Arthritis - Characteristics and Treatments
There are Conventional and Alternative Treatments for Arthritis
There are many forms of arthritis, but the most common are osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis. OA is caused by the wearing away of the cartilage cushion between the bones. This cartilage is what allows the joints to move without difficulty. Rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic disease that attacks the bones and joints. This is thought to be caused by an autoimmunity when the body considers itself the enemy and attacks it. This can cause problems in the organs and connective tissue as well. According to the Arthritis Foundation, an estimated 27 million Americans have OA (the most common and oldest type). More women than men have OA.
Causes and Characteristics
While we don't know exactly what causes arthritis, there are some risk factors to consider. Our risk increases as we age. Increased body weight puts added stress on the joints. When our joints are overworked or stressed, they become worn and now even the thought is that genetics plays a role.
The most common characteristics of OA include joint stiffness and pain especially after overworking the joints or for prolonged inactive periods. There may be pain and stiffness first thing in the morning upon waking. The pain and stiffness can cause lack of coordination and stooping which can make it difficult to walk or move. Bony growths may form on the fingers and toes.
The best thing to do is to seek medical help for an accurate diagnosis. Early diagnosis is the first step in treatment of OA. Each person has an individualized treatment program worked out with their doctor, however there are some universal options. The main goal of treatment is to slow the progression down and keep the symptoms in check.
Conventional Treatments
Medications such as acetaminophen, tramadol and propoxyphene are usually taken for the pain. Topical pain relievers include rubs that may contain camphor, eucalyptus and capsaicin. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDS) such as ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen are used to decrease swelling an pain. Steroids can also be injected directly into the joints. A physical therapist can assist in performing daily activities without stressing the joints. Joint replacement surgery can be done as a last resort.
Alternative Treatments
Many people are now moving toward alternative treatments. For arthritis, the "gold standard" alternative treatment is a supplement called Glucosamine and Chondroitin. This combination is thought to repair the worn cartilage and restore its elasticity.
According to Thom Lobe, M.D., N.M.D., founder of the Beneveda Medical Group in Beverly Hills, California many practitioners are also incorporating nutritional and herbal counseling in their clinics. Dr. Lobe focuses on natural remedies and healthy eating for common problems. Even though there are basic rules for everyone, once he gets to know the particular problem, some things are added to their diet.
"We work with people however works best to get them healthy", he says.
For arthritis patients, Dr. Lobe recommends an alkaline diet. This includes fresh fruits, vegetables, cold water fish, nuts and seeds, whole grains, celery, kale, okra, seaweed, carrots, spirulina barley, avocado and foods containing Vitamin D. He also recommends supplements such as Vitamin C, selenium, antioxidants (carotenes and bioflavanoids). Cherries, magnesium, and spices such as ginger and turmeric are also used to reduce pain, stiffness and swelling.
"Eating healthy is pivotal in maintaining balance and good health", says Dr. Lobe.
Research In Arthritis Treatments
In studies conducted at the University of Michigan, Ann Arbor and at Baylor Research Institute along with the Arthritis Care and Research Institute, cherries have shown promise in reducing the C-Reactive Protein in the body which is thought to contribute to inflammation.
In a National Institute of Health study, acupuncture coupled with analgesics was shown to be more effective than analgesics alone in reducing joint pain. Moderate exercise and weight control are also very important.
Whatever your treatment program, discuss it with your health care provider and adhere to it as directed.
Sources:
Interview with Dr. Lobe
National Arthritis Foundation
Sciencedirect.com
National Institute of Health
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