Author: admin     11 9th, 2008 in Arthritis, Pain Relief     No Comments »

The medical condition known by most of the people as Gout is actually hyperuricemia, a disease occurring due to an increase of the uric acid blood level. It tends to appear more often in men at the age of 50 and over when uric acid crystals form irritating accumulations in joints all over the body. The uric acid deposits assemble a bump or a growth and firstly appear at the base of the big toe, in the heel, hand or knee. Ears are also susceptible to become irritated by the accumulation of urats. Main symptoms of the Gout are inflammation in the joint area and pain creating discomfort and lack of sleep.

The uric acid is in fact a waste product occurring during the breakdown of purine amino acids. In normal conditions, uric acid is being dissolved in the blood and eliminated by the kidneys. When kidneys fail to do their job or the amount of destroyed purine is very high, uric acid crystals accumulate and lead to the apparition of Gout. AN administration of water-soluble potassium product would create a balance in the amino acid metabolism and resolve the problems.

In order to prevent the occurrence of Gout in yourself, try to avoid food and products with high content of purinic bases like organ meats and yeast laden, sardines, broths, herring, mushrooms, fish, lentils, oat meals and spinach. High levels of amino acids are also contained in peas, beans and beer.

Recent studies on beer consumers have shown the real threat is represents in the development of Gout. Its alcohol content increases the level of uric acid in the blood and the fermented yeast doubles the actual danger for hyperuricemia. A clinical study on rheumatism patients showed a 41% of gout sufferers consuming more than 12 ounce of beer every day compared to only 17% in the control group with healthy subjects.

Those who want to try avoiding this gout condition must known what they should eat to prevent or treat it. A daily consume of fresh or canned cherries can really help you get rid of Gout. According to a clinical study in a group of gout sufferers, the daily use of half pound fresh or canned cherries returned the disturbed uric acid levels in the blood back to normal in just a few days. No further attacks of Gout were registered in these patients. Also helpful was proved to be cherry juice.

The scientific explanation is the cherries content in calcium, phosphorus and especially the 191 mg potassium content for every 100 mg sodium. Potassium keeps a healthy balance of the uric acid in our blood and prevents the crystallization in our joints. Cherries are also benefic for the high levels of malic acid, able to neutralize both uric and lactic acid.

A daily cure with strawberries, blueberries or hawthorn berries are considered to be helpful in getting rid of gout as well.

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Author: admin     11 9th, 2008 in Gout Diet     No Comments »

Glucosamine and Chondroitin are the building blocks of cartilage and connecting tissues. Glucosamine, also known as chitosamine, is a substance that occurs naturally in the covering of shellfish. Glucosamine is available in natural forms such as glucosamine hydrochloride, glucosamine sulfate as well as in synthetic forms. Chondroitin occurs naturally in shark or bovine cartilage. It is also synthesized in the labs. Chondroitin is also called chondroitin sulfate, chondroitin sulfuric acid and chonsurid.

Glucosamine is usually combined with chondroitin to help people suffering from osteoarthritis. Studies have shown that this combination can improve the function of bones and restore cartilage. Chondroitin has ophthalmic uses too. It is present in the eye drop used during cataract removal and is also used to treat dry eyes. Research is being conducted to use chondroitin as an anticoagulant.

Every action is countered by a reaction and it’s true in the case of medicines too. They cause side effects depending on the person and the dosage taken. Studies show that glucosamine supplemented with chondroitin is usually safe to consume, but may have a few side effects. Common side effects include nausea, diarrhea, constipation, stomach pain, irregular heartbeats, hair loss and gastrointestinal upsets. Some people suffer from major side effects like intraocular hypertension where high pressure builds up inside the eyes as a result of using chondroitin in the eyes.

People who have an allergy to shellfish must not take Glucosamine chondroitin. Diabetics must also be careful as it might elevate insulin levels in blood. Patients on blood thinners must use chondroitin only after consulting their physician.

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Author: admin     11 9th, 2008 in Glucosamine     No Comments »

Rheumatoid arthritis or RA is an inflammation of the synovium in joints, with 1 to 2% of the population occurs. Are also regularly tendon sheaths and sacs in the inflammatory process. The term includes the people rheumatological foot (and in the terminology of the rheumatism foundation) many diseases. Rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, fibromyalgia, the disease Bekhterev and gout are a few examples. For doctors’ rheumatism ‘, however, usually a specific indication for rheumatoid arthritis.

A general aetiological or pathogenetic factor that a priori gives rise to the emergence of RA has not yet been found. The symptoms are caused by the formation of lysosomal enzymes (enzymes or degrading hydrolytic enzymes) that the spot produced by cells of the immune system, therefore, is an autoimmune process. This looks like a type IV hypersensitivity reaction, because of the involvement of CD4 T-cells (Th1 and Th2 cells) and that of CD8 cytotoxic T-cells, respectively, in the promotion of destruction by macrophages and B cells of the immune system and apoptosis (programmed cell death ). Although many in the very population that they have disorders with ‘rheumatism’ attention, RA is relatively rare in the strict sense, and is associated with all inflammatory reactions: pain / swelling / heat / redness and function loss and concrescence of the affected joints.   In addition to RA joints can, however almost all organ systems affected. Most people with RA may, with the current state of treatment is a fairly normal life. However, a small group of patients who are seriously interested in the long term valid upgraded touches.

Author: admin     11 9th, 2008 in Arthritis, Pain Relief     No Comments »

Life, they say, is full of aches and pains. For millions of people with arthritis, living can be a nightmare since the disease causes much suffering and misery.

Arthritis is the inflammation of the joints and is a common chronic health problem in many parts of the world. It isn’t a single disease but a group of diseases characterized by pain, swelling, stiffness, and redness in one or more joints. There are over a hundred forms of arthritis with a host of causes but the most common forms are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis commonly occurs in adults over 45 due to the long-term wear and tear on the joints. The joints are normally cushioned by an elastic tissue called cartilage that allows the bones to move smoothly against one another. When the cartilage deteriorates, the bones rub together, causing pain and swelling.

Rheumatoid arthritis may strike at any age but it occurs most commonly among people in their 20s and 30s. It occurs three times more often among women than among men. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease in which – for unknown reasons - the body’s immune system attacks joints, tissue, and body organs.

In addition to pain and joint stiffness, symptoms may include a decreased appetite, fatigue, and fever. The disease may disappear within a year but when symptoms return, they are often more severe.

While there’s no cure for arthritis, you can ease the pain and live a normal, productive life with the right medication. Aspirin is commonly prescribed for arthritis but it can irritate the stomach. The same is true with traditional nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like mefenamic acid and naproxen.

While the much hyped about COX-2 inhibitors appear to cause fewer gastrointestinal problems like ulcers, they are more expensive and may increase a person’s risk of a heart attack. What’s more, COX-2 inhibitors aren’t necessarily more powerful in relieving pain than traditional NSAIDs.

Flexcerin was designed to help arthritis sufferers cope with their condition without compromising their health. This powerful and comprehensive joint formula stops arthritis pain and helps rebuild, lubricate, and soothe swollen joints to give you freedom from stiffness and the mobility you need to lead a normal life.

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Author: admin     11 9th, 2008 in Arthritis, Pain Relief     No Comments »

Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition which is considered to be a chronic, inflammatory disorder that causes the immune system to attack the joints. This debilitating disease is a disabling and painful inflammatory condition, and can often lead to a major loss of mobility due to pain and joint expiration. Since rheumatoid arthritis is a systemic disease, it often affects extra-articular tissues throughout the body including the skin, blood vessels, heart, lungs, and muscles.

A number of herbs have been shown to feature significant anti-inflammatory properties. Some herbs also can be potential painkillers as well as being anti-inflammatory in nature. However, further testing of possible herbal remedies is still in the early stages and it would be difficult to tell the true effectiveness of these herbs. A number of promising herbal substitutes for painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs are shown below to harbor significant anti-inflammatory properties:.

Birch leaf juice - Acts as a diuretic without irritating the kidney. It is advised to take 1 tablespoon three times daily.

Boswellia - Boswellia, has been investigated for its effects on arthritis. The herb has a unique anti-inflammatory action, and acts much like the conventional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). People are advised to take 400-800 mg of extract in capsules or tablets three times per day.

Blueberries and cherries - These berries are rich sources of flavonoid molecules, specifically proanthocyanidins. These flavonoids possess membrane and collagen stabilizing, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory actions, including many other functions that are very beneficial in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

Celery seeds - These seeds help clear uric acid from the joints of gout and arthritis patients. To prepare, boil 1 tsp. of seeds in 1 cup of water for fifteen minutes, strain and sip.

Dandelion - Noted to dispel uric acid. Take 3 capsules daily, 1 tbsp. juice or 1 cup tea, twice daily for four to six weeks to reduce the frequency and intensity of pain, and to strengthen the connective tissue.

Devil’s claw root - Is known to be effective in reducing the inflammation of connective tissues, as it dispels uric acid.

Chinese skullcap (Scutellaria baicalensis) - Chinese skullcap has proven anti-arthritic and anti Chinese skullcap does not appear to have any adverse effects at therapeutic levels. Its therapeutic-inflammatory actions, similar in effect to the prescription drugs phenylbutazone and indomethacin. action appears to be related to its high content of flavonoid molecules.

Chinese thoroughwax - (Bupleuri falcatum) This root is an important ingredient in various prescriptions in Chinese traditional medicine, particularly remedies for inflammatory conditions.

Ginger - In one significant study, Indian researchers gave three to seven grams of ginger a day to 28 people with rheumatoid arthritis. More than 75 percent of those participating in the study reported at least some relief from pain and swelling.

Feverfew - Feverfew has a long history in traditional herbal treatment circles for the treatment of fever, arthritis and migraine. Extracts of feverfew have indicated greater activity in inhibiting inflammation in experimental studies. Feverfew extracts have been noted to inhibit the synthesis of many pro-inflammatory compounds at their initial stage of synthesis.

Dong quai - This herb is potent for relieving fleeting muscle and joint pains, particularly, if they are worse in damp conditions. Take I tbsp. of dried root juice three times daily.

Along with these herbal concoctions, rheumatologists also advise that treatment for conditions like these also includes rest and physical activity. Regular exercise is required for maintaining joint mobility and strengthening the joint muscles. Swimming is particularly good, since it allows for exercise with a minimum of stress on the joints. Heat and cold compresses are effective modalities that can ease RA symptoms before and after exercise.

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Author: admin     11 9th, 2008 in Arthritis, Pain Relief     4 Comments »

About 2 million people wake up in the morning with red, swollen, stiff joints. The pain persists on into the day making it hard if not impossible to take care of the activities of daily living, or hobbies that make your life rich; washing the dishes, making bread, sewing, gardening, playing with the children or grandchildren; are no longer enjoyable, your mood suffers and desperation sets in as you try to find something; a magic pill, a diet, anything that will take this pain away. This is the life of a person suffering from Rheumatoid Arthritis or RA.

RA is an inflammatory autoimmune disease, if which the cause is unknown. What is known about the disease is that it affects women more than men and Caucasian’s more than any other race. Rheumatoid Arthritis can strike at any age but is most commonly diagnosed from the ages of 20 to 40.

The onset of RA is usually marked with fatigue, weakness and sometimes fever. Some report a loss of appetite and, subsequently, weight. The hallmark of RA is joint stiffness in the morning that gradually improves throughout the day and that is symmetrical, in that it affects both sides of the body. For example both of your hands will be stiff, red and swollen, not just one hand or one joint as is typical in osteoarthritis.

Rheumatoid Arthritis is so painful that many people seek unproven and sometimes unsafe methods of dealing with the pain. There is no cure for RA. So many sufferers will risk addiction to opioid analgesics, or risk damage to other systems just to gain some relief from the pain. While the outlook is bleak for these individuals, there are some lifestyles and diet modifications that can reduce, if not temporarily eliminate, the pain of RA.

Some physicians suggest a monitored fast. This should be done under the supervision of a physician and should be done at a reputable facility. The reasoning behind the fast is to cleanse the body. Think of it as starting from scratch. The next step is to gradually add foods back, but the diet will be different from before. For instance; the sufferer should follow a low animal protein, high carbohydrate diet - in addition to leaving out milk and milk products and products made with polyunsaturated and partially hydrogenated oils and fats. The diet should be rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which can be found in fish and walnuts. In addition to omega-3, the diet should consist of fresh vegetables; especially green leafy vegetables that contain vitamin K. Also include asparagus, eggs, garlic and onions, which contain sulfur that is needed for the rebuilding and repair of bone and cartilage. Although acidic fruits are not recommended fresh pineapple which contains an enzyme known to reduce inflammation may be consumed, along with whole grains. Iron supplements or multi vitamins containing iron should be avoided. Substitute foods rich in iron instead; like blackstrap molasses, or broccoli.

Supplements associated with easing the pain of Rheumatoid Arthritis are very popular, but should be taken with caution and under the supervision of your physician or homoeopathist. One of the most common supplements for overall joint health is chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine; these work together to form and strengthen joints, cartilage, tendons and ligaments. MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) is usually combined with the aforementioned, due to its anti-inflammatory and joint repair properties. Some other supplements to include in the list are bromelain, found in fresh pineapple; sea cucumber, vitamin E, calcium, magnesium plus copper, vitamin D3 and zinc.

Herbs associated with joint and bone health are; alfalfa, kelp, boswellia, cat’s claw, feverfew, cayenne, nettle leaf, turmeric willow bark and yucca. These can be used in combination, as poultices and rubs. A very effective combination is a mixture of wintergreen oil and capsaicin the mixture might sting at first, but most people report a lessening of pain and more flexibility.

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Author: admin     11 9th, 2008 in Arthritis     1 Comment »

Many millions of people are affected by pain and suffering from Arthritis and research has shown that Glucosamine and Chondroitin sulphates combined have given these people new hope and relief from their painful ailments.

Many medicines are available to reduce pain, but some of them have serious side effects, some that have even proven to be fatal.

Both substances are Natural complex sugar like molecules that the body uses to rebuild cartilage and restore movement to Arthritic joints. It is important to remember that Glucosamine and Chondroitin are an amazingly safe and easy to use mixture, especially when compared with other forms of treatment.

Loss of cartilage can result in damage to the bone and the development of Osteoarthritis, which ends up as pain and disability. Cartilage is the key to healthy joints, and maintaining a healthy cartilage throughout life is critical to healthy joints and continued movement of joints.

As we age, or as the result of injuries, our ability to renew cartilage diminishes, causing damage to bone ends as they rub together. Glucosamine and Chondroitin can actually help to rebuild cartilage, therefore, improving joint health.

Taking the two compounds proves to be a very easy way of maintaining joint health and helping to alleviate pain and disability.

Cartilage rebuilding is a slow process, but with the right amounts of Glucosamine and Chondroitin benefits to mobility and pain relief can be seen within two to six weeks, it is recommended though that it should be taken daily for at least three months.

Engagement in mild or moderate exercise on a regular basis, would help in providing joint mobility.

Most users would need something like 1250mg to 1500mg of Glucosamine a day and about 1000mg to 1200mg of Chondroitin a day.

You should check with a Physician or Natural Health Care provider before commencing treatment.

Glyconutrients contain Glucosamine along with seven other sugars or polysaccharides.

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Author: admin     11 9th, 2008 in Arthritis, Pain Relief     1 Comment »

Osteoarthritis in dogs is a common and difficult disorder to manage. It includes an entire family of disorders including hip dysplasia. Up to 30 percent of dogs and cats are affected by arthritis. A dog suffering from arthritis shows signs like difficulty in walking and playing, lethargy, limping, difficulty in getting up when lying down, pain when touched and aversion to any contacts.

Animals usually have a very high pain threshold. When the pain becomes excruciating they exhibit signs of discomfort. Treatment must then be given without delay. A large number of dogs respond well to glucosamine, especially larger dog breeds. It soothes the affected joints of a dog and makes it active once again. Glucosamine is also used as a preventive measure to ensure that your dog has healthy bone joints.

Glucosamine that is normally present in the cartilage and synovial fluid is a normal constituent of the dog’s glycosaminoglycans that is a part of the connective tissues in its body. Recent studies have shown that glucosamine when swallowed by your pet has several benefits. It is anti-inflammatory and has joint regeneration properties. It is especially used to treat hip dysplasia and osteoarthritis.

It is also very important to give the right kind of drug to your dog to make it active and lively. There are six key points to remember before you purchase any glucosamine product for your dog. They are: type of glucosamine (sulfate, chloride or 2KCL), quality of the ingredients, method of delivery (pills or liquid), amount of glucosamine needed per day, additional ingredients besides glucosamine and cost. A suitable dosage for your dog would be 750mg of hydrochloride or sulfate per 50 pounds of weight. Don’t choose 2KCl and NaCl forms of glucosamine as they are not so effective. A liquid dosage is always better to use than pills.

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Author: admin     11 9th, 2008 in Arthritis, Pain Relief     No Comments »

No sane person wants to live with chronic pain. The adverse side effects of reckless consumption of painkillers are now driving many sufferers to pain management clinics. These clinics provide multiple approaches to pain management for the best possible results. According to a survey, nearly 60 percent of people with chronic pain undergoing treatment in a pain clinic for a year experience a significant reduction in their sufferings.

Some pain management clinics focus on a single method of treatment, like the injection of steroids to reduce inflammation, headache or back pain. Others provide more varied types of approaches.

Many clinics these days use multiple treatment providers employing specialists from various areas of medicine, who share information and coordinate care for the best possible results. These health care providers might include a neurologist, anesthesiologist, internist, family physician, physical medicine specialist, psychologist, psychiatrist and physical therapist.

Medications prescribed by a doctor in a pain clinic program include pain medications, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAID), steroids to reduce inflammation, muscle relaxants or anti-anxiety medication to reduce tension, and antidepressants or anti-convulsants to help control specific types of nerve pain.

Pain clinics may also offer non-drug therapies including individual and/or family therapy, hot and cold therapy, physical therapy, biofeedback, massage, acupuncture, breathing exercises, self-hypnosis and TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation).

You must check whether the clinic is accredited or not before making a decision. Accreditation ensures that the program fulfils the basic requirements for appropriate medical care. Certification by the American Academy of Pain Management indicates that the clinic has gone through a thorough peer-reviewed compliance process that was established by pain practitioners. You should also look for certification by the American Board of Anesthesiology and the American Board of Pain Medicine.

Johns Hopkins Center, Mensana Clinic, Cleveland Clinic and Mayo Clinic are among the top pain clinics in the United States. Consult your physician to decide which one is appropriate for you.

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Author: admin     11 9th, 2008 in Uncategorized     3 Comments »