Tag: Arthritis Treatment

Rheumatoid arthritis treatment

Rheumatoid arthritis treatment
Robert Kokoska

Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition where involves inflammation
of joints which leads to further swelling and pain. It causes an
upset inside the body where the immune system starts attacking
joint tissue, cartilage and other organs.

However the causes of rheumatoid arthritis are still not known
fully. This type of arthritis is the most common and affects one
in every 100 people. Rheumatoid arthritis affects people of all
ages but mainly effects people within the ages of 30 – 50. Women
are three times more likely to be effected as men. Patients
carrying this form of arthritis most often complain of
fluctuating pain and inflammation of joints, which can get gets
worse during flare-ups.

This article aims to offer an insight into several treatments
that can be used against rheumatoid arthritis.

There are two main kinds of drugs used against rheumatoid
arthritis; first line drugs, fast acting drugs, and second line
which are slow acting drugs.

First line drugs include nonsteroidal
anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Examples of NSAIDs are
aspirin, ibuprofen and etodolac. These can be used to reduce
pain and swelling of joints.

Aspirin has long been used to decrease inflammation. It can be
used to treat rheumatoid arthritis by using doses that are
higher then those used during fever. Newer types of NSAIDs are
effective as aspirin and require fewer intakes per day. However
just like all medication, it has its own side effects which
include stomach pain, abdominal pain and a few others. In order
to minimize the side effects of NSAIDs, they are regularly taken
with meals.

Another type of first line drugs includes Corticosteroids. They
are more powerful then NSAIDs and are given either orally or
through an injection to the inflamed areas such as joints.

Corticosteroids are given in small doses, mainly during
flare-ups as it reacts more strongly to inflammation. However it
can have serious side effects on the body if given for an
extended period of time in high doses. These include weight
gain, easy risk of infection, easy bruising and others. The side
effects can be minimized by decreasing the level of doses given
to the patients slowly as the condition of the patient improves.
A sharp decline in the doses given to the patient is discouraged
as it can lead to flare-ups and other symptoms of the disease.

Second line drugs include Disease-modifying
Anti-rheumatic Drugs or DMARDs. These drugs are mainly used to
prevent destruction of joints and deformity. DMARDs are used for
an extended period of time in order to be effective. DMARDs can
often be used with a combination of other second line drugs as
therapy.

Some examples of DMARDs include Sulfasalazine,
Hydroxychloroquine, D-penicillamine and others.

Apart from the above methods, there are some other approaches
that can be used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. The patients can
undertake exercise that can help them improve their physical
condition and improve joint mobility. Additionally it is
important to have a healthy intake of food.

Many often patients with rheumatoid arthritis can experience
weight loss. This can be combined with medication and therapy to
come up with a more potent combination against the condition.
Depending on your position, you can under go either
physiotherapy or occupational therapy. This will help improve
flexibility, mobility, and reduce pain in your joints.

The aforementioned approaches to rheumatoid arthritis have been
used time and again. However it is essential to seek your
nearest doctor to get firm guidance. Each arthritis case shall
be dealt on an individual basis.

With the passage of time, new and more effective treatments
against arthritis are starting to come through. However the only
way to gain the maximum benefit from the existing treatments
will be to remain punctual throughout the course of the
medication. It is important to constantly consult your doctor
and keep him or her up to date with your condition, so that the
doctor can advise you further and give more effective feedback.

About the author:
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Relief From Arthritis: A Who’s Who in Arthritis Treatment for

Relief From Arthritis: A Who’s Who in Arthritis Treatment for Newly Diagnosed Patients
John Robben

Newly diagnosed arthritis patients can easily become overwhelmed
with the myriad of information, treatment options, help and
professionals available to them, while still trying to find
relief from their disease. In an effort to demystify who does
what, this article will point out each of the people you’ll most
likely be interacting with during your arthritis treatment and
explain their role in helping you find relief from arthritis.

Arthritis Treatment Specialist: Acupuncturist

Considered foreign to most Americans, acupuncture has become a
beacon in the arthritis treatment sphere. By placing small,
sterile needles into very specific points on the body,
acupuncture is said to relieve stress, increase endorphins and
remove blockages that are pain-causing, thus providing relief
from arthritis. For a list of fully trained osteopaths who are
also acupuncturists, visit the American Academy of Medical
Acupuncture for more information.

Arthritis Treatment Specialist: Chiropractor

Chiropractors are the hands-on, trained manipulators that
actually realign the joints, muscles and tendons that may be out
of whack. Although they are not medical doctors, chiropractors
may refer their findings to your family doctor or rheumatologist
for further investigation. The American Chiropractic Association
can give you a better idea as to what exact these professionals
can do to help you find relief from arthritis.

Arthritis Treatment Specialist: Massage Therapist (LMT,
CMT)

Relief from arthritis isn’t only found in the bottom of a
medicine bottle or at the hands of a surgeon; many arthritis
treatment plans strongly suggest a massage therapist as an aide
to reduce muscle tension or to increase one’s range of motion.
However, not all massage therapists are trained the same: check
with the American Massage Therapy Association for certified
arthritis treatment specialists in your area.

Arthritis Treatment Specialist: Orthopaedic Surgeon (MD)

Specializing in the evaluation and treatment of the bones,
joints and tissues, orthopedic surgeons usually work on a
referral-based system from your family doctor. These types of
doctors will determine whether or not your arthritis treatment
will focus on surgery, non-surgical options or a combination
thereof. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons can answer
most of your general questions about surgical arthritis
treatment options that can bring relief from arthritis symptoms.

Arthritis Treatment Specialist: Physical Therapist

Sometimes known as occupational therapists as well, physical
therapists help with the daily management of the disease by
showing patients practical, hands on tactics to find relief from
arthritis. This can include heat/cold therapy, assistive
techniques (different ways of doing the same thing so that there
is less pain but with no reduction of mobility), introducing
tools that can help with day-to-day living and exercises that
increase flexibility and mobility. Contact the American Physical
Therapy Association for more information.

Arthritis Treatment Specialist: Rheumatologist (MD)

A rheumatologist is a doctor who specializes in the treatment of
muscle and skeletal problems, such as lupus, osteoporosis and
gout. Rheumatologists work closely with your family doctor to
ensure your arthritis treatment is specific and specialized. The
American College of Rheumatology provides “professional
education” to its members and publishes several journals related
to arthritis treatment and the relief from arthritis symptoms.

About the author:
John Robben is the owner/operator of Ultimate Water Massage
(est. 2000), a Washington-based company that offers over 2000
products to ease your pain and your life. Visit for more
information, tools, supplies and tips for relief from arthritis
pain at http://www.ultimatewatermassage.com/.

No Pain, No Gain Isn’t True of Arthritis, But Exercise

No Pain, No Gain Isn’t True of Arthritis, But Exercise Is Still Important
David Silva

National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin DiseasesRecent studies have shown that exercise may acually help people with arthritis in a number of ways. It can reduce joint pain and stiffness. It can increase flexibility, muscle strength, and endurance. And it can also help with weight reduction and contribute to an improved sense of well-being.Most comprehensive arthritis treatment plans should include an exercise regiment. Rest and relaxation, proper diet, medication, and instruction about proper use of joints and ways to conserve energy (that is, not to waste motion), as well as the use of pain relief methods should also be included in treatment plans.What types of exercises are best for people with arthritis? Try these three:Range-of-motion exercises to help maintain normal joint movement, relieve stiffness, and increase flexibility.Strengthening exercises to help keep or increase muscle strength. Strong muscles help support and protect joints affected by arthritis.Aerobic or endurance exercises to improve cardiovascular fitness, help control weight, and improve overall function. Weight control can be important to people who have arthritis because extra weight puts extra pressure on joints. As always, people with arthritis should discuss their options with their doctors before starting on an exercise program. Easy, range-of-motion exercises and low-impact aerobics are gennerally a good way to get started. And make sure to ask your doctor about any sports or exercise programs in which you currently participate. Some programs may do more harm than good.You should also be aware that your doctor may decide to refer you to a physical therapist. A therapist with experience in arthritis can design an appropriate home exercise program and teach you about pain-relief methods, proper body mechanics, joint protection, and conserving energy.So what’s the best way to get going? First, always first, discuss your exercise plans with your doctor.Next, start with supervision from a physical therapist or a qualified athletic trainer.Apply heat to sore joints.Stretch and warm up with range-of-motion exercises.Start strengthening exercises slowly with small weights (a 1 or 2 pound weight can make a big difference).Progress slowly.Use cold packs after exercising.Add aerobic exercise.Ease off if joints become painful, inflamed, or red and work with your doctor to find the cause and eliminate it.Like any exercise program, choose a program you enjoy and make it a habit.Range-of-motion exercises should be done at least every other day. Strengthening exercises also should be done at least every other day unless you have severe pain or swelling in your joints. Endurance exercises should be done for 20 to 30 minutes three times a week unless you have severe pain or swelling in your joints.Additional information on arthritis and exercise can be found at the following resources:Arthritis FoundationThe Foundation publishes a free pamphlet on exercise and arthritis and a monthly magazine for members that provides up-to-date information on all forms of arthritis. http://www.arthritis.orgAbout Arthritis TodayInformation on the causes, symptoms, and treatments of arthritis.http://www.aboutarthritistoday.com/arthritisexercise/Spondylitis Association of America (SAA)SAA sells books, posters, videotapes, and audiotapes about exercises for people who have arthritis of the spine.http://www.spondylitis.orgAmerican College of Rheumatology/Association of Rheumatology Health ProfessionalsThis association provides referrals to physical therapists who have experience designing exercise programs for people with arthritis. The organization also provides exercise guidelines developed by the American College of Rheumatology.http://www.rheumatology.org About the Author
About Arthritis Todayhttp://aboutarthritistoday.com

An overview of natural arthritis treatment

An overview of natural arthritis treatment
Robert Kokoska

Feeling a little itchy, inflamed and stiff in the joints? If you
feel that your condition adheres to the aforementioned
characteristics, then it is possible that you may be suffering
from arthritis. You are just one of the millions of people
around the world who are infected with this condition.

Arthritis involves pain, swelling, and inflammation of joints
which results from infections, metabolic disturbances or other
causes. Fluctuating pain and stiffness follow and can get worse
during occasional flare-ups. Many people who are affected by
this condition regularly complain of flu- like symptoms such as
tiredness and depression. Therefore it is essential to treat
this condition before it gets onto the next stage and halt it in
its tracks.

This article aims to provide an insight into several methods
that can be used to treat arthritis naturally, causing minimal
side effects.

The technique of acupuncture has been used for centuries by the
Chinese. It is based on the theory that inserting hair-fine
needles along certain energy lines can help stimulate energy
flow. It is believed by scientists that the insertion causes the
nervous system to release endogenous, which acts as
pain-relieving chemicals. This can therefore help in reducing
pain.

Alexander technique involves analyzing whole body patterns,
rather then a certain part of the body which contains the
symptom. It is a way of teaching improved stance to help people
stand and move more efficiently. It is designed to help us
maneuver in a better way and eliminate tension which is
responsible for many ailments in the body which rambles on to
give a greater effect during old age.

Aromatherapy is a technique similar to that of massage. It
involves the use of extracted oil from flowers, plants and
trees, and using it in combination with massage, baths and steam
inhalation. The right mixture of essential oils can provide a
number of benefits. It helps in relaxation, pain relief and
decreasing tiredness.

Chiropractic has long been used to give relief from symptoms of
arthritis. This technique aims to increase the mobility and
relieve the body of tension and stress by adjusting the joints
of the spins and the limbs, which demonstrates constrained
movement.

Homeopathy has its roots in history. Developed in the 18
century, it’s a system of remedies based on the belief that
taking tiny amount of natural substances to stimulate body own
defenses against arthritis. It basically involves taking the
whole body into account rather then a specific region.

Osteopathy is a method to treat arthritis which includes the
manipulation of the body to restore normal action and decrease
pain. This methods cant reverse profound damage done to the
joints but can help in improving mobility. However this
treatment is not recommended for those suffering from
osteoporosis or inflamed joints.

Reflexology has been an ancient technique used by the early
Egyptians and Chinese. It involves massage to the feet and the
palm of the hand to help improve the state of the rest of the
body. When massage will be applied to the feet or palm of the
hand, it will generate a warm and comforting sensation. This is
an ideal method for stress management and overall health
maintenance; factors that cause arthritis.

The practice of yoga has been used for a variety of conditions.
It involves a combination of breathing exercises and relaxation
to cope with daily stress and help in circulation and movement
of joints.

The aforementioned techniques have been the most common natural
arthritis treatments. However before any of theses techniques
are implemented, it is essential to see your nearest doctor to
analyze your state and then use these techniques. This is
because each arthritis patient will have requirements that need
to be addressed individually.

About the author:
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Arthritis Cure.

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Relief” and more arthritis resources, visit this website: Natural Arthritis
Treatment