Are You feeling out of joint ?

Arthritis is often thought of as a single disease, however it is, in fact many diseases. Arthritis causes pain, weakness and inflammation in and around the joints. Osteoarthritis is the most common form.
Osteoarthritis is caused by wear and tear of the cartilage, which is the shock-absorbing material between the joints. When no cartilage exists it causes bone to rub against bone, which causes pain and stiffness in the fingers, knee’s, feet, hips and back.
Rheumatoid Arthritis is a more severe form of the disease. It occurs when the immune system, instead of protecting the body, begins attacking it. Swelling of the membrane that lines the joints is the result. This form of Arthritis is most affected by diet.
It appears there is no getting away from problems associated with too much fat in our diet. Arthritis is no exception. A diet low in saturated fat reduces the bodies production of prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are hormone-like substances that contribute towards inflammation.
Omega-3 Fatty acids which are found primarily in cold water fish (trout, salmon, mackerel etc). Several studies have concluded that patients who consume higher than normal amounts of Fish oils had fewer tender joints & less morning stiffness.
Evidence shows that people who are overweight are likely to be at an increased risk of developing Arthritis, particularly in load bearing joints like the knees.
“Glucosamine” has surfaced in the past 10 or so years as a “wonder drug” of sorts. Derived from Shark Cartilage, it helps to build on the bodies natural cartilage, which over time provides a new cushion to prevent bones from rubbing against each other. There are various forms of this drug, which are available in the Health isle of most supermarkets.
Your medical practitioner will usually advise regular exercise to reduce swelling. Its important to always seek medical advice before undertaking strenuous exercise particularly if the pain is severe or if you are in a category you would consider to be elderly.
Some evidence also suggests eliminating unnecessary chemicals from your living environment may also contribute to eliminating swelling and pain associated with Arthritis.
Medical conditions and birth defects can cause arthritis. My wife had Perthes (Disease of the hip) disease as a child and had several surgeries throw her early to late teens. About 2 years ago at the age of 32 she had a total hip replacement which improved her mobility incredibly. In the past Doctors have avoided recommending replacement surgery for people under the age of 40 or even 50 for some specialists.
These days Joint replacements can last up to 10 years and with medical technology increasing the way it is, when the need arises for a second or third replacement these will last longer still.
Eric Smith is an Organic Gardener, Environmentalist and has studied Natural Therapies in depth. Eric represents ONE Group Certified Organic Skin Care, Home & Nutritional Products - http://www.milifestyle.net/Social Bookmarking