Arthritis Treatment & Pain Relief

There are several forms of arthritis, each with a different cause.

Rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis are both auto immune diseases where the body is attacking itself. 

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease which can follow an injury or is simply a sign of aging.  Psorasis arthritis occurs in around 10-15% of people with psoriasis, causing inflammation of the joints.

Common symptoms for rheumatoid arthritis

The main symptoms are pain and stiffness of affected joints. The stiffness is usually
worse first thing in the morning, or after you have been resting. The inflammation causes
swelling around the affected joints.

Other common symptoms for rheumatoid arthritis include:-

• fatigue
• lack of appetite
• low grade fever
• muscle and joint aches
• and stiffness

Diet for Arthritis

If you're overweight, losing a few pounds could help reduce the pain.

• eating fish or taking supplements rich in Omega 3 can have an anti-inflammatory effect
• glucosamine sulfate also has a similar effect
• cutting out certain foods has been shown to help some people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis

If you're fed up with waking in pain during the night, taking vast quantities of pain killers with little relief, being unable to use your hands or hug your family for fear of the pain?  Check out these resources that offer some relief and hope for arthritis sufferers.

Alternative solutions and remedies

Glucosamine and osteoarthritis

There have been several studies on the effects of glucosamine with mixed and somewhat controversial results. 

At present, it is not thought that some pain relief and increased flexibility is often seen in the short term.  The results often take several weeks to be evident, so it is suggested that sufferers take supplements for at least six weeks in addition to their regular medicine before making a judgement as to whether it is helping their symptoms.

The results of these studies are mixed and controversial, with some researchers suggesting glucosamine has no effect on osteoarthritis and others indicating it may be helpful. Overall the current consensus is as follows.

Regarding longer term effects of glucosamine, a small number of experts have indicated the compound may slow the degeneration of joints associated with the progression of osteoarthritis.

There are occasional side effects and it is contraindicated for some patients, including those with shellfish allergies and expectant women.  Always consult your doctor about the risks before changing or adding to your medication.

Statistical data from the latest study on glucosamine sulfate indicates that there is no immediate benefit from taking this supplement, however research is continuing to see whether it can slow down the degenerative process.

There are different types of glucasamin with varying active concentrations - sulphate, chondroitin, liquid and cream.  Dosage and benefits will vary, there are contraindications for some patients, Diabetics should consult with a doctor and have blood sugar levels monitored as it may contribute to insuline resistant. reduce pain and improve immunity. 

Don't put up with the symptoms of this painful disease, check out these resources for further information and help:-

Useful Resources

Margie Garrison  tells how she suffered from crippling arthritis for 43 years before discovering a natural treatment that meant she could live life to the full once again.  Whilst these are very much experimental treatments, the results are undeniable.

Pain Relief Center - resources on useful pain relievers, medication and research

Change Your Diet, Change your Life - fed up with suffering from pain, Robert Elding scoured the latest research for how changes in diet and lifestyle could help reduce pain.  The resulting book shows the drug free options to traditional medication.

UK Research Campaign - a site for anyone who wishes to know more about arthritis, the charity and how to help find the cure

Further information