Living with arthritis -by Dr.Andrew Myers
Achy knees .sore joints .Back pain .For the 52.5 million sufferers (american populace )of arthritis ,these issues are an everyday reality .The condition can impact mobility and quality of life ,turning typical daily activities like opening a jar into a painful experience .
I know the diagnosis of arthritis can be disheartening and the "unknowns "of the disease can even be scary .But luckily ,the human body has the incredible ability to support wellness .Let's explore the condition and what you can do to naturally promote the health of your joints.
Understanding arthritis
Arthritis literally means "joint inflammation ." The term refers to over 100 rheumatic diseases and conditions that impact joints ,tissues that surround the joints and other connective tissue.According to the Arthritis Foundation ,Joint inflammation is one of the most prevalent chronic health problems and a leading cause of disability.
The most common type of arthritis is osteoarthritis ,also known as degenerative joint disease .
Osteoarthritis is characterized by reduced joint function and loss of cartilage ,the natural "shock absorber" in your joints .Arthritis increases with age ,with 50 %of Americans over age 65 having some form of arthritis symptom.
While medical experts have not been able to pinpoint a specific reason a person develops arthritis , its causes include age related changes in natural repair mechanism ,obesity ,genetic predisposition and inflammation .Inflammation that impacts the joints may be from a high intake of pro-inflammatory foods such as saturated fats or processed foods .It may also be related to the damage associated with wear and tear .As the joint tissues are damaged ,the immune system response can include inflammation that eventually lead to arthritis .
Treating the cause -naturally
Doctors commonly aspirin and non steroidal anti -inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS ) like over-the counter pain or anti -inflammatory medications to treat arthritis .While those options might provide some pain relief ,research in the Journal of Rheumatology and the European Journal of Rheumatology and Inflammation has shown they actually inhibit cartilage synthesis and accelerate cartilage destruction .Put simply ,science has shown they can do more harm than good .
While I understand that over -the -counter and prescription medications may be necessary for many individuals to manage their arthritis symptoms ,the key is to recognize the risks associated with these medications and to use them wisely .In addition , a holistic approach that combines healthy lifestyle strategies (weight loss and regular ,moderate exercise ),dietary changes designed to reduce inflammation and the inclusion of nutritional supplements that support joint health is the best all round all round approach .For most patients ,I recommend a supplementation combination of glucosamine sulfate ,anti oxidants ,calcium ,vitamin D and omega -3 .Be sure to talk to your doctor to determine the supplementation regimen for your needs.
As always ,be sure to talk to your doctor before stopping any medication or starting a supplementaiton regimen .And remeber that lifestyle changes and supplementation take time and consistency to see results .You won't notice a change overnight ,but daily supplementation will support long -term health and vitality.
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