Fast Facts about Arthritis
- Arthritis affects more than 300,000 children and 50 million adults in America.
- In America, arthritis is the most common cause of disability that affects people of all sexes, ages, and races.
- Women are more prone to arthritis than men. The risk increases further as they age.
- Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. Almost 31 million Americans suffer from osteoarthritis
- Around half of the American population aged 65 and above have some form of arthritis.
- Around two-thirds of the arthritis patients in America are less than 65 years old.
Source
Arthritis is a common disease but often misunderstood. The term “arthritis” is a collective reference to joint disease or joint pain – it is not, contrary to popular belief, a single disease. Currently, the medical world categorizes arthritis into more than 100 different types and related conditions.
In simple words, arthritis is a disorder affecting the joints. It is characterized by severe joint pain and inflammation. In most cases, arthritis can be contained using the right medication. However, there are instances where arthritis causes permanent alterations in joints. This may result in immobility or inability to perform normal tasks. These joint changes are sometimes outwardly visible – like knobby finger joints; at others the damage can be assessed only on X-ray.
Arthritis can be:
- Degenerative
- Inflammatory
- Metabolic
- Infectious
Symptoms
There are two major types of arthritis: rheumatoid and osteoarthritis. Depending on the type of arthritis, an individual’s symptoms may vary. However, there are certain telltale signs arthritis that announce its presence. These include:
- Joint pain
- Joint stiffness
- Redness
- Swelling
- Joint inflammation
- Limited range of motion
In extreme cases, arthritis can lead to disability. It can hamper an individual’s ability to perform everyday tasks. This is especially the case when arthritis affects your arms and hands in particular. In case a person is suffering from arthritis of hips, ankles, knees, or pelvis, it may rob them off their ability to walk, sit, or stand comfortably.
Recommended Supplements
While eating a healthy diet and regular exercise helps to manage Arthritis, it is not enough to keep you fit and healthy. Supplements are essential for managing Arthritis and reducing its symptoms. But it should be kept in mind that supplements should not be used to replace the treatment for Arthritis. It is not always true that natural products are safe for use. Many products can react with your body and produce an adverse reaction. Thus, it is better to be safe and consult your before starting to use any supplements for managing your condition.
The following supplements have proven to benefit people with Arthritis:
Turmeric Veggie Caps
Turmeric is said to be an effective remedy for reducing stiffness, inflammation, and pain associated with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. The herb has been extensively used over centuries in ayurvedic and Chinese medicine. Its anti-inflammatory properties block the inflammatory enzymes and cytokines in the body to relieve arthritis pain.
Astragalus Root
For years, the astragulus root has been used in Chinese medicine to strengthen the immune system and ward of diseases. This herb also has anti-inflammatory properties that work wonders inside the body by reducing the inflammatory response of our system to diseases like arthritis and heart problems.
Cat's Claw
Just like turmeric and astragulus, cat’s claw contains anti-inflammatory properties that release prostaglandin E2 in the body. Prostaglandin E2 is an inflammatory mediator connected to arthritis that helps reduce the inflammation caused by the disease. This rainforest herb is also effective in protecting and preventing the loss of cartilage – a defining characteristic of osteoarthritis.
Echinacea Angustifolia Root
The Echinacea Angustifolia Root is by far the most effective and reliable natural remedy for inflammation. This North American Native herb has been used in traditional herbal medicine for centuries. In addition to eliminating inflammation resulting from arthritis, this herb also relieves stress and other symptoms that might lead to further inflammation.
Olive Leaf
Research suggests that olive leaf extracts are just as effective for arthritis pain as the anti-inflammatory drug ibuprofen. The herb lowers the levels of C-reactive protein and homocysteine in the body, both of which are significant contributors to the pain and inflammation caused by rheumatoid and other forms of arthritis.
The above natural supplements are known to help in controlling and managing Arthritis, but you should exercise proper caution and ask your doctor before adding any such supplements for in your diet. Herbs have lasting and strong effects on the body and can also interact with other drugs and medications, causing dangerous and adverse reactions. If you use any medication for your disease, talk to your doctor before you decide to start any supplements or herbal products to manage your health condition.