Studies indicate Osteoarthritis as being the most prevalent type of arthritis. Millions of people livig in the western world are reported to suffer with arthritis, with an annual cost thought to be close to $95 billion. Research has discovered that Osteoarthritis is far more common among women, with less of the male population being effected.
Although age is an obvious factor in many cases of osteoarthritis, it's also very clear that there are other areas of concern, such as sports injuries, or perhaps a previous auto accident, Any previous injury, broken bone etc. can become a contributing factor in later life to one's osteoarthritis condition. Obesity is a worrying problem in our modern world and has a significant effect on those suffering with OA. Osteoarthritis is most commonly found in the hands, knees, hips and back.
The shoulder joint seems to shrug off OA, (excuse the pun), it's not true to say that one can not have OA in one's shoulder, its just not that common. More often than not symptoms of painful OA in the shoulder will normally be as a result of a past trauma or maybe even a previous operation. The reasons for being afflicted with OA are hard to pinpoint, however one's occupation, weight, and family history may all play a part.
It is unclear whether excess weight influences OA or whether OA contributes to obesity, either way it is clear that losing excess weight can only help one's osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition
Recent research has discovered that although OA is not classed as an inflammatory condition, arthritics afflicted with osteoarthritis do in many cases have some of the same characteristics as those suffering with rheumatoid arthritis, namely an unusually high number of inflammatory cells found in and around the affected joint.
Osteoarthritis is one of the most prevalent and disabling chronic conditions affecting older adults and a significant public health problem among adults of working age. Although the incidence of osteoarthritis increases with age, the condition is not a normal part of the ageing process.
OA is not a disease linked to one area of the body, there are many variations of osteoarthritis, which can attack many different joints throughout one's body. Unfortunately with most cases of OA the condition gathers momentum with time, with symptoms ranging form stiffness and pain to complete loss of mobility in the effected limb.
The Demise of the Joint
The breaking up of the cartilage can cause Inflammation of the surrounding joint capsule, though often mild, compared to that which occurs in rheumatoid arthritis.
The swelling is brought on by tiny pieces of the damaged bone finding its way in to the synovial space. Many severe cases of swelling attributed to OA may impair joint mobility.
The effects of osteoarthritis are normally felt at their worst in the morning or last thing at night. With a progressive condition such as OA, surgery is usually the inevitable end result especially in older arthritics, younger patients will normally only be offered joint replacement in exceptional circumstances.
A typical hip or knee joint replacement although common, still only has an 85% chance of being in full functioning condition after around 15 years, Having said that a joint replacement may sometimes be the only avenue to go down, especially in severe cases where mobility has become an issue.
Exercise Helps Relieve Osteoarthritis
Exercising can be very beneficial for those suffering with osteoarthritis, but only at sensible levels which do not put undue strain or pressure on the effected joint. Using exercise is a great way of increasing movement and function of arthritic joints, over time and a sensible exercise programme it is possible to strengthen the tissue, muscle and tendons around the joint, which will help support the damaged joint. Exercising is also great for the rest of the body.
Remember one should always talk to a physician about what types of exercise would appropriate for one's particular condition. A health care professional will be able to recommend an appropriate exercise program.
Only use FDA Regulated Arthritis Supplements
Don't be tempted in to taking supplements that promise the earth, yes they just might work for you, however unless they are governed by the FDA (Food and Drug administration) who knows what your taking, you may end up with a container full of capsules containing nothing more than, ground rock and chalk. Only use FDA approved products.
Alternative Treatments for Osteoarthritis
In many cases arthritis drugs carry so many side effects, and occasionally make the condition worse, not better. Many old and indeed new alternative treatments exist which have been shown to relieve arthritis, I believe they work by tackling the underlying elements of the condition (even in OA)
Remove the Harmful Toxins - and Start Feeling Better!
Drink as much filtered water on a daily basis as you can, you should aim to consume around 2 litres a day where possible. Drinking excessive amounts of water helps remove the harmful toxins trapped in the body, and can ultimately help relieve symptoms of arthritis. Avoid using water straight from the tap as it will probably contain heavy metal deposits, which are also damaging to the bones.
Fresh fruit is known to be a great natural anti-oxidant, especially apples and fresh berries, (avoid citrus fruits).Foods which are known to be beneficial to those suffering with OA might include, Fish that typically contain the highest levels of vitamin E and Omega-3 fatty acids.
Alternative arthritis medicine and practices can and will address one's condition Natural practices are known to reduce pain, inflammation, and stiffness with dramatic results, these same natural treatments can greatly improve mobility in the effected joint. Take a good look around and try a few of the ideas, most of the information is free if you keep looking. - 15995
Although age is an obvious factor in many cases of osteoarthritis, it's also very clear that there are other areas of concern, such as sports injuries, or perhaps a previous auto accident, Any previous injury, broken bone etc. can become a contributing factor in later life to one's osteoarthritis condition. Obesity is a worrying problem in our modern world and has a significant effect on those suffering with OA. Osteoarthritis is most commonly found in the hands, knees, hips and back.
The shoulder joint seems to shrug off OA, (excuse the pun), it's not true to say that one can not have OA in one's shoulder, its just not that common. More often than not symptoms of painful OA in the shoulder will normally be as a result of a past trauma or maybe even a previous operation. The reasons for being afflicted with OA are hard to pinpoint, however one's occupation, weight, and family history may all play a part.
It is unclear whether excess weight influences OA or whether OA contributes to obesity, either way it is clear that losing excess weight can only help one's osteoarthritis.
Osteoarthritis is a chronic condition
Recent research has discovered that although OA is not classed as an inflammatory condition, arthritics afflicted with osteoarthritis do in many cases have some of the same characteristics as those suffering with rheumatoid arthritis, namely an unusually high number of inflammatory cells found in and around the affected joint.
Osteoarthritis is one of the most prevalent and disabling chronic conditions affecting older adults and a significant public health problem among adults of working age. Although the incidence of osteoarthritis increases with age, the condition is not a normal part of the ageing process.
OA is not a disease linked to one area of the body, there are many variations of osteoarthritis, which can attack many different joints throughout one's body. Unfortunately with most cases of OA the condition gathers momentum with time, with symptoms ranging form stiffness and pain to complete loss of mobility in the effected limb.
The Demise of the Joint
The breaking up of the cartilage can cause Inflammation of the surrounding joint capsule, though often mild, compared to that which occurs in rheumatoid arthritis.
The swelling is brought on by tiny pieces of the damaged bone finding its way in to the synovial space. Many severe cases of swelling attributed to OA may impair joint mobility.
The effects of osteoarthritis are normally felt at their worst in the morning or last thing at night. With a progressive condition such as OA, surgery is usually the inevitable end result especially in older arthritics, younger patients will normally only be offered joint replacement in exceptional circumstances.
A typical hip or knee joint replacement although common, still only has an 85% chance of being in full functioning condition after around 15 years, Having said that a joint replacement may sometimes be the only avenue to go down, especially in severe cases where mobility has become an issue.
Exercise Helps Relieve Osteoarthritis
Exercising can be very beneficial for those suffering with osteoarthritis, but only at sensible levels which do not put undue strain or pressure on the effected joint. Using exercise is a great way of increasing movement and function of arthritic joints, over time and a sensible exercise programme it is possible to strengthen the tissue, muscle and tendons around the joint, which will help support the damaged joint. Exercising is also great for the rest of the body.
Remember one should always talk to a physician about what types of exercise would appropriate for one's particular condition. A health care professional will be able to recommend an appropriate exercise program.
Only use FDA Regulated Arthritis Supplements
Don't be tempted in to taking supplements that promise the earth, yes they just might work for you, however unless they are governed by the FDA (Food and Drug administration) who knows what your taking, you may end up with a container full of capsules containing nothing more than, ground rock and chalk. Only use FDA approved products.
Alternative Treatments for Osteoarthritis
In many cases arthritis drugs carry so many side effects, and occasionally make the condition worse, not better. Many old and indeed new alternative treatments exist which have been shown to relieve arthritis, I believe they work by tackling the underlying elements of the condition (even in OA)
Remove the Harmful Toxins - and Start Feeling Better!
Drink as much filtered water on a daily basis as you can, you should aim to consume around 2 litres a day where possible. Drinking excessive amounts of water helps remove the harmful toxins trapped in the body, and can ultimately help relieve symptoms of arthritis. Avoid using water straight from the tap as it will probably contain heavy metal deposits, which are also damaging to the bones.
Fresh fruit is known to be a great natural anti-oxidant, especially apples and fresh berries, (avoid citrus fruits).Foods which are known to be beneficial to those suffering with OA might include, Fish that typically contain the highest levels of vitamin E and Omega-3 fatty acids.
Alternative arthritis medicine and practices can and will address one's condition Natural practices are known to reduce pain, inflammation, and stiffness with dramatic results, these same natural treatments can greatly improve mobility in the effected joint. Take a good look around and try a few of the ideas, most of the information is free if you keep looking. - 15995
About the Author:
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