Treating Osteoarthritis Without Drugs
Author: MarkJohn Total views: 12 Word Count: 927
Osteoarthritis is considered the most common form of arthritis and the one most often found in seniors. It is estimated that 20 million Americans have arthritis, and the annual societal cost is close to $95 billion. Osteoarthritis is also more common among women than among men.
Although age is an obvious factor in many cases of osteoarthritis, it's also very clear that there are other areas of concern, such as sports injuries, or perhaps a previous auto accident, Any previous injury, broken bone etc. can become a contributing factor in later life to one's osteoarthritis condition. Obesity is a worrying problem in our modern world and has a significant effect on those suffering with OA. Osteoarthritis is most commonly found in the hands, knees, hips and back.
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.
It is unclear whether excess weight influences OA or whether OA contributes to obesity, either way it is clear that losing excess weight can only help one's osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis is unfortunately an on going condition
Osteoarthritis isn't typically thought of as an inflammatory disease, but researchers have found that people with osteoarthritis have higher levels of inflammatory cells in their joints than are found in the joints of people who don't have osteoarthritis.
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 a variable disease, as there are many different types, affecting different joints, and is considered a progressive disease that worsens over time. Patients can develop other symptoms such as loss of movement, stiffness and swelling in the hip and snapping of the hip.
The Inevitable Deterioration of the Joint
OA will eventually begin to destroy the cartilage, which can cause the area around the affected joint to become inflamed, the inflammation in some cases might resemble rheumatoid arthritis.
The inflammation is usually brought on by broken cartilage fragments drifting in to the synovial space. Excessive swelling of the joint can cause problems and restrict movement.
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.
At the hip and knee, an uncomplicated joint replacement has only around an 85% chance of still being intact and functioning after 15 years, however replacement joint surgery may be necessary in severe cases.
Exercise Helps Relieve Osteoarthritis
Low impact exercising is not thought to be damaging to those suffering with OA, In most cases simple exercising is encouraged as a way of re-gaining some mobility in an effected joint, an ongoing exercise program can also help to strengthen the area around the joint, which aids support. Exercising on a regular basis is known to be beneficial for numerous reasons, apart from OA.
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.
Arthritis Supplements are Not Regulated by the FDA
More and More dietary supplements are appearing on the market, associated with gout and indeed all forms of arthritis, however many are not regulated or evaluated by the Food and Drug administration and therefore one should always take care, ingredients may not always be what they say.
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!
Drink as much filtered water on a daily basis as you can, you should aim to consume around 2 litres a day where possible. Drinking excessive amounts of water helps remove the harmful toxins trapped in the body, and can ultimately help relieve symptoms of arthritis. Avoid using water straight from the tap as it will probably contain heavy metal deposits, which are also damaging to the bones.
Fresh fruit is known to be a great natural anti-oxidant, especially apples and fresh berries, (avoid citrus fruits).Foods which are known to be beneficial to those suffering with OA might include, Fish that typically contain the highest levels of vitamin E and Omega-3 fatty acids.
Natural alternatives to treating one's arthritis, whichever type you have, do exist and may be far more effective than the aggressive prescribed drugs used to treat the condition. Alternative treatments or approaches tackle the underlying problems associated with arthritis, not just the symptoms. Why not try a natural approach to your condition, most only involve simple life changes, it has to be better than the harsh drugs your doctor's prescribed.
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Author: Mark John can help you cure your own arthritis quickly & without drugs, for details of his Unique 30 Day Arthritis Cure visit I Cured my Arthritis Naturally in Under a Month
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