Dr John Anne asked:

Arthritis is a common term for an illness that covers a broad spectrum that comprises more than one hundred illnesses. The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is the most common, while rheumatoid arthritis is the second most common. Rheumatoid arthritis, however, is the most severe form of arthritis.

What are the Symptoms of Rheumatoid arthritis?

How do you know which type of arthritis you have? There are certain symptoms present for different types of arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms include:

Paleness

Appetite loss

Low-grade fever

Range of motion is limited

Numbness or Tingling Sensations

Redness of skin

Inflammation of skin

Hand and foot deformities

Swollen glands

Nodules under the skin - round and painless

Pleurisy - inflammation of the lungs

Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms can vary - and can include any of the above symptoms or all of the above symptoms. Different symptoms may be apparent at different stages of the disease. Consulting a physician with a list of your known symptoms can help you discover if rheumatoid arthritis is the type of arthritis you have.

Active and Inactive

Rheumatoid arthritis is a form of arthritis that can occur in stages. Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms can be active or inactive. When the symptoms are inactive, the patient is in remission - and can have long periods of time with no symptoms present.

Signs of a flare-up can include:

Fatigue

Aches in muscles and joints

Stiffness in joints

Low-grade fever can be present

Appetite loss

Joints can become red, swollen, painful, and tender

During a flare-up of rheumatoid arthritis symptoms, your daily routine can become severely limited. Things that you take for granted, like opening doors, opening jars, and sometimes, even walking, become too painful. At times like these, it is important that you understand that it is okay to let others help you.

Remission can occur at any time - there is no rhyme or reason. The symptoms can disappear at any time - and they can begin again at any time. Sometimes, the remission may last a few days and others times, it may last a few months.

Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment

As with any medical illness, you should consult your physician for diagnosis. Once you have shared your rheumatoid arthritis symptoms with your physician, he/she may suggest tests - including blood tests and x-rays of your joints. Your physician uses the results of these tests, along with your symptoms in order to make a diagnosis.

Once a diagnosis has been made, you should discuss your choices with your physician. There is no known cure for rheumatoid arthritis - but many people have effectively managed to control rheumatoid arthritis symptoms by eating healthy, maintaining a healthy weight, and exercising regularly. It is very important to maintain your overall health - physically and mentally - in order to manage rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. One very important thing to remember is that even if your rheumatoid arthritis is in remission and you have not shown any symptoms for months, it is important to maintain your healthy way of life. You should maintain your exercise routine in order to keep the muscles around your joints strong so that when your joints need to rely a little more on the muscles, the muscles will be able to carry the load.

Before you use medicine to treat your rheumatoid arthritis, you should educate yourself as much as possible. Learn all you can about the possible side effects, how the medication interacts with other drugs and foods, and how the medication will affect your daily life. For some people, controlling rheumatoid arthritis symptoms with medication may be the answer. Others may choose not to take the risks associated with the medications available for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

For those who choose not to take that risk, there are many natural treatments that help to control rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. There are many herbal remedies that can be ingested to help ease the symptoms - and many herbal remedies that can be used as massaging oils and liniments to help ease the pain and inflammation of the joints. Many home remedies have been effective for people for years - the key is to find the one that will work for you.

Peter rodrick asked:

Arthritis is one of the most enveloping diseases in the United States and is the leading source of disability. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention one out of every three Americans is affected by one of the more than 100 sorts of arthritis. Arthritis merely means a aching condition of the joints. There are different kinds of the disease - many seditious and others more degenerative in nature. Across the world there are 350 million people bears from the constant joint inflammation of Arthritis. In US the number goes to the 37 to 40 million. All of us be familiar with that there must the joint pain that is accompanied by the arthritis

Arthritis symptoms

Ache and inflexibility in the joints, anaemia, colitis

The main symptoms of osteoarthritis are ache and firmness in the joints. The pain frequently increases after work out. Rheumatoid arthritis is often called the ‘cooked food ailment’. lt regularly develops gradually over several months, with persistent pain and stiffness in one or additional joints. Finally the whole body is affected. Symptoms contain anaemia, colitis, constipation, deformed hands and feet.

Root of Arthritis

Structural changes in articular cartilage in the joint

Osteoarthritis results from structural changes in the articular cartilage in the joints, frequently those which are weight-bearing, such as the spine and knees.

Hormonal disparity, physical and emotional strain

Rheumatoid arthritis is due to an soreness of the synovium or lining of the joints. This is accompanied by puffiness and eventually leads to irregularity. The situation may be caused by hormonal disparity, physical and emotional stress, infection, cruel fright, shock, and injury.

Genetics

Family factors may also be responsible for the onset of this disease

Home Remedies for Arthritis

1. Arthritis treatment by means of Potato Juice

The raw potato juice treatment is considered one of the most victorious biological treatments for rheumatic and arthritic situations. It has been used in folk medicine for over centuries. The conventional technique of preparing potato juice is to cut a medium-sized potato into thin slices, without peeling the skin, and put the slices overnight in a big glass filled with cold water. The water should be drunk in the sunrise on an empty stomach.. A medium-sized potato must be diluted with a cup of water and drunk first thing in the morning.

2. Arthritis treatment with Other Raw Juices

One cup of green juice, extracted from any green leafy vegetable, diverse in equal size with carrot, celery, and red beet juices is superior for arthritis. The alkaline action of raw juices dissolves the gathering of deposits around the joints and in extra tissues. A cup of fresh pineapple juice is also precious, as the enzyme bromelain in fresh pineapple juice reduces swelling and inflammation in osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

3. Arthritis treatment via Sesame Seeds

A teaspoon of black sesame seeds, drenched in a quarter cup of water and kept overnight, has been found to be efficient in preventing frequent joint pains. The water in which the seeds are soaked must also be taken along with the seeds first thing in the morning

4. Arthritis treatment by means of Copper

Drinking water kept overnight in a copper container accumulates traces of copper, which is said to build up the muscular system. A copper ring or bracelet is worn for the same cause.

5. Arthritis treatment with Calcium

Studies have exposed that calcium can help arthritis. Several patients have discovered that joint pains have either been reassured or have disappeared entirely after taking calcium. This mineral must be taken in the form of calcium lactate. Two teaspoons of calcium lactate, each teaspoon providing 400 mg of absorbable calcium, may be taken three times each day in water, before meals for at least four months.

6. Arthritis treatment via Garlic

Garlic is an additional successful remedy for arthritis. It contains an anti-inflammatory property, which accounts for its efficiency in the treatment of this disease. Garlic may be taken raw or cooked according to person preference

7. Arthritis treatment via Bananas

Bananas, being a rich source of vitamin B6, have proved helpful in the treatment of arthritis. A diet of merely bananas for three or four days is advised in treating this situation. The patient may eat eight or nine bananas daily throughout this period and nothing else.

8. Arthritis treatment with Lime

Lime has also been found useful as a home remedy for arthritis. The citric acid found in lime is a solvent of uric acid, which is the chief cause of some types of arthritis. The juice of one lime, diluted with water, may be taken once a day, if possible first thing in the morning.

9. Arthritis treatment with Alfalfa

A tea made from the herb alfalfa, particularly from its seeds, has shown useful results in the treatment of arthritis. One teaspoon of alfalfa seeds might be added to one cup of water. Three to four cups of this tea must be taken daily by arthritics for at least two weeks.

10. Arthritis treatment by means of Green Gram Soup

Another home remedy found helpful in relieving pains in the joints is the use of green gram soup. This soup must be prepared by mixing a tablespoon of green gram in a cup of water, with two crushed garlic cloves. It must be taken two times a day

11. Arthritis treatment via Castor Oil

Treatment with castor oil has been found helpful in arthritis. The process, as prescribed by a Spanish doctor, is to boil two tablespoons of castor oil over a stove burner. The oil must then be poured into a glass of fresh orange juice and taken before breakfast each day till the disease is cured. It was advised to patients to take it for three weeks, stay for another three weeks and then do it again for another three weeks. It is, though, essential that the patient must take an alkaline diet while adopting this form of treatment otherwise the value of the treatment will be gone.

12. Arthritis treatment via Coconut or Mustard Oil

Warm coconut oil or mustard oil, mixed with two or three pieces of camphor must be massaged on rigid and aching joints. It will amplify blood supply, and decrease inflammation and stiffness with the calm warmth produced while massaging

Juliet Cohen asked:

Arthritis is a group of conditions where there is damage caused to the joints of the body. Arthritis is one of the most prevalent chronic health problems and the nation’s leading cause of disability among Americans over age 15. Arthritis is a common condition that affects an estimated 8 million people in the UK. Arthritis involves the breakdown of cartilage. Cartilage normally protects the joint, allowing for smooth movement. Arthritis is second only to heart disease as a cause of work disability. Many of the forms of arthritis, because they are rheumatic diseases, can cause symptoms affecting various organs of the body that do not directly involve the joints. There are many forms of arthritis (over 100 and growing). The forms range from those related to wear and tear of cartilage (such as osteoarthritis) to those associated with inflammation resulting from an overactive immune system. Arthritis is classified as one of the rheumatic diseases. Women - 24.3 million of the people with doctor-diagnosed arthritis. Men - 17.1 million of the people with doctor-diagnosed arthritis.

Arthritis literally means joint inflammation but the term often is used to refer to more than 100 different rheumatic diseases that can affect children and adults. Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in people over the age of 55. Arthritis is a costly disease: It’s the leading cause of absenteeism; more than 45 million work days are lost each year. Arthritis and other rheumatic conditions are the leading cause of disability in the United States, affecting approximately 43 million people. Women are significantly over-represented (60.4% of all people with arthritis compared with half the population). Almost 60% of all people with arthritis are of working age (15-64 years). Nearly 5% of Australians are taking medication for arthritis, and 1.5% will receive hospital treatment this year.

Some fact about arithritis including is First is Arthritis is a natural consequence of aging. The true fact is the risk of arthritis increases with age, it isn’t a normal part of the aging process. Second is Arthritis only affects women. While a lot of women (over 28 million) have arthritis, the disease also affects men who number over 18 million. Third is Arthritis is caused by cold, wet weather. theser fact is false a common belief that dry weather is good for arthritis. This has caused some people to move hoping they will be cured. However, arthritis can strike anywhere regardless of the weather. Fourth is Arthritis can be cured. Arthritis affects only postmenopausal women. These fact is false because Many types of arthritis begin in the 20s and 30s and even toddlers can get the disease. Arthritis is Australia’s major cause of disability and chronic pain. It affects an estimated 3.1 million people or approximately 16.5% of Australians. Rheumatoid arthritis in particular is recognised as one of the major health reasons for leaving work early

James Gunaseelan asked:

Arthritis is something so many people today are suffering from. Unfortunately, it is as common as it sounds. Read on through this article if you’d like to find out more about arthritis and how you can treat and prevent this condition.

What Is Arthritis?

Arthritis is being described in many ways among those who suffer from it. It is known as the experience of stiffness and pain in the body that becomes more noticeable over time. The hands, knees and hips are common areas of the body that tend to get sore and uncomfortable to move. Medically, arthritis is a condition that can trigger pain and inflammation in the joints. What you probably didn’t know is that arthritis does not just affect the joints, but other organs as well. Other organs that may be affected include the chest, skin and eyes.

Arthritis is typically associated with physical pain and redness-this basically means your body is trying to indicate that there is a problem. However common the condition is, arthritis is definitely treatable and even preventable. It isn’t necessarily true that if you have arthritis, you can no longer do all the things you’ve always like doing.

What Are The Symptoms To Watch Out For?

The initial symptoms of arthritis aren’t always clear and may even be perplexing. However, it is essential to identify the condition as soon as you notice something strange or overwhelmingly uncomfortable with your body. The sooner arthritis is diagnosed, the faster and/or more effectively it can be treated. Early symptoms associated with arthritis are joint stiffness, joint pain, restricted range of motion in the joint or joints, tenderness in the joint area, and warmth and redness surrounding the joint affected by the condition.

How Is Arthritis Diagnosed?

While the diagnosis of arthritis is not always easy to complete, it is quite necessary and can be well worth it in the end. You will find that the symptoms commonly attributed to arthritis are also commonly attributed to other conditions. The good news is there are several means your doctor can employ that can lead to a proper diagnosis of arthritis. These means include the assessment of your medical history, a physical examination, X-rays (or other imaging examinations) and laboratory tests. Expect to visit your doctor more than once for a diagnosis to be established.

So Can Arthritis Be Treated And Prevented?

Yes, and in more ways than one. Oftentimes patients are recommended to take certain drugs to treat the pain and ease the condition. But more and more patients are also looking into alternative solutions. Some alternative solutions include acupuncture, yoga and even magnets. The question is if these alternative solutions are effective in providing pain relief.

Take note that arthritis isn’t just associated with pain and swelling. It is also known to contribute to stress, anxiety and even depression. These are just some factors as to why some look into alternative solutions. The truth is, some treatments and preventive measures may ore may not work for you, individually. You may try fighting arthritis by doing certain exercises like biking and other exercises that are not high-impact (i.e.: water aerobics and swimming). Studies on yoga and its use among arthritis sufferers have shown that its practice is indeed able to treat the tenderness, pain and limited movement associated with arthritis. Acupuncture on the other hand is known to relieve arthritis pain. Furthermore, certain supplements have been found to play a role in treating the progression of osteoarthritis.

Now the tip is to select your treatments wisely. Fortunately many products do contain what companies are claiming them to have. Just be aware that there are unsafe and pretty much useless solutions out there. So the best thing to do is to list down some alternative solutions you’d like to try and jot down your questions on each. You may ask a medical professional and/or do your own research (though you should always speak to a medical professional before going on any treatment). It is best to try out the least complex and most affordable treatment plan first before trying out the others.

Joe Barton asked:

Do you suffer from arthritis pain? Is life after arthritis becoming more difficult everyday? Do you wish you could feel like you are twenty again?

If you answered ‘Yes’ to any or all of those questions you are in the same scenario as almost 50 million Americans who suffer from arthritis. Sadly, more and more developed countries are reporting a significantly higher incline of cases of arthritis. Yet, in some undeveloped countries, arthritis seems to leave people untouched. The answer behind this will show you ‘how you can cure your arthritis naturally’ and ‘how to find the arthritis relief you always been looking for’.

If They Stay Arthritis Free, Why Can’t You?

Researchers have been dumbfounded to find indigenous tribes whose occupants live anywhere from 90 to 100 years of age yet seem to live arthritis-free up to there dying day. In fact, tribal member reportedly work up to their dying day and yet not one case of arthritis or heart disease has ever been documented. However, did you know that doctors in the United States report seeing arthritis sufferers who are 18 years old and sometimes younger? Why are arthritis cases growing exponentially? The answer might be more obvious than we think.

Arthritis Relief Starting Today

If you answered ‘yes’ to the above questions, what if I asked you, “If someone gave a 100% guaranteed relief for arthritis would you consider trying it?” Of course you would! Now consider that you can be arthritis free by changing you eating habits, drinking habits, breathing habits, activity habits and supplementing habits. In fact, it is almost simpler than that list. Let me explain.

The greatest cure for any ailment is the prevention of that ailment. Therefore, if you know how to prevent arthritis; you also know how to cure arthritis and find immediate relief for arthritis symptoms. How is this all done? By making simple lifestyle changes (similar to the indigenous tribes) to become arthritis free!

Arthritis Free At Any Age

The following is a guideline of what you should consider for treating arthritis symptoms. By learning more on each aspect, you can legitimately bring more circulation to the arthritic joint and begin to rebuild dormant cartilage of the joint. You will see significant results if you take each aspect of treatment seriously.

1. Your diet! Did you know that the greatest reason most people get arthritis is an improper, unbalanced diet. Your nutrition is extremely important. The basic guideline you should learn is that fresh and raw foods are always better than boxed or canned foods. Begin educating yourself on what foods are good and what foods to stay away from to treat arthritis.

2. Exercise! You should begin some kind of exercise program as soon as your body allows. Try something that is easy on your joints like swimming or elliptical. Supplement your cardiovascular (getting heart pumping) workouts with weight training.

3. Water! Caffeine and carbonated drinks are typically bad for arthritis. Discover ways to spruce up your water while consuming water 8-10 times a day.

4. Breathing! Breathing exercise can increase blood circulation to all parts of body, including joints. Think about how you feel after holding your breath for 40 seconds and taking that first gasp of oxygen. Your joints will fill the same way! Your joints need significant nutrients, water, and minerals (from blood) and also oxygen.

5. Vitamins! Processed food depletes vitamins and minerals from our diets. Learn what vitamins you should consider supplementing. The correct vitamins can make you feel 10 years younger.

6. Stress! Did you know that stress can create havoc on a person? Research suggests stress can take years off a person’s life. What makes you relax? Try relaxing for 20-30 minutes each and every day.

Don’t Delay

If you are anything like me, sometimes I will put something off until it absolutely needs to get done! Arthritis is an ailment you should NOT procrastinate with! In fact, you can actually severely distort the joint by not treating the arthritis. Finally, if you could treat and cure arthritis completely would you do it? Of course, anyone would! To discover more tips and how to treat arthritis 100% naturally, please visit our Natural Cure for Arthritis website.

Roger Thompson asked:

With over a 100 different forms of arthritis, it can be difficult to determine which type a patients has. Pinpointing arthritis symptoms can help expedite the diagnoses of arthritis.

Arthritis means joint inflammation, and this is a result of having arthritis. Some forms of arthritis can actually affect body’s organs and can cause death.

Arthritis symptoms in the initial stages can be somewhat undefined. Vague pain and being tired may accompany joint pain that can occur occasionaly. Most of the specific pain surrounds the joints of the patient. These arthritis symptoms can be in the form of direct joint pain, redness and warmth around the joints, swelling and tenderness around the joint and the patient may experience limited range of motion in the joint.

Arthritis symptoms are important to keep track of in order to get definitive diagnoses. When a patient begins seeking medical advice in regards to their symptoms, the patients history will play an important part in being able to determine the form of arthritis that they have.

A doctor will also perform a physical evaluation of a patient that is experiencing arthritis symptoms. This can be in the form of looking at the patients joints, and determining motion range. The doctor may also be searching for warm or red joints, and will ask the patient numerous questions in order to get a clear physical picture of the patient. Arthritis symptoms may not be obvious to a patient, so the doctors questioning can lead to a proper diagnoses.

There are several major forms of arthritis. Discovering which arthritis symptoms go with these diseases can help in finding out which form of arthritis a patient has. Rheumatoid Arthritis has some classic arthritis symptoms, including severe morning stiffness, the small bones of the hands and feet may be swollen and painful and extreme fatigue are common arthritis symptoms in Rheumatoid Arthritis.

Osteoarthritis often appears as a constant pain in a specific joint. This pain may be more evident after continued use of the joint. The pain is more common later in the day, and this form of arthritis can also occur with other arthritis conditions.

Psoriatic Arthritis affects not only the joints but also the skin. The arthritis symptoms associated with this arthritis include, swollen joints and red, patchy and scaly skin. This form of arthritis has an impact on both joints and skin areas.

Anklosing spondylitis is another form of arthritis. The arthritis symptoms associated with this disease include, severe lower back pain that will progress up the spine and into the ribs. This form is very painful and begins with chronic lower back pain.

As arthritis is a very common condition, learning some of the classic arthritis symptoms can assist a patient in getting the proper treatment.

For more information arthritis check the link http://www.arthritisreliefhelp.info

Dr John Anne asked:

What is Inflammatory Arthritis?

There are many forms of arthritis. Inflammatory arthritis is any form of arthritis that involves the immune system and inflammation. The characteristic symptoms of inflammation are swelling, heat, redness of skin, pain, and loss of function. There are different types of inflammatory arthritis.

Autoimmune Disorders

The body treats it own tissues as a foreign object and reacts to this foreign object with inflammation

Rheumatoid arthritis - antibodies produced by the body attack the synovial membrane that encloses each joint

Lupus - systematically affects connective tissues and organs

Ankylosing Spondylitis - a progressive form of arthritis that causes inflammation of the spine and large joints

Reiter’s Syndrome - a chronic, progressive disease that can affect the joints, tendon attachments, skeleton, and the eye’s conjunctiva and mucous membranes

Psoriatic arthritis - causes inflammation of the skin and joints

Inflammatory bowel disease - inflammatory arthritis can be associated with this disease

Other Causes of Inflammatory Arthritis

Inflammatory arthritis can be caused by other conditions, as well. Reactive arthritis is caused by certain types of bacteria and can develop from an infection in another part of your body. The deposit of crystalline structures in the joints causes gout and pseudogout. Elevated blood levels of uric acid, which is a waste product, can form in the joints when the kidney does not properly dispose of the waste.

Symptoms of Inflammatory Arthritis

The symptoms of inflammatory arthritis can include the following:

Pain in one or more joints

Swelling in one or more joints

The affected joint is usually warmer than other joints

Stiffness and decrease of ability to move affected joints

Symptoms may appear after a minor illness or emotional stress

Skin around joints may become red and tender

Treatment of Inflammatory Arthritis

The symptoms of inflammatory arthritis can be treated with medicines or natural remedies. However, it is very important to find the cause of the arthritis so that the root problem can be treated as well. Medications can be used to treat the pain and inflammation, but there are many natural remedies that have been more successful in treating the cause of the inflammatory arthritis. If you use medications to relieve the symptoms of inflammatory arthritis, be sure to learn of any side effects or reactions to other medications or food.

Some natural remedies for the treatment of inflammatory arthritis include:

Exercise - a regular exercise regimen helps to avoid stiffness of the joints associated with inflammatory arthritis

Water aerobics - endorphins produced in the brain during water aerobics can help ease the pain of inflammatory arthritis

Valerian - this can be used to treat the pain of inflammatory arthritis. This natural medication is a known sedative and caution should be used - some people have experienced withdrawal symptoms when stopping abruptly.

Comfrey - a comfrey salve can be used to reduce the inflammation of the affected joints

Mangosteen - this fruit has been shown to relieve both the inflammation and pain associated with inflammatory arthritis

Omega-3 fatty acids - can be found in foods such as cold-water fish, walnut, and flaxseeds.

Diet for Inflammatory Arthritis

Diet is also another way that you can prevent or lessen the symptoms associated with inflammatory arthritis. A healthy diet is important for overall health. There are some foods that can trigger the onset of inflammation in the joints and some foods that decrease the onset of inflammation. If you suffer from inflammatory arthritis, you should eliminate milk and milk products. You should avoid polyunsaturated fats and products that are made with partially hydrogenated oils. The best kind of diet for those who suffer from inflammatory arthritis is low in protein and high in carbohydrates. Some of the common foods that can trigger the symptoms of arthritis are milk and dairy products, beef, corn, and wheat. Avoiding these foods can help you to avoid triggering the symptoms. In general, a healthy diet and regular exercise can help you to avoid many of the symptoms of inflammatory arthritis.

Cindy Heller asked:

Arthritis is not just a single type but there are more than one hundred conditions. It is literally known as the inflammation of the joints. Due to various circumstances, the deterioration of the body joints lead to a condition, which we will refer to as arthritis. Arthritis is the foremost cause of senior citizens disability; especially those that are pass the age of sixty-five years old. It is the assumption of many conditions and the cause for different conditions varies.

Arthritis affliction can be extremely painful but some are more so than others. Arthritis usually forms from a known cause and they can be swelling on the knees joints. The hands and the knees are the most commonly affected joints. Fatigue, the inflammation of the membrane at the joints and ligaments as well as tendons is some of the symptoms that cause the pain. Most people are usually afflicted with more than two forms of arthritis.

One widespread symptom is that most will suffer from varying degrees of pain and the pain differs from condition to condition. The most common symptoms exhibited are stiffness, swelling, limited mobility to one or more joints and pain, which can be extreme. If the symptoms last for over two weeks, then there is a need to seek the advice of a physician to diagnose it and seek immediate treatment.

Two of the most common arthritis is osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoathritis will normally result in pain at night or just after you have taken a rest. On the other hand rheumatoid arthritis, which is the most incapacitating and painful of all will result in pain in the morning and when you are afflicted initially. Senior citizens and children who are afflicted with arthritis usually don’t suffer from distinct pain but their mobility will usually be limited or the afflicted limbs will lose its function.

Besides osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, other forms of arthritis are ankylosing spondylitis, Still’s disease or juvenile arthritis, septic, gout in addition to psedudogout. There are many choices in treating arthritis and it all hinges on the conditions, arthroplasty as well as medications. In the most severe cases, the physician will fix a prosthetic joint as they are very reliable and those who try them are usually more than satisfied.

Although no specific arthritis is known as hand arthritis but swelling as well as pain occurring in the hand, fingers and wrist is the result of different types of arthritis, for instant rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is the main cause of hand arthritis.

Osteoarthritis is due to aging and with loss of water in the joint; friction is formed. The cartilage will wear out as a result and with that, the bone will rub against each other, resulting in pain and swelling in the hand, thus hand arthritis.

Many older citizens suffer from knee arthritis, which can take the form of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and traumatic arthritis. The pain from knee arthritis can give rise to depression in older people. Knee arthritis is the result of the gradual swelling of the knee joint and will get worst with lack of exercise.

Arthritis has been noted to exist way back to roughly 4500 BC when it was found in humans but there are proofs that even dinosaurs have contracted ankle osteoarthritis. Arthritis was also found in the skeletal remains of Native Americans of Tennessee and certain areas of the present Olathe in Kansas.

There are further evidences to point out that mummy in the times of Otzi, way back in 3000 BC contracted it and the first known cure appear to be the willow bark and it goes back to 500 BC. In the present era, it is known that more than a trillion tablets of aspirin are sold throughout the world to ease the suffering of patients.

Some of those patients with slight pain just require Tylenol, which does not require prescription, and when the pain arises, they just pop it. But others who are afflicted with severe pain might need physician to prescribe cortisone injections to the sore joints. Narcotic drugs can be used to relieve the pain as well. On the other hand, there are also pain management clinics. The treatment for arthritis is to manage it, as there is no known cure. Advances in medical science have make arthritis more manageable.

Dr John Anne asked:

What is arthritis?

An inflammation of a body joint or its component tissues, accompanied by pain, soreness, and inflexibility in that area, which is basically a result of causes ranging from infection, distress, degenerative changes or metabolic disorders.

In simple words, affected joints are unable to move smoothly past one another.

In medical parlance, arthritis refers to a collection of more than 100 rheumatic diseases and conditions that can cause pain, stiffness and soreness in the joints. If left untreated, arthritis can cause irreversible damage to the joints.

What are the various forms of arthritis?

Arthritis can appear suddenly or gradually, and occurs in various forms, but osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis are the two most common.

There are four basic types of arthritis:

1. Inflammatory arthritis - inflammation of tissues related to joints. Connective tissue diseases, crystal deposition diseases, infectious arthritis, and spondylitis are examples of inflammatory arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is the most common variety. Other types are Ankylosing spondylitis, Reiter’s syndrome, Ehlers-Danlos syndrome.

2. Degenerative joint disease (osteoarthritis) - corrosion of the cartilage lining the joints and lessening of new bone formation underneath the cartilage. The disease is quite common in the latter part of life where the continued slow damage causes increasing disability.

3. Nonarticular rheumatism - sometimes called soft-tissue rheumatism, and includes conditions like tendonitis, bursitis, fibrositis. This condition is related to sleep disturbances or even muscular abnormalities.

4. Other diseases may also give rise to arthritis. There exist neurological, blood and endocrine related disorders giving rise to rheumatic diseases.

How to recognize arthritis?

Symptoms differ from person to person depending on his age, the affected area and the type of arthritis. The most common symptoms include:

§ Swelling in one or more joints

§ Stiffness around the joint that usually occurs in the early morning

§ Constant or recurring pain in a joint

§ Tenderness around a joint

§ Difficulty using or moving a joint normally

§ Redness in a joint accompanied by heat there

Other possible symptoms:

§ Occasional fever

§ Weight loss and fatigue

§ Breathing difficulty

§ Rashes and itching

Who all are at risk of arthritis?

Younger people have a relatively lower risk of having arthritis but still comprise a sizeable portion of affected people.

Prevalence is generally higher among women as compared to men, especially osteoarthritis. Arthritis is the leading cause of mobility limitation in women aged 45 years and above. So all you ladies, remember prevention is better than cure.

What are the common causes?

The causes of arthritis usually depend on the type of arthritis. Common causes include:

§ injury (leading to osteoarthritis),

§ irregular metabolism

§ hereditary

§ some infection

§ unknown reasons in case of rheumatoid arthritis

What treatment procedure to follow?

Early diagnosis and treatment helps……

The most common complication of arthritis is functional disability. However, do not get scared! General health upkeep, rest, and gradual treatment can avoid this situation.

There is no complete remedial treatment, only control through a combination of heat fomentation, massage, and supervised exercise. The various treatment options help manage pain and reduce deformity and disability.

A correct diagnosis of the type of arthritis is important before undergoing any drug therapy. Rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis can be treated with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Do not be your own doctor. Remember, all medications can have side effects, so the dosage and duration of treatment should essentially be under trained medical supervision. Surgical treatment includes arthroscopic surgery and joint replacement.

Tips to control and prevent the condition:

§ Weight reduction accompanied by regular physical activity: Keep your weight under control, as it reduces the risk of getting arthritis, especially osteoarthritis.

§ Strengthen the muscles: through regular exercise – especially weight bearing exercise. It helps maintain physical mobility and slows the development of disability.

§ Prevent stress on a particular joint as well as injuries: Repetitive stress or injuries on any joint increases the risk of osteoarthritis.

What kind of diet regime need to be followed to take care of this condition:

Nutrition is an important aspect in the treatment of arthritis.

For a person suffering from arthritis, his diet should be rich in fruits and vegetables (flavonoid rich foods), especially those that are rich sources of anti-oxidants so as to protect against cellular and joint damage.

Try and avoid all processed foods, complex carbohydrates, including sugar and fruit juices. Increase intake of high fibre foods. Limit fat intake to a minimum.

An important aspect in reducing arthritis pain is elimination of any type of food sensitivity. Get a test for food sensitivity because there may be allergies involved.

Food supplements may be introduced. Anti-oxidants help prevent damage to the cartilage of the bone. Vitamin E slows down the breakdown of cartilage as well as stimulates the manufacture of cartilage components. Vitamin C is necessary for the manufacture of collagen, the major support protein of cartilage.

How does physical therapy help?

Physical therapy is very important in reestablishing joint harmony. Various physical therapy treatments include exercise, heat, cold, and diathermy(heat treatment using electricity); and are beneficial in increasing joint mobility and decreasing pain. Avoid physical activities that excessively put strain on the joints.

Some natural treatment options:

No medicine or drug can completely cure arthritis or slow its progression without causing side effects. But, you can help repair your joints as well as slow degeneration with natural treatment therapies.

Natural Solution: Arthcare Oil - An Anti-inflammatory Herbal massage oil.

Arthcare is anti-inflammatory herbal oil, which not only gives a relief from joint pains but also strengthens the bone tissues, the skeletal and the neuromuscular systems, giving comfortable movements of joints and muscles. http://www.ayurvediccure.com/arthcareoil.htm

Massage with the yellow wonder herb – turmeric. No question of any side effects, plus turmeric also acts as an anti-oxidant to help protect joints.

Ginger, an ayurveda herb, if consumed in small amounts on a regular basis can reduce symptoms and occurrence of rheumatoid arthritis.

Aromatherapy technique involves the use of extracted oil from flowers, plants and trees in combination with massage and steam inhalation - helps relaxation, pain relief.

Yoga involves a combination of breathing exercises and relaxation to help in blood circulation and movement of joints.

Osteopathy includes the manipulation of the body to restore normal action and decrease pain. It is not recommended for those suffering from osteoporosis.

Reflexology involves rubbing the feet and the palm of the hand to help progress the state of rest of the body, and also generate a warm sensation. This is an ideal method for stress management and overall health continuance; factors that cause arthritis.

So, come on get moving, and do not allow this ageless epidemic disease become a debilitating factor in your daily life.

Cindy Heller asked:

American Arthritis Foundation is the leading and most viable non-profit health organization that handles arthritis. They also sponsor all sorts of arthritis studies to treat arthritis in addition to providing educational information on arthritis to patients. Its vision is to assume the management of arthritis by making efforts to prevent, manage and find a cure for arthritis.

Arthritis is the foremost cause of disability in America and the American Arthritis Foundation has five hundreds thousand volunteers and one hundred and fifty outlets that provide all sorts of courses and services to enable people to manage and combat arthritis. Educational books and comprehensively booklets on the management and surviving with arthritis are provided as well.

American Arthritis Foundation has so far injected above three hundred millions to research and employ more than two thousands scientists, health care professional and physicians since 1948 to provide the leading edge arthritis research. An approximate seventy million Americans are afflicted with arthritis and the foundation makes sure that policies are geared towards as well as promoting efforts towards its vision.

With arthritis as the foremost course of disability in America, no effort is spared by the American Arthritis Foundation to prevent, manage and search for a cure for arthritis and its condition. Arthritis Today is the American Arthritis Foundation magazine to promote the management and prevention of arthritis. It is published once every two months and sends a clear message that arthritis is to be contained and overcome.

One of the program that the American Arthritis Foundation has founded is the Let’s Talk RA program that they work in conjunction with the Bristol-Meyers Squibb to inform patients on how to manage their rheumatoid arthritis (RA). For starters, it is necessary to get a copy of Let’s Talk RA Communication Kit that encompasses a Participant Survey, a Communication Guide, a Health Assessment Questionnaire in addition to relevant information that are provided by Bristol-Meyers Squibb and the American Arthritis Foundation.

It is essential for rheumatoid arthritis sufferers to get some assistant while undergoing treatment in addition to managing their disease. Through getting a copy of the Let’s Talk RA Communication Kit, they have made a constructive decision in managing their condition as the American Arthritis Foundation calls for active involvement in their fight against the disease.

Osteoarthritis is a form of disability and most will have to forego active participation in their daily lives but they are instances of people getting on with life and one such example is John Elway who was once a Denver Bronco player but became spokesperson for Game Plan for OA, part of the American Arthritis Foundation program. John Elway has demonstrated that sticking to the guidelines provided can help one to manage arthritis in addition to assist them to lead normal lives.

The American Arthritis Foundation works closely with clinical experts, scientists from various research firms in addition to companies that are committed to arthritis and the associated conditions to make a compilation of new developments of arthritis on a annual basis. In addition to, the American Arthritis Foundation researchers that found new pathways that controls the damages to joints that are linked to inflammatory arthritis.

All the relevant information related to arthritis from 1985 to 2006 can be found in the American Arthritis Foundation. The figures for the corresponding period of arthritis patients has gone up from thirty five million to forty six million and arthritis is chronic and the one of the foremost cause of disability for people that are age fifteen years and above, just after heart disease.

Arthritis foundation is spreading to all corners world and in Singapore; the National Arthritis Foundation is a reputable charity that was formed in 1984. It is the biggest of its kind that spends all its time devoted to helping arthritis patients as well as educates them and the public on arthritis. In addition it does a lot of researches into arthritis and is also a coordinating as well as managing closely with pharmaceutical bodies plus specialists in arthritis to fulfill its aim.

The mission of the National Arthritis Foundation is to provide support for the patients and fight against arthritis in addition to do research to combat arthritis plus educating public and the patients on arthritis. With its one thousand members that cover the whole spectrum of society that include patients, caregivers in addition to those that are concerned with arthritis plus health professional. The National Arthritis Foundation has an elected general council and executive committee to oversee its operation. Arthritis is a worldwide disease that afflicted many older citizens and should be treated very seriously.