Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints. Autoimmune diseases are illnesses where the body attacks its own immune system. The autoimmune system is made up of cells that destroy invaders such as infections. Patients with autoimmune diseases have antibodies in their blood that attack their body tissues that are usually the sight of inflammation; this can occur in organs as well, not just the joints. RA can affect the eyes, skin, heart, and lungs. Arthritis means joint inflammation whereas rheumatoid arthritis causes redness, swelling, stiffness, and pain in the joint. Inflammation in the joints causes swelling, pain, and tenderness to the touch and during movement. It is possible to have a warm feeling at the sight of the inflammation and restricted movement. RA can also cause inflammation in tendons, ligaments, and muscles around the joints.
Rheumatoid arthritis is common in the United States affecting more than one million people and it affects all races equally, though women are three times more likely than men to suffer from this disease. It can affect someone at any age, but typically occurs after the age of 40 and before 60. Nobody knows the cause of RA, but scientists suggest it is genetically inherited. Some environmental factors increase your chances of getting RA such as smoking tobacco.
When diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis, there isn't any one test that will give a definitive answer. Since there isn't any specific test that will diagnose RA your doctor may order a few blood tests or X-rays. A couple possible blood tests include the Complete Blood Count (CBC) and the Erythrocyte Sedimentary Rate (ESR or sed rate). The CBC measures your three types of blood cells: white blood cells which fight infection, red blood cells that carry oxygen, and the platelets that help blood clot. A low red blood cell count is common among people with RA; this is also a sign of anemia which leads to feeling fatigued. Your platelet count would be elevated if you have inflammation in your body. The ESR test measures the rate at which your blood cells fall to the bottom of a test tube. If you have a high sedimentary rate, it means you have inflammation in your body, the higher the rate the worse the RA. If your sedimentary rate is high your doctor would have it checked regularly. If these tests come back with thin normal range and you are still having symptoms your doctor could order X-rays.
There isn't a cure for Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), but it can be treated according to each person. The goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation and pain, maximize joint function, and prevent joint destruction. It is best to start treatment right after being diagnosed. Aggressive management can prevent work disability, stop damage to joints, and improve mobility. Aggressive management consists of medications, rest, joint-strengthening exercises, joint protection, and patient education. Treatment depends on the age of the person, health, which joints are involved, and how progressed the disease is.
About the Author
My goal is to help the rheumatoid arthritis sufferers to have better understanding of causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Learn more on rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and treatment for rheumatoid arthritis at my site.
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Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Proper Foot Care Can Ease Arthritis Pain
If you suffer from arthritis, it is critically important to take care of your feet. Whether you suffer from degenerative arthritis known as osteoarthritis, post-traumatic arthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, which is an auto-immune disease, it is important to keep your feet healthy and balanced.
One of the best ways to help reduce foot pain caused by arthritis is keeping your foot in proper balance with arthritis foot cradles (specially designed insoles). These foot orthotics will help cushion the foot and reduce joint imbalance. This reduces joint pain and inflammation.
Arthritis is literally "pain in a joint." Whether caused by wear and tear or from a past injury such as a severe sprain, fracture or dislocation, arthritis can set in years later even if the injury is properly treated. When a joint is injured or wears down it is much more likely to become arthritic as you age.
There is no cure for arthritis, but with proper cushioning and balance in the foot it is possible to decrease the pain and inflammation of the arthritic joints. With 28 bones and more than 30 joints in just the foot, it is clear why there are many opportunities to develop arthritis in the foot. When arthritis develops in one or multiple joints in the foot it can have a negative effect on balance and can make it painful and difficult to stand or walk.
This causes many problems for arthritis sufferers, as walking and other low-impact exercises are critically important to our overall health. When severe arthritis in the foot keeps people from exercise and other activities it can lead to other, more damaging health problems.
But thanks to Podiatrist recommended Spenco RX Arthritis Foot Cradles, it is possible to help decrease the joint pain, allowing men and women with arthritis to manage their pain while remaining active and living more fulfilling lives.
To find out more about the Spenco RX Arthritis Foot Cradles, visit TheInsoleStore.com, where you will find these and other top brand foot care products including Orthotic Arch Supports, Gel Cushions and Insoles. Protect your feet today so you can continue to live the life you desire, regardless of foot arthritis.
About the Author
TheInsoleStore.com offers a variety of top brand Insoles and Orthotic Arch Supports including Podiatrist Recommended Spenco as well as Superfeet Premium Insoles and Sof Sole Performance Insoles.
One of the best ways to help reduce foot pain caused by arthritis is keeping your foot in proper balance with arthritis foot cradles (specially designed insoles). These foot orthotics will help cushion the foot and reduce joint imbalance. This reduces joint pain and inflammation.
Arthritis is literally "pain in a joint." Whether caused by wear and tear or from a past injury such as a severe sprain, fracture or dislocation, arthritis can set in years later even if the injury is properly treated. When a joint is injured or wears down it is much more likely to become arthritic as you age.
There is no cure for arthritis, but with proper cushioning and balance in the foot it is possible to decrease the pain and inflammation of the arthritic joints. With 28 bones and more than 30 joints in just the foot, it is clear why there are many opportunities to develop arthritis in the foot. When arthritis develops in one or multiple joints in the foot it can have a negative effect on balance and can make it painful and difficult to stand or walk.
This causes many problems for arthritis sufferers, as walking and other low-impact exercises are critically important to our overall health. When severe arthritis in the foot keeps people from exercise and other activities it can lead to other, more damaging health problems.
But thanks to Podiatrist recommended Spenco RX Arthritis Foot Cradles, it is possible to help decrease the joint pain, allowing men and women with arthritis to manage their pain while remaining active and living more fulfilling lives.
To find out more about the Spenco RX Arthritis Foot Cradles, visit TheInsoleStore.com, where you will find these and other top brand foot care products including Orthotic Arch Supports, Gel Cushions and Insoles. Protect your feet today so you can continue to live the life you desire, regardless of foot arthritis.
About the Author
TheInsoleStore.com offers a variety of top brand Insoles and Orthotic Arch Supports including Podiatrist Recommended Spenco as well as Superfeet Premium Insoles and Sof Sole Performance Insoles.
Specialty Shoes for Rheumatoid Arthritis
How does Rheumatoid Arthritis affect a person's feet? When a Rheumatoid Arthritis victim's joints become swollen or irritated, the synovium membrane becomes very thick and can develop a lot of joint fluid. This excessive amount of fluid coupled with inflammatory chemicals released by the immune system can cause swelling to the joint's cartilage and bones.
Foot problems normally associated with Rheumatoid Arthritis can happen in the ball of a person's foot, close to the toe area. Symptoms include the appearance of deformities, swelling, joint stiffness and intense pain when walking or standing for a long period of time. The following are a few common foot deformities and other foot problems linked to Rheumatoid Arthritis:
A Bunions B Heel pain C Achilles tendon pain D Flatfoot E Pain in the ankle F Dislocated toes G Hammertoes
Another common foot problem that many people with Rheumatoid Arthritis suffer from is called Rheumatoid Nodules or lumps. This condition can cause intense pain when Rheumatoid Nodules rub up against your shoes. These lumps may also appear on the bottom of the foot and cause pain when walking or standing. To help relieve pain caused by foot problems, it is important that you wear comfortable specialty shoes.
About the Author
Danielle K. D. works for oddShoeFinder.com,free online websites that help mismatched footwear.If you are looking for different sized feet,different sized shoes, orthopedic shoes.For more detail visit: amputation & SEO Services
Foot problems normally associated with Rheumatoid Arthritis can happen in the ball of a person's foot, close to the toe area. Symptoms include the appearance of deformities, swelling, joint stiffness and intense pain when walking or standing for a long period of time. The following are a few common foot deformities and other foot problems linked to Rheumatoid Arthritis:
A Bunions B Heel pain C Achilles tendon pain D Flatfoot E Pain in the ankle F Dislocated toes G Hammertoes
Another common foot problem that many people with Rheumatoid Arthritis suffer from is called Rheumatoid Nodules or lumps. This condition can cause intense pain when Rheumatoid Nodules rub up against your shoes. These lumps may also appear on the bottom of the foot and cause pain when walking or standing. To help relieve pain caused by foot problems, it is important that you wear comfortable specialty shoes.
About the Author
Danielle K. D. works for oddShoeFinder.com,free online websites that help mismatched footwear.If you are looking for different sized feet,different sized shoes, orthopedic shoes.For more detail visit: amputation & SEO Services
Rheumatoid Arthritis: What are Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms?
Arthritis affects many people all over the world in the US alone over twenty million Americans are reported that are afflicted with this debilitating disease. Arthritis is the general condition involving the damage of the joints in the body. There are many forms of arthritis and one of the most common forms of arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis.
Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory form of arthritis that causes severe pain, stiffness, swelling, and inflammation. In rheumatoid arthritis, the autoimmune system of the body mistakenly attacks the tissues of the body causing the lining of the joints to swell, that can result in pain, swelling, and eventually become deformed. One characteristic of the disease is that it is symmetrical in nature, meaning both parts of the body such as the wrist, knees, elbows, and hips can be attacked at the same time and pain is felt on both sides of the body.
Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms can even bring daily activities such a burden like walking or holding a pen. The symptoms maybe chronic or it could be a transient disease. When the joints are inflame this is the active stage of the disease, which is also called flare ups or flares, the inactive stage is called the remission stage and this can be due to medication or treatment, and it can last for weeks, months or even years depending on the management and the severity of the disease.
The remission of the disease varies from person to person, though the reason for the recurrence is still unknown patients are given some pointers on how to manage the disease and how to spot the early onset of the rheumatoid arthritis.
Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms may include general feeling of fatigue, malaise, fever, loss of appetite, muscle and joint pain and stiffness, which is usually felt during the morning after waking up; you feel stiff all over and have a hard time to move because of the pain. This can also be felt during prolong inactivity, the muscles becomes stiff and harden and movement is difficult. During this episode, the affected areas of the body are inflamed, swollen and warm, and the skin around the area is red and tender to the touch.
At the early onset rheumatoid arthritis only affects the small joints of the body, the fingers, wrist, ankles and feet. As the disease progresses large part of the joints are affected especially those that are weight bearing joints such as the hips, knees, elbows, and shoulders could be affected. Deformity is a common sight for people who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis this is due to the rheumatoid nodules that sprouts around the bones, bones become brittle and eventually loss its function.
As of this date there are no known cure for rheumatoid arthritis, the treatment that is available right now aims to slow down the bone degeneration and maximize joint function, reduce the pain, swelling, and inflammation. Disease management involves family education, medications, rest, exercise for joint and bone strengthening and protection. Treatment varies from the stage of the disease, age of the patient and general health, support of the family is one of the important factors of the treatment for rheumatoid arthritis.
About the Author
For more information on the types of arthritis and help with the pain caused by arthritis visit: http://arthritis-healthcare.co.uk/
Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory form of arthritis that causes severe pain, stiffness, swelling, and inflammation. In rheumatoid arthritis, the autoimmune system of the body mistakenly attacks the tissues of the body causing the lining of the joints to swell, that can result in pain, swelling, and eventually become deformed. One characteristic of the disease is that it is symmetrical in nature, meaning both parts of the body such as the wrist, knees, elbows, and hips can be attacked at the same time and pain is felt on both sides of the body.
Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms can even bring daily activities such a burden like walking or holding a pen. The symptoms maybe chronic or it could be a transient disease. When the joints are inflame this is the active stage of the disease, which is also called flare ups or flares, the inactive stage is called the remission stage and this can be due to medication or treatment, and it can last for weeks, months or even years depending on the management and the severity of the disease.
The remission of the disease varies from person to person, though the reason for the recurrence is still unknown patients are given some pointers on how to manage the disease and how to spot the early onset of the rheumatoid arthritis.
Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms may include general feeling of fatigue, malaise, fever, loss of appetite, muscle and joint pain and stiffness, which is usually felt during the morning after waking up; you feel stiff all over and have a hard time to move because of the pain. This can also be felt during prolong inactivity, the muscles becomes stiff and harden and movement is difficult. During this episode, the affected areas of the body are inflamed, swollen and warm, and the skin around the area is red and tender to the touch.
At the early onset rheumatoid arthritis only affects the small joints of the body, the fingers, wrist, ankles and feet. As the disease progresses large part of the joints are affected especially those that are weight bearing joints such as the hips, knees, elbows, and shoulders could be affected. Deformity is a common sight for people who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis this is due to the rheumatoid nodules that sprouts around the bones, bones become brittle and eventually loss its function.
As of this date there are no known cure for rheumatoid arthritis, the treatment that is available right now aims to slow down the bone degeneration and maximize joint function, reduce the pain, swelling, and inflammation. Disease management involves family education, medications, rest, exercise for joint and bone strengthening and protection. Treatment varies from the stage of the disease, age of the patient and general health, support of the family is one of the important factors of the treatment for rheumatoid arthritis.
About the Author
For more information on the types of arthritis and help with the pain caused by arthritis visit: http://arthritis-healthcare.co.uk/
Arthritis: Common Arthritis Symptoms and Diagnosis
Arthritis is an ailment which involves a number of painful conditions of the joints and the bones. There are a number of different types of this disease. Most types are inflammatory while others are degenerative in nature.
The disease may be preceded or coupled by an episode of fatigue and feeling of weakness. The pains in the joints most of the time starts in the hands, particularly in the knuckles. Most of the time, the pain are felt in both hands simultaneously, as in the case of one of the most typical form called rheumatoid arthritis.
Other usual forms of arthritis include osteoarthritis, gout arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis arthritis, juvenile arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus and septic arthritis.
Other forms of arthritis can emerge as a result of an infection. For instance, bacteria causing gonorrhea or Lyme disease can also lead to arthritis. Arthritis that are caused by infection can cause serious injuries, but generally clears up completely with the use of antibiotics.
Scleroderma, a systemic ailment which involves the skin, may incorporate harms with the blood vessels, internal organs as well as the joints. Another disease called fibromyalgia syndrome is soft-tissue rheumatism that does not usually result to the deformation of the joints but affects an estimated number of 5 million Americans which are mostly women. Over 100 various types of arthritis and arthritis related conditions have been reported.
In making a diagnosis, there are a number of common symptoms of arthritis that have to be considered. These common symptoms of arthritis can be found in tandem with different forms of arthritis. A person may likely to have arthritis if they have been experiencing any of these common symptoms of arthritis such as persistent joint pains, unexplainable weight loss or non-specific fever.
Joint deformities, inflammation as indicated by joint swelling, redness, stiffness and/or warmth, loss of range of movement or flexibility in a joint, extreme fatigue and lack of energy are also some of the common symptoms of arthritis.
Due to the fact that there are a lot of existing types of arthritis, there are many tests that are being performed for arthritis and its related diseases. Your medical doctor will be in charge of ordering tests basing on your comprehensive listing of symptoms. Some of the tests and procedures that may help diagnose arthritis include online self-assessments, such as self-assessment for candidiasis and the magnesium deficiency assessment. This self-testing procedure can aid you in determining the root causes of your persistent conditions.
There are also certain saliva tests which can make you check if you have an acid alkaline imbalance. According to recent studies, the reduction on the levels of acidity in the body can have a good effect on improving the common symptoms of arthritis.
Blood tests can also be done. Patients who suffer with arthritis have inflammatory markers found in their blood. These tests may include checking for the presence of positive rheumatoid factor, presence of citrullinated peptide or CCP antibody, checking the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and checking for the levels of C-reactive protein or CRP.
About the Author
For tips on arthritis pain relief and help with the pain caused by arthritis visit: http://arthritis-healthcare.co.uk/
The disease may be preceded or coupled by an episode of fatigue and feeling of weakness. The pains in the joints most of the time starts in the hands, particularly in the knuckles. Most of the time, the pain are felt in both hands simultaneously, as in the case of one of the most typical form called rheumatoid arthritis.
Other usual forms of arthritis include osteoarthritis, gout arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis arthritis, juvenile arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus and septic arthritis.
Other forms of arthritis can emerge as a result of an infection. For instance, bacteria causing gonorrhea or Lyme disease can also lead to arthritis. Arthritis that are caused by infection can cause serious injuries, but generally clears up completely with the use of antibiotics.
Scleroderma, a systemic ailment which involves the skin, may incorporate harms with the blood vessels, internal organs as well as the joints. Another disease called fibromyalgia syndrome is soft-tissue rheumatism that does not usually result to the deformation of the joints but affects an estimated number of 5 million Americans which are mostly women. Over 100 various types of arthritis and arthritis related conditions have been reported.
In making a diagnosis, there are a number of common symptoms of arthritis that have to be considered. These common symptoms of arthritis can be found in tandem with different forms of arthritis. A person may likely to have arthritis if they have been experiencing any of these common symptoms of arthritis such as persistent joint pains, unexplainable weight loss or non-specific fever.
Joint deformities, inflammation as indicated by joint swelling, redness, stiffness and/or warmth, loss of range of movement or flexibility in a joint, extreme fatigue and lack of energy are also some of the common symptoms of arthritis.
Due to the fact that there are a lot of existing types of arthritis, there are many tests that are being performed for arthritis and its related diseases. Your medical doctor will be in charge of ordering tests basing on your comprehensive listing of symptoms. Some of the tests and procedures that may help diagnose arthritis include online self-assessments, such as self-assessment for candidiasis and the magnesium deficiency assessment. This self-testing procedure can aid you in determining the root causes of your persistent conditions.
There are also certain saliva tests which can make you check if you have an acid alkaline imbalance. According to recent studies, the reduction on the levels of acidity in the body can have a good effect on improving the common symptoms of arthritis.
Blood tests can also be done. Patients who suffer with arthritis have inflammatory markers found in their blood. These tests may include checking for the presence of positive rheumatoid factor, presence of citrullinated peptide or CCP antibody, checking the erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) and checking for the levels of C-reactive protein or CRP.
About the Author
For tips on arthritis pain relief and help with the pain caused by arthritis visit: http://arthritis-healthcare.co.uk/
Common Types of Arthritis and the Common Symptoms
Arthritis is a disorder in the joints that features inflammation. Most of the time, it is accompanied by joint pain, which is called as arthralagia. The disease is categorized as one of the rheumatic illnesses, which are conditions that vary in each illness, with varying features, complications, treatments and prognoses.
There are more than 100 types of arthritis, with each one having different causes. The only similar features between these types of arthritis are their tendency to affect the joints, ligaments, tendons, cartilage and the muscles. Most types also have the potential to affect internal body areas. The following are the most common types of arthritis, with each type featuring particular symptoms:
Osteoarthritis Arthritis Symptoms
Osteoarthritis is the most typical form of arthritis characterized by a low-grade inflammation resulting to pain in the joints due to the wearing of the cartilage which covers and serves as a cushion inside the joints. Over time, as the bone surfaces become less well secured by the cartilage, the affected person may suffer from pain during weight bearing, including standing and walking.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms
This type of arthritis is considered as a chronic disease and an autoimmune ailment which causes the immune system to attack the joints. It can lead to considerable loss of mobility brought about by pains and destruction of the joints, this is why rheumatoid arthritis or RA is considered to be a disabling and painful inflammatory condition. Ra is also a systemic ailment. Most of the time, it affects extra-articular tissues in the entire body including the blood vessels, lungs, heart, the skin and the muscles. Based on statistics, about 6 out of 10 patients with RA are unable to work 10 years after the onset of their illness.
Juvenile Arthritis Symptoms
Another typical form of this particular type is the juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. The diagnosis, disease characteristics as well as treatment approaches of this particular type of arthritis will vary in children and adults. While some children is able to recover completely from the disorder, some may also remain affected throughout their lives. Based on recent statistics, about 200,000 Americans are affected by this disease.
Septic Arthritis Symptoms
Septic arthritis is characterized by the attack of the joint area by a certain infectious agent which causes arthritis. The usual agent of infection are bacteria however, there are also reported cases of arthritis that are being caused by viruses, mycobacteria and fungi. These agents of infection are transported through the bloodstream that has originated from an infectious focus elsewhere. It could be introduced from a skin lesion that penetrates the joint, or by expansion from adjacent tissue for instance bursae or bones.
Gout Arthritis Symptoms
This type of arthritis can lead to sudden severe attacks, typically occurring in the big toe, although any other joints can also be affected. Gout arthritis is a metabolic disorder wherein uric acid accumulates in the blood and forms in joints and other places. Attention to one's diet and drug intake can control gout.
About the Author
For tips on arthritis pain relief and help with the pain caused by arthritis visit: http://arthritis-healthcare.co.uk/
There are more than 100 types of arthritis, with each one having different causes. The only similar features between these types of arthritis are their tendency to affect the joints, ligaments, tendons, cartilage and the muscles. Most types also have the potential to affect internal body areas. The following are the most common types of arthritis, with each type featuring particular symptoms:
Osteoarthritis Arthritis Symptoms
Osteoarthritis is the most typical form of arthritis characterized by a low-grade inflammation resulting to pain in the joints due to the wearing of the cartilage which covers and serves as a cushion inside the joints. Over time, as the bone surfaces become less well secured by the cartilage, the affected person may suffer from pain during weight bearing, including standing and walking.
Rheumatoid Arthritis Symptoms
This type of arthritis is considered as a chronic disease and an autoimmune ailment which causes the immune system to attack the joints. It can lead to considerable loss of mobility brought about by pains and destruction of the joints, this is why rheumatoid arthritis or RA is considered to be a disabling and painful inflammatory condition. Ra is also a systemic ailment. Most of the time, it affects extra-articular tissues in the entire body including the blood vessels, lungs, heart, the skin and the muscles. Based on statistics, about 6 out of 10 patients with RA are unable to work 10 years after the onset of their illness.
Juvenile Arthritis Symptoms
Another typical form of this particular type is the juvenile rheumatoid arthritis. The diagnosis, disease characteristics as well as treatment approaches of this particular type of arthritis will vary in children and adults. While some children is able to recover completely from the disorder, some may also remain affected throughout their lives. Based on recent statistics, about 200,000 Americans are affected by this disease.
Septic Arthritis Symptoms
Septic arthritis is characterized by the attack of the joint area by a certain infectious agent which causes arthritis. The usual agent of infection are bacteria however, there are also reported cases of arthritis that are being caused by viruses, mycobacteria and fungi. These agents of infection are transported through the bloodstream that has originated from an infectious focus elsewhere. It could be introduced from a skin lesion that penetrates the joint, or by expansion from adjacent tissue for instance bursae or bones.
Gout Arthritis Symptoms
This type of arthritis can lead to sudden severe attacks, typically occurring in the big toe, although any other joints can also be affected. Gout arthritis is a metabolic disorder wherein uric acid accumulates in the blood and forms in joints and other places. Attention to one's diet and drug intake can control gout.
About the Author
For tips on arthritis pain relief and help with the pain caused by arthritis visit: http://arthritis-healthcare.co.uk/
An arthritis sufferer confesses
I have been suffering from rheumatoid arthritis for as long as I can remember. It's a crippling and, at times, depressing condition that I wouldn't wish on anybody. Sometimes I wonder if there was any action that I could or could not have taken earlier in my life that would have affected my condition, something I might have done that aggravated a genetic precondition I have, or something I could have done that would have stopped me from developing the condition at all. But the fact is, I, like so many other people in the country, and indeed, the world, suffer from it on a daily basis. I have heard of many different treatments over the years, all supposed to be some kind of miracle cure. If I had tried everything that had been suggested to me, I wouldn't be writing this now- I'd still be busy trying to finish the list! The times when I have got past my natural scepticism and given things a try have been relatively few and far between. I remember one particular incident when I was convinced by a close female friend of mine to try yoga. Now I'm not the kind to go out hugging trees and I generally don't buy into any of this new age stuff, but I agreed to go along all the same. I felt a little out of place amongst people who seemed to have been doing it a long time, but I gave it a go. I have to say, I think if I had tried it a few years ago I think it could have been of tremendous benefit to me, but I found it painful and difficult, and suffice to say I did not go again. The reason I gave this article the title 'An arthritis sufferer confesses' is because what I needed to confess is this: I lost all my faith in alternative medicine. None of the treatments I had tried before had had a positive effect, so I assumed that none would. Someone recently pointed out to me that practices such as osteopathy were until relatively recently thought of as 'alternative', but are now widely accepted, and indeed many GPs now refer their patients to practitioners. So before you dismiss all alternative therapies out of hand, be sure you are not throwing out the baby with the bath water. The thing that recently restored my faith is this: magnotherapy. This is exactly the sort of thing that i would have normally dismissed, but I was bought a magnetic bracelet as a gift, and since I thought it looked smart I decided that there was no harm in wearing it. Within a few hours I felt an improvement, within a few days markedly so. Now I wouldn't even think of taking it off. Of course, you might not believe me, just as I wouldn't have believed you, but you've got nothing to lose. A little research I've been doing on the subject would suggest that the type of bracelet you buy is important. There is a big difference between the more advanced designs with the latest supermagnetic materials that are now available and a copper bracelet with a weak magnet in the ends from the market. A clinical trial commissioned by the Arthritis Research Campaign on the magnetic bracelets developed by Nigel Broderick was published in the British Medical Journal in 2004, and remains the only successful trial of a magnotherapy device in the world. More information is available on his site, which I've posted the link to below.
www.brodpod.co.uk
www.brodpod.co.uk
About the Author
Arthritis sufferer from Nottingham
Parish Councillor
www.brodpod.co.uk
www.brodpod.co.uk
About the Author
Arthritis sufferer from Nottingham
Parish Councillor
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Common Symptoms For Rheumatoid Arthritis Have Found a Champion
Ugly Distorted Painful Joints: What you can do about it.
"Witches hands". That's what my mother called them. Swollen, painful inflamed joints of the fingers and hands that twist and turn every which way but straight, are some of the most common symptoms for rheumatoid arthritis.
Try opening a bottle, or picking up change, or putting on make-up. How about typing an e-mail. Impossible? These are just some of the common symptoms for rheumatoid arthritis that interrupt your every day life.
And what maybe is worse is arthritis of the feet. Just try walking on twisted feet.
A not-so-new discovery is now being acclaimed by doctors and rheumatologist as hope for those who suffering with rheumatoid and osteo arthritis. This totally natural compound was first discovered in 1971 by Dr. Henry W. Dielh, a researcher at the National Institute of Health. But it wasn't until Dielh himself contracted rheumatoid arthritis that his discovery was introduced to the medical world.
After seeing the amazing recovery of Dr. Dielh from the painful, yet common symptoms for rheumatoid arthritis, his own doctor encouraged him to write a paper on this amazing discovery, which he did and it was published in The Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, March of 1994. At that timecetyl myristoleate was injected into the swollen joint with a needle.
Does CMO Improve Joint Mobility?
Yes, If the joint can be moved.
No, If the bones have fused and grown together, only surgery can help that.
Appearance of deformed fingers and toes, common symptoms for rheumatoid arthritis, can be improved because when joint inflammation and swelling are down, dislocated bones are allows to return to their normal positions. Reduction of the swelling alone improves appearance, but physical therapy may be needed to finish the process and to a more normal appearance.
What About Bone On Bone?
Sometimes surgery is necessary. Knee and hip replacements are good options for those who need them. COM works great to generate soft tissue repair and can help recovery. To ensure proper healing, it is best to reduce the joint inflammation and swelling which are common symptoms for rheumatoid arthritis with CMO before the surgery.
No, it won't grow your leg back.
We all have different reasons for our condition. Digestive problems, lifestyle, smoking and drinking, all play a part. Liver problems are a major factor in healing. All things must be taken into consideration.
There is no magic bullet that works 100% for everyone. But for common symptoms for rheumatoid arthritis, CMO comes darn close. And nearly everyone receives some benefit from taking CMO.
Can I Continue With My RA Medications While Taking CMO?
Yes, but after a few days you probably won't need so much of them. Be sure to keep in contact with your rheumatologist. Things will be changing. You don't want to keep taking drugs you don't need to treat common symptoms for rheumatoid arthritis you don't have. Avoid steroids if possible.
Is it Expensive?
That depends on what you call expensive?
How much are you already spending to treat the common symptoms for rheumatoid arthritis like pain, inflammation, depressants? How much are you spending on creams, rubs and co-pays?
If you have arthritis, two published studies in the Journal of Rheumatology: Regarding Cetyl Myristoleate-Celadrin April 2003, and Effect of a Cetylated Fatty Acid Topical Cream on Functional Mobility and Quality of Life of Patients with Osteoarthritis April, 2004 show the amazing results CM gives. There was a clinical trial done by an independent research group on this combination that found 96% of the trial patients found relief in 60 days of treatment!
Nikken's nutritional products are manufactured to pharmaceutical industry standards and are more correctly identified as "Nutraceuticals".
According to Dr. Ernest M. Vandeweghe, Jr., MD., Nikken is one of only five nutrition companies in America that meets or exceeds the rigid quality standards of the American Nutraceutical Association (ANA), aka American Pharmaco-Nutraceutical Association. It's estimated that there are almost 400 companies producing nutritional products.
Find out more at: http://www.rheu-osteo-jra.com/cetyl-myristoleate.html
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cindy_Judd
"Witches hands". That's what my mother called them. Swollen, painful inflamed joints of the fingers and hands that twist and turn every which way but straight, are some of the most common symptoms for rheumatoid arthritis.
Try opening a bottle, or picking up change, or putting on make-up. How about typing an e-mail. Impossible? These are just some of the common symptoms for rheumatoid arthritis that interrupt your every day life.
And what maybe is worse is arthritis of the feet. Just try walking on twisted feet.
A not-so-new discovery is now being acclaimed by doctors and rheumatologist as hope for those who suffering with rheumatoid and osteo arthritis. This totally natural compound was first discovered in 1971 by Dr. Henry W. Dielh, a researcher at the National Institute of Health. But it wasn't until Dielh himself contracted rheumatoid arthritis that his discovery was introduced to the medical world.
After seeing the amazing recovery of Dr. Dielh from the painful, yet common symptoms for rheumatoid arthritis, his own doctor encouraged him to write a paper on this amazing discovery, which he did and it was published in The Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences, March of 1994. At that timecetyl myristoleate was injected into the swollen joint with a needle.
Does CMO Improve Joint Mobility?
Yes, If the joint can be moved.
No, If the bones have fused and grown together, only surgery can help that.
Appearance of deformed fingers and toes, common symptoms for rheumatoid arthritis, can be improved because when joint inflammation and swelling are down, dislocated bones are allows to return to their normal positions. Reduction of the swelling alone improves appearance, but physical therapy may be needed to finish the process and to a more normal appearance.
What About Bone On Bone?
Sometimes surgery is necessary. Knee and hip replacements are good options for those who need them. COM works great to generate soft tissue repair and can help recovery. To ensure proper healing, it is best to reduce the joint inflammation and swelling which are common symptoms for rheumatoid arthritis with CMO before the surgery.
No, it won't grow your leg back.
We all have different reasons for our condition. Digestive problems, lifestyle, smoking and drinking, all play a part. Liver problems are a major factor in healing. All things must be taken into consideration.
There is no magic bullet that works 100% for everyone. But for common symptoms for rheumatoid arthritis, CMO comes darn close. And nearly everyone receives some benefit from taking CMO.
Can I Continue With My RA Medications While Taking CMO?
Yes, but after a few days you probably won't need so much of them. Be sure to keep in contact with your rheumatologist. Things will be changing. You don't want to keep taking drugs you don't need to treat common symptoms for rheumatoid arthritis you don't have. Avoid steroids if possible.
Is it Expensive?
That depends on what you call expensive?
How much are you already spending to treat the common symptoms for rheumatoid arthritis like pain, inflammation, depressants? How much are you spending on creams, rubs and co-pays?
If you have arthritis, two published studies in the Journal of Rheumatology: Regarding Cetyl Myristoleate-Celadrin April 2003, and Effect of a Cetylated Fatty Acid Topical Cream on Functional Mobility and Quality of Life of Patients with Osteoarthritis April, 2004 show the amazing results CM gives. There was a clinical trial done by an independent research group on this combination that found 96% of the trial patients found relief in 60 days of treatment!
Nikken's nutritional products are manufactured to pharmaceutical industry standards and are more correctly identified as "Nutraceuticals".
According to Dr. Ernest M. Vandeweghe, Jr., MD., Nikken is one of only five nutrition companies in America that meets or exceeds the rigid quality standards of the American Nutraceutical Association (ANA), aka American Pharmaco-Nutraceutical Association. It's estimated that there are almost 400 companies producing nutritional products.
Find out more at: http://www.rheu-osteo-jra.com/cetyl-myristoleate.html
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Cindy_Judd
So What Really Causes Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Actually the body is the culprit. The immune system malfunctions and starts attacking the linings (synovial fluid) of the joints. This is what causes rheumatoid arthritis, which is a painful and debilitating disease. That's why it's often termed an autoimmune disease. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic condition of inflammation of the joints and everything surrounding them.
There are actually three stages of RA.
1. The swelling of the synovial lining of the joints affected. This causes pain and stiffness as well as warmth, redness and swelling around the joint itself.
2. The joint lining (synovium) thickens, caused by the rapid division and growth of cells.
3. These inflamed cells release enzymes that may feed upon cartilage and the actual bone. This is what causes disfigurement, loss of movement and even more pain.
Unfortunately, as RA is a chronic disease and can go on indefinitely, it can affect other organs of your body. John Hopkins University recently did a study which connected RA to heart disease. In fact, I grew up with my mother having both RA and a heart disease. In her case, this meant that she couldn't take much medication to alleviate her pain. She often went to the hospital, where her painfully distorted fingers were bathed in warm petroleum. Not only did she suffer constant pain but because of her painful fingers, she couldn't do many basic functions that we take for granted, like turning a door knob. Things like cooking where you are constantly wielding a cutting knife or a wooden spoon were fraught with pain.
Even sleeping was difficult because her body was in constant pain. At that time, in Britain, we used to pile up blankets on the bed for warmth. She just couldn't take the weight on her body. Today, duvets solve this problem admirably, thank goodness. Also much has been done to research RA and people have lots options - be it medication or natural supplements, maybe even a combination of both.
Having said all the above, to this day doctors aren't really sure of the what really causes rheumatoid arthritis. The answer mostly given is the dance between genetics and environmental circumstances - people in damper climates could be more affected.
Sandra Fierling is a published author and an avid researcher of arthritis related articles, programs and products. If you want to find out more about what really causes rheumatoid arthritis , please visit Sandra's website which is dedicated to arthritis information and pain relief and provides tips, information and advice on arthritis for FREE.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sandra_Fierling
There are actually three stages of RA.
1. The swelling of the synovial lining of the joints affected. This causes pain and stiffness as well as warmth, redness and swelling around the joint itself.
2. The joint lining (synovium) thickens, caused by the rapid division and growth of cells.
3. These inflamed cells release enzymes that may feed upon cartilage and the actual bone. This is what causes disfigurement, loss of movement and even more pain.
Unfortunately, as RA is a chronic disease and can go on indefinitely, it can affect other organs of your body. John Hopkins University recently did a study which connected RA to heart disease. In fact, I grew up with my mother having both RA and a heart disease. In her case, this meant that she couldn't take much medication to alleviate her pain. She often went to the hospital, where her painfully distorted fingers were bathed in warm petroleum. Not only did she suffer constant pain but because of her painful fingers, she couldn't do many basic functions that we take for granted, like turning a door knob. Things like cooking where you are constantly wielding a cutting knife or a wooden spoon were fraught with pain.
Even sleeping was difficult because her body was in constant pain. At that time, in Britain, we used to pile up blankets on the bed for warmth. She just couldn't take the weight on her body. Today, duvets solve this problem admirably, thank goodness. Also much has been done to research RA and people have lots options - be it medication or natural supplements, maybe even a combination of both.
Having said all the above, to this day doctors aren't really sure of the what really causes rheumatoid arthritis. The answer mostly given is the dance between genetics and environmental circumstances - people in damper climates could be more affected.
Sandra Fierling is a published author and an avid researcher of arthritis related articles, programs and products. If you want to find out more about what really causes rheumatoid arthritis , please visit Sandra's website which is dedicated to arthritis information and pain relief and provides tips, information and advice on arthritis for FREE.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sandra_Fierling
What You Need To Know About Rheumatoid Arthritis Treatment?
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the joints. Autoimmune diseases are illnesses where the body attacks its own immune system. The autoimmune system is made up of cells that destroy invaders such as infections. Patients with autoimmune diseases have antibodies in their blood that attack their body tissues that are usually the sight of inflammation; this can occur in organs as well, not just the joints. RA can affect the eyes, skin, heart, and lungs. Arthritis means joint inflammation whereas rheumatoid arthritis causes redness, swelling, stiffness, and pain in the joint. Inflammation in the joints causes swelling, pain, and tenderness to the touch and during movement. It is possible to have a warm feeling at the sight of the inflammation and restricted movement. RA can also cause inflammation in tendons, ligaments, and muscles around the joints.
Rheumatoid arthritis is common in the United States affecting more than one million people and it affects all races equally, though women are three times more likely than men to suffer from this disease. It can affect someone at any age, but typically occurs after the age of 40 and before 60. Nobody knows the cause of RA, but scientists suggest it is genetically inherited. Some environmental factors increase your chances of getting RA such as smoking tobacco.
When diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis, there isn't any one test that will give a definitive answer. Since there isn't any specific test that will diagnose RA your doctor may order a few blood tests or X-rays. A couple possible blood tests include the Complete Blood Count (CBC) and the Erythrocyte Sedimentary Rate (ESR or sed rate). The CBC measures your three types of blood cells: white blood cells which fight infection, red blood cells that carry oxygen, and the platelets that help blood clot. A low red blood cell count is common among people with RA; this is also a sign of anemia which leads to feeling fatigued. Your platelet count would be elevated if you have inflammation in your body. The ESR test measures the rate at which your blood cells fall to the bottom of a test tube. If you have a high sedimentary rate, it means you have inflammation in your body, the higher the rate the worse the RA. If your sedimentary rate is high your doctor would have it checked regularly. If these tests come back with thin normal range and you are still having symptoms your doctor could order X-rays.
There isn't a cure for Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), but it can be treated according to each person. The goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation and pain, maximize joint function, and prevent joint destruction. It is best to start treatment right after being diagnosed. Aggressive management can prevent work disability, stop damage to joints, and improve mobility. Aggressive management consists of medications, rest, joint-strengthening exercises, joint protection, and patient education. Treatment depends on the age of the person, health, which joints are involved, and how progressed the disease is.
About the Author
My goal is to help the rheumatoid arthritis sufferers to have better understanding of causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Learn more on rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and treatment for rheumatoid arthritis at my site.
Rheumatoid arthritis is common in the United States affecting more than one million people and it affects all races equally, though women are three times more likely than men to suffer from this disease. It can affect someone at any age, but typically occurs after the age of 40 and before 60. Nobody knows the cause of RA, but scientists suggest it is genetically inherited. Some environmental factors increase your chances of getting RA such as smoking tobacco.
When diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis, there isn't any one test that will give a definitive answer. Since there isn't any specific test that will diagnose RA your doctor may order a few blood tests or X-rays. A couple possible blood tests include the Complete Blood Count (CBC) and the Erythrocyte Sedimentary Rate (ESR or sed rate). The CBC measures your three types of blood cells: white blood cells which fight infection, red blood cells that carry oxygen, and the platelets that help blood clot. A low red blood cell count is common among people with RA; this is also a sign of anemia which leads to feeling fatigued. Your platelet count would be elevated if you have inflammation in your body. The ESR test measures the rate at which your blood cells fall to the bottom of a test tube. If you have a high sedimentary rate, it means you have inflammation in your body, the higher the rate the worse the RA. If your sedimentary rate is high your doctor would have it checked regularly. If these tests come back with thin normal range and you are still having symptoms your doctor could order X-rays.
There isn't a cure for Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), but it can be treated according to each person. The goal of treatment is to reduce inflammation and pain, maximize joint function, and prevent joint destruction. It is best to start treatment right after being diagnosed. Aggressive management can prevent work disability, stop damage to joints, and improve mobility. Aggressive management consists of medications, rest, joint-strengthening exercises, joint protection, and patient education. Treatment depends on the age of the person, health, which joints are involved, and how progressed the disease is.
About the Author
My goal is to help the rheumatoid arthritis sufferers to have better understanding of causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. Learn more on rheumatoid arthritis symptoms and treatment for rheumatoid arthritis at my site.
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