Osteoarthritis is known to be amongst the most debilitating of diseases, and is clearly the most common type of arthritis. Our population has become riddled with this terrible affliction, with millions of new cases reported annually. The overall cost to society could be nearing $100 billion. While Osteoarthritis is not linked directly to sex, it is apparent that the disease is far more common in women.
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.
OA is however far less common in the shoulder area than in other joints, however it can develop in the shoulder joint (the glenohumeral joint). In such cases, it is most often associated with a previous injury, and patients gradually develop pain and stiffness in the back of the shoulder. Some of the factors contributing to disease susceptibility include genetics, body mass, previous history of trauma to a major limb, occupational influences, and immobilization.
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
Osteoarthritis isn't typically thought of as an inflammatory disease, but researchers have found that people with osteoarthritis have higher levels of inflammatory cells in their joints than are found in the joints of people who don't have osteoarthritis.
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.
Osteoarthritis is not just one disease, in fact OA is actually a term used to describe many joint de-generation disease, which may appear in many different joint areas, some cases of OA are without doubt very aggressive and quickly worsen with time. Arthritics suffering with OA may experience a wide range of symptoms depending on the severity of their condition.
Joint Deterioration
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 inflammation is usually brought on by broken cartilage fragments drifting in to the synovial space. Excessive swelling of the joint can cause problems and restrict movement.
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.
Hip and knee surgery is the most common type of joint replacement carried out today, most operations are successful, however in the long term the replaced joint will only have around an 85% chance of still being intact, around 15 years is often mentioned as the average life-span of these join replacements. Joint replacement is the last resort.
Exercise can Help
Exercise does not normally aggravate osteoarthritis when performed at levels that do not cause joint pain. Exercise is helpful in osteoarthritis in several ways, most notably aiding mobility and strengthening of the joints. Exercising can also help lower your cholesterol and reduce excess weight.
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.
Arthritis Supplements are Not Regulated by the FDA
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.
Treat Arthritis The Natural Way
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.
People suffering with osteoarthritis may like to experiment with their diet, foods which are known to be good for OA and indeed most types of arthritis are fresh fruit due to the fantastic natural antioxidant properties they contain,(not the citrus variety), Oily fish is especially good for those suffering with arthritis due to it's high content of fatty acids and vitamin E.
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. - 15343
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.
OA is however far less common in the shoulder area than in other joints, however it can develop in the shoulder joint (the glenohumeral joint). In such cases, it is most often associated with a previous injury, and patients gradually develop pain and stiffness in the back of the shoulder. Some of the factors contributing to disease susceptibility include genetics, body mass, previous history of trauma to a major limb, occupational influences, and immobilization.
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
Osteoarthritis isn't typically thought of as an inflammatory disease, but researchers have found that people with osteoarthritis have higher levels of inflammatory cells in their joints than are found in the joints of people who don't have osteoarthritis.
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.
Osteoarthritis is not just one disease, in fact OA is actually a term used to describe many joint de-generation disease, which may appear in many different joint areas, some cases of OA are without doubt very aggressive and quickly worsen with time. Arthritics suffering with OA may experience a wide range of symptoms depending on the severity of their condition.
Joint Deterioration
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 inflammation is usually brought on by broken cartilage fragments drifting in to the synovial space. Excessive swelling of the joint can cause problems and restrict movement.
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.
Hip and knee surgery is the most common type of joint replacement carried out today, most operations are successful, however in the long term the replaced joint will only have around an 85% chance of still being intact, around 15 years is often mentioned as the average life-span of these join replacements. Joint replacement is the last resort.
Exercise can Help
Exercise does not normally aggravate osteoarthritis when performed at levels that do not cause joint pain. Exercise is helpful in osteoarthritis in several ways, most notably aiding mobility and strengthening of the joints. Exercising can also help lower your cholesterol and reduce excess weight.
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.
Arthritis Supplements are Not Regulated by the FDA
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.
Treat Arthritis The Natural Way
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.
People suffering with osteoarthritis may like to experiment with their diet, foods which are known to be good for OA and indeed most types of arthritis are fresh fruit due to the fantastic natural antioxidant properties they contain,(not the citrus variety), Oily fish is especially good for those suffering with arthritis due to it's high content of fatty acids and vitamin E.
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. - 15343
About the Author:
Discover how to reduce your arthritis pain and inflammation...quickly, using A Simple & Practical Method This method is not new but does really work. If your looking for a safe and effective way of treating your arthritis pain without drugs, supplements or complete diet change, visit Cure Your Arthritis for a drug free alternative.