http://www.healthzine.org/feed/ http://www.healthzine.org/ Every day new articles and updated info on all your health, beauty and fitness concerns. Thu, 4 Jun 2009 10:25:16 +0200 Thu, 4 Jun 2009 10:25:16 +0200 http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/Natural-arthritis-pain-treatment http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/Natural-arthritis-pain-treatment How would you feel when your friends, family or just plain company outings and getaways; and you cannot join, simply because your joints are inflamed and in real pain? Of course you would feel bad, chances are you would tolerate the pain, just to be with the group, Right? Well the joints pain is called Arthritis, and this illness involves pain on the joints. Arthritis is a joint disorder, which features inflammations. The joints are areas of the body where the two bones meet, like in the knees, elbows or foot wrist. The function of the joints is to move those parts of the body that connects with it. Simply put, Arthritis means the inflammation of one or two bones that connect to each other. The Joints Inflammation is actually a part of the body’s response; the response in this case is healing. This is characterized by redness of the skin, swelling as well as warmth. These may be caused by injuries, surgery, infections or may even be allergic reactions. Normally these inflammatory responses aims to remove foreign and unhealthy materials in the area affected. These areas may be in knees; which would explain knee pains in some certain cases. And with regards to the cure for arthritis; well normally the doctors recommend medications, such as pain relievers. There are cases however where the doctors give other supplements for their patients. But why treat arthritis when they are worse, when you CAN avoid them, Right? This would all come down to the determination of the person; on the way he/she has, as a lifestyle, or the kinds of food that he/she consumes which would prevent such a cause. But there is also a natural way of dealing with this degenerative illness. It’s a natural arthritis pain treatment. Arthritis Exercise: Regular exercise is really an important factor in maintaining a healthy body, thus this advice is an all present advice from doctors. But when you have this degenerative illness you should not exert too much effort. This means that you need to be gentle as well. Gentle aerobics is recommended so that the joints will not feel any strain or discomfort. Stretching is also of great and vital importance as, this aims to improve the body’s condition. Examples of this is to gently move your wrist, ankles and knees to promote mobility. With regards to Arthritis and Diet; well simply put, a good diet is of great importance and is a major factor to, and in any health condition. Remember that the pain is found in the joints, this means that extra weight can also give stress to the joints. A well balanced diet can mitigate any pain felt during the swelling. This concept is applicable as well, if the pain is not present yet; Prevention is “ALWAYS” better than cure. Cure for Arthritis: Diets rich in vitamin C and D will help the body absorb more percentage of calcium, which is very beneficial to the patient with Arthritis. As we age our bone density decreases, this explains the condition of this degenerative illness. Which is why, we all need to drink milk, which can help strengthen our bones. Lastly a good rest is very important to patients with Arthritis. Constant mobility will aggravate the pain, which is why rest, is a very important factor that needs total consideration. These are some of the many ways that we can battle this degenerative condition. It is also important that we need to educate ourselves with this illness. So that when these conditions attack any of our family members, we would know what to do. Best is, we need to know our body condition as well; we need to know the kinds of food to avoid as well as to eat foods that are healthy. Indeed it is best to enjoy any getaway with a healthy condition, and without any pains and discomfort. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy. Wed, 29 Apr 2009 05:57:26 +0200 http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/treatment-of-arthritis-joint-pain http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/treatment-of-arthritis-joint-pain It can get annoying- age-related conditions. Among these discomforts is arthritis, or particularly osteoarthritis. What makes osteoarthritis so bothersome is pain, or the nagging pain in the joints. This is otherwise called arthritis joint pain. Arthritis joint pain manifests due to the wearing and tearing of the joints, or else the degeneration of them. The cartilage is primarily affected by this wearing and tearing. Cartilage in the joints becomes stressed, and if unable to recover, it breaks down. The cartilage is that which acts as a padding to the joint structure. But if the cartilage breaks down, then it is rendered useless when it comes to this function. And this is when arthritis joint pain sets in- because of the friction of bone rubbing against bone. Arthritis joint pain which can come to the point of being unbearable then occurs. Other than this possibly debilitating osteoarthritis symptom, stiffness could also be experienced. Osteoarthritis varies in severity. The severity is said to be associated with the extent of the narrowing of the joints space, as medical studies have indicated. Different means and ways are resorted to by different people for treatment of arthritis jointpain and other accompanying symptoms. Some prefer to take pharmaceuticals, such as acetaminophen. But acetaminophen may have fallen short in terms of efficacy, especially as high dosage of it is needed. As much as 3000 mg a day may have to be taken for relief to take place. Other than acetaminophen, arthritis joint pain supplements are also considered. For instance, glucosamine arthritis joint pain supplements. Studies pertaining to this osteoarthritis supplement were found convincing. Glucosamine supplement was considered a certified joint pain treatment for the mild to severe sort of the disease. Studies indicated in the same manner that taking 1500mg of glucosamin taken for 24 weeks produced a 25% reduction in osteoarthritis joint pain discomfort. And then again, glucosamin is rendered more effective when complemented with chondroitin, as found in most arthritis supplements. Chondroitin is a substance derived from shark cartilage. Glucosamin chondroitin supplements are considered safe and effective as alternative therapy for arthritis. Glucosamin chondroitin supplements have lesser side effects compared to pharmaceuticals. But no less of an osteoarthritis treatment which delivers optimal efficacy. Caution has to be taken however, for pregnant women, diabetic and hypertensive people, young children and those with allergies when taking glucosamin chondroitin supplements for their arthritic condition. A medical professional’s advice is needed to ensure the health and safety of these individuals when planning on taking glucosamin chondroitin supplements for osteoarthritis. These supplements come in varied brands and concentration, and in advanced formulas. Osteoarthritis supplement formulas such as these aid in repairing damaged cartilage causing arthritis joint pain and other symptoms. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy. Tue, 17 Mar 2009 04:40:58 +0100 http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/common-kinds-of-arthritis http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/common-kinds-of-arthritis There are over 100 different kinds of arthritis. Arthritis as a disease can be difficult to live with. An arthritic condition primarily affects the joints, and a definite cure is yet to be established. Of the different kinds of arthritis, you have to be wary. It’s because this disease affects not only adults or aging individuals, but also the young. Considering there is quite a number of arthritic conditions, it is essential that you be keen. In the sense that you have to take time to obtain proper diagnosis. As there are over a hundred different kinds of arthritis, self-diagnosis can be risky. And especially experimenting on “cures” and treatments on your own- that is, self-medicating. To be able to manage arthritis effectively, you need proper assessment and diagnosis. How can you treat or cure something when in a sense you are aiming for the wrong target? An arthritic condition degenerates, especially when neglected or left untreated. To be able to devise an effective arthritis management plan, get to know what it is that you’re really dealing with. Of all the kinds of arthritis, thirteen kinds are said to more commonly manifest. What are some common kinds of arthritis? For one thing, there is gout. Gout develops due to the accumulation and deposition of monosodium urate or MSU crystals. A person suffering from gout experiences inflammation around the joints, especially the big toe. These swellings are painful, too. Other than the joints, damage cause by gout can also be inflicted on the kidneys. Among the most common kinds of arthritis is the reactive form. A reactive arthritic condition develops after an infection. Often, it is infections of the intestinal or genitourinary tract which gives way to reactive arthritis. This form of arthritic condition more often affects young adults. However, it is likely that appropriate treatments would be effective. Then there is polymyositis. This, on the other hand is an inflammatory form of muscle disease. It is a systemic condition affecting all muscles. Systemic Lupus Erymatosus or SLE is one of the common kinds of arthritis. SLE is an autoimmune disorder which is systemic in nature as well. It is capable of affecting other vital organs in the body. Women in their childbearing years are more apt to be beset by SLE. Systeminc Lupus Erymatosus is possibly life-threatening. Thus, early diagnosis and treatment are essential. Fibromylagia is a soft tissue form of arthritic condition. This particular form of arthritic condition results from defective neurotransmitter functioning in the brain. The neurotransmitters are responsible for many sensory functions. As such, people suffering from fibromyalgia could experience bizarre symptoms. Polymyalgia reumatica is another of the common kinds of arthritis which those aged 50 and above often have to deal with. Severe stiffness and aching in the neck, shoulders and hips are common polymyalgia symptoms. But then again, this form of arthritic condition is very treatable, provided it is accurately diagnosed. And proper assessment and diagnosis are indeed necessary especially as there are other conditions with similar symptoms. Other kinds of the disease which affect the majority are carpal tunnel syndrome, Ankylosing Spondylitis, Sjorgen’s syndrome and Sceleroderma, among others. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy. Thu, 29 Jan 2009 09:54:21 +0100 http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/diet-for-rheumatoid-arthritis http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/diet-for-rheumatoid-arthritis Arthritis primarily affects the joints. The condition stems from an autoimmune disorder and havoc is instigated on these body parts. Most joints in the body are susceptible to arthritis. Considering there are more than a hundred sorts of the condition, joint health is put to significant risk, especially for predisposed individuals. Depending on the extent of arthritic progression, the heart, lungs and eyes may also be affected. Arthritis is a degenerating disease. When left neglected, major pain and mobility issues can arise. The most common form of arthritic condition is rheumatoid arthritis. There may be treatments, but a cure for this particular disease is yet to be established. If you happen to suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, mindfulness is essential on your part. To some extent, you can manage the condition through your lifestyle, particularly the diet and exercise. Certain foods you eat can aggravate arthritic pain and degeneration. Your physical activity does the same, too. Whether you are sedentary, moderately or excessively active affects the state of your arthritis. Exercise is a helpful measure for arthritis management. Doctors generally recommend proper exercises for the condition. You have to note that not every and any exercise is advisable. Your doctor’s supervision is needed for the most suitable exercise plan. Proper exercises can aid in pain relief and improved mobility. Along with this is for weight management goals, or else debilitation may result. Along with an exercise program, a diet for rheumatoid arthritis is also devised. The diet usually suggests more consumption of certain vegetables while gluten intake is reduced. Fish is also an essential element in a rheumatoid arthritis diet. Fish oil supplements can augment in providing nutrient needs. Some vegetable foods to be avoided are green pepper, tomatoes and eggplants. In a diet for rheumatoid arthritis, nutrient elements from foods boost bone and joint health. At the same time, arthritic symptoms are reduced. Swimming is a conducive exercise for arthritic patients. The activity does not cause strain on the joints but nevertheless enhancing them. It is often the needed combination of healthy diet and exercise plan which promotes better health. In terms of boosting health or managing a condition, diet and physical activity are crucial measures. They can significantly pave the way to improvement or recovery, or to degeneration. Exercises for arthritis more often do not entail heavy movements because of joint vulnerability. Depending on the kind, some arthritic conditions strike on auspicious moments. Some manifest symptoms on particular times of the day, or during certain weather conditions. But more than these factors, your lifestyle largely determines your condition’s deterioration or improvement. There are different paths to arthritis treatment. Others opt for mainstream treatment through conventional medications or therapies. The alternative route for treatment on the other hand makes use of natural healing approaches. Whichever mode of treatment you prefer, gaining thorough information along with a professional’s supervision are best resorted to. Mindfulness goes a long way in you enjoying a good quality of life despite having a health condition to live with. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy. Fri, 17 Oct 2008 11:11:51 +0200 http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/gout http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/gout Gout is a common condition, but not many people may be familiar about it. So what really is this condition and what causes it? Gout is often characterised by swelling and inflammation of the joint or joints. Areas most likely to be affected are the toes. Joint in the big toe has the tendency to initially experience the pain and swelling. If the condition is neglected and aggravated, it may spread on to other joints within the area or the body. The pain which goes with gout can come to the point of being excruciating. It especially intensifies once the affected area is touched. High levels of uric acid causes this condition to manifest. What causes uric acid levels in the body to rise? They can be dehydration, food consumption or the diet to mention a few. Uric acid in the body can begin to build up and it settles in the joint or joints. As uric acid collects in the area, it may crystallize. Pain will then be experienced by the person concerned- the possibly excruciating pain of gout. More often, the case is that people do not take time to be aware of gout until the it besets them. Once the symptoms manifest, so will the pain, and it usually intensifies. Such a simple term for a condition which can cause significant distress- gout. It is important that a person gains more knowledge about this condition once it affects them. As much as with any health conditions, gout has to be given its due attention and care. Proper treatments should be applied, or else much discomfort or consequences can take place. As the joint or joints swell and become inflammed, they appear reddish and irritated. Affected area or areas are often warm and soft to the touch. In many cases, the big toe suffers from this joint condition. But it is possible that other joints in the body will be affected too. Many patients claim that pain constantly goes with the it. That is, once and as long as a patient has gout, they are most likely to experience its pain at all times. This pain intensifies when the affected joint or joints are touched or moved. Increased uric acid level in the body is among the major causes of gout. A person’s diet is one of the primary factors leading to this condition. A means for managing and treating it is to be mindful of the diet. A person ought to be selective of the foods they eat. They should be those which will not negatively affect levels of uric acid in the body. A healthy gout diet is one of the natural treatments for the condition. There are other natural or home remedies as well if one opts to take the alternative path. For those who consider conventional treatments, there may be pharmaceuticals and other conventional therapies. Gout can be a discomforting condition to live with, to say the least. To be able to cope with it, suitable treatments should be employed. When it comes to finding the most suitable treatment, a health professional’s opinion is best sought. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy. Tue, 22 Jul 2008 06:02:05 +0200 http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/arthritis-pain1 http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/arthritis-pain1 Yes, arthritis pain can come to the point of being debilitating as it can become intense. Whether you are experiencing arthritis pain on the back, the shoulders, the hips and the knees, among others, the condition can be very difficult to cope with. When arthritis pain flares up, it can be such a burden for you to move about. Part of the pain is frustration, especially when you can’t even pinpoint what causes or worsens it. You could be wondering whether you slept in the wrong position, or you might be thinking that it’s the weather. But then again, you wouldn’t really know for sure. One of the most painful forms of the condition is arthritis in the back. Arthritis pain on this area could be very bothersome to live with. Suffering from this ailment can greatly affect your daily life. During damp season, arthritic pain in the back can flare up. You might then be obliged to just stay home and for days on end at that. Work and your other responsibilities may have to wait until a more favorable time, and even leisure would be affected. Strolling around the shops or playing golf would be out of the question when arthritis pain strikes. In an attempt to cope with the pain, you might have to spend a great deal of time simply sitting or lying down. Arthritis in the knee can also cause the same problem, especially when it becomes painful. When the condition besets you, you may have to cut down on your favorite activities. Moving around requires that you flex your knees, so when you are suffering from an arthritic knee, even walking would be excruciating. Right before the weather changes, your knees might begin to ache, or when the weather is cold. For some arthritis sufferers, they may find their bodies become weather meters, which has its advantages. But still, it wouldn’t compensate for the trouble and distress caused by arthritis pain. No matter which area of your body is affected by the condition, pain can possibly become unbearable when it strikes. When the condition runs in your family and you find that your hips, shoulders, back, knee and other joints consistently ache, then you have to take action. See your doctor to determine whether you are suffering from an arthritic condition or not. And if it is indeed arthritis or another condition, it will be given proper treatment. In case of an arthritic condition, your doctor can prescribe the most suitable medication for you which may include that for pain relief. When you suffer from joint aches and pains infrequently, over the counter medications might be more appropriate for you. If the condition is severe, then other suitable medications could be prescribed. Other than medications, natural remedies for arthritis are also available. Natural remedies and alternative therapies are under the scope of alternative medicine and you have to see a skilled and qualified practitioner for that. In choosing the best treatment for a condition, look for efficacy and safety. Weigh the risks and benefits, the pros and cons of the treatment and decide on which will be more beneficial in the long run. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy. Mon, 23 Jun 2008 05:22:01 +0200 http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/hip-joint-pain http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/hip-joint-pain One of the most common conditions which many people suffer from is hip joint pain. Hip joint pain is also associated with arthritis in many cases. Suffering from this pain and discomfort can cause much inconvenience to a person. Physical activity can be hampered in so many ways because of this. But as with many sorts of aches and pains, there are varied causes of hip joint pain. Knowing the cause of the problem can do so much for applying an effective treatment, and this may be the case for this condition. As earlier mentioned, arthritis is a common cause. In some cases, medications can deliver relief, but in other cases, surgery may have to be undergone. Another possible cause is trochanteric bursitis. This condition occurs because of the inflammation of the bursa over and outside of the hip joint. And so is tendonitis, or when any of the tendons surrounding the joint becomes inflamed. Still, some of the other causes of hip joint pain are snapping hip syndrome, osteonecrosis, strained muscles, fracture and other injuries. In many cases, hip-related problems during childhood can cause irregularities later on. Take the case of developmental dysplasia. In developmental displasia, the hips are dislocated during infancy. As a result, proper development of the joints is hampered. Pain may not be experienced during childhood, but during adulthood it could be. Arthritis can result because of this condition, and difficulties even when walking can be experienced. Then there is the disease called perthes which can permanently damage the hips during childhood. Determining the cause is crucial in finding the most suitable treatment for hip joint pain. Understanding the cause is important in taking measures for treatment. In minor cases, heating pads and ice packs can give relief. These are quite simple and common treatment measures, but they can reduce inflammation. For most of the patients, resting the hips is required. That way, the inflammation would subside and the pain would be alleviated. In some cases, the patient would need to use crutches or a cane. Stress on the hips will be reduced this way and not causing further aggravation. Treatments range from the common and the minor to something drastic such as surgery. A skilled medical professional’s advice and guidance are needed to ensure optimum efficacy for the treatment. If the condition is caused by something as common as arthritis, then there are many options for treatment. Conventional treatments such as pharmaceutical pain relievers and medications are popular for many people. Their drawback however lies in the side effects which go with their use. Then there are alternative therapies for arthritis which are becoming popular. Applying these alternative treatments would require the guidance of a skilled alternative health practitioner. Alternative treatments often make use of natural healing modalities. In such treatment measures, the body’s natural healing ability is stimulated. Whichever option a person wants to take, it is best that they are guided by an expert. The pros and cons of the approaches ought to be thoroughly discussed. That way, the patient can make an informed decision regarding their choice. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy. Wed, 28 May 2008 08:43:52 +0200 http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/arthritis-symptoms http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/arthritis-symptoms Quite a large percentage of people suffer from arthritis. This condition can actually come to the point of being debilitating and it comes in different forms as well. There have been presupposed causes of arthritis, although it can be difficult to really establish them. The disease remains to be somewhat vague and studies are yet ongoing about it. So somebody in your family might have arthritis. And one day, you experience pain in your knees. You ask yourself: Is this one of the symptoms of arthritis? It could be easy to be swayed by the thought that you have the disease upon experiencing some joint pain. But you ought to remember that any part of your body can ache for a reason. It could be an arthritic condition, or it might be not. You’ve gotta make sure whether you are indeed suffering from arthritis symptoms or otherwise. The first thing you have to do is consult your doctor. Let your doctor know whether your family has a history of the condition. Keep track of when and where you think arthritis symptoms are occurring. And what sort of pain are you experiencing? Is it a general stiffness of the joint or joints? Or does the joint or joints become painful when you actually move it or them? Take note of the pattern of the symptoms. Do they worsen as the day progresses, or are they aggravated right before wet and cold weather? If your symptoms last for a day, disappears for a few weeks and then recurs, then tell your doctor about it. It has to be ascertained whether you are suffering from arthritis symptoms or not. The pain may be what you suspect it is, but then again, it may not be, too. Pain can manifest in your body for many reasons. It’s easy to suppose that the pain in your knee is because of an arthritic condition. But you better take time to think about it. Perhaps you’ve done a new activity recently which might have caused the muscles in your knees and legs to be sore? Or for some of your other joint pains. Maybe you’ve recently fallen, bumped or had an accident. These are the other possible causes of your pain that you might consider. The fact is, arthritis symptoms can be mild. You may not even suspect that it’s an arthritic condition at all. The best recourse is to have it checked by your doctor, and to have a proper diagnosis. Arthritis symptoms have the tendency to recur. Again, take note of patterns. It’s advisable that you keep a journal about it. That way, you can be more specific when you talk to your doctor. Whatever pains and discomforts you might have ought to be given due attention. Sure it may be minor, but it might possibly not be as well. There could be an underlying problem behind it and it’s only proper that it’s addressed early on. Doing so will ward off any untoward complications. Tending to your health and well being entails that you are mindful of your body and whatever symptoms and discomforts it may experience. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy. Wed, 7 May 2008 16:06:48 +0200 http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/joint-supplements http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/joint-supplements There are over a hundred rheumatoid and joint related conditions. These generally fall under the category of arthritis. And arthritis by all means affects a large percentage of people. If you are among this populace, then you know how inconvenient arthritis is. The condition is painful, to say the least. It can also come to the point of being debilitating. As arthritis and other joint-related conditions are a problem for many people, there are also many joint supplements in the market today. Online and offline in drug stores and supermarkets, joint supplements abound. You may be in search of a supplement to boost your joint health. Which sort of joint supplements should you resort to? There are basically four top joint supplements which can address your arthritic condition. Primarily there is glucosamine, chondroitin, MSM or methylsulfonylemethane, and supplements which are a combination of these three. As there is a barrage of these products, you should be wary. Many of these supplements may not stand true to their claims. Some products do not contain the exact amount of ingredients as indicated in the label. Make sure that you purchase from a credible source. Take time for research and gaining knowledge from reviews. You can also ask for opinion from a skilled health professional. Now, here is a guide about the top joint supplements mentioned in this article. First, there is glucosamine. Glucosamine is naturally produced by the body and it is an amino acid. It promotes the formation of new cartilage and aids in the repair of damaged ones. Glucosamine has been found to be beneficial for arthritis. It helps in reducing episodes of pain and is also effective as an anti-inflammatory agent. Glucosamine has to be taken in a 1500 mg dosage per day for three months. In this span of time, the effects of the supplement can be felt. You have to make room for realistic expectations when taking glucosamine. It is generally in a matter of 2-6 months till you can appreciate the results. Then there is chondroitin which is responsible for the resilience of the cartilage. Chondroitin is the most abundant glycosaminoglycan in the cartilage. The enzyme which causes the damage to the cartilage is inhibited by chondroitin. Chondroitin is generally taken with glucosamine. Recommended dosage is 800-1200 mg daily. MSM or methylsulfonylmethane is another joint supplement. MSM has been documented in its efficacy in promoting ligament health. Trials have established the role of MSM in maintaining healthy and flexible ligaments. Analgesic actions can also be derived from MSM. You can take a combination of glucosamine and chondroitin and there are products available for this. Be sure to check though if they have the ingredients in the recommended doses. MSM is also available with glucosamine and chondroitin. Products with combined form of these elements could be effective for your joint health. That way, your arthritis could be alleviated. It may not be so much debilitating and you can go about with your regular activities. And lastly, be mindful of quality with the supplements you take, even if they are slightly expensive. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy. Fri, 18 Apr 2008 08:22:15 +0200 http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/degenerative-arthritis1 http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/degenerative-arthritis1 When osteoarthritis worsens, it is known as degenerative arthritis. Degenerative arthritis has affected millions of people worldwide, and it can be debilitating. The disease can cause so much pain when it strikes. Degenerative arthritis is actually the most common form of arthritis, and it affects different joints in the body. These joints are often the knees, hips, fingers and toes as well as the spine. Moreover, the disease may affect more than one joint at a time. How does degenerative arthritis take place? The condition occurs when the cartilage between the bones break down. The cartilage is the protein between the bones which prevents them from rubbing each other. When there is an onset of the disease, the cartilage deteriorates thereby causing the bones to be exposed and susceptible. Spurs and a new bone may develop where the cartilage used to be. And these spurs, they can be extremely painful. They could be very hard to live with. Such is why living with and coping with degenerative arthritis can cause so much pain and even debilitation. Degenerative arthritis is more likely to develop as one ages. During this stage, the cartilage breaks down, and water content increases. Degenerative arthritis is of two sorts- primary and secondary. When the disease is primary, it is usually acquired through old age. It has naturally become one of the tribulations of aging. As of date, explanation for this phenomenon has not yet been determined. As for secondary degenerative arthritis, it is caused by the wear and tear of joints through the years. When a person has used the affected area over the years, then secondary osteoarthritis could develop. For instance, a person might be performing the same job over the years. This can cause the wear and tear of joints, and the cartilage may break down. And so osteoarthritis, or degenerative arthritis could set in. In this sense, preventive measures are essential. The wearing and tearing of joints through repeated motion over time have to be prevented. There is not much that a person can do to avoid osteoarthritis as they grow older. They can however reduce the risk factors. For one thing, a person can try to maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight can cause strain on the body, especially the spine, the hips and the knees. It would cause these joints strain when body weight is too heavy. And then again, one can also be mindful about their tendency to cause damage to their joints and body. They ought to remember that repeated motion of the joints over time can cause osteoarthritis. So it’s best to prevent this because in this sense, preventive measures are essential. As for keeping a healthy weight, one can engage in regular exercise and keep to a healthy diet. A healthy weight will not only lessen the risk for osteoarthritis, but for other ominous diseases as well. By keeping to a healthy lifestyle- eating healthy and exercising regularly- one can spare themselves from a lot of suffering. Even as they age, they are more likely to be healthy, and age related diseases will not be so daunting. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy. Mon, 31 Mar 2008 06:22:41 +0200 http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/arthritis-treatment1 http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/arthritis-treatment1 Arthritis is characterized by joint pain and inflammation and it affects quite a large percentage of people. There are varied and different forms of this disease and when left neglected can create much havoc. Among them are physical and mobility limitations, deformity and even debilitation. When one is living with arthritis, it can cause significant inconvenience. Arthritis treatment options are available, either through conventional methods or through the holistic approach to mention the basics. Many well know of conventional means for arthritis treatment. They can be through pharmaceutical drugs or certain procedures or even surgery. These are regarded as mainstream arthritis treatment measures. But often, they come with side effects which entail other discomforts. Such is why there are those who turn to holistic medicine. The holistic approach for arthritis treatment is becoming quite popular. Holistic medicine offers a lasting relief from arthritic pain and inflammation. This approach to arthritis states that the disease is caused by several factors. Contributing to its different forms are not only physical imbalances but mental and environmental irregularities as well. To treat the disease properly requires an assessment of the factors which caused it. A battery of diagnostic tools are used to create an individual picture of the patient’s case. Among these diagnostic tools are physical exams, emotional evaluations, dietary assessments and tests for the immune and digestive functions. The holistic medicine practitioner takes time in finding the root cause and the patient has an active participation in their treatment. There is a wide range of therapies in the holistic approach for arthritis treatment and even prevention. Chinese herbal medicine, stress reduction, detoxification, proper diet and nutrition are within these means of therapy. Massage and exercises, acupuncture and chiropractic are also resorted to for repair of nerves and muscles. The goal of holistic medicine is to achieve balance and health. This approach believes that the contrary-ill health and disease- are caused by obstructions which impede the flow of energy in the organs. To restore energy and function to the system, holistic medicine makes use of Chinese herbs. When it comes to arthritic pain and inflammation, diet and nutrition are crucial. All in all, this alternative arthritis treatment aims on catering to the overall health of the patient. It is not only inclined towards providing superficial symptomatic relief. Through thorough tests and evaluations, imbalances are detected until the causes of arthritis are detected. It is then that treatment options are applied, and they are generally natural healing therapies. Such therapies are geared towards restoring balance and harmony all throughout the system. This is not only in the physical sense, but in all aspects of the person. Natural arthritis treatment also makes use of natural supplements. One such product for natural joint protection is Joint Advance. With Joint Advance, joint health is supported the natural way. Joint Advance has herbal and organic ingredients thus side effects are less likely to occur. Joint Advance has been proven effective and it is guaranteed to offer joint pain relief. One can do away with the limitations of joint pain and healthy living can be enjoyed to the fullest. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy. Wed, 12 Mar 2008 06:28:25 +0100 http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/arthritis-pain-relief1 http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/arthritis-pain-relief1 Many people live with some sort of aches and pains or medical condition. Or they have to live with it. Among them is arthritis, and it affects quite a large percentage of people. More women than men suffer from it, and it could strike at any age, usually from adulthood to the later years. So arthritis is a somewhat common health dilemma. What can one to do cope with it taking into account that they have that disease? One good means is through an arthritis pain relief program. As implied, it has to do with alleviating or relieving the pain brought about by the condition. Over 100 sorts of arthritic and joint conditions exist, and one of their salient characteristics is pain. And such is not a pleasant experience at all. Pertaining to arthritic pain, it may be generalized or localized, acute or chronic. There actually are several degrees of that discomfort- ranging from something negligible to tolerable as well as the excruciating. In fact, it could even come to the point of being debilitating. Certainly nobody in their right mind like the idea of it nor to feel it. Such is why arthritis pain relief is essential. For one to be able to live with ease and comfort. To be able to function efficiently and to go about with their daily activities. A painful condition can do otherwise. It can be limiting and restricting, or even incapacitating. And one’s quality of life and well-being would be of course affected. That’s how it can be with arthritis, and dealing with it can be through arthritis pain relief. One of the means for this is pacing. One should get to know their body well, and its signals. One ought to take a cue when the body is calling to slow down or rest. Slowing down and resting is essential for health and well-being. That’s an integral part of taking good care of oneself. To restore strength and energy in all the aspects- mind, body, emotions and all. But most people think that they constantly have to be on the go, or else they’d be missing out on life. It’s like sitting still for a few minutes would be a waste of time. What they are unaware of is that such tendency could cause them to lose the quality of their life. So when one begins to feel tired or pain, it’s best to slow down and continue on till the next day. Yes, one may have a list of chores and duties to do for the day, but they only come second to overall health. A healthy life is a balance between rest and activity, whether it is dictated by an illness or not. There are people with extraordinary energy levels always pushing themselves to the limit. But this may come with a cost. The body needs to slow down as it can break down. For an arthritis pain relief program, one must take time to take rests, at intervals during the day. There are pharmaceutical drugs and there are natural means for this program as well. One may well weigh the options of which they think suits them best, and it is recommended that they seek the guidance of a health or medical expert. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy. Wed, 20 Feb 2008 16:48:52 +0100 http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/psoriatic-arthritis1 http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/psoriatic-arthritis1 There are over a hundred sorts of joint conditions associated with arthritis. Each one of them have their own set of symptoms, and yes, ambiguities. Take the case of psoriatic arthritis. Psoriatic arthritis is among the lesser known forms of arthritis. Psoriatic arthritis may not appear so common, but it affects a number reaching to a million. Over one million men and women are affected by psoriatic arthritis, most of them in significant discomfort. Psoriatic arthritis can be controlled especially when treated in the early stages. But detecting and diagnosing psoriatic arthritis can be tricky. The symptoms can be vague and they may come and go. Until psoriatic arthritis may degenerate. And before one knows it, their psoriatic arthritis may have escalated in degree and already possibly severe. A lifelong condition with this sort of arthritis can be debilitating. One can be constantly beset by discomfort and pain. As with any form of arthritis, there is also swelling and stiffness in the joints. A person with psoriasis and arthritis is more likely to suffer from psoriatic arthritis or PA. And PA can strike anybody regardless of age. The knees, the ankles, the fingers, the toes, neck and back are the areas most often affected by PA. Over 90% of those diagnosed with PA initially experience symptoms in the nails. The finger and toe nails begin to pull away from the nail bed. It is then that they would become pitted, form rough ridges and become discolored. They may become orange-yellowish in color. Pain and stiffness in the joints of the hands and feet may then develop. These are the early indicators of psoriatic arthritis. PA may vary in severity, from the mild, the moderate to the severe. It may affect one finger or toe or perhaps more. It can range from being mildly discomforting to being debilitating. It is estimated that around 20% of those with PA have more than five totally damaged joints. As a consequence, their functioning is impaired. Their quality of life may be hampered, both personally and professionally. If PA is left untreated, degeneration can become speedier. More so, it may become irreversible. Half of those with PA have become limited in their goings about and 60% lose time from their work. It is only imperative then that one has to be mindful when they have a possibility of having the condition. Having psoriasis and arthritis at the same time is an urgent indication that one has to see the doctor. Destruction in the joints can be instigated when PA is left untreated. Daily activities can then become painful if not impossible to perform. Such activities may include mere walking or even brushing one’s teeth. Early detection and treatment can prevent PA from becoming excruciating and disabling. Otherwise, deformities can occur and it can cause significant incapacitation. PA is a chronic condition and it has to be addressed accordingly. One has to urgently take measures when they have a history of psoriasis and then experiences joint pain. Otherwise it can lead to the havoc of psoriatic arthritis which can be distressing to live with. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy. Tue, 29 Jan 2008 09:12:22 +0100 http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/rheumatoid-arthritis2 http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/rheumatoid-arthritis2 Arthritis is one of the most common complaints in households and the doctor’s office. But how much of arthritis is known? There are several forms of arthritis. The most prevalent of them is rheumatoid arthritis, also known as rheumatoid disease. Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic disease, or it can be chronic. This sort of arthritis is also caused by an autoimmune disorder. Over 2.1 million of Americans are afflicted with rheumatoid arthritis. It also affects women three times more than it does men. The arthritis more often strikes people around the ages 25 to 50 years old. It can also affect any joint in the body. Rheumatoid arthritis often starts with a sudden and severe attack. Flu like symptoms also often accompany it. How is rheumatoid arthritis characterized? In most cases, it is with the inflammation of the joints. Deformities may also be associated with it. Rheumatoid arthritis is also regarded as a systemic illness. It may also affect the other organs of the body. There are three known stages of rheumatoid arthritis. First there is the swelling of the synovial lining. The synovial is the lubricating fluid around the different joints in the body. When the synovial lining is inflamed, it can cause stiffness, swelling, redness and pain around the joints. The second stage is when there is a rapid division and growth of cells. This causes the synovium to thicken. What is the synovium? The synovium on the other hand is the free moving membrane in the joints of the body. The third stage of this arthritis is when the cells release harmful enzymes. These enzymes actually eat up the bone and the cartilage. The joint may then begin to be deformed and will lose its alignment. This in turn can result to chronic pain and loss of movement. Not much is actually known about rheumatoid arthritis. The causes of rheumatoid arthritis yet remain to be vague. But studies have shown that the disease can be genetic in nature. Those with rheumatoid arthritis are often found to have relatives suffering from the same. Bacteria, fungi and virus are also some of the suspected culprits behind it. The signs and symptoms of the arthritis vary from person to person. However, there are common manifestations to look for. Among them are painful joints, bone and cartilage destruction, anemia, decreased appetite, dry eyes and dry mouth. There may also be fatigue, loss of strength in the muscles, flu-like symptoms, joint deformity and hardened lumps. Still, others may also experience low grade fevers, swelling and stiffness in the joints and malaise. If the arthritis lasts for more than 6 weeks, then it may be rheumatoid arthritis. It can also be the same when x-rays show joint erosions. It is also a manifestation of the rheumatoid disease when a blood test shows positive for the rheumatoid factor. So it is when there is morning stiffness in the joints and there is the presence of nodules under the skin. These are signs and symptoms to look for to determine whether one is afflicted by this arthritis. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy. Thu, 10 Jan 2008 04:37:25 +0100 http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/rheumatoid-arthritis1 http://www.healthzine.org/Arthritis/rheumatoid-arthritis1 Millions of men and women are affected by rheumatoid arthritis. And they can be of any age. Rheumatoid arthritis can possibly trouble anybody although it affects more women than men. Rheumatoid arthritis is among the most common joint complaint among a host of individuals. Yet, the disease remains a puzzle. Studies have cited possible causes of rheumatoid arthritis. But still, the exact cause cannot be established. It is said that rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease. By an autoimmune disease, it means the antibodies or white blood cells attack the body’s own tissues. Antibodies are supposed to fight against foreign elements in the body. Yet with an autoimmune disease, they attack the body’s own components by mistake. It is in fact the rheumatoid factor in the blood which directs this action of the antibodies. When there is increased rheumatoid content in the blood, irregularities in the immune system arise. And so rheumatoid arthritis occurs. When there is an onset of this disease, there is joint swelling and inflammation. This then puts a limit to movement. But still, researches have shown that rheumatoid arthritis is not only caused by heightened levels of the rheumatoid factor in the blood. The disease can also manifest when there is an infection of the immune system, like that caused by a virus. Scientific evidence has yet to be presented to establish this, though. Rheumatoid arthritis is known to affect more women than men. Studies are ongoing to determine a correlation between the female hormones and the disease. Pregnant women have reduced rheumatoid content in the blood. Yet it is possible for them to have rheumatoid arthritis after their pregnancy. There have been known facts about the disease. It is said that it is also acquired through a genetic predisposition. A defective gene causes a person to have rheumatoid arthritis. Environmental factors, too, lead to the onset of the disease. Most people are aware that arthritis and its pain arises during extreme cold weather. Rheumatoid arthritis pain can come to the point of being debilitating. As there is joint swelling and inflammation, it causes restriction in mobility. A person can be temporarily incapacitated with this disease and with a gnawing pain in the joints at that. Most people take the recourse of pain killers in relieving rheumatoid arthritis. There are natural remedies as well. It takes a hit and miss approach is searching for the right relief for rheumatoid arthritis. After all, the disease can be chronic. It can lead to stiff joints which can be deformed. Loss of movement may then occur. Any joint in the body can be affected by it. There are numerous known causes of rheumatoid arthritis. Yet the symptoms are the same. A cure for the disease is yet to be established, although there are treatments. Preventive measures remain to be the best bet against rheumatoid arthritis. To reduce the risk of acquiring it, one must be mindful of their bones’ and body’s health. For this, there should be regular exercise, a healthy diet and vitamins and mineral supplementation. These measures remain basic yet they are the pillars of good health which can ward off diseases and their discomfort. About the author. Dr. Rose Windale is a successful Health & Wellness Coach who has been advising and coaching individuals for many years. Rose now decided to share her knowledge through this site, Healthzine.org. You can sign up for her free weekly newsletter and learn how to become truly healthy and happy.