Arthritis - What Is It And How Can It Be Treated?

It's hardly surprising that so many of us will experience some type of arthritis at some time in our life since it comes in more than 200 forms.

Though generally associated with the aging process, arthritis can also show itself in the very young and at all ages in between.

In this article I describe some of its more common forms and their treatment.

Osteoarthritis

There is no specific cause of osteoarthritis, a condition that affects a large number of the population; however it is known that excessive wear and tear on the joints, especially the hips, knees, ankles , toes and hands, can be a factor in triggering the condition, as can an injury to a joint and being overweight.

It is also believed that arthritis can be hereditary. Indications are that most people carry the potential to develop arthritis, but that some lifestyles and/or physical properties within the body can deter it from occurring. Osteoarthritis is generally suspected when the sufferer experiences pain and/or stiffness in the joints and ligaments.

Tests, x-rays and scans can establish whether the cartilage between joints, which helps with smooth movement, has weakened or thinned. When this happens the bones of the affected joint can become rough and cause pain when they rub together.

In rare cases extra bone growth on the joints can occur as a result of a benign pineal gland tumour within the brain. Because of this it is wise to inform your doctor if you think that arthritis is present. A true tumour of the pineal gland will have other distinct distinguishing symptoms.

Osteoarthritis is generally progressive, yet changes in lifestyle can be made which in some cases can help to control and alleviate this condition.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is caused when the sufferer's bodily defence mechanisms, for no apparent reason, start to attack the joints causing inflammation and consequently pain. The condition tends to make itself known within months rather than years and symptoms can fluctuate.

Having been diagnosed, medical assistance should be sought when experiencing periods of real inflamation so that the damage to the joints can be minimized. Having said this, not every single person will experience this and many arthritis sufferers find it possible to live with a less severe form for years.

Juvenile Arthritis

Affecting children from very young babies onwards, Juvenile Arthritis is a painful condition that requires medical attention. Often contracted through an infectious illness, the condition may not be one that parents initially think of, especially when faced with a crying child.

Children and babies who appear to be in pain when they move should be taken to a medical doctor as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment.

Self help for Adults

The arthritis sufferer can:

- It's best to keep the affected joints warm.

- In order to protect the joints it is necessary to take suitable precautions. e.g. if you have arthritis in the leg joints do not deliberately climb up stairs when an alternative is available. Climbing one stair puts a big strain on the knee, for example. Naturally, climbing flights of stairs will unnecessarily enhance the strain and pain

- Do not spend long periods of the day standing. Try to take the weight off the affected joints

- When kneeling, kneel on a cushion or pad - Many have found that adding a fish oil or EPA supplement to their diet is very beneficial. A good glucosamine and chondroitin supplement, especially when combined with MSM has proved helpful for many

- If arthritis is present in the hands, wear rubber gloves when doing washing up or other wet jobs

- Do the exercises recommended by health professionals - If overweight, try to lose some of it. Less weight on a joint equates with less pain

Medical Diagnosis

If Arthritis is suspected, doctors will recommend blood and other tests, possibly including x-rays. Anti-inflammatory drugs and pain killers may be prescribed. Additionally, they may also refer the arthritis patient to a hospital for specific, specialised treatment.

Arthritis can be enormously incapacitating, but with the right mental attitude and approach, even the most severe pain can be successfully managed.

Consult a fully qualified hypnotherapist who is experienced in pain management and you can learn how to enter hypnosis and control your pain even after you have emerged from hypnosis.

IMPORTANT: This information is not a replacement for medical or nutritional advice. Be sure to consult your doctor or health care advisor if you are experiencing any signs or symptoms of arthritis.