Thursday, August 2, 2012

Remedies for Arthritis


Arthritis is considered to be one of the most dreaded diseases that can lead to permanent disability. It is a degenerative joint disease that targets the musculoskeletal system, specifically the joints. There are over 100 different forms of this disease. Among its many common afflictions, include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, and gout. Arthritis is a chronic condition that results to damage to joints of the body.  This health problem is often related to aging, People who are above 45 years of age are at higher risk for developing this chronic disorder. Other risk factors for arthritis include older women, smoking and tobacco use, chronic alcohol drinking, injuries, infection whether viral or bacterial, family history, sedentary lifestyle and obesity.

This condition is usually characterized by joint pain and stiffness. Arthritis may also be accompanied with fever and chills.  The joints typically appear swollen and reddish. The pain associated with this condition may appear gradually or sometimes suddenly. Other symptoms associated with this disorder are swollen lymph nodes, anorexia, weight loss, and fatigue. Pain and discomfort usually vary from person to person. During activities, the pain around the affected joints increases, and also after each activity. Common joints affected in arthritis include the hips, knees, wrists, fingers and toes.

The treatment for arthritis solely depends on the specific type of arthritis present. Accurate diagnosis should be done first so that the chance for a successful treatment is increased. Pharmacological treatments for arthritis include NSAIDs or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen, glucocorticoids, anti-malarial drugs, sulfasalazine, methotrexate, azathioprine, leflunomide, minocycline, gout medications, and cyclosporine. People suffering from this condition can also benefit not only from medications, but also from a number of remedies for pain, which have been proven to be effective by experts.

Over the years, many have claimed the effectiveness of the use of certain extracts from plants and fruits in providing pain relief in the case of arthritis. One example is the mixture of extracts from avocado and soybean. Localized pain and joint stiffness can be reduced and cured through the use of the extract. With this, the use of pain medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs is no longer needed. Avocado and soybean extract function by decreasing the inflammation and providing aid in the healing process. Another remedy for arthritis involves the use of glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate. These have been proven to significantly reduce the pain, joint stiffness, and edema or swelling of the affected areas,

Other natural arthritis remedies include relaxation techniques like meditation and yoga. Acupuncture has been identified by the World Health Organization to be effective in relieving pain and treating at least 40 health problems which include arthritis. People suffering from arthritis can also benefit from various physical therapies including massage, Massage can help improve the circulation in the body, promoting repair and decreasing the stiffness. Maintaining a desirable weight by eating healthily and exercising regularly can greatly help those who are diagnosed with this health condition.






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