It's hardly surprising that so many of us will experience some type of arthritis at some time in our life since it comes in more than 200 forms. Though generally associated with the aging process, arthritis can also show itself in the very young and at all ages in between. In this article I describe some of its more common forms and their treatment. Osteoarthritis There is no specific cause of osteoarthritis, a condition that affects a large number of the population; however it is known that excessive wear and tear on the joints, especially the hips, knees, ankles , toes and hands, can be a factor in triggering the condition, as can an injury to a joint and being overweight. It is also believed that arthritis can be hereditary. Indications are that most people carry the potential to develop arthritis, but that some lifestyles and/or physical properties within the body can deter it from occurring. Osteoarthritis is generally suspected when the sufferer experiences pain and/or stiffness in the joints and ligaments. Tests, x-rays and scans can establish whether the cartilage between joints, which helps with smooth movement, has weakened or thinned. When this occurs, the affected bone's joint may become rough and this causes real pain when it rubs together with an adjacent bone. In rare cases extra bone growth on the joints can occur as a result of a benign pineal gland tumour within the brain. Because of this it is wise to inform your doctor if you think that arthritis is present. A true tumour of the pineal gland will have other distinct distinguishing symptoms. Osteoarthritis is generally progressive, yet changes in lifestyle can be made which in some cases can help to control and alleviate this condition. Rheumatoid Arthritis Rheumatoid arthritis is caused when the sufferer's bodily defence mechanisms, for no apparent reason, start to attack the joints causing inflammation and consequently pain. The condition tends to make itself known within months rather than years and symptoms can fluctuate. Once diagnosed, medical treatment should be sought during periods of high inflammation in order to minimise damage to the joints. This said, not everyone experiences this and some sufferers are able to live with a low grade form of the condition for years. Juvenile Arthritis Affecting children from very young babies onwards, Juvenile Arthritis is a painful condition that requires medical attention. Often contracted through an infectious illness, the condition may not be one that parents initially think of, especially when faced with a crying child. Children and babies who appear to be in pain when they move should be taken to a medical doctor as soon as possible for diagnosis and treatment. Self help for Adults The arthritis sufferer can: - It's best to keep the affected joints warm. - In order to protect the joints it is necessary to take suitable precautions. e.g. if you have arthritis in the leg joints do not deliberately climb up stairs when an alternative is available. Climbing one stair puts a big strain on the knee, for example. Naturally, climbing flights of stairs will unnecessarily enhance the strain and pain - Do not spend long periods of the day standing. Do your best to relieve the weight from those joints affected - When kneeling, kneel on a cushion or pad - Some people find that taking a fish oil or EPA supplement is beneficial. Many people have found that a good chondroitin and glucosamine supplement has proved helpful, particularly when taken in combination with MSM - If arthritis is present in the hands, wear rubber gloves when doing washing up or other wet jobs - Do the exercises recommended by health professionals - If overweight, try to lose some of it. Less weight on a joint equates with less pain Medical Diagnosis If Arthritis is suspected, doctors will recommend blood and other tests, possibly including x-rays. Anti-inflammatory drugs and pain killers may be prescribed. Additionally, they may also refer the arthritis patient to a hospital for specific, specialised treatment. Arthritis can be enormously incapacitating, but with the right mental attitude and approach, even the most severe pain can be successfully managed. Consult a fully qualified hypnotherapist who is experienced in pain management and you can learn how to enter hypnosis and control your pain even after you have emerged from hypnosis. IMPORTANT: This information is not a replacement for medical or nutritional advice. Be sure to consult your doctor or health care advisor if you are experiencing any signs or symptoms of arthritis.
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