Rheumatoid Arthritis|Psoriatic Arthritis Symptoms|Arthritis Treatment

Orthokine is an antilogous concept that is used for the treatment of arthritis and spinal disorders. Osteoarthritis, the loss of cartilage in the joint has many causes. The factors like being overweight, predisposition, heavy load by work, etc are the main causes for osteoarthritis. In western countries there is about ten percent of the populations suffering from osteoarthritis. A protein named interleukin-1 (IL-1) plays a crucial role in the development of osteoarthritis and destruction of cartilage. Osteoarthritis patients will have too much IL-1 present in their joints. IL-1 is a most prominent active agent which damages the cartilage and so the natural shock absorber in the joint loses its function.

The therapy of osteoarthritis is done using IL-1 blocker which is known as interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra). IL-1Ra is anti-inflammatory, reduces pain and also protects the cartilage. The orthokine procedure is done by taking blood from the patient using a special syringe called orthokine syringe. The orthokine syringe is approved in the EU and Australia. The blood taken from the patient is an antilogous injection solution and it is called as orthokine serum. The Interleukin-1 receptor antagonist is naturally present in the blood. However, with the production of orthokine, it is produced and extracted in higher concentrations. So, to increase the concentration of IL-1Ra, blood samples are taken from the arm vein using special EOT syringe. The glass beads in the syringe induces the blood cells to synthesize increased amounts of protective proteins. The temperature of 37'c in the incubator is the optimum environment for protein synthesis.

During incubation, the white blood cells present in the bloods are stimulated immediately to produce IL-1Ra and other anti-inflammatory and regenerative proteins. They are increased in concentration and the "Antilogous Conditioned Serum"(ACS) is injected into the joint. A centrifuge separates the blood clot from the amber serum, containing the protective proteins in high concentration. The protective protein IL-1Ra displaces the damaged protein IL-1 and the inflammation process is blocked. Subsequent therapy includes about six injections that will be given once or twice weekly.

The orthokine procedure is used throughout the world by orthopaedic surgeons and rheumatologists. This procedure cannot be compared to treatments using the patient's own blood that is often used in alternative medicine. In Germany alone there are over 20,000 patients have been treated by this orthokine treatment. The advantages of this treatment is, pain in the joints will be reduced, improves the joint function and mobility and the continuing process of cartilage destruction will be blocked. This treatment is very efficient and safe.

As a practicing rehab doctor, I often I have patient's between 40-65 years of age in for an examination complaining of tenderness in their joints, crackling and grinding noises, they have inflammation and swelling, and show a limited motion.

If I take x-rays to evaluate the abc's of their skeleton, many patients are surprised to learn when I tell them that they have sign and symptoms of Osteoarthritis Pain. I have to admit, I do have an inside chuckle to see them have such doubt and dismay. Not that I am laughing AT my patients and their pain, but just their bewilderment of being told they have "OSTEOARTHRITIS". Truth be told, I am actually very concerned for them, and make it my mission to teach them what they can do about it.

Younger to middle-aged patients are commonly unaware to the fact that they do indeed have Osteoarthritis. That is, many times they are shocked to discovery that they have arthritis, and to be quite honest, it is not their fault (I'll explain that a little later).

(Back to my office) One of the most common replies I hear is: "really, you think that I may have arthritis?" Some even try to deny and doubt the diagnosis, saying that they've never been told by anyone else that they have osteoarthritis. Another common question I hear is "aren't I too young to have arthritis?"

Guess What?

You don't have to be old to have osteoarthritis. Although mostly seen in older individuals, it can affect anybody at any age. So before I can talk about remedies for Osteoarthritis, I think its important to discuss the ins and outs of osteoarthritis. Sometimes called degenerative joint disease (DJD) or osteoarthrosis, it's the most common form of arthritis. With osteoarthritis the cartilage in your joints break down over time. More specifically from the daily stressors that we place on our body.

It is true the older you are the more stressors likely you've put on your body, but many younger people have accelerated stressors based on their youth, and employment history.

Osteoarthritis can affect any joint in your body, but it most commonly affects joints in your: Hands, Knees, Hips, Lower Back, and Neck. These are the joints in the body that are used repetitively or the joints that function in "weight-bearing" day in day out. Research and documentation shows that Osteoarthritis gradually worsens over time. It is said that "no cure exists."

However, like anything, PREVENTION is the key, and unfortunately, in our western society, dominated by billion dollar pharmaceutical companies, we become conditioned to look for the next pill to take to "cure" our afflictions.

On a side note, what the heck is up with "Pre" this condition or "Pre" that condition??? My patients mention they are "pre-diabetic" meaning they are at the high range of NORMAL ranges but these are normal ranges people. Or "pre-hypertensive" or "pre-osteoporosis". If you ask me, these are legitimate B.S terms.

What I mean by that is, YES, you do have an increased risk for said condition. You may even be on the outside of the normal limits. But...in case you didn't know, we are allowed to adopt a healthier lifestyle changes before we get prescribed a life sentence of medication involvement.

For all you high normal sugar levels individuals, how about you change the foods you eat, eat more regularly, start exercising, and stop smoking. Same goes for you pre-hypertensives and pre-osteoporosis people. But I digress.

Sorry, but I care enough about your health to keep you off medications and ultimately have you live longer.

Back to Remedies for Osteoarthritis.

I see a powerful tug-of-war developing. On one side, you have the medical community telling you that there's "no cure", and on the other side, you have the sleek snake-oils salesman and pharmaceutical companies, having commercials of running through the fields and having any knowable "cure" for any disease or condition.

So what's the real solution. As a natural health care provider, and rehab guy, I going to say, somewhere in the middle. That is if anything is a cure, then I would say PREVENTION is. I am also a realist, we all have experience injuries, wear and tear, postural stressors that we do day in day out at work, and any congenital conditions that we inherit.

So what is the next best solution to a cure of not getting in the first place? Well, minimizing the effects of Arthritis. Reduce the wear and tear in the joints, increase the lubrication to the joints, minimize the pressure built up in the joints, increase the flexibility of the muscles, and stretching capacity of the ligaments and tendons. In short, have a lifestyle that focuses on all of the above.

Enter stage left.....Resistant Band Training. It's inexpensive and cheap, it doesn't take up a lot of room, you can do it in your own home, and it not only stretches your muscles and joints, but it firms and strengthens de-conditioned muscles that accompany osteoarthritis.

In part 2, I am going to go over the indications (meaning who should be doing it and why) and the contra-indications (who shouldn't be doing it and why).

Until the next time.

Whether you have chronic back pain or pain that comes and goes, you may notice that the pain is worse in cold weather. While an exact causal link between increased pain and cold weather has not been found by the scientific community, the fact of this connection is certain. Cold weather back pain is common among people with arthritis, but it can also occur due to increased muscle tension.

Muscle Tension

When we open our doors to a frigid winter day, we tend to distort our posture and tense up our muscles to cope with the cold. This is usually done unconsciously for a couple of reasons. First, when your muscles contract, they burn energy which is released as heat. Tensing up, then, is a natural bodily response to cold. Shivering occurs when muscles rapidly contract and relax to release energy (heat) fast.

You may also notice that, in the cold, you tend to drop your head and raise your shoulders, which causes your hips to tuck under and your lower back to flatten out. You're trying to share your shoulders' body heat with your neck and ears. This is a natural reaction, but a reaction that distorts posture throughout your back and pelvis.

Sore necks, shoulders and lower backs in the winter indicate muscular tension. If you have widespread muscle soreness when it's cold out, this is likely a sign that your apparel is not suited to your climate. It is important to have a winter hat that covers your ears and a scarf to cover your neck. These, combined with self-awareness, will help to prevent postural distortion. Your muscles will still automatically tense up to stay warm if the rest of your outfit isn't warm enough. If you can't find a heavy-duty coat within your budget, rely on layering. A good pair of long underwear will help keep both your lower and upper body protected from the cold. Being conscious of your posture and muscle tenseness can help you relieve cold weather back pain.

Osteoarthritis

If you tend to have joint pain and stiffness that worsens with inactivity and cold weather, you may have osteoarthritis. This form of arthritis affects various parts of the body, including the spine. It occurs when the cartilage that cushions spinal joints wears down, causing friction, inflammation and sometimes the formation of bone spurs that can impinge nerves.

Cold weather doesn't cause osteoarthritis; it can, however, exacerbate it. Along with cartilage breakdown, osteoarthritis entails inflammation of the synovium, which lines the joint and excretes a lubricant called synovial fluid. As cartilage hardens and wears, the synovium can become inflamed. The prevailing theory on the link between cold weather and increased osteoarthritic pain is that the synovium is sensitive to barometric pressure. When barometric pressure drops, as when foul weather is coming in, the synovium becomes inflamed. This worsens the stiffness and pain surrounding arthritic joints. This theory has its issues; it has led to inconsistent results in research and barometric pressure is not necessarily low when it is cold, but does indicate precipitation and storms. More research into this is needed before an exact link between joint pain and cold weather is understood.

That said, there are still ways to alleviate the extra burden the cold places on your joints. One of the aggressors of arthritic pain, as said above, is inactivity, and one of the best ways to exercise with osteoarthritis is in the water. A warm pool can do wonders for your joints year-round, and especially when it's cold outside. It is also important to be aware of the above muscular cause of winter back pain, as tight muscles in conjunction with stiff, sore joints will exacerbate your pain.

Take care of your muscles and joints during the cold season. Appropriate apparel, self-awareness and indoor exercise could be enough to ease your back pain this winter.

Osteoarthritis symptoms are often painful and physically debilitating for sufferers who have the condition. The disease also affects a patient mentally and emotionally because Osteoarthritis often limits normal, daily activities. The onset of the disease often makes its appearance when a person cannot simply stand up from a prone position without serious difficulty. The disease then progresses to include the lower legs, which begin to feel stiff and unmanageable. Osteoarthritis slows its progress into the skeletal system by first affecting the fine bones found in the hands sufferers.

Most people begin to look for help when they realize that they can't get out of bed as easily as they once did. Thanks to drugs like over-the-counter arthritis relief pain tablets and Osteoporosis supplements, many sufferers of Osteoarthritis see some relief from their symptoms. The truth of the matter is that most regular medical doctors can do little to stop the growing degenerative attacks of Osteoarthritis in their patients. What is usually prescribed are pain medications to ease the pressure on the spinal column of bones that are beginning to get brittle and irritate nerve endings.

While Osteoarthritic symptoms of the back and legs restrict the flexibility of a person, Osteoarthritic symptoms in the hands are perhaps the most painful. The cracking of the fingers while doing simple tasks like typing are not only annoying but painful. Another symptom of Osteoarthritis is the limiting of the functions of the small bones in a person's hands. Some Osteoarthritic patients find it impossible to even button their blouses or shirts and pulling up a zipper becomes an impossible task.

Osteoarthritis is a common disorder that many women and men suffer daily, interfering with the daily routine. What if there was a natural way to find relief from this agonizing pain?

With just a few simple steps, you can be one of the many sufferers enjoying life again.

There's nothing worse than feeling joint pain day after day. Knowing that there is pain relief medication is the only thing that may bring relief to you. Then there are the days that nothing seems to help.

Being diagnosed with Osteoarthritis is not an easy thing to live with. It's important not to give up with the hope that one day you will not feel any pain. It's an agonizing feeling to go through, such tremendous amount of discomfort each day.

Many joints can be affected, but the hand joints are the one's affected more. This can interfere with your daily routine, stopping you to perform many tasks.
It's important to recognize early symptoms of Osteoarthritis, such as joint pain.

Consult a doctor if it continues more than a few weeks. The doctor will first evaluate your symptoms and diagnose you accordingly. If the doctor suggests that you take medication, listen to him. He will recommend you the best pain management treatment, in order to make you feel better.

Follow your doctor's advice. He has the expertise and the knowledge to give you the best advise possible. When your dealing with chronic pain, managing your osteoarthritis pain is important to do in order to feel better. Your family doctor will refer you to a Rheumatologist who specializes in arthritis and related diseases.

He will look for physical evidence by observing for swelling and redness, tenderness, rashes, nodules and other deformities. You can choose to relief your chronic pain by trying out some of these options.

Natural remedies are used to provide pain relief. Look into some of these options, and begin to feel better.

- Glucosamine and Chondroitin Sulfate

Studies have shown people on glucosamine have found a reduction in the swelling and pain of arthritis. The dose in most individuals used is 1500mg of glucosamine sulfate and 800 to 1200mg chondroitin sulfate.

The only side effect that may occur is a mild stomach discomfort, which can be solved by taking the pill with food. It must be taken for a period of three months in order to see results.

- Acupuncture

Acupuncture is another option you may want to consider, by inserting hair thin needles into specific points in the body. It's known to release internal pain relieve substances such as endorphins and serotonin.

- Yoga

Many people think that yoga is a painful way to get effective relief because it involves moving the body in different ways. You'll be surprised in the amount of relief it can offer. Exercise is also another great way to lose the fat.

-Nutrition

A balanced diet is important to have in order to see a difference. Adding fiber to your diet such as whole grains, and increasing your vegetables can benefit you.

Losing weight can help remove pressure from the joints, which will reduce inflammation.

Other nutrients to consider are vitamin C, vitamin D, and vitamin E. These help reduce pain that is caused by inflammation.

Fish oils can help reduce inflammation that your body is trying to fight. By eating fatty fish such as salmon and sardines three times a week, can help reduce the inflammation process in your body.

Conclusion

You shouldn't have to go on suffering with this disease. With a good diet and exercise program, you can make a big difference in decreasing osteoarthritis pain.

Arthritis specialists have seen good results just by following these few steps. You deserve to feel better again. Make your life a pain free one.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common type of arthritis affecting millions of people worldwide. The hallmark for diagnosis is degenerative changes within an affected joint. It occurs when the rate of cartilage damage exceeds the rate of repair. Osteoarthritis can result in significant pain, joint stiffness and other manifestations and can have a significant impact on one's quality of life and independence. An exact cause has not been established however, there are a number of risk factors contributing to its development including age, obesity, physical trauma, relative activity level (too much or too little), family history of OA, underlying metabolic issues and faulty posture and joint mechanics. Due to the impact OA can have, an effective preventative and treatment approach becomes important. Whereas many medications have unwanted side effects and only provide symptomatic relief, there are natural methods to prevent, manage and slow the progression of osteoarthritis.

How do I prevent or slow the progression of OA?

While we can't necessarily prevent OA 100%, healthy lifestyle choices and reducing risk factors help considerably. If you already have osteoarthritis, do not rely fully on passive treatments. Combing complementary and alternative therapies with appropriate lifestyle modification will lead to improved function, reduced pain and better overall sense of well-being.

1) Weight loss:
Excessive weight can place an undue amount of force and stress on joints. Thus, weight loss is recommended for those who are overweight or obese not only for the beneficial effects on joints but also for overall health.

2) Prevent injuries:
While not all injuries can be avoided, many spinal injuries can be prevented by using appropriate lifting mechanics (maintaining a neutral spine and a strong core). Injuries to the lower extremities can sometimes be avoided by ensuring one wears appropriate footwear.

3) Be physically active:
A healthy cardiovascular system means better health and healing in general. Aim for 翻 hour of moderate intensity activity for most days of the week. Exercise is also one of the best non-drug treatments for OA. Some excellent low impact ideas include swimming, tai chi, yoga and walking.

4) Maintain a healthy diet:
A healthy, balanced diet rich in antioxidants and nutrients is important for overall health. Indeed, dietary modifications can also affect pain level. Consider an anti-inflammatory diet. Different foods are metabolized differently in the body, some reducing inflammation and others exacerbating it. Foods to include are antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables, nuts, fish, chicken, omega-3 fats and whole grains. Foods to avoid include high fat meats, cheese, starchy/sugary foods, trans fats, butter, cream and highly processed foods.

5) Take glucosamine:
Glucosamine is a natural substance that the body makes which lubricates joints. With age, however, production is diminished thus making supplementation important. 1500 mg per day is typically recommended for people over 40.

6) Work on posture:
Having good posture will reduce load on joints as it allows body weight to be distributed more evenly. Chiropractors can give specific exercises to correct postural problems including strengthening exercises for relatively weaker muscles and stretches for relatively tense muscles.

7) Chiropractic care:
Regular chiropractic care can detect and correct small problems before they become bigger problems. Adjustments are used to restore mobility in restricted joints and correct alignment. Joint restrictions can accelerate joint degeneration in two ways. First, if one joint is not moving well, other joints must work harder to compensate. Second, the restricted joint itself will begin to degenerate because movement is required for flushing nutrient-rich joint fluid which supports cartilage health. Thus, regular chiropractic care normalizes joint mechanics. In addition, restoring spinal alignment improves communication in the nervous system such that overall healing is optimized.

What else can I do to relieve pain?

1) Try an epsom salt bath:
Warm epsom salt baths help to relieve muscle tension which reduces stress on joints.

2) Sleep well:
Good rest ensures good restoration. Sometimes a new mattress and quality pillow can make all the difference in having a comfortable night.

3) Try pain relieving ointments:
There are many natural anti-inflammatory and pain relieving ointments available in health food stores.

4) Consider orthotic footwear:
Good footwear and orthotics can correct alignment at the base of support and add comfort and shock absorption for joints higher up in the kinetic chain.

5) Other complementary and alternative therapies:
Acupuncture and massage therapy are great alternative therapies for management of painful conditions. Acupuncture has been around for thousands of years and has been shown to be effective for improving symptoms of OA. Massage therapy relaxes muscles which decreases the compressive forces on joints. Consulting with a naturopath can provide more specific recommendations regarding herbal and dietary measures.

1.Hart, J (2008). Osteoarthritis And Complementary Therapies. Alternative and Complementary Therapies; 14(3):116-120.

Just like people, arthritis also affects our pets, sometimes because of a genetic predisposition, but there are other factors that increase the susceptibility to osteoarthritis.

25-30% of our canine and feline family members will show the effects of osteoarthritis, and up to 70% of dogs in specific breeds such as German Shepard, Golden Retriever and Labrador Retriever. Dog arthritis comes with age and it mostly affects large size dogs.

If your dog or cat is overweight, it will accelerate the arthritic disease process and symptoms by placing additional pressure on joints. On average, obese dogs are likely to develop osteoarthritis three years earlier than lean dogs. If you can't feel the animal's ribs anymore, your dog is becoming overweight. Gentle exercise is helpful for any pet; swimming, if possible, is ideal.

Osteoarthritis in dogs and cats is caused by the deterioration of the cartilage surrounding the joint and progresses slowly over a long period of time. This condition can be brought on by an earlier injury or genetic disease such as hip dysphasia, more common in the large dog breeds. Very active and working dogs are involved with physically demanding activities which put repeated stress on their joints, making them more susceptible to osteoarthritis.

Restricting jumping activities is very important in preventing immediate and future cartilage and spinal disc damage. This is especially true with the smaller breeds and dogs with very long backs, such as Dachshunds and Basset Hounds. When a dog jumps down instead of using portable steps or a dog ramp, the impact pressure is absorbed into the front legs. The line of force is directed down the length of the spinal column, causing compression of the individual discs, inviting osteoarthritis risks as well as spinal cord damage.

Viral, fungal, and bacterial infections can contribute to the development of arthritis. Conditions include Ehrlichiosis, Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever, carried and spread by ticks.

If you are interested in natural/holistic prevention and treatment there are good natural remedies and solutions available, designed to support healthy strong joints, muscles, tendons, cartilage and bones.

Orthopedic memory foam dog beds improve the quality of life for dogs and cats with hip or elbow dysplasia, arthritis and joint problems associated with large breeds and older pets, by reducing pressure on joints and other jutting body parts. These beds are firm enough to satisfy your dog's instinctual need to sleep on solid ground, while assisting healthy circulation. Traditional material is susceptible to sag. If possible, lifting the sleep area several inches to a foot off the ground will help in the dog's comfort.

A high quality glucosamine/chrondroitin sulfate supplement is a good defense and treatment for arthritis in dogs and cats. Glucosamine/chrondroitin sulfate stimulates the production of important proteins found in cartilage and proteoglycans, which are the water-holding molecules that cartilage is comprised of; helps reduce pain and, over time, rehabilitates damaged cartilage.

MSM (methysulfonylmethane): Another supplement to maintain healthy connective tissue that is a naturally occurring sulfur compound found in the cells of the body. It helps prevent arthritis in dogs and cats and can assist in reducing inflammation and swelling that accompany arthritis, disease and injuries.

Digestive enzymes and probiotics: Essential in aiding digestion and nutrient assimilation. They help avoid inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, allergies and degenerative conditions by maintaining a healthy gastrointestinal system in our dogs and cats.

Essential fatty acid supplements: Preferably with fish oil, will help reduce inflammation and aid in the treatment of joint problems and allergies.

High potency antioxidants: Inflammation of arthritic joints contributes to the oxidation activity of free radicals that are damaging to the cells of the body and can increase the risk of cancer.

Acupuncture: Dramatic improvement is possible for arthritic dogs and cats with regular treatments.

Osteoarthritis is identified as the most common form of arthritis and has affected millions of people around the world, mostly in their forties or more. Also referred to as degenerative joint disease, it is characterized by damage to the cartilage, the substance found between joints and serves as cushion against constantly rubbing joint bones. Among the joints commonly affected by osteoarthritis are the hips, knees, and in the hands, all of which bear the body weight in some degree or another. Along with pain, swelling and inflammation also occurs in the affected joints. There has been a lot of products promising relief from these symptoms as well as addressing the destruction of the cartilage, one of which is the liquid glucosamine product offered by Synflex.

There are numerous reasons for the development of osteoarthritis. These include injury, infection, and the result of wear and tear over the years. Typically, glucosamine, the active ingredient in Synflex and Syn-flex 1500 Liquid Glucosamine products, can be naturally produced in the body. However, as one grows older, the body loses its capability of producing the amount of glucosamine needed in order for the body to produce collagen fibers and proteoglycans, building blocks of cartilages. Because of the damage done to cartilages, there is hardening of the joints, which makes movement painful. Bone spurs also develop in the affected joints, adding to the pain and discomfort of arthritis patients. Apart from pain, osteoarthritis is also manifested in bone deformation and vastly reduced mobility.

In several studies conducted, glucosamine has been found to be effective in alleviating pain and inflammation, as well restoring movements. It is also found that liquid forms of glucosamine sulfate are more readily absorbed by the body compared to glucosamine products in capsule forms. And because it is readily available and extracted from animal cartilages, a lot of glucosamine liquid products have found its way into the market. Syn-flex products, however, are touted to be one of the most effective liquid glucosamine products for osteoarthritis, not only in humans but also in pets.

What makes Synflex liquid glucosamine a cut above the rest is the assurance of its high quality raw materials and the combination of several other substances to ensure pain relief as well as cartilage repair among its users. Syn-flex not only addresses pain and inflammation, but goes right into the source of the problem. Syn-flex Liquid Glucosamine is effective in the long-term management of osteoarthritis. Though other medications, like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs promise immediate pain relief, they are only good in masking the symptoms of osteoarthritis. Syn-flex liquid glucosamine is not only effective in rehabilitating but also in restoring movements to affected joints. It also affords protection from further damage to the cartilage. Many users report favorable results in as little as ten days following the intake of Synflex products.

These natural glucosamine products are available in apple and orange flavors, and can be taken in original form or mixed with other beverages.

Most pet owners would be happy to know that Synflex liquid glucosamine products are also veterinarian recommended for dogs and cats with arthritis. Administered in dosages according to the weight of the pet, these supplements also promise the same pain relief and joint rehabilitation as experienced by humans. Owners will find that their pet who used to whine in pain and just lie in the corner to avoid movements will regain their alertness and zest for activities.

Total knee replacement is generally performed in older patients with osteoarthritis. For the first time in India, a new prosthesis for young patients with osteoarthritis will be introduced. This prosthesis made of a wonder material called Zirconium, a ceramic coated metal ensures longer survival of the prosthesis after implantation. The introduction of this prosthesis will hopefully encourage more number of young and middle aged Indians and Westerners to undergo knee replacement in India.

Advantages of Zirconium

1) The significant advantage of Zirconium knee implants is that it is considerably harder. On testing it lasts 85 times longer in tests that simulate the stresses inside the actual knee. Additional advantages are scratch resistance.

2) When it is wet, ceramic can glide smoothly along plastic, making for smoother motion than with metal-on-plastic. As a result, the Oxinium total knee replacement will not generate the quantity of plastic wear debris that cobalt chrome will, and the implants should last considerably longer. Zirconium is one of the six most biocompatible elements know to man. So, your immune system will more easily tolerate your new implant.

3) Lastly, patients who are allergic to nickel, the metal most often used in the current implants, cannot currently receive total knee replacements. The ceramic implant, however, can be implanted safely in patients with nickel allergies, since it uses a zirconium alloy with no nickel. Implants made of Oxinium have been implanted in larger number of patients in the UK Australia and the US with great success.

Who would benefit most from an Oxinium (zirconium) total knee replacement?

Three types of patient have been identified as the "best" candidates for an Oxinium total knee replacement.

"Younger" patients: Because Oxinium knee implants offer significantly less wear compared to cobalt chrome implants, they are expected to last considerably longer. In the past, orthopedic surgeons have advised patients less than 65 years of age to wait to have knee replacement surgery because the life span of the cobalt chrome knee implants is only 10-15 years. Now, surgeons have a viable option for a younger patient who previously would not be a candidate for a total knee replacement because the Oxinium knee implants should last much longer. Therefore, a patient under the age of 65 who has advanced arthritis of the knee no longer has to suffer for years until he reaches an appropriate age for total knee replacement surgery.

"Active" patients: Patients, who desire to return to an active lifestyle, including sports, dancing, gardening, or other strenuous activities, may also benefit from an Oxinium knee replacement. As a result of their high activity level, this patient population will put more "wear and tear" on their knee replacement, which can cause the implants to wear more quickly. An Oxinium knee is better able to tolerate this high activity level and last longer that the traditional cobalt chrome knee. Metal allergy patients: Because Oxinium is one of the most biocompatible materials known to man, it is the only choice for patients who exhibit metal allergies. Patients who have needed total knee replacement surgery, but could not tolerate the cobalt chrome implants due to their nickel content, can now have the surgery they need to return to an active lifestyle without the fear of an allergic reaction.

The first patient will be a middle aged Housewife with osteoarthritis. Whereas normal knee prostheses cost about 80,000 rupees, this new prosthesis may cost about 1. 25 lakhs, but it is comparable to the best in its category. The higher cost will be offset by the longer survivorship of the implant. A Total knee package is available for Indians and foreigners with normal and long life prostheses at affordable costs.

A Baker's cyst is characterised by a swelling behind the knee which is caused by a build-up of fluid from the knee joint.

It is also known as a popliteal cyst and is the kind of bursitis where the synovial sac behind the knee becomes overfilled with fluid causing severe pain in the area.

The reason it is commonly known as a Baker's cyst is in memory of the physician who first described the condition, the surgeon William Baker (1839-1896).

There are numerous causes to this kind of swelling behind the knee, but the main ones are as follows:

• Osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis


• Sports Injury or trauma to the joint


• Repetitive stress injury from standing or cycling


• Age related weakening


• Excess of uric acid (Gout)

The condition is more prevalent in women than men mainly due to the fact that more women suffer with osteo arthritis and rheumatoid arthritis and typically when they are over the age of 40, although it can affect people of any age.

Diagnosis

The best way to diagnose a Baker's cyst is to either use ultrasound or have an MRI scan but if you have a fluid filled swelling behind the knee and a lot of pain then this is a good indication that you have developed a bursa or cyst.

Treating a Baker's cyst

You can treat a Baker's cyst yourself at home by taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory preferably an NSAID or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug.

You can also use a pack of ice (or frozen peas) to reduce any swelling and then use a compression bandage to support the knee joint. Resting the knee joint is also important.

If the swelling or pain behind your knee fails to resolve itself you may need to visit your doctor or podiatrist who can either recommend a corticosteroid medication or remove the fluid by draining it.

Ruptured Baker's cyst

In the rare case that you have a ruptured Baker's cyst, then the fluid will leak in to your calf and lower limb causing severe pain which usually resolves itself in one to 4 weeks. During this time you may need prescription painkillers available from your doctor.

Repairing the knee

If your knee is damaged from say osteoarthritis or a sports injury, then your joint may need to be repaired in a surgical procedure called arthroscopy, which is a form of keyhole surgery, used to clean out the joint.

These kinds of painful cysts can be quite debilitating particularly for those whose primary cause his arthritis. However, there are numerous treatments available to you to manage the condition successfully and so if you are suffering with this kind of swelling behind the knee do not despair; seek the help of your doctor or podiatrist and have it diagnosed early enough for the right treatment to be given.

Osteoarthritis treatment can be as complex as the condition itself. Frequently, the response of doctors is prescribe NSAID drugs to address the pain of osteoarthritis; however, it is quite important to note that this damage that osteoarthritis can do to joints can be so great that joint replacement surgery can become necessary. Addressing the pain and potential consequences of osteoarthritis are of paramount importance.

First it is necessary to highlight the fact that losing weight and eating a healthy diet can play an important role in addressing osteoarthritis in general. Losing weight means less stress on the joints, and that can translate into improving your osteoarthritis symptoms and associated pain.

We know that bad food choices can impact health, and this counts for osteoarthritis as well. Foods that cause inflammation, such as processed foods, fast foods and foods from the "nightshade" category of plants should be off limits. These include tomatoes and eggplants among others. In general, a diet rich in most fruits and vegetables will help improve health, add to weight loss and may decrease osteoarthritis inflammation as well.

Discovering alternative approaches for osteoarthritis treatment is one part experimentation and one part giving alternative approaches the necessary time to take effect. Anti-inflammatory drugs work well and they work quickly, but the long term effects of using such drugs should give one pause. Alternative and natural approaches might take longer, but there is far less concern attached with using these approaches.

The spice ginger has long been valued for its ability to reduce inflammation. Spices were amongst the most valued of possessions in the ancient world and for good reason. Spices and herbs were the medicine of the ancient world, and their health benefits were firmly established in the minds of our ancestors. Today, medical research has varied that many spices do indeed have powerful health benefits.

Ginger can be consumed in a surprising number of ways. Ginger tea is, of course, very common and stands as one of the single most consumed beverages in the world. Ginger root can easily be incorporated into a diverse number of meals, and it can also be used to make fresh tea.

In addition to teas and use in meals, ginger is well suited to pill form and is sold as a means of helping with inflammation. Quite often ginger is paired or suggested to be paired with the other great natural anti-inflammatory agent, turmeric. Together these two spices can achieve impressive results.

It should also be noted that ginger and turmeric are two of the most widely used spices and both are considered quite safe. Give these natural options time to work, and you will likely find that they do help provide at least some relief and assistance with your osteoarthritis treatment.

Knee osteoarthritis is complicated by the fact that the knee takes all the load-bearing strain of the full body weight, which in turn makes the condition even more painful. This is a degenerative disease. It often feels worse in the mornings with stiffness that takes time to resolve.

Osteoarthritis, often located in the knee, is the most common form of arthritis to be found in the United States. It differs from rheumatoid arthritis in that, should there be any inflammation present, it is usually not severe.

It is not fully known what causes knee osteoarthritis in the first place. Certainly the cartilage and bone being subjected to mechanical stresses through everyday movements, coupled with the disease being present, make this a particularly difficult and painful form of arthritis.

Knee osteoarthritis can be difficult to treat. One of the characteristics of this condition is the loss of articular cartilage. This has a poor ability to self-heal, which merely exacerbates the problem. People who are overweight or obese naturally have a bigger problem as their increased body weight makes it considerably more difficult for the knee to cope.

Any treatment of the condition must primarily seek to relieve the pain. Sufferers describe the pain as being deep-seated with a prolonged aching that can stay constant for long periods of time, often with little respite. Certain weather conditions, such as increased humidity, can cause the symptoms to worsen.

There are a number of treatments available. These typically reduce the pain and inflammation, but often cause unpleasant side effects. For this reason, many sufferers of knee osteoarthritis prefer to use chondroitin sulfate and glucosamine sulfate in preference to other pain and inflammation relieving drugs.

Here, you'll discover a simple uric acid cure using bicarbonate of soda. When suffering from gout many folks first thoughts are drug-based treatments. But something as simple as a bicarbonate of soda drink can eliminate the pain and symptoms of gout pretty quickly. More and more sufferers are turning to natural treatments to eliminate their gout symptoms.

The benefits of using bicarbonate of soda as an easy uric acid cure are that it can help;

(1) dissolve uric acid crystals
(2) reduce pain
(3) make uric acid more soluble and easier to excrete
(4) increase body fluid volume which helps the kidneys do their job more effectively
(5) boost urine pH which helps reduce the risk of uric acid kidney stone formation

But before I show you your uric acid cure in detail, let's quickly go over what causes your gout symptoms of redness, swelling, heat, inflammation and extreme pain. These are actually caused by crystals which have formed in your joints; most usually the big toe, although other joints can be affected. They are so painful because the crystals are in the form of tiny 'needles', which can be clearly seen under the microscope.

The crystals themselves are formed out of excess uric acid in your bloodstream which your kidneys have been unable to process properly. Uric acid is a byproduct of the breakdown of natural purines in your body cells and food. Purines are chemical compounds that play an important role in providing our protein and energy needs. Normally, your kidneys then process and flush excess uric acid out of your body via urine. But sometimes this doesn't happen properly and you end up with excess acid in your blood, hence the crystals and a gout attack.

And because many gout victims suffer really nasty side effects using mainstream drug-based treatment, they are turning more and more to natural gout remedies that don't have these side effects and are way cheaper too. These are things like dietary changes (remember purines!), herbs, natural supplements, particular fruits and berries such as cherries and strawberries, etc.

One natural remedy that many folks don't know about is bicarbonate of soda. When mixed with water and taken over a period of time, it can relieve the symptoms quite quickly; in as little as 2 hours depending on the severity of the gout attack.

Here's how to take your uric acid cure...

Add half a teaspoon of bicarbonate of soda to 8 ounces of water (a typical 8 oz glass). Make sure to mix thoroughly. Stick to the following schedule: Drink a glass just before going to bed; a glass immediately on getting up in the morning; a glass every 2 to 4 hours in between meals. Do not take more than 4 teaspoons of bicarbonate of soda per day, i.e. 8 glasses per day. Continue with this regimen until the symptoms disappear.

Since bicarbonate of soda is high in sodium, you need to reduce your salt intake (salt and diet). And if you suffer from hypertension, keep checking your blood pressure. If it rises, stop the treatment immediately. In any case, seek your doctor's advice before starting the course.

Now many folks have found this uric acid cure to be very effective. However, it's used simply to eliminate the symptoms of an actual gout attack, it cannot prevent your gout returning. And recurring gout has to be avoided at all costs since -- apart from the excruciating pain -- it can cause you permanent joint damage and kidney problems down the line. So it isn't enough just to keep treating the symptoms when they occur, you need to prevent them from returning ever again.

Osteoarthritis pain relief is a very common desire, with more than 16 million people suffering from this debilitating disease. Because symptoms tend to develop and worsen over time, individuals who have pain and stiffness caused by degeneration of the joints are constantly seeking better ways to manage their pain. In recent years, more and more of these individuals have been turning to natural products to provide a safer, gentler and less costly alternative to more traditional forms of treatment.

Osteoarthritis is the term given to a condition resulting from the breakdown of the protective layer of cartilage which surrounds the joints. Whether as the result of an injury or just the result of routine wear and tear, the cartilage wears away, causing the bones of the joints to rub against each other, resulting in pain and even malformation of the bones. Osteoarthritis treatment can range from prescription medicine to exercise to surgical intervention. Topical analgesics can offer temporary relief from pain, but have proven ineffective for tong term relief.

Treating Arthritis With Natural Alternatives

Natural remedies for arthritis, which can contain anti-inflammatories and even antioxidants, can ease swelling and promote development of new cartilage. Rather than just treat the pain itself, these products target the cause of pain and provide the most thorough approach to treating arthritis symptoms. In terms of osteoarthritis pain relief, nothing has proven more complete, and more successful, than a comprehensive natural course of treatment.

Proven ingredients such as glucosamine and chondroitin, which help repair damaged joints; manganese and other antioxidants, which remove harmful free radicals and combat the signs of aging; and ginger extract and other anti-inflammatories provide a new, more thorough form of osteoarthritis treatment. With ingredients like these combined in carefully measured amounts, these new products eliminate the need to take several different supplements, thereby reducing the threat of dangerous results from pill interactions and reducing overall cost.

No matter what course of treatment you choose, maintaining a healthy, balanced diet and getting proper exercise are also important steps when it comes to osteoarthritis pain relief. Since stress on the joints is a main factor in osteoarthritis, ridding yourself of excess weight can significantly help in reducing symptoms. Reducing fat intake and eating foods rich in sulfur, which helps to repair and rebuild cartilage, can also help the body to heal itself without the use of potentially harmful prescription medicines.

While exercise can cause some wear and tear on the body, being inactive can be just as detrimental if not more so. Therefore, some level of exercise is recommended as part of a successful osteoarthritis treatment program. Swimming, walking, low impact aerobics and range of motion exercises can all help to improve overall health and reduce pain and stiffness.

Healing At The Source of the Problem

The key to successful treatment of osteoarthritis symptoms is enabling the body to heal itself by addressing the underlying cause of pain and stiffness. This has never been easier than it is with the availability of natural remedies for osteoarthritis pain relief. These treatments should not be considered, however, without first consulting your doctor. Since each product works differently for each person, it will be up to you and your doctor to determine which is right for you.

Osteoarthritis can be a fact of life for many of us. There isn't much you can do to avoid it, but you don't have to live with debilitating symptoms. Natural remedies made from botanicals and other similar ingredients can offer a safe, gentle alternative to help your body heal itself from the inside out. Talk to your doctor today and find out which product will work best for you. Don't let pain become a way of life for you...make the natural choice and live your life pain free!

Although a fish oil supplement for osteoarthritis, as well as other nutritional and natural products may be helpful, consumers are wise to carefully investigate anything that is advertised as a "natural cure for osteoarthritis". Some can be a waste of time or money. Others could even cause additional health problems.

Choosing the right fish oil supplement for osteoarthritis can be a chore. There are a large number of products on the market. Dietary supplements are a big business. In the United States, 74% of adults use some form of Complementary or Alternative Medicine, abbreviated CAM. Many are looking for a natural cure for osteoarthritis.

Of the adults who use CAM, mind-body medicine, including prayer for health reasons, is used the most. About 19% use natural products, such as dietary supplements or mega-vitamins. 11.7% use a fish oil supplement for osteoarthritis or for other health reasons. Back pain, neck pain, joint pain and arthritis are among the most common conditions for which CAM therapies are used.

Omega 3 fatty acids derived from fish oil have been shown in numerous studies to reduce inflammation. For example, on the University of Maryland Medical's website, they state:

"Several articles reviewing the research....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."

Also the same website mentions: "....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.

When choosing a fish oil supplement for osteoarthritis, consumers should avoid products that contain vitamin A, which is found in cod liver oil and other oils derived from fish liver. At large doses, vitamin A from fish or other animal sources can be toxic. Beta-carotene is a safer choice for vitamin A supplementation.

The recommended daily intake of omega 3 fatty acids is at least 1000mg for adults. Men need a little more. Although recommendations vary, a fish oil supplement for osteoarthritis should contain at least this amount. The oil should also be molecularly distilled or pharmaceutical grade and contain no contaminants, such as mercury or PCBs.

Although it would not be described as a natural cure for osteoarthritis, an extract from a shellfish known as the New Zealand green lipped mussel (which is mentioned by the University of Maryland's Medcial Website, is renowned in New Zealand but obscurely known in the United States, even though it is available here. In a clinical study at the Yonsei Medical Clinic, 80% of patients participating in the trial reported significant pain relief and improvement in joint function after 8 weeks of use.

In a statement released by the University of California, researchers refer to the mussel extract as showing "significant anti-inflammatory activity". After comparing the anti-inflammatory action to that of other plant and marine oils, researchers found that the extract was much more potent. So, while it may not be a natural cure for osteoarthritis, a product that contains a combination of New Zealand green lipped mussel extract and a fish oil supplement for arthritis may relieve the pain and inflammation, while protecting the cartilage cushions in the joints from additional damage.

For temporary relief of stiff, achy joints, try massaging a blend of 15 drops of rosemary oil, 15 drops of Roman or German chamorllileoil, and 1 ounce of soybean oil into the affected joints. You might also try a warm bath laced with rosemary and chamomile; soak for about 20 minutes. Other essential oils to try include camphor, peppermint, lemon, or marjoram

Ayurvedic Medicine

Ayurveda views inflammatory diseases. as energy and digestive imbalances, in which the body is unable to eliminate toxic waste. To treat the disorder, ease discomfort, and increase range of motion in affected joints, Ayurvedic practitioners may recommend trying one or more of the following remedies:

Take triphala to cleanse your intestines, aid indigestion, and stimulate the immune system.

Use boswellia, flaxseed, and fish oils to protect your joints and increase joint mobility. You might also try rubbing warm sesame oil into the affected joints.

Soak in hot water laced with baking soda, eucalyptus, ginger, peppermint, or salt to decrease discomfort and loosen joints.

Follow a pacifying diet, depending on your Ayurvedic category of arthritis. You might also add hot spices, such as cayenne, to your diet to loosen joints and control pain.

Bodywork and Somatic Practices

Depending on the severity of the pain, and degree of immobility, it may be best to start wIth more gentle techmques such as CranioSacral therapy, reflexology, Feldenkrais, Trager, Chinese Medical Massage (acupressure), polarity therapy, Therapeutic Touch, and Reiki.

Chiropratic

Specific chiropractic adjustment (SCA) can help patients With osteoarthritis by: increasing joint flexibility, decreasing swelling in the joint areas and joint capsules, and decreasing the fluid accumulation that accompanies arthritic changes. Chiropractic care for patients with osteoarthritis typically include SCA of the affected joints, moist heat application, and hot water soaks with Epsom salts to promote mobility. In some cases, care may also include paraffin (hot wax) baths.

A recent and widely-accepted treatment for arthritis, particularly osteoarthritis, uses glucosamine. This dynamic substance can actually repair damaged or eroded cartilage. Glucosamine is made up of glucose, the sugar that the body burns for fuel, and an amino acid called glutamine. It provides structure to the bone and cartiage as well as to skin, nails, hair, and other body tissues. Glucosamine sulfate is the most popular form used in the United States. This sulfate acts as a liquid magnet, attracting proteoglycan molecules (which fill in the spaces within the cartilage "netting"). This is important because the fluid acts as a shock absorber while it sweeps nutrients into the cartilage. Without this nutritional fluid, cartilage becomes fragile, thin, and malnourished.

Daily dosage depends on your weight. If you weigh less than 120 pounds, take 1000 mg glucosamine. If your weight falls between 120 and 200 pounds, take 1500 mg glucosamine. If you weigh over 200 pounds, take 2000 mg glucosamine. Because everyone's needs are different, you may need more or less than the preceding dosages, but they are good starting points. Vitamin C and manganese help increase the effectiveness of glucosamine. Manganese is safe up to 50 mg per day.

If you decide to take these supplements, you would be wise to have a thorough consultation with your healthcare provider.

If you are reading this article, chances are you or someone you know is dealing with pain associated with arthritis. If that is the case, then it is also likely that you have been scouring the web in search of ways to alleviate these sometimes debilitating symptoms. Even though there is no cure for it, there are many ways of either minimizing the flare ups or even stopping them before the pain can escalate.

Let us go over some types of arthritis, the symptoms, and some effective tactical approaches to a more pain-free life. The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis does not involve inflammation, it`s more of a degenerative joint disease. The weight bearing joints in particular simply wear out over time. This type of arthritis doesn't just afflict older people, it can be common among athletes as well. Baseball and tennis players (this sport is especially hard on the knees and elbows), golfers, pianists, and typists are susceptible to osteoarthritis due to specific repetitive and straining movements. But this type of arthritis can also develop as a result of an injury or trauma to an area which can ultimately cause the onset of osteoarthritis even years after the injury.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a more severe form of arthritis whereby knuckles and joints are visibly inflamed and can in extreme cases appear deformed. People who suffer from this type of insidious arthritis endure countless episodes and flare ups and painfully stiff joints. It has been shown that rheumatoid arthritis is a related to lupus which is characterized as an auto immune disease where the body is actually attacking itself.

Let us consider some proactive strategies that go beyond the conventional medicines and may likely increase their effectiveness as well. Many people are turning to mineral supplements to strengthen and perhaps regenerate bones and bone cartilage. Deficiency of these minerals can even lead to the eventual onset of arthritis. Some minerals that are linked to good bone health maintenance are: boron (a trace mineral), of course calcium (I prefer calcium citrate or coral calcium), magnesium (which balances calcium), zinc (which helps bone growth), copper (which helps to strengthen connective tissue), germanium (an antioxidant that helps with pain relief), and sulfur (which helps maintain ligaments, cartilage, collagen, and tendons). Some people swear by high quality liquid glucosamine and even use it for their pets suffering from arthritis.

I like the idea of helpful foods in dealing with combating arthritis. Omega 3 fatty acids found in fish and also fish oil capsules have been shown to be an effective anti inflammatory. Some of the fish that are high in these omega 3`s include: striped bass, anchovies, bluefish, herring, mackerel, sable, salmon, shark, sardines (eat the ones with the bones in for even more calcium), brook trout, and white tuna. Other inflammation reducing foods include asparagus, garlic, onions, pineapple, and cabbage. There are also foods to avoid that aggravate inflammation. On your no no list, put: eggplant, tomatoes, peppers, potatoes, wheat and foods high in gluten, corn, beef, pork, eggs, dairy, fried foods, and sugary processed snacks. This might seem like a long list at first, but finding substitutes after a while might not turn out to be that difficult and will be worth it too.

There`s a lot of helpful herbs in dealing with arthritis, too many to list here. Just to skim the surface, I`ll mention celery seed. This spice and seasoning contains almost 2 dozen anti inflammatory compounds. Fresh ginger root, long known throughout Asia as being helpful to people with both osteoarthrits and rheumatoid arthritis is readily available. It reduces inflammation by blocking cyclooxygenate or the cox enzyme which kick starts joint swelling. In contrast to COX-2 medications (such as Celebrex and Ibuprofen), ginger root does not cause stomach irritation - but actually protects the digestive tract by increasing the blood flow which serves to control stomach acid. Two other herbs containing anti inflammatory properties which can be swallowed in capsule form or applied as a cream are Boswellia (also great for sprains and muscle strains) and Cayenne pepper whose active ingredient is capsicum. Use this cream sparingly as there can be a slight stinging sensation. A bath with Epsom salts has both anti inflammatory and anti arthritis compounds which can be absorbed through the skin. It also makes a very soothing and delightful bath.

A basic and common sense approach to everyday coping with arthritis is simply to protect your joints. By that I mean - do not remain in any one position for an extended period of time. A ten minute stretching routine should be done every day to keep limber and warm up the muscles and tendons. This will help to prevent muscles and tendons from becoming strained. Regular exercise can also reduce joint pain and stiffness. Exercising in water can make your routine that much easier. I hope my research on this topic has provided some new insight and hope for you. If it has, pass it along to someone else who could use the information. You can also have a peek at my site (see bio box) which further explores this topic.

Have you noticed your horse not moving as well as they have in the past? Or maybe, they have that look of pain in their eyes that doesn't seem to be linked to any noticeable physical condition. These are subtle signs of osteoarthritis in horses.
 
Horses put a great deal of stress on their joints due to their size and desire to run. When the animal starts to age their joints simply wear out, making it more difficult and even painful to walk and run. The most common cause of this normal progression is osteoarthritis, which is more commonly known as degenerative joint disease.
 
Degenerative joint disease is a progressive deterioration of the joint cartilage and represents the final stage of many bone and joint conditions such as traumatic arthritis, joint fractures, and infective arthritis.
 
The condition itself may range from mild to severe and can produce lameness, especially if treatment is ineffective. There may be varying degrees of excess fluid in the joint, an irregular thickening and scarring of the membranes, and restricted motion of the involved joints. In more severe cases the cartilage may have deteriorated all together causing a bone on bone grinding sound.
 
Degenerative joint disease in horses is normally confirmed with the help of X-rays, which will determine the severity of the condition. If osteoarthritis is present the X-ray will show decreased joint space, bony outgrowths, inflammation of the muscles or tendons, and a hardening and thickening of the tissue below the cartilage. In mild cases, your veterinarian may be able to use an endoscope to determine the amount of damage the joint has sustained.
 
Conventional veterinary medicine treats osteoarthritis in horses primarily by reducing joint pain and stiffness. Drugs used to reduce inflammation such as firocoxib and phenylbutazone or corticosteroids may provide a degree of temporary relief. If these medications fail to achieve their intended purpose surgical fusion may be the last option to restore the animal to its past glory.
 
In summary, when joints start to wear out there are very few good options designed to reverse the condition. For this reason many horse owner have been turning to alternative natural treatments and supplements. Alternative natural treatments for osteoarthritis in horses have shown to an effective way to improve joint and cartilage health without the risk of harmful side effects. They are also considered to be very affordable, especially when considering the results achieved could be long lasting. If you are looking for a safe and effective way to help improve the quality of life for your horse, natural supplementation for degenerative joint disease is an option worth considering.

Our pets are part of our family. For many of us our special furry friend/friends are like one of our children. And one thing is for sure we all want the best for our pets. Nevertheless, while our pets do communicate with us it is sometimes easy to overlook or misinterpret conditions that gradually make their way into our pet's lives. One of these conditions is osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease.  

Arthritis is a general term referring to inflammation of the joint. The most common form of arthritis in pets is osteoarthritis, which is also known as degenerative joint disease. This common condition is most often found in large animals but can affect animals of all sizes. It is characterized as loss of cartilage (the shock absorbing gel like material between the joints) and joint degeneration leading to pain and lack of mobility.  

Pet degenerative joint disease initially can be difficult to recognize. Joint stillness after a nap, or an extended period of rest, are common signs of its onset. As the disease becomes more advanced, your pet may not have the enthusiasm for certain playful activities they once had. In severe cases they may not be able to make it to the litter box or through the pet door in time to do their business.  

Supplements for osteoarthritis in pets is a topic of great interest for most pet owners with either aging animals, those with birth defects that exasperate the condition (hip dysplasia), and those who have overused their joints.   The goal in slowing, stopping, and ultimately revering osteoarthritis in pets is to find supplements which include ingredients that have been shown to be effective in reversing the condition.  

Let's cover a few of these:  
*Glucosamine: As pets age many lose their ability to manufacture adequate amounts of glucosamine to keep their joints moving freely and absorb the shock of running, jumping, and playing. This ingredient should be one included in any pet osteoarthritis supplement.  
*Chondroitin, Bovine cartilage extract - While some joint health benefits have been derived from the use of chondroitin or bovine cartilage extract they do not seem to be as effective as glucosamine when used alone; due to their low absorption rate. Nevertheless, these are supplemental ingredients that should be considered.   *Vitamin E - Research studies support the idea that vitamin E is beneficial for osteoarthritis in pets. The benefit was thought to be due to vitamin E's membrane stabilizing actions and antioxidant properties.  
*B5 (Pantothenic Acid) - Some research suggests that a deficiency in this obscure B vitamin reduces cartilage growth.  

In summary, we have just touched on a small number of helpful supplements for osteoarthritis in pets. Your next step is to locate a well respected supplemental formula to treat osteoarthritis in pets. Additionally, all pet owners should make a good effort to keep their pets weight under control. Excess weight is one of the primary causes of degenerative joint disease.

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative bone disease, which is recognized by the symptoms of painful, inflamed and stiff joints. This is generally thought to be caused by accumulated damage to the connective tissues that the body can no longer efficiently repair, which is why most of the people affected are of more advanced years. While injuries, disease and general wear and tear of the connective tissues are factors that increase the chances of developing osteoarthritis, the exact causes are yet unknown.

Because of this, there is no known cure to osteoarthritis, and most treatments instead seek to relieve the symptoms of the disease. This usually allows most people with osteoarthritis the ability to live relatively normal lives, despite having the disease.

Conventional medicine's first approach is to prescribe analgesics to deal with the pain, while anti-inflammatory medication may also be prescribed to deal with any inflammation in the joints. Stiffness and the loss of mobility are treated with physical therapy, and most will also be advised to follow a regimen of moderate exercise to strengthen surrounding muscles. These methods are usually very effective, though more extreme cases may require other steps, such as surgical replacement of the joint.

Aside from conventional methods, alternative natural methods of treatment are also available. These methods include a wide range of disciplines within the classification of alternative medicine, including but not limited to herbal medicine, acupuncture, and the use of natural supplements. In general, conventional medicine does not advocate the use of alternative methods, though some doctors are beginning to accept the use of some alternative methods.

Despite the lack of support from conventional doctors and medical professionals, alternative natural remedies for osteoarthritis continue to be used, with a growing number of affected individuals admitting to have at least tried out these remedies. In fact, a good number claim to continue to use alternative methods, and testify to the effectiveness of various natural methods.

Why do these people choose to use natural remedies to treat their osteoarthritis? Here are some of the most common reasons:

1. More Practical: In some cases, these natural remedies are considered more practical, as well as economical. Many natural methods advocate the use of remedies that are readily available at home, reducing the expense of treating osteoarthritis. Many of those same methods are also easy to take, or apply, with little need for special instructions or even equipment. In some cases, even using natural supplements for treatment can cost substantially less than prescription drugs.

2. Safe To Use: Most people who take natural remedies for osteoarthritis perceive these remedies to be safer to use than conventional drugs and medications. Most conventional medications, specially those which are more potent in nature, carry with them risks of harmful side effects, particularly through long-term use. Generally speaking, most alternative natural methods do not have such harmful side effects, or if they do, they are relatively minor when compared to the risks carried by conventional drugs.

3. Healthier: The growing perception of many people today is that "natural" equates to "healthy" and that carries over to the remedies and methods used to treat osteoarthritis. While this is not always the case, the fact is that a good number of natural remedies are healthier for the body. Herbal remedies, for example, may also include vitamins and minerals that the body needs, and are also often used to treat more than one condition as well.

4. They Are Effective: Perhaps the best reason that natural remedies are used to treat osteoarthritis symptoms is the fact that they are effective. This is after all the bottom line in any arthritis treatment, and the bottom line for anybody who has arthritis. Proof of their effectiveness may come in the form of a few tests and studies, or even from testimonies of others with arthritis, but for many, these are enough reason to believe that they are effective.