Natural Remedies for Arthritis - Try These Before Using Medication

There are various natural remedies for arthritis. Arthritis is a muscular disorder that affects muscles and joints. Symptoms of this condition include limited joint movement, inflammation and joint pain. The inflamed joint is red, swollen and warm to touch.

In every joint, there is a lubricating fluid inside the protective capsule. The smooth and slippery cartilage is responsible for the easy, fluid movement of the joints. If the cartilage lost due to a degenerative process, narrowed or damaged, the joints get inflamed and movement becomes painful. Most people suffer from this condition with aging. Signs of this disease become evident in most above the age of 50. With usage over a period of time, degeneration of joints takes place naturally.

Managing this is easy with a combination of rest, exercise, medication, nutrition, weight management and in extreme cases, surgery. This condition is diagnosed by doctors through x-rays and blood tests after which the best treatment method is worked out.

This disease can stay with you through your life and with the right treatment and lifestyle changes, it can be effectively managed. For this, it is important to have the support of friends and family and a positive outlook.

This complex disorder can affect at any stage of life. There are many different types of this disease including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid, juvenile rheumatoid, infectious and gout. Two of the most common types include osteoarthritis and rheumatoid.

Osteoarthritis causes stiffness and pain in the joints. Rheumatoid on the other hand mainly affects the joints and is a long lasting disease. Swelling in the joints is caused by the immune system. The surrounding cartilage and tissues are damaged when the inflammation spreads.

Children are affected by juvenile rheumatoid arthritis which is characterized by swelling, stiffness, pain and loss of joint function. The cause of this autoimmune disease is unknown and this condition is not hereditary.

When uric acid crystals resembling needles deposit in the joints, the patient suffers from pain in the joint, swelling and inflammation. This condition is known as gout and it mainly affects the knee, ankle and foot.

Infectious agents such as viruses and bacteria also cause this disease. Joint damage can be minimized with early diagnosis and treatment for infection.

Fibromyalgia causes pain in hips, spine, neck, head, shoulders and elbows. Patients suffering from this condition experience severe pain and the affected areas are highly sensitive to touch. Symptoms of this condition include stiffness, disturbed sleep and fatigue.

Other types of this disease include Ankylosing Spondylitis, Tendonitis and Bursitis, Lupus and Polymyalgia Rheumatica.By Jim Bessios

Stem Cell Therapy For Osteoarthritis: What is the Data?

In the last few years, a number of methods have been developed to repair cartilage damage. These include osteochondral transplantation, microfracture surgery and autologous chondrocyte (cartilage cell) implantation.

A feature common to all of these techniques is that they are limited to the repair of focal lesions. Patients with OA are excluded from treatment.

OA cartilage lesions are usually larger and unconfined and so do not provide an appropriate environment for chondrocytes to be retained long enough to build a framework (matrix).

So...successful repair of OA cartilage damage is dependent on the ability to form a matrix within the joint.

Effective cartilage engineering protocols have already been developed in which chondrocytes in young animal models have been shown to be effective in creating cartilage.

Generating cartilage using adult human cartilage cells is far more challenging. Older OA patients have cartilage that is less responsive to stem cell stimulation and their stem cells seem to respond less well to the usual growth factors.

There are three potential avenues for obtaining stem cells. The first are embryonic stem cells which have the attraction of being relatively pristine. However, political and ethical interests have made this source of stem cells unobtainable. Plus, there is the theoretical possibility that theses stem cells may grow unchecked leading to unregulated growth, ie cancer.

A second source are mesenchymal stem cells grown in a laboratory from normal volunteers. While carefully screened for diseases and genetic problems, these stem cells do carry the potential for possible rejection reactions.

Finally, the last source and the one that seems to have the most promise- at least for now- are autologous stem cells. These are stem cells harvested from the iliac crest of the patient.

Autologous stem cells provide an attractive option for osteoarthritis patients and their clinicians. However it must also be recognized that autologous therapies are expensive. Ideally, it would be good to treat the specimen obtained from the iliac crest to growth factors, cytokines, and chemokines, to stimulate an increase in the number of stem cells.

However, both governmental regulations as well as sterility concerns preclude this step.

In addition, the search for better matrix production to allow stem cells a "home" to grow in and multiply is still being studied.

There have been a few clinical trials that have demonstrated some promise. The first comes from Murdoch University in Australia.

Working with Australia's adult stem cell company, Mesoblast Limited (ASX:MSB), the University's pre-clinical trials of Mesoblast's patented adult stem cells had shown the therapy to significantly protect cartilage against damage in knee osteoarthritis.

The project's principal investigator, Professor Rick Read stated, "We are delighted with the significant cartilage protective effects of Mesoblast's allogeneic (donor unrelated) cells in our large animal model of knee osteoarthritis, without any adverse events of the cells at all."

Mesoblast's cartilage trials evaluated the effectiveness and safety of the company's allogeneic adult stem cells to treat osteoarthritis of the knee in 48 arthritic sheep joints.

The results showed that osteoarthritic sheep knee joints receiving Mesoblast's stem cells had significantly greater thickness of joint cartilage, reduced cartilage breakdown, and greater biomechanical strength three months later than did control joints receiving hyaluronic acid.

In another study, Duke University Medical Center researchers have "reprogrammed" adult stem cells taken from a small deposit of fat behind the kneecap into functioning cartilage, bone, or fat cells that could potentially be grown into replacement tissues for osteoarthritis.

The research team has provided evidence that stem cells taken from different adult sources have the potential to be transformed into multiple specialized cell types.

In the current study, the researchers took the fat pads from patients whose knee joints were removed during total joint replacement surgery. The fat pad is a dense structure behind the patella, or kneecap that is unlike typical fat tissue found throughout the body.

They were able to isolate and grow adult stem cells from this tissue.

According to scientists at Cardiff University, stem cells identified in their studies can be turned into cartilage cells (chondrocytes) in huge quantities. This may mean that limitations in cartilage transplants, in which healthy cartilage cells are collected and transplanted into a damaged joint, could be overcome.

However, despite recent media reports that heralded the identification of these stem cells as a breakthrough in the treatment of osteoarthritis, this research is currently only being considered to treat people with limited cartilage damage only.

Dr. Nathan Wei states, "Our current understanding of stem cell biology is obviously not where it needs to be. However, early work at our center using autologous stem cells obtained from iliac crest bone marrow and then concentrated has shown very promising results in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. It is important to comment on the fact that prior to introduction of the stem cells, irritation of the cartilage and adjacent capsule is important to initiate an inflammatory response which then leads to cell proliferation which is an essential part of healing and subsequent cartilage regeneration."

Dr. Wei adds, "For sure, though, I feel that this approach which is relatively painless will prove to be more effective than other therapies we currently have for osteoarthritis." 

Author: Nathan Wei

Arthritis Relief and Your Diet

Arthritis affects more than 40 million Americans and is referred to as the most common chronic disease in people over 40. Doctors believe there are over 100 different forms of arthritis, all sharing
one main characteristic: they all cause joint inflammation.
What can you do to relieve the symptoms of arthritis? A lot.
There is a great deal of debate in the medical world about the effects of overall
diet on arthritis and using diet toward alleviating the condition. Doctors have known for a long time that diet affects gout, a specific type of arthritic condition, however the jury remained out for a long time on other
common types of arthritis such as rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. What is known however, is that overall dietary health is important and does come into play. Weight and nutrition are two factors that play a role in arthriticpain.
Being overweight can affect certain arthritic conditions, forcing some joints to carry more of a load. This added weight stresses the joints, causing overuse or more wear to components, and pain, especially in the knees.
If you suffer from arthritis make sure you eat good foods and get help from healthcare providers to create and follow a well-balanced dietary plan.
To begin with, here are some vitamins, minerals, foods, supplements and herbal applications to consider.
Vitamins that have shown to reduce tissue swelling or provide relief include Vitamins B5, B6, B12, the antioxidant vitamins C and E, and vitamin K, which improves bone health.
Several independent studies have found that rheumatoid arthritis patients given increased doses of zinc showed marginal improvement. Other minerals to consider include Boron, Calcium, Magnesium, Manganese (not to be taken with calcium), Copper, Germanium and Sulfur.
The National Institutes of Health is studying the food supplements, glucosamine and chondroitin, for use in relieving symptoms of pain and stiffness for some persons with osteoarthritis.
Patients with osteoarthritis taking blood-thinners should be careful taking chondroitin as it can increase the blood-thinning and cause excessive bleeding.Fish oil supplements have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties.Increasing dietary fish intake or fish oil capsules (omega 3 capsules) can relieve
inflammatory conditions like arthritis. For more information, see Omega 3 Fats
Glutathione is an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties and can be safely boosted by consuming its precursors available in the supplements, N-Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC) or undenatured whey protein.
For more information, see Glutathione.
Quercetin is also known to help reduce inflammation, while Type II Collagen plays a role in growth and repair of joints, articular cartilage and connective tissue. Because of the risk in overdosing, one should be discouraged from taking doses of vitamins that are higher than recommended without a physician's direction.
Some vitamins and minerals can actually worsen certain conditions, and the concentration that can be attained through vitamins can be dangerous. It is always better to increase in vitamin or mineral intake through your normal diet.
Foods To Avoid
There are many factors to consider with regards to arthritic diets and nutritional healing, and each factor may not apply to each individual. For example, certain people are allergic to specific foods, and these allergies
can indeed worsen arthritic conditions. The best way to approach the situation is to examine each arthritic condition and tailor one's approach based upon the specifics.
Ingesting foods that contain sodium nitrate or tartrazine can inflame rheumatoid arthritis, while ingesting foods containing a substance called hydrazine can contribute to an arthritic condition connected to lupus.
Black walnuts can cause flare-ups in people a rare type of arthritis called Behcet's Disease.
With osteoarthritis, deterioration of cartilage is a concern. Since there is some evidence that Vitamin A, contributes to cartilage deterioration, those with osteoarthritis should avoid large doses of it.  Although clinical proof is not available, anecdotal evidence suggests that in the case of fibromyalgia, eliminating wheat, dairy, citrus, sugar, aspartame (Nutrasweet), alcohol, caffeine, and tobacco can provide relief.
Many nutritionists and naturopaths suggest that those suffering with rheumatoid arthritis avoid dairy products all together, as they seem to exacerbate rheumatoidarthritis flare-ups.
The report "ICured My Arthritis You Can Too" suggests that white flour aggravatesarthritis symptoms.
Disclaimer: The information here is not provided by medical professionals and is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. Please consult your physician before beginning any course of treatment.
By: Priya Shah

Arthritis Advice That Everyone Should Read About

Arthritis is not a laughing matter as symptoms can start at any point in your life. It causes joint problems that can inhibit daily activity.

Reduce the amount of weight you carry around with you on a daily basis. All arthritis sufferers, but especially women, can be afflicted by arthritis in their shoulders. Large shoulder handbags, computer bags, and messenger bags are common causes of inflamed neck and shoulder problems. Carry a bag which only has items you cant go out without, and take it off your shoulder as often as possible.

If you have been diagnosed with arthritis, a massage could really help you out. Massages will soothe stress and relax your muscles. Find a massage therapist who has experience working with arthritic individuals. Avoid getting a massage on days when your pain is at higher levels, since it will only aggravate your pain. It is best to wait until another day.

Arthritis pain can make sleep difficult. Try taking a bath with warm water and soothing bath salts. With the relaxation that follows, your pain will be alleviated, thus contributing to longer periods of sound sleep.

A steamy bath or shower can work wonders in instantly easing the pain and discomfort of arthritis. Moist heat relaxes tendons and muscles, and provides temporary relief of arthritis pain. A heating pad may also do the trick. Find heating pads that can accommodate a moist cloth in many drug stores.

Stop using cigarettes if you want to reduce the pain and

inflammation that commonly comes with arthritis. Research has indicated that smokers have more issues with joint swelling and pain related to arthritis than nonsmokers. If you regularly smoke or use tobacco products, kicking the habit may alleviate some of the pain. If you have tried to quit and have failed, speak to your doctor about getting a prescribed medication to help kick the habit.

Keep a notebook to record pain, flare ups and the elements that may affect them. Write down when you feel the worst, how bad the pain is, what activities you were engaged in, what you eat, and that treatment you use. Write down other medications you are taking, take this to your physician. All these things your doctor should know so he can better help manage your arthritis.

Customize your bed to minimize arthritis symptoms. Speak with your doctor, and ask his or her advice as to which bed would best benefit you. Everybody is different, and getting an experts advice is one of the ways to really find out the kind of bed that is best for you and the unique arthritis pain you have.

Be sure to share your circumstances with others. If they know you have it and how it makes you feel, they will be more understanding when you choose not to do certain things. Arthritis is painful, and people in pain may be grouchy, frustrated, and overall unpleasant. People may feel confused by your mood swings and irritability. Let them help you by understanding what you are going through, and let them support you and all that you have to go through.

Dont abuse your joints. With arthritis, some of the smallest tasks can hurt. You could always slide items across the counter or on the floor instead of lifting them, or you could always ask people for help. The best thing you can do to prevent pain is to prevent irritation and inflammation.

A good treatment can help ease pain, decrease your arthritic symptoms and prevent further joint damage. Research the best methods for decreasing the specific symptoms of your arthritis.

You should do your best to manage your weight in order to reduce the amount of strain that you feel on your joints if you suffer from arthritis. Joints are under more stress and arthritiss effects are more severe if the sufferer is even a little bit overweight. There are other health benefits associated with managing your weight.

Temperature changes from heating pads and ice packs can help fight joint pain. For the best results, alternate between the hot and cold applications. Always check with your physician for a pain management strategy when using cold and heat for pain.

If you believe you are experiencing symptoms of arthritis, you should immediately visit your doctor. An early diagnosis can benefit you greatly if you start a treatment plan right away. This also means you will endure less joint damage and pain. If your doctor is ignoring your symptoms, find another.

Relaxing your body and eliminating stress can help to control your arthritis symptoms. When you are stressed out, your body produces chemicals that make body pain worse and trigger inflammation. Consider practicing new time management techniques or adding a light exercise routine to your daily routine to reduce the effects of stress.

Always be prepared. Because arthritis pain can strike at any time, having a game plan to deal with your pain will benefit you. Do your chores in sections that allow you to rest frequently, or even stop indefinitely without inconvenience.

You have to take extra care to get enough sleep if you have arthritis. If your day has been really hectic, take several breaks to help you relax your body and mind. This can greatly soothe joint pain. Being inactive for too long will cause your joints to deteriorate faster. Try to keep a good balance between sleeping, resting and being active. This will help to reduce arthritis pain.

Rheumatoid arthritis is no laughing matter, but if you want to manage it effectively, laughter is one of your best strategies. Most experts agree on the medicinal value of laughter and how it can improve moods, reduce stress and alleviate the symptoms of any condition, including arthritis. Take a break from your day and watch some comedic television, read a funny book or find other things that make you laugh and feel good.

LED light therapy makes a great treatment for pain from arthritis. You can get affordable LED lights easily, and you will notice a reduction in your pain level. Most drug stores and department stores carry these devices. Using your light for two 20-minute sessions a day will help to reduce arthritis pain.

Reorganizing your home to allow easy access to items is a good idea if you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. Prioritize objects when putting them on shelves. Put the necessities you use most lower down so that you do not stress your body when you have flare ups.

Be on the lookout for the development of new treatments. Often times, doctors are hesitant to change a treatment that is already working well for the patient. Remember that you have the final say over the treatment of your body, so dont hesitate to bring up new treatments you are interested in trying with your doctor.

Sleep deprivation will make arthritis worse so even if it is only a nap, get enough sleep each day. Even if you must set an appointment to nap, getting enough rest should be a priority.

If you have arthritis, the first thing you should do is speak to a physician about your treatment options for pain and inflammation. Usually, all you can do about arthritis is avoid additional damage, and come up with a way to treat the pain that is effective and safe. Your doctor can advise you and make recommendations for FDA approved medications and treatments and even new ideas that can possibly help in your particular case.

Have you noticed the correlation between your arthritis flaring up and the state of your body being overheated? If this is happening to you, take a break and cool down. Stop exercising and sit down in a cool shaded spot.

Vegetarian people seem to suffer less from arthritis than other people. Even if you arent a vegetarian, try eating more vegetables. Antioxidant rich foods, such as green beans or peas, will strengthen your joints. Try to eat these vegetables as part of a balanced diet.

Yoga classes can really boost your health, flexibility and stamina. Yoga incorporates many stretches, which calms your mind. This helps anyone dealing with arthritis. You can start out with a yoga DVD if you arent ready to join a class in person. Fitness DVDs offer almost the same level of interaction as a class right in your living room.

Dont let yourself stress out too much. When dealing with lot of stress it can trigger inflammation that causes a lot of pain. Try to get control of your stress so you can control your body more clearly.

The pain of arthritis will cause you to seek new ways of treating the pain and complications that come with it. You can assess the effectiveness of treatments by rating the pain on the scale of 1-10 before and after the treatment. You will then be able to subjectively measure the effectiveness of the new technique or treatment by comparing the level of pain before and after.

By staying consistent in the battle against arthritis, one can be afflicted with the disease and still live a happy, productive life. The key is not letting it pull you down emotionally as well as physically. There are items that can help you manage or fight of the pain and condition. When you keep your head up, you can overcome this.

By MAXIMO SLOSTAD