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As you age, arthritis dogs
your footsteps and if you are not careful it could cripple you mentally
and physically. The joints are usually affected especially the knees and
elbows.
Synovial fluid is the name given to the lubricant present in the
joints and the cartilage is the special tissue, which absorbs shocks and
ensures that the ends of the bones are protected. When this is damaged,
then the ends of the bones rub against each other and cause pain. This
is known as osteo-arthritis. |
Rheumatoid arthritis is an
autoimmune disorder which means the immune system which is supposed to
defend the body starts attacking the body’s tissues and causes abnormal
growth of tissue.. This could be because of infection or injury to the
tissue.
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So, if you want to ward off the ill effects of osteo arthritis, anti
oxidants is the key - the natural cure for arthritis. They ensure that
the cartilage remains fairly intact. It is apparent then that the
treatment of arthritis can be accomplished by eating fruits and
vegetables as they are very good sources of antioxidants.
Consumed in
adequate amounts, they can minimize the effects of joint damage.
Processed foods, carbohydrates and sugar are taboo. High fiber foods,
minimum fat and flavonoid rich foods like cherries help to minimize
destruction to the joints. |
Vegetable juices especially a mixture of
carrot, beet and cucumber is very beneficial. Green salad with lemon
juice, cooked vegetables like pumpkin, spices like ginger, coriander,
asafetida, and turmeric all contribute to the well being of the joints.
Fruits like apples, oranges, grapes, papaya should be taken liberally.
In this context it is seen that Vitamin E is helpful not only in
preventing breakdown of cartilage but also in generating the components
necessary for the manufacture of cartilage. Collagen, which is an
important constituent of cartilage, requires the presence of vitamin C.
In some individuals, tomatoes, potatoes and peppers can prevent collagen
repair, so the diet needs to be suitably altered to exclude these. It
has been found that allergic foods can trigger joint pain, so the first
step is to identify these foods and eliminate them from your diet. Be
sure to go low on tea, sugar, yogurt, chocolate and tempting spicy and
fried foods. A radical change in your lifestyle can do wonders for
arthritis.
Ultrasound heat therapy is also known to benefit individuals suffering
from arthritis. Ultrasound energy uses a gel or mineral oil as a
conducting agent. What ultrasound actually does is to first warm the
areas and then invade the body and reach the inner tissue. Muscle tissue
and ligaments are very receptive to this form of energy while fat tissue
is sluggish in acceptance. The relief this form of treatment provides is
long lasting.
Diathermy has always been a popular mode of deep heat treatment. An
insulated wire coil is used to transfer heat to the affected part. As it
uses a magnetic field on the connective tissues ,even fat tissues are
receptive to this form of energy. Diathermy on a regular basis provides
relief. In addition to diet and physical therapy, exercise is a must. Of
course, confine yourself to those activities, which cause least strain.
One very effective cure for osteo-athritis is the naturally occurring
glucosamine sulfate, because it helps connective tissue to be formed. As
it consists of hydrogen, glucose and nitrogen amine, it is often
referred to as an amino sugar. Rather than providing energy as sugars
usually do, it helps in construction of body tissue of bones, ligaments,
digestive system and several other areas. Unfortunately as you age, the
ability to manufacture this wonder substance also decreases. The
cartilage is hence destroyed and the ends of the bones rub against each
other causing pain. However, external supplements of glucosamine sulfate
in combination with Chondrotin sulfate has been known to work wonders
when combined with exercise and proper nutrition.
In India, Ayurveda focuses on “doshas” and in the case of
Rheumatic joint pains it believes that “vata” dosha has in some way been
aggravated. In addition, the toxins of improper indigestion deposit
itself in areas, which are weak. Ayurvedic treatment strongly advocates
massage with mustard or sesame oil on the areas of concern. Light
exercise is also advised. Vitamin C and the herb Guggul taken twice a
day is said to produce beneficial effects. Turmeric, which is used
freely in Indian cooking is also said to have anti-inflammatory
properties and ginger either in the form of oil or extract is used for
treating rheumatoid arthritis.
Here again diet plays an important part in controlling arthritis. A low
protein diet, no milk or milk products, no polyunsaturated oils, an
increase in omega3
fatty acids, walnuts and flaxseeds should go a long way in affording
relief.
Yoga, relaxation techniques, and meditation have also known to be
effective natural remedies for arthritis.
author
~ M. Hemdev.
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