohumeral joint). In such cases, it is most often associated with a previous injury, and patients gradually develop pain and stiffness in the back of the shoulder. Some of the factors contributing to disease susceptibility include genetics, body mass, previous history of trauma to a major limb, occupational influences, and immobilization.

Being overweight is a modern day epidemic, one witch can have serious consequences for all of us especially arthritics suffering with osteoarthritis. Losing those excess pounds will lessen the strain on the load bearing joints, which in turn will help one's OA.

Osteoarthritis is unfortunately an on going condition

Recent research has discovered that although OA is not classed as an inflammatory condition, arthritics afflicted with osteoarthritis do in many cases have some of the same characteristics as those suffering with rheumatoid arthritis, namely an unusually high number of inflammatory cells found in and around the affected joint.

OA as we know is a very common and unfortunately an on going condition, which does tend to kick in as our body's get older, however more recently reported cases of OA indicate the conditions apparent rise amongst a younger population, which is set to become a significant health issue in the near future. So, while it is still true to say that OA is more prevalent with age, it is not true to describe osteoarthritis as an inevitable part of growing older.

Osteoarthritis is not just one disease, in fact OA is actually a term used to describe many joint de-generation disease, which may appear in many different joint areas, some cases of OA are without doubt very aggressive and quickly worsen with time. Arthritics suffering with OA may experience a wide range of symptoms depending on the severity of their condition.

Joint Deterioration

The breaking up of the cartilage can cause Inflammation of the surrounding joint capsule, though often mild, compared to that which occurs in rheumatoid arthritis.

The swelling is brought on by tiny pieces of the damaged bone finding its way in to the synovial space. Many severe cases of swelling attributed to OA may impair joint mobility.

The effects of osteoarthritis are normally felt at their worst in the morning or last thing at night. With a progressive condition such as OA, surgery is usually the inevitable end result especially in older arthritics, younger patients will normally only be offered joint replacement in exceptional circumstances.

A typical hip or knee joint replacement although common, still only has an 85% chance of being in full functioning condition after around 15 years, Having said that a joint replacement may sometimes be the only avenue to go down, especially in severe cases where mobility has become an issue.

Exercise Helps Relieve Osteoarthritis

Exercising can be very beneficial for those suffering with osteoarthritis, but only at sensible levels which do not put undue strain or pressure on the effected joint. Using exercise is a great way of increasing movement and function of arthritic joints, over time and a sensible exercise programme it is possible to strengthen the tissue, muscle and tendons around the joint, which will help support the damaged joint. Exercising is also great for the rest of the body.

Remember one should always talk to a physician about what types of exercise would appropriate for one's particular condition. A health care professional will be able to recommend an appropriate exercise program.

Not All Arthritis Supplements are Regulated by the FDA

Don't be tempted in to taking supplements that promise the earth, yes they just might work for you, however unless they are governed by the FDA (Food and Drug administration) who knows what your taking, you may end up with a container full of capsules containing nothing more than, ground rock and chalk. Only use FDA approved products.

Treat Arthritis The Natural Way

In many cases arthritis drugs carry so many side effects, and occasionally make the condition worse, not better. Many old and indeed new alternative treatments exist which have been shown to relieve arthritis, I believe they work by tackling the underlying elements of the condition (even in OA)

Remove the Harmful Toxins - and Start Feeling Better!

Drinking large amounts of water daily is a great and easy way of flushing out the damaging debris and toxins which build up in the body. Removing these trapped toxins can have a fantastic effect on most forms of arthritis, including OA. Try to drink filtered or mineral water as opposed to tap water, this is mainly due to the fact that ordinary tap water tends to contain heavy metal.

Eat lots of fruit, make it part of your everyday routine, most fresh fruit contain natures best antioxidant, most fruit will help one's arthritis, However avoid the citrus variety. Other food which is known to be beneficial to many suffering with OA are oily fish which contain high levels of fatty acids and vitamin E.

Treating your own OA, or any arthritic condition, naturally and without drugs may seem a bit of a daunting task, but from experience i can tell you that there's nothing easier. Alternative treatments or just simple little life changes can and do make a difference, take them seriously and you really can relieve your condition. There are many free sites on the web dedicated to natural treatments, why not take a look. - 16004

About the Author: