Treating Osteoarthritis at Home

Osteoarthritis is considered the most common form of arthritis and the one most often found in seniors. It is estimated that 20 million Americans have arthritis, and the annual societal cost is close to $95 billion. Osteoarthritis is also more common among women than among men.

Although osteoarthritis can be linked to age, other risk factors may be evident, such as previous injury or trauma. Unfortunately for today’s society, with its ever expanding waistline, obesity can have a detrimental effect on osteoarthritis especially in the load bearing joints. Osteoarthritis symptoms will in most cases attack one’s hands, back, knees and very commonly their hips

While OA is far less prevalent in the shoulder joint, but it’s not unheard of. OA pain in the shoulder, or glenohumeral joint to give it it’s medical name, will when it’s apparent be most likely attributed to an injury sustained in the past. Discovering the actual cause of one’s OA can be like searching for a needle in a haystack, some factors are known however and should be considered, such as what strain certain types of occupation may be having on the condition.

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 unfortunately an on going 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.

OA as we know is a very common and unfortunately an on going condition, which does tend to kick in as our body’s get older, however more recently reported cases of OA indicate the conditions apparent rise amongst a younger population, which is set to become a significant health issue in the near future. So, while it is still true to say that OA is more prevalent with age, it is not true to describe osteoarthritis as an inevitable part of growing older.

Osteoarthritis is a variable disease, as there are many different types, affecting different joints, and is considered a progressive disease that worsens over time. Patients can develop other symptoms such as loss of movement, stiffness and swelling in the hip and snapping of the hip.

The Inevitable Deterioration 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.

Joint pain is normally worse later in the day. There can be swelling, pain, warmth, and cracking of the affected joints. Joint replacement is usually recommended for older patients, but can sometimes be performed on younger patients in exceptional cases.

At the hip and knee, an uncomplicated joint replacement has only around an 85% chance of still being intact and functioning after 15 years, however replacement joint surgery may be necessary in severe cases.

Osteoarthritis Relief Through Exercise

Low impact exercising is not thought to be damaging to those suffering with OA, In most cases simple exercising is encouraged as a way of re-gaining some mobility in an effected joint, an ongoing exercise program can also help to strengthen the area around the joint, which aids support. Exercising on a regular basis is known to be beneficial for numerous reasons, apart from OA.

Before anyone suffering with OA begins any type exercise program it would be wise to speak to their doctor, your doctor knows your condition well, so should be able to point you in the right and safe direction as far as exercising goes.

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

One can in many cases successfully treat one’s own arthritis, using the right alternative approach, even if they suffer with osteoarthritis. This may sound a bit new age, however modern medicine took its roots from nature, Devils claw (herb) is known to reduce swelling and pain. many sufferers have been shown to greatly improve when they cut out certain foods or restrict their diet.

Flush the Toxins from Your Body – And Start Recovering!

Drinking water has proven to be beneficial in the control of one’s arthritic condition, drinking at least 2 litres a day (filtered if possible), helps to flush the body of toxins. Only use filtered or bottled water, due to the metal content of unfiltered.

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.