Rheumatoid Arthritis and Alternative Medicine
15/03/11 10:39
Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disorder that most typically affects the small joints in your hands and feet. Unlike the wear-and-tear damage of osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis affects the lining of your joints, causing a painful swelling that can eventually result in bone erosion and joint deformity.
An autoimmune disorder, rheumatoid arthritis occurs when your immune system mistakenly attacks your own body's tissues. In addition to causing joint problems, rheumatoid arthritis can also affect your whole body with fevers and fatigue.
Rheumatoid arthritis is two to three times more common in women than in men and generally occurs between the ages of 40 and 60. While there's no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, treatment options have expanded greatly in the past few decades.
Alternative medicine
By Mayo Clinic staff
Some common complementary and alternative treatments that have shown promise for rheumatoid arthritis include:
• Thunder god vine. Preparations made from the peeled root of this plant are used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat
inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Studies indicate that it may be helpful in treating rheumatoid arthritis. Side effects
include diarrhea, menstrual changes and hair loss.
• Plant oils. The seeds of evening primrose, borage and black currant contain a type of fatty acid that may help with rheumatoid
arthritis pain and morning stiffness. Side effects may include nausea, diarrhea and gas. Some plant oils can cause liver damage
or interfere with medications, so check with your doctor first.
• Fish oil. Some preliminary studies have found that fish oil supplements may reduce rheumatoid arthritis pain and stiffness. Side
effects can include nausea, belching and a fishy taste in the mouth. Fish oil can interfere with medications, so check with your
doctor first.
• Tai chi. This movement therapy involves gentle exercises and stretches combined with deep breathing. Many people use tai chi
to relieve stress in their lives. Small studies have found that tai chi may reduce rheumatoid arthritis pain. When led by a
knowledgeable instructor, tai chi is safe. But don't do any moves that cause pain.
Original Article: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/rheumatoid-arthritis/DS00020/DSECTION=alternative%2Dmedicine
An autoimmune disorder, rheumatoid arthritis occurs when your immune system mistakenly attacks your own body's tissues. In addition to causing joint problems, rheumatoid arthritis can also affect your whole body with fevers and fatigue.
Rheumatoid arthritis is two to three times more common in women than in men and generally occurs between the ages of 40 and 60. While there's no cure for rheumatoid arthritis, treatment options have expanded greatly in the past few decades.
Alternative medicine
By Mayo Clinic staff
Some common complementary and alternative treatments that have shown promise for rheumatoid arthritis include:
• Thunder god vine. Preparations made from the peeled root of this plant are used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat
inflammatory and autoimmune diseases. Studies indicate that it may be helpful in treating rheumatoid arthritis. Side effects
include diarrhea, menstrual changes and hair loss.
• Plant oils. The seeds of evening primrose, borage and black currant contain a type of fatty acid that may help with rheumatoid
arthritis pain and morning stiffness. Side effects may include nausea, diarrhea and gas. Some plant oils can cause liver damage
or interfere with medications, so check with your doctor first.
• Fish oil. Some preliminary studies have found that fish oil supplements may reduce rheumatoid arthritis pain and stiffness. Side
effects can include nausea, belching and a fishy taste in the mouth. Fish oil can interfere with medications, so check with your
doctor first.
• Tai chi. This movement therapy involves gentle exercises and stretches combined with deep breathing. Many people use tai chi
to relieve stress in their lives. Small studies have found that tai chi may reduce rheumatoid arthritis pain. When led by a
knowledgeable instructor, tai chi is safe. But don't do any moves that cause pain.
Original Article: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/rheumatoid-arthritis/DS00020/DSECTION=alternative%2Dmedicine
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Physical Therapy for Rheumatoid Arthritis
24/01/11 08:07
Physical therapy has one simple goal: keeping you moving. It will stimulate muscles, bones, and joints through exercise or other methods. The result is more strength, tone, and overall fitness.
Physical therapists help you with joint function, muscle strength, and fitness level. They understand the mechanics of bones, joints, and muscles working together, the problems that can occur, and what to do about them.
Working with a physical therapist is a good idea at any stage or severity of rheumatoid arthritis.
• Early in the course of rheumatoid arthritis, your physical therapist can assess and document where you are in terms of function, strength, and fitness. Your exercise plan will be designed to maximize your chances of avoiding joint problems as the disease progresses.
• In moderate or advanced rheumatoid arthritis, a physical therapist can help you keep or increase the strength and flexibility you have.
Together, you and your physical therapist will create a road map of improvement for each muscle/joint group, and for your overall fitness. This will become part of the treatment plan for your rheumatoid arthritis. There are a number of strategies your physical therapist can use to reach your treatment goals.
• Exercise. This is the cornerstone of any physical therapy plan. Together with you and your doctor, your physical therapist will design an exercise plan that is targeted to your ability and fitness level. A good plan will include stretching/flexibility exercises; strength exercises, and conditioning (or aerobic) exercise.
• Heat/Ice. Treating inflamed or painful joints with heat or ice packs helps some people feel better.
• Massage. In some patients with chronic pain, therapeutic massage reduces symptoms.
• Motivation and encouragement. While "low-tech," it's hard to overestimate the value of having someone in your corner cheering you on-and pushing you to do better.
*Original article: http://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/guide/physical-therapy-for-rheumatoid-arthritis
Physical therapists help you with joint function, muscle strength, and fitness level. They understand the mechanics of bones, joints, and muscles working together, the problems that can occur, and what to do about them.
Working with a physical therapist is a good idea at any stage or severity of rheumatoid arthritis.
• Early in the course of rheumatoid arthritis, your physical therapist can assess and document where you are in terms of function, strength, and fitness. Your exercise plan will be designed to maximize your chances of avoiding joint problems as the disease progresses.
• In moderate or advanced rheumatoid arthritis, a physical therapist can help you keep or increase the strength and flexibility you have.
Together, you and your physical therapist will create a road map of improvement for each muscle/joint group, and for your overall fitness. This will become part of the treatment plan for your rheumatoid arthritis. There are a number of strategies your physical therapist can use to reach your treatment goals.
• Exercise. This is the cornerstone of any physical therapy plan. Together with you and your doctor, your physical therapist will design an exercise plan that is targeted to your ability and fitness level. A good plan will include stretching/flexibility exercises; strength exercises, and conditioning (or aerobic) exercise.
• Heat/Ice. Treating inflamed or painful joints with heat or ice packs helps some people feel better.
• Massage. In some patients with chronic pain, therapeutic massage reduces symptoms.
• Motivation and encouragement. While "low-tech," it's hard to overestimate the value of having someone in your corner cheering you on-and pushing you to do better.
*Original article: http://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/guide/physical-therapy-for-rheumatoid-arthritis
What is Gout and How Physical Therapy Can Help
23/01/11 08:53
Gout is a type of arthritis that causes sudden, severe attacks of pain, swelling, redness, warmth and tenderness in the joints. It usually affects the joint of the big toe but can occur in feet, ankles, knees, hands and wrists. Gout occurs when a substance called uric acid builds up in the body and forms needle-like crystals in the joints. The first symptoms of gout often occur in the middle of the night or upon rising in the morning. Wearing shoes and moving the joint or standing may be difficult and painful. Gout accounts for about 5 percent of all cases of
arthritis.
Causes
Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid that occurs when the body has difficulty breaking down protein substances called purines which are found naturally in foods. Sometimes this happens because the kidneys are not getting rid of uric acid properly, and sometimes it occurs because the body produces too much uric acid. Eating too much of certain foods such as salmon, liver, herring or sardines and drinking too much alcohol may trigger an episode of gout.
Treatment
Successfully dealing with arthritis pain and disability requires self-management skills. It is important for patients to learn about their disease and to take part in their own care. Working with health care professionals allows a person to share in decision making and gain a sense of control.
Self-management techniques include arthritis education, exercise programs, relaxation and stress management, eating well-balanced meals and maintaining proper weight, taking care of joints and using assistive devices to rest joints and relieve pressure.
• Exercise can help increase independence, improve mood, decrease pain, increase flexibility, improve blood flow, maintain proper weight and promote general physical fitness. Exercise in a warm water pool is an excellent choice. Physical/occupational therapy can help restore joint movement and increase strength. A therapist can help design an exercise program to meet a person's specific needs.
• Rest also is important. Arthritis may cause tiredness and muscle weakness. A rest or short nap that does not interfere with nighttime sleep may help. Relaxation techniques can be useful in controlling pain. Some people find stress reduction and biofeedback helpful.
• Assistive devices can be used to reduce stress on certain joints. For example, braces or canes may help reduce stress on the knees. Jar grippers or other gadgets may help reduce stress on the small joints of the hands.
Original article: http://www.idph.state.il.us/public/hb/hbgout.htm
arthritis.
Causes
Gout is caused by a buildup of uric acid that occurs when the body has difficulty breaking down protein substances called purines which are found naturally in foods. Sometimes this happens because the kidneys are not getting rid of uric acid properly, and sometimes it occurs because the body produces too much uric acid. Eating too much of certain foods such as salmon, liver, herring or sardines and drinking too much alcohol may trigger an episode of gout.
Treatment
Successfully dealing with arthritis pain and disability requires self-management skills. It is important for patients to learn about their disease and to take part in their own care. Working with health care professionals allows a person to share in decision making and gain a sense of control.
Self-management techniques include arthritis education, exercise programs, relaxation and stress management, eating well-balanced meals and maintaining proper weight, taking care of joints and using assistive devices to rest joints and relieve pressure.
• Exercise can help increase independence, improve mood, decrease pain, increase flexibility, improve blood flow, maintain proper weight and promote general physical fitness. Exercise in a warm water pool is an excellent choice. Physical/occupational therapy can help restore joint movement and increase strength. A therapist can help design an exercise program to meet a person's specific needs.
• Rest also is important. Arthritis may cause tiredness and muscle weakness. A rest or short nap that does not interfere with nighttime sleep may help. Relaxation techniques can be useful in controlling pain. Some people find stress reduction and biofeedback helpful.
• Assistive devices can be used to reduce stress on certain joints. For example, braces or canes may help reduce stress on the knees. Jar grippers or other gadgets may help reduce stress on the small joints of the hands.
Original article: http://www.idph.state.il.us/public/hb/hbgout.htm
Wrist Pain and How to Make it Stop!
19/01/11 18:53
In an age dominated by computers, wrist pain is an increasingly common complaint. There can be many sources of wrist pain, ranging from sudden onset (a fracture after a fall or trauma) to repetitive stress leading to arthritis or carpal tunnel syndrome.
If your pain has been going on for a long time, diagnosing the exact cause is something your physical therapist can help you with. The RIGHT diagnosis can help you get the proper treatment.
So What Are Your Symptoms?
Symptoms can differ, depending on the cause. For example, osteoarthritis pain is usually described as "dull pain", almost like a toothache. Tendinitis may be a “sharp or stabbing” pain. If you have any tingling, or “pins-and-needles” type of sensation, it may be related to nerve pain, which is often present with carpal tunnel syndrome. The exact location and type of wrist pain will help your doctor and physical therapist reach a conclusive diagnosis. This will allow them to design a treatment plan to help you on the road to recovery.
Two of the most common ways to injure your wrist are:
• Sudden impacts. Falls are the most common cause of injury, especially falling with your hand stretched out straight. This can cause sprains, strains and even fractures.
• Repetitive stress. Any activity that requires repetitive wrist motion – hitting a tennis ball, golfing, bowling, typing, or repetitive carrying of objects – can irritate the soft tissue in the wrist.
If your pain has been going on for a long time, diagnosing the exact cause is something your physical therapist can help you with. The RIGHT diagnosis can help you get the proper treatment.
So What Are Your Symptoms?
Symptoms can differ, depending on the cause. For example, osteoarthritis pain is usually described as "dull pain", almost like a toothache. Tendinitis may be a “sharp or stabbing” pain. If you have any tingling, or “pins-and-needles” type of sensation, it may be related to nerve pain, which is often present with carpal tunnel syndrome. The exact location and type of wrist pain will help your doctor and physical therapist reach a conclusive diagnosis. This will allow them to design a treatment plan to help you on the road to recovery.
Two of the most common ways to injure your wrist are:
• Sudden impacts. Falls are the most common cause of injury, especially falling with your hand stretched out straight. This can cause sprains, strains and even fractures.
• Repetitive stress. Any activity that requires repetitive wrist motion – hitting a tennis ball, golfing, bowling, typing, or repetitive carrying of objects – can irritate the soft tissue in the wrist.
Stretching: Why it is So Important
10/01/11 08:35
Stretching is the deliberate lengthening of muscles in order to increase muscle flexibility and joint range of motion.
Stretching activities are an important part of any exercise or rehabilitation program. They help warm the body up prior to activity thus decreasing the risk of injury as well as muscle soreness.
The benefits of stretching are many and have been proven through various studies over time. Stretching benefits people of all ages, and is intended for the young as well as the elderly population.
According to the Mayo Clinic, the top five benefits of stretching include:
• Increased flexibility and joint range of motion: Flexible muscles can improve your daily performance. Tasks such as lifting packages, bending to tie your shoes or hurrying to catch a bus become easier and less tiring. Flexibility tends to diminish as you get older, but you can regain and maintain it.
• Improved circulation: Stretching increases blood flow to your muscles. Blood flowing to your muscles brings nourishment and gets rid of waste byproducts in the muscle tissue. Improved circulation can help shorten your recovery time if you've had any muscle injuries.
• Better posture: Frequent stretching can help keep your muscles from getting tight, allowing you to maintain proper posture. Good posture can minimize discomfort and keep aches and pains at a minimum.
• Stress relief: Stretching relaxes tight, tense muscles that often accompany stress.
• Enhanced coordination: Maintaining the full range-of-motion through your joints keeps you in better balance. Coordination and balance will help keep you mobile and less prone to injury from falls, especially as you get older.
For more information and original article: http://physicaltherapy.about.com/od/flexibilityexercises/a/stretchbasics.htm
Stretching activities are an important part of any exercise or rehabilitation program. They help warm the body up prior to activity thus decreasing the risk of injury as well as muscle soreness.
The benefits of stretching are many and have been proven through various studies over time. Stretching benefits people of all ages, and is intended for the young as well as the elderly population.
According to the Mayo Clinic, the top five benefits of stretching include:
• Increased flexibility and joint range of motion: Flexible muscles can improve your daily performance. Tasks such as lifting packages, bending to tie your shoes or hurrying to catch a bus become easier and less tiring. Flexibility tends to diminish as you get older, but you can regain and maintain it.
• Improved circulation: Stretching increases blood flow to your muscles. Blood flowing to your muscles brings nourishment and gets rid of waste byproducts in the muscle tissue. Improved circulation can help shorten your recovery time if you've had any muscle injuries.
• Better posture: Frequent stretching can help keep your muscles from getting tight, allowing you to maintain proper posture. Good posture can minimize discomfort and keep aches and pains at a minimum.
• Stress relief: Stretching relaxes tight, tense muscles that often accompany stress.
• Enhanced coordination: Maintaining the full range-of-motion through your joints keeps you in better balance. Coordination and balance will help keep you mobile and less prone to injury from falls, especially as you get older.
For more information and original article: http://physicaltherapy.about.com/od/flexibilityexercises/a/stretchbasics.htm
Exercises For Strengthening Joints and Bones
13/11/10 08:57
Joint pain and arthritis are two common complaints for elders. Many medications claim to help ease these conditions, but there is an alternative. Exercise not only strengthens your bones and joints, it also keeps your heart and other parts of your body in tip top shape!
Here are some basic exercise moves to try:
1. Walking: This is the best way of stretching your body while burning calories. It’s a great cardio workout and it’s easy on your knees.
2. Riding a bike: While this exercise is a great calorie burner, it isn’t the best for people with knee problems. Bicycling can be a big strain on the knees so use caution if you have any knee pain.
3. Aerobics: This is one of the best exercise plans to prevent osteoporosis. Aerobics strengthens bones, whether it’s a step class or playing a game of basketball.
4. Dancing: Take a dance class if it’s something you enjoy! Not only will it burn mega calories, it will also help your joints and bones. Dancing provides full range of motion for the arms and legs. Your abdominal muscles will also benefit from this workout.
Here are some basic exercise moves to try:
1. Walking: This is the best way of stretching your body while burning calories. It’s a great cardio workout and it’s easy on your knees.
2. Riding a bike: While this exercise is a great calorie burner, it isn’t the best for people with knee problems. Bicycling can be a big strain on the knees so use caution if you have any knee pain.
3. Aerobics: This is one of the best exercise plans to prevent osteoporosis. Aerobics strengthens bones, whether it’s a step class or playing a game of basketball.
4. Dancing: Take a dance class if it’s something you enjoy! Not only will it burn mega calories, it will also help your joints and bones. Dancing provides full range of motion for the arms and legs. Your abdominal muscles will also benefit from this workout.