Monday, May 20, 2013

Fish Oil For Arthritis Treatment - Can This Oil Really Help to Relieve Arthritis?


Fish oil for arthritis treatment is becoming more and more popular as we learn more about how it helps this and many other conditions like hypertension. Once we understand how it works we need to make sure we select the right oil to get the maximum benefits.  

Fish oil arthritis treatment works due to the fact that the omega 3 fatty acids in the oil, namely DHA and EPA help to reduce inflammation.

In fact no other natural substance has been shown to have such a remarkable effect.   Studies have shown that people with rheumatoid arthritis experience less joint swelling and stiffness when they take an oil supplement, with some even being able to come off their anti-inflammatory prescription drugs.  

Fish oil for arthritis treatment is not the only benefit that omega 3 can give as it helps to reduce heart attacks and strokes, saving hundreds of thousands of lives as most people are unaware they are at risk.  

To get the most from your supplement look for a pharmaceutical grade, molecularly distilled one, as this means all the impurities will have been removed and good sources of fish are cold water species like Tuna and Hoki.  

You should be able to see the amounts of the omega 3 fatty acids it contains clearly, with DHA being the most important according to the latest research. A higher level of DHA also helps to promote brain health and proper functioning.  

For truly remarkable fish oil for arthritis treatment it is essential to select the very best oil and if you follow this brief guide then you will be able to enjoy the maximum benefits.  

If you would like to learn more about the high quality fish oil supplements I personally take, please visit my website.

Sunday, May 19, 2013

What Are the Symptoms of Midfoot Arthritis?


Pain around the top and middle part of the foot is normally the first complaint when an individual develops midfoot arthritis. This pain may be described as sharp or burning and is typically worse when standing or walking. Patients often describe the worst pain as being first thing in the morning, or the first steps after sitting or lying for some time.

Physical examination may reveal swelling and there may be general tenderness in the midfoot area. Over time, it is common for a bony prominence called a tarsal boss to develop, which can cause irritation with shoe wear and difficulty finding comfortable footwear. Without treatment, midfoot arthritis can lead to flattening of the foot arches and cause the midfoot to turn outwards.

The term arthritis is used to describe the loss of the cartilage which lines and cushions the surface of the joint. Normal, healthy cartilage allows the joints to move smoothly. If the cartilage becomes damaged, its surface becomes rough, causing pain and stiffness within the joint. It can affect any joints within the body and is commonly found in those that receive the most usage, including hands and wrists as well as knees and ankles.

Midfoot arthritis can develop following a major injury, such as a foot or ankle fracture, causing the cartilage to wear out with greater speed than it might do in normal conditions. More commonly, the condition develops due to daily wear and tear that our bodies undergo during a lifetime. This sort of problem is called osteoarthritis and may be linked to different factors such as heavy manual work, sport, being overweight and family history. However, for many people, the cause will not be known. Like all forms of osteoarthritis, or 'wear and tear', the condition becomes more common in the middle-aged and elderly.

The cause of midfoot arthritis can also be a different type of arthritis, called Rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease. Your immune system, which usually fights infection, attacks the lining of your joints, causing them to become inflamed and painful. The joints of the hands and the feet are the first to be affected.

Midfoot arthritis is sometimes overlooked by doctors who are not specialists in the foot and ankle because there are so many small joints in the midfoot. A careful clinical assessment needs to be combined with special x-ray views of the joints. Scans may be required as well to identify exactly which joints are involved. By being thorough in these initial stages arthritis is easier to diagnose and treatment can commence quicker; this of course will ensure that you don't suffer any more pain or discomfort than is strictly necessary.

Treatment options include supportive orthotic devices, physiotherapy, anti-inflammatory medicines and selective X-ray guided joint injections. If these treatments are unsuccessful, surgical fusion of midfoot joints can provide good, long-term pain relief. Midfoot fusion results in a relatively small degree of mobility loss, however the majority of patients report much improved pain relief and overall foot function.

Important Guidelines For Arthritis Prevention: Living A Life Free From Joint Pain


If you have experienced feelings of pain, stiffness, redness, swelling, and a decreased range of motion in your joints, you may have experienced arthritis. Defined as the inflammation of one or more of your joints, arthritis can be experienced by anyone from children and teenagers to more elderly individuals and as the person's age progresses, so does its symptoms.

There are different types of arthritis, the most common of which are rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder; when left untreated or insufficiently addressed, chronic pain, long-term joint damage, and loss of function and disability can be the result. Osteoarthritis, on the other hand, is typically caused by normal wear and tear that causes the breakdown of valuable cartilage. This breakdown causes the bones to rub against each other; this is where the pain comes from. To save yourself from experiencing this kind of pain no matter what age you may be, it helps to be aware of arthritis prevention practices that you can adopt.

Natural arthritis treatments involve introducing significant lifestyle changes that help keep you away from developing the disease. Maintaining a healthy weight is a good way to keep arthritis at bay; having the right weight for your body type will reduce the stress on your weight-bearing joints and limit any future joint injuries. Similarly, it is ideal to take up a regular exercise regimen, preferably including swimming or water aerobics, to keep the joints flexible.

Studies have also shown that certain natural extracts can help battle arthritis. Ginger extracts, for example, contains a potent anti-inflammatory compound called 6-gingerol that prevents the production of damaging free radicals. The compound curcumin in turmeric also helps prevent inflammation in the joints. Getting sufficient amounts of calcium is also a good way to prevent arthritis as it will increase bone health and strength and prevent brittleness from settling into the bones.

Fish oil and arthritis may also be an effective treatment combination. The oil found in fish such as salmon and mackerel have been found to contain a fatty acid called docosahexaenoic acid or DHA which the human body effectively converts into a powerful anti-inflammatory chemical called resolvin D2. This chemical could serve as the basis for effective treatments for serious medical conditions and diseases that involve inflammation such as stroke, sepsis, and arthritis.

Getting the right nutrients and supplements that support the growth of healthy bones, cartilages, and joints along with maintaining the proper weight can minimise the stress on the bones and prevent them from becoming weak. By being mindful of the steps you can take to protect your body, you can take one step closer to a comfortable, healthy, and pain-free life even as you grow older.

Naturally Treat Osteoarthritis - 6 Tips To Cure Arthritis With No Medication


In America alone, an estimated 70 million people suffer from the debilitating effects of some form of arthritis or joint pain. Most of the sufferers will seek out expensive medical treatment offering nothing more than harsh side-effects but millions will allow the disease to run its course and make life miserable. But living with it does not have to leave you unable from doing the things you love. In fact, I have 70+ year old customers who write me every week and share how their arthritis is not a problem anymore. But just how did they do it and what's their secret?

Osteoarthritis- Is it ruining your life?

There are many different forms but the most common form is called osteoarthritis. The most common form affects over 60 million Americans. Osteoarthritis typically effects people who are 35 years of age and older. As a person becomes older, the pain appears after years of wear and tear on the joints between the bones, which is why it is called the 'degenerative joint disease'. Due to the repeated movement and weight upon the joint, the cartilage begins to break down causing inflammation and pain. Because of the nature of the problem, symptoms become worse and worse over time with use of joints. Normally, it begins at the knees and works its way up to the hips, fingers, spine and more (typically any joint bearing weight or strain).

Does this sound like you and your experience? If so, there is hope to treat it and actually rebuild the cartilage between the joints.

Stop Taking Medication

Medication and treatment varies from patient to patient, and is often a band-aid for the ailment. Let me explain! Doctors often prescribe expensive medications for the sufferer to hide the pain. The problem with hiding the pain is that the degeneration of the joint cartilage continues to occur even if the brain does not register the pain because of the meds. As the pain is hidden, the joint becomes more and more damaged and disfigured. The band-aid of medication is simply a remedy for disaster.

But you can start to naturally treat osteoarthritis with your nutrition, vitamins, supplementation and simple exercises. And you can save hundreds to thousands of dollars each year in the process.

Naturally Treat Osteoarthritis with 6 tips!

Researchers have been studying numerous primitive tribes who live solely off the land. Perplexed by their extraordinary health, researchers are studying why these tribes have better health than developed countries? These tribes have documented no heart disease as well as it being unheard of. In fact, members of these communities will work right up to the day of their death (usually around 100 years of age). How could this be? Could it be because members of the community have never eaten a bite of processed food? These natives have NOT eaten one additive in any of their meals. (An average American eats hundreds of additives each day.) In fact, all of their meals are fresh and spoil in weeks if not eaten. And finally, they live an active life. And you can do the same thing... even if you are 70 years YOUNG!

Here is a list of tips to naturally treat osteoarthritis!

1. Did you know that 80% of the world's population is walking around dehydrated? Instead of drinking water we have become consumers of soda, tea, coffee, juices or anything with flavor. Unfortunately, most of these drinks (containing caffeine) cause your body to lose water and create a vicious cycle of dehydration and poor health. As water drains the toxin and impurities of your body, it will also begin to naturally treat the symptoms of osteoarthritis. You should start drinking at least 10-12 tall glasses of water a day.

2. A body flush! Did you know that fasting and flushing the body is biblical. It is actually commanded to routinely fast for spiritual and physical purposes in the Bible. And it will also greatly help you in your struggle. It would be recommended to take a monthly fast (drinking only water or natural juices) to naturally flush the body of arthritic causing alkalines. Your body will thank you!

3. Your nutrition! Your diet is the biggest factor contributing to whether you will struggle or be free of it. A good rule of thumb is to always eat fresh, raw foods with as little of processing as possible. You should be eating as much water-soluble fiber as possible which includes: fresh fruits and raw vegetables.

4. Foods that Hurt! These types of foods will create havoc to your pain and inflammation. Stay away from fast foods, processed foods, sugars and desserts. Do your best at finding healthy foods and you will notice a difference in 2 weeks.

5. Breathing! I know it sounds goofy to focus on your breathing but oxygen heals. And unfortunately, most people are not getting enough of it because of improper posture and stress. To learn some simple breathing exercises you can do at work, please check out our website which will lead you to our step-by-step report.

6. And exercise! If you are serious about treating arthritis; we guarantee that you will be feeling good enough to start exercising in three weeks. And exercise will eventually take stress off of joints by building muscle mass.

What is Your Choice?

Are you serious about treating your osteoarthritis? Do you want to feel like you are 30 again? Do you want to know what supplement can actually rebuild your joint cartilage so you feel like a 20 year old?

If you are ready to naturally treat osteoarthritis, please visit our website to see how our step-by-step natural treatment might be a right solution for you. And if you are in the least bit hesitant, we will also guarantee our treatment to treat it or you do not pay a cent. So stop paying hundreds to the multi-billion dollar pharmaceutical industry which gives you a band-aid. Start curing it naturally by visiting our website and joining the thousands who have discovered the cure!

What Is An Approved Osteoarthritis Medicine And Should You Consider Natural Remedies?


Approved osteoarthrits medicine may be effective at relieving pain, but is also accompanied by negative side effects and in some cases increased risk of developing life threatening diseases. For example, Vioxx was an approved osteoarthritis medication that was recalled because an alarming number of patients experienced heart attacks, strokes or blood clots.

Bextra, a COX-2 inhibitor similar to Vioxx, was removed from the market for the same reasons and because of a link to Stevens Johnson Syndrome and other skin disorders. Celebrex, also a COX-2 inhibitor, is still on the market but it and all other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs carry a warning label that "users may face an increased risk of cardiovascular side effects and gastrointestinal bleeding".

Another approved osteoarthritis medicine is prednisone and other corticosteroids. Corticosteroids, when taken orally, can increase blood sugar levels, particularly in diabetics. Long term use can cause dependence, depression, fatigue, blurred vision and abdominal pain. A safer and increasingly popular use for this type of osteoarthritis medication is injection directly into the affected joint.

Approved osteoarthritis medicine includes narcotic pain relievers, such as Vicodin, Tylenol with Codeine and Oxycodone. The makers of Oxycodone were recently required to pay millions of dollars in damages because sales representatives were told to advise doctors that the drug was less addictive than other narcotics, when in actuality it is one of the most addictive.

Side effects of this type of osteoarthritis medication include liver damage when accompanied by alcohol use; this side effect also accompanies the use of non-narcotic over the counter Tylenol and other acetaminophen products. Less serious side effects include constipation, drowsiness, dry mouth and difficulty urinating. It should also be noted that narcotic pain relievers do not reduce inflammation, but work by blocking pain receptors in nerve cells.

Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) is becoming increasingly popular among arthritis sufferers. Although CAM therapies cannot be classified as "approved" osteoarthritis medicine, some additional form of therapy is recommended by most doctors. Therapies may include dietary changes, increased physical activity or nutritional supplements.

Fish oil products cannot be labeled as osteoarthritis medication, because of FTC regulations. However, omega 3 fatty acids and fish oil supplements are used by 11.7% of people who use natural products for health reasons.

Clinical studies have shown that when used on a regular basis, omega 3 fatty acids improve joint mobility and decrease pain. People whose blood does not clot properly or who have conditions which include bleeding (bleeding ulcers, for example) should avoid omega 3 supplementation, because it thins the blood like aspirin, but otherwise, there are no known detrimental side effects, only additional health benefits for heart and brain.

On the University of Maryland Medical Center's website, they state:

"Several articles reviewing the research in this area conclude that omega-3 fatty acid supplements reduce tenderness in joints, decrease morning stiffness, and allow for a reduction in the amount of medication needed for people with rheumatoid arthritis."

Moreover, they say: "....several test tube studies of cartilage-containing cells have found that omega-3 fatty acids decrease inflammation and reduce the activity of enzymes that destroy cartilage. Similarly, New Zealand green lipped mussel....another potential source of omega-3 fatty acids, has been shown to reduce joint stiffness and pain, increase grip strength, and enhance walking pace in a small group of people with osteoarthritis.

There may be newly approved osteoarthritis medicine in the future. But, in our opinion, it makes more sense to try healthy natural alternatives first.

In the end, you should speak to a health professional to understand your options, but be sure to ask them about potential side effects, although, unfortunately, not all of them can be known in advance, which is why Vioxx was sold for years before it was realized it was responsible for numerous deaths.

Glucosamine Benefits Arthritis Sufferers Significantly by Healing From the Inside Out


Glucosamine benefits have been studied closely in terms of treatment for symptoms of rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. Since the pain, stiffness and swelling caused by arthritis can be an ongoing concern for sufferers, new forms of treatment are always being considered and developed. In recent years, glucosamine and chondroitin have both been targeted as beneficial natural ingredients for the treatment and relief of arthritis symptoms.

As an answer to more invasive and less successful methods of treatment such as prescription medicines, manufacturers have begun to develop products which contain a balance of natural ingredients including glucosamine, manganese, turmeric, ginger root, vitamins and minerals. The main benefits of glucosamine and other natural ingredients are that they target the cause of symptoms rather than just treating the symptoms themselves. By addressing the cause, these products promote healing and provide long term relief.

Glucosamine Can Naturally Heal & Repair

As the protective layer of cartilage which surrounds the joints breaks down over time, the bones are left to rub against each other, causing pain and even malformation of the bones themselves. This condition is commonly known as arthritis. Glucosamine benefits deteriorating joints by stimulating the production of proteins which help the body to naturally replenish damaged cartilage. Since the body naturally wears down with age, it can actually slow the aging process and help the body to heal from within.

While some side effects can be experienced when taking glucosamine, they tend to be much more mild than those caused by prescription medicines. The main concern is for individuals who have shellfish allergies, as this helpful compound is derived from shellfish. But overall, the benefits far outweigh any potential side effects. It is generally proven to be a safe, gentle, healthy alternative for treatment of arthritis pain and stiffness.

Used in combination with other natural ingredients, glucosamine benefits the body by helping to repair damaged joints, removing harmful free radicals and combating the natural wear and tear of aging. These one-step treatments also reduce the need to take several different supplements, not only reducing side effects but reducing costs as well.

Diet & Exercise Can Also Have Enormous Benefits

As powerful as it may be, the benefits of glucosamine can only go so far. Maintaining a healthy, balanced diet and getting proper exercise are also important steps in treating arthritis and helping the body to heal itself naturally. Reducing fat intake and eating foods rich in sulfur, which helps to repair and rebuild cartilage, can help to reduce pain and stiffness safely and organically. And remaining active and taking off any excess weight can also help the body to look and feel younger and healthier.

While natural remedies offer an exciting alternative to prescription medicines, they should not be taken without first consulting your doctor. Since glucosamine benefits can differ for each individual, you need to carefully research each product and find the one which works best for you.

The symptoms of arthritis can be overwhelming, but glucosamine and other natural products can help you to manage them safely and gently. Pain and stiffness don't have to be a way of life, talk to your doctor today and find out which product works for you. Say goodbye to arthritis pain and feel better, naturally!

Try Feldenkrais For Your Rheumatoid Arthritis Pain


Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a long-term inflammatory disease that affects both tissues and organs, but mainly attacks joints. The disease produces inflammation in the lining of the joint (synovitis), and often leads to the destruction of cartilage and deformity in the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis can also produce inflammation in the lungs, heart, kidneys, and eyes, and can produce nodules, most commonly in the tissues just under the skin. Although the cause of rheumatoid arthritis is unknown, an auto-immune system explanation has the most credibility. A genetic component may also exist. RA is a painful and disabling condition, which causes considerable loss of function and mobility. It is diagnosed by its signs and symptoms, and also with blood tests (rheumatoid factor) and X-rays.

Rheumatoid arthritis pain always shows signs of inflammation, with affected joints being swollen, warm, painful and stiff, particularly on awakening in the morning or following inactivity. With time RA almost always affects multiple joints, most commonly the small joints of the hands, feet, and spine, but larger joints like the hip and knee can also be affected.

Once inflammation occurs, the pain can become chronic, and treatment will likely be necessary. Various treatments are available. Early and effective rheumatoid arthritis treatment can improve the prognosis and may help prevent the joint and bone destruction associated with RA. If physical therapy, orthotics, and diet changes have failed you and you have maxed out your meds, the Feldenkrais Method can be used to treat all problems for which surgery isn't necessary. Feldenkrais uses simple, gentle movements to reorganize posture, flexibility, strength and coordination. Based on the neurological processes by which we learn movement skills, it is a novel approach to rheumatoid pain relief, using the power of the brain to help the body function more efficiently. More efficient use of self creates environments within which chronic pain can heal. Many sufferers are better in a matter of weeks. Let Feldenkrais help you to have fun with life again.