Experts Now Reveal Proven Tricks to Play Golf Despite Arthritis

From newswire.net
By Michelle O'Sullivan

Experts also recommend doing some warm-up exercises and this could be as simple as a brisk 5- to 10-minute walk or light jog prior to going to the practice range

(Newswire.net -- May 25, 2020) Orlando, FL -- Painful conditions like arthritis continue to hinder people from working, doing household tasks, and even playing their favourite sports. The good news is that for golfers, there are actually ways to play despite having the condition.

According to research, around 40 percent of golfers play with injuries, mostly to the elbows, lower back, or shoulders. Having arthritis aggravates possible injuries on the hips, knees, and hands.  

One of the best ways to play golf despite arthritis is to have a condition program, which can be made with the help of a golf professional or golf-specific physical therapist. It is similarly important for players to maintain their target weight.

Being overweight has been found to place significant impact loads on various joints, and this does not just cause pain but also worsens arthritis.

Experts also recommend doing some warm-up exercises and this could be as simple as a brisk 5- to 10-minute walk or light jog prior to going to the practice range. There are many helpful steps that could enable players to perform well.

It is wise to stay hydrated and eat before playing. It can be helpful to consume complex carbohydrate foods and low-fat, lean protein. 

Osteoarthritis affects millions and millions of people in the United States alone. This condition often necessitates the use of pain relievers like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). It is worth noting that NSAIDs may be obtained via prescription or over-the-counter.

These medications can also produce side effects, and this is why experts also warn against its use. In some studies, it’s linked with the increased odds of stroke, heart attacks, and gastrointestinal bleeding.

Golfers who want to manage their condition better in a natural way may take into account using certain all-natural, widely-studied remedies like glucosamine. 

This naturally-occurring compound can be obtained through the use of highly potent formulas like VitaBreeze Glucosamine. 

Scientists say glucosamine may be helpful in repairing joint cartilage damage, and this is highly beneficial in cases of osteoarthritis. The use of this natural remedy is actually linked with various benefits, such as its ability to enhance mobility.

It reduces physical limitations and this is one of the reasons why it could be helpful for golfer OA sufferers.

VitaBreeze Glucosamine could be a cost-effective, remarkable choice for individuals who want to experience the therapeutic goodness of this natural remedy. 

This triple strength formula offers 1500mg Glucosamine (obtained from shellfish), 1000mg Chondroitin, 600mg MSM, 300mg Turmeric for optimal joint health.

Aside from being loaded with super therapeutic ingredients, every capsule is free from unnecessary, unwanted, and nasty ingredients and substances like GMOs, binders, fillers, additives, sodium benzoate, lead, mercury, PCBs, titanium, preservatives, and heavy metals (https://www.amazon.com/Glucosamine-Chondroitin-Turmeric-Dietary-Supplement/dp/B00DUMO9X4).

https://newswire.net/newsroom/pr/00119626-experts-now-reveal-proven-tricks-to-play-golf-despite-arthritis.html

How to Manage Autoimmune Disease During Lockdown?

From newspatrolling.com
By Dr. Dipti Patel, Rheumatologist Consultant, Wockhardt Hospital Mumbai Central

Are you suffering from any autoimmune disease such as arthritis, lupus, celiac disease, or thyroid? Then, this is how you must take care of yourself at home, during the lockdown.

Coronavirus has become a matter of concern for India. Hence, people are advised to stay at home. So, if you are suffering from an autoimmune disease then it is time to make sure you stay fit and fine during the lockdown.

One may suffer from an autoimmune disease when one’s immune system tends to mistakenly attack one’s own body. Your immune system fights with bacteria and viruses and stops them from entering the body. The immune system knows the difference between your own cells and foreign cells.  But, when speaking about the autoimmune disease, one’s own immune system mistakes one’s part of the body like joint or skin as a foreign by realizing proteins called autoantibodies that attack healthy cells.

Rheumatoid arthritis (can be described as a chronic inflammatory disorder affecting the joints), psoriasis(a skin disease that causes red, itchy scaly patches on the skin), lupus (causes inflammation and pain in any part of the body), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD is an umbrella term used to describe disorders that involve chronic inflammation of the digestive tract), celiac disease (caused by an abnormal immune reaction to gluten) are some of the autoimmune diseases. If you are suffering from any one of them then know how to tackle them at home during the lockdown. But, don’t forget to visit the doctor, if you feel that things are not under control and you may require immediate medical attention.

Follow these vital tips at home to manage your autoimmune disease ·         You must take care of your gut. Eat probiotics that have gut-friendly bacteria and can help you manage your autoimmune disease like inflammatory bowel disease.
·         To strengthen your immune system, opt for fish oil, foods loaded with vitamin C and D.
·         Stay physically fit. Remember to exercise every day for at least half-an-hour to lower your inflammation and boost your immunity and fight arthritis.
·         It is no brainer that stress worsens one’s immune response. Thus, it is the need of the hour to practice mindfulness. Try relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation that will calm you down.
·         If you have been prescribed any medications then make sure that you take them from time to time. Also, do not forget to stock up your medication.
·         Eat foods that lower inflammation of your body. Include anti-inflammatory foods like green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, salmon, mackerel, tuna, olive oil, almonds, walnuts, strawberries, and blueberries. Eating these foods can help you enhance your immunity and fight illness. Limit your consumption of junk, processed, and spicy foods. Doing so can be beneficial for people with arthritis, IBD, psoriasis, or lupus.

http://www.newspatrolling.com/how-to-manage-autoimmune-disease-during-lockdown/

Gout: Once thought to be the rich man’s curse, now considered the only ‘curable’ arthritis

From stgeorgeutah.com
By DR. JEFFREY L MATHEWS

For many years in Europe, gout, or the “gouge” as some called it, was thought to be a curse upon the rich in return for their enslavement of the lower classes who did their work but did not enjoy the fruits of their labours.

As the rich became older and richer, it seemed that a fair portion of them were plagued with a rapid onset, searing, swollen, red large toe, which was described as being so painful that even a bed sheet on it was unbearable. In Hippocrates day, the colchicum plant was known to be helpful for this disorder but was out of favour with the medical profession of the 1700s who felt that the appropriate treatment was to “bleed” the poor victim.

In retrospect, the common coincidences of the wealthy having enough money to dine regularly on kidney pie, lobster, and beef – all washed down with copious amounts of wine – while the poor labourers ate their garden vegetables and drank water for the most part are now recognized as the sources of whether one got gout or not.

As the efficient body retrieves old and dying cells, it harvests the building blocks used to make new cells. These building blocks are known as purines. If the purines are, for various reasons, produced in excess or not excreted through the kidneys adequately, they form needle-shaped crystals called uric acid crystals. When the immune system recognizes these crystals piling up in a joint, an autoimmune attack is mounted with impressive inflammation of the joint.

                      Illustration by colematt/iStock/Getty Images Plus, St. George News

Over time, it can cause severe destruction similar in appearance to rheumatoid arthritis. One of the common causes of overproduction of uric acid is alcohol intake and diets rich in purines, such as lobster and steak. You will remember the rich and their diets while the poor had very low purine diets.

One of the other problems is that sometimes we are not excreting the uric acid appropriately, and this is most often caused by other medications known as diuretics or water pills, such as those used to treat high blood pressure. There are some gene pools, such as the Polynesians, who lack an enzyme that breaks down uric acid into the purines to be used to make new cells, and the uric acid very often causes gout in this gene pool for no apparent reason.

A common myth about gout is the idea that a blood test for uric acid can diagnose or disprove this form of arthritis. In actuality, most patients having gout attacks have normal blood uric acid levels, and most patients with elevated blood uric acid do not get gout, though the risk for them of uric acid kidney stones is increased. 

In the past, the only way to prove the presence of gout versus other arthritis forms was to painfully stick a needle into the sore joint, draw out some fluid and look for the uric acid crystals under a microscope. We are fortunate in our day to be able to see gout crystals in a joint with musculoskeletal ultrasound, which is painless.  

There are many forms of effective treatment of gout, and it is commonly thought of as the only truly “curable” arthritis. Of interest, one of the quickest acting medications is colchicine, which was used thousands of years ago by Hippocrates.

Gout can happen along with other forms of arthritis at the same time and is often confusing for the physician. We are fortunate to live in a day when so many options to treat gout are available to us. 

One thing of note is to choose your weight loss program wisely. It is suspected that some of the popular low-carb diets have a high fat content and may promote hyperuricemia by stimulating fat-burning for energy, producing a state called ketosis. This problem may make the gout condition worse, especially in the initial phases of diet change and weight loss. Simple fasting or “crash diets” also can raise your uric acid level and make the gout condition worse.

https://www.stgeorgeutah.com/news/archive/2020/05/18/sgh-hw-prc-ajp-gout-once-thought-to-be-the-rich-mans-curse-now-considered-the-only-curable-arthritis/#.XsOuZrpFzIU

Simple tips and tricks to help manage arthritis pain

From thecharlottepost.com

Simple tips and tricks to help manage arthritis pain. Therapy, exercise alleviate aches

Arthritis joint pain is a daily reality for millions of people in the United States. For some, this pain is temporary due to an injury, but for others, it can be a persistent and even debilitating symptom of arthritis. Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, according to the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, affecting more than 30 million adults in the United States. About one in four adults report experiencing severe joint pain related to arthritis, and nearly half of adults with arthritis experience persistent pain. Whether your arthritis pain is temporary or ongoing, it's important to take steps to alleviate discomfort. We may not realize how much joy comes from the simplest everyday movements, until pain gets in the way. Here are four simple tips that may help lessen your arthritis joint pain so you can feel better and keep moving. 1. Use hot and cold therapy Applying hot and cold compresses to your joints can help provide some much-needed relief. When joints feel stiff, use heat to help them relax and feel more agile. A morning bath or shower can make a world of difference for stiff joints after sleeping. For joint pain that involves swelling and inflammation, look to incorporate cold therapy into your routine. For instance, if your knee is sore and looks puffy, apply a cold compress or bag of frozen veggies wrapped in a towel. 2. Move your body If you have arthritis symptoms, including wrist, hand or knee pain, the idea of getting up and exercising may seem counterintuitive. However, thoughtfully moving your body helps increase blood flow to joints and stretches muscles and ligaments, which can provide some relief. Regular movement helps increase flexibility while also building muscle, which is important for the health of the joints. 3. Use over-the-counter medicines If you want an alternative to taking pills to manage pain, there is now an effective topical arthritis pain relief solution available without a prescription. The FDA recently approved Voltaren Arthritis Pain as the first and only full prescription-strength topical nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory gel available over the counter for the treatment of arthritis pain in adults in the hand, wrist, elbow, foot, ankle or knee. Visit www.voltarengel.com/what-is-voltaren/ now to pre-order Voltaren Arthritis Pain. Additionally, for every donation made to the Arthritis Foundation between May 13-31 in support of its goal to provide virtual care and connection to their patient community and mission, Voltaren will match up to $100,000. 4. Add glucosamine and omega-3s to your diet Fish oil has been studied for dozens of inflammatory and autoimmune disorders, according to the Arthritis Foundation3. You can get the omega-3s by taking a high-quality fish oil supplement. Look for fish oil options with at least 30% EPA and DHA (both types of omega-3s). According to the Arthritis Foundation, taking up to 2.6 grams EPA/DHA twice a day may help relieve osteoarthritis pain. If arthritis joint pain is a part of your life, try these simple strategies at home to help movement so you can live a full, healthy life. http://www.thecharlottepost.com/news/2020/05/11/health/simple-tips-and-tricks-to-help-manage-arthritis-pain/

Have arthritis? Some of these exercises can help

From indianexpress.com

Exercises like leg raises, hamstring stretches, half-squats, one-leg dips, leg stretches may work well for arthritis of the knees

Just as we often compare the brain to a computer’s CPU, we cannot ignore that the human body in itself is no less than a machine, which can rust if not put to work. This is why health experts cannot stress enough on the importance of exercise for physical health. Often, due to certain medical conditions or the pain we experience, we may avoid exercising, but doctors usually recommend otherwise.

A common medical condition where patients may be unsure if they should exercise is arthritis, which affects millions of people globally. This confusion is usually due to knee pain, which is a common by-product of the condition. Exercising with an arthritic knee may sound absurd, however, contrary to the common belief, regular exercise has actually been found to relieve not just the pain but also symptoms like swelling and stiffness.

             Count on these exercises for your arthritis pain. (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Some of the reasons why one should exercise despite arthritis of knees are:
*Reduces symptoms of arthritis such as pain and stiffness.
*Strengthens the muscles and ligaments supporting the joint.
*Reduce stress on the joint and enhance strength as well as flexibility.
*Maintains full range of motion of the joints.
*Allows the patient to maintain a healthy weight and is good for the heart too.
*Relieves overall fatigue symptoms.
*Besides physical health, it’s also beneficial for mental health.

Exercises for knee arthritis

It is not enough to just exercise without being well-informed about the effect of those exercises as well as your condition. An arthritis patient’s doctor or physical therapist can best recommend some exercises, such as strengthening exercises, aerobic exercises, range-of-motion exercises, and other activities. Your doctor should fit exercising into your treatment plan based on the type of arthritis that you have and the joints that are involved.

Before beginning to exercise, understand what’s within your limits and what level of exercise is likely to give you results.

*Most of these exercises are easy, effective, and convenient and do not require any special equipment or place. They can be carried out at home or even in the office during a break. It is important to keep in mind that these exercises should be made a habit only slowly and gradually. The frequency or intensity should only be increased eventually as the muscles get stronger.
*Exercises like leg raise, hamstring stretch, half-squat, one-leg dip, leg stretch, etc, work well for the arthritis of knees.
*Walking is also an excellent form of exercise for knees as it has low-impact, it is a weight-bearing exercise, and it helps strengthen muscles as well as build bones. Just remember to wear good, sturdy shoes.
*Water exercises or walking in the shallow end of a pool also aid in muscle strength and knee flexibility.

*Swimming is an all-round exercise with no strain on the joints and also good for the heart and lungs.
The following exercise routine can be practiced daily to strengthen the muscles that stabilise and support the knee, and also to improve balance by training your brain to be aware of your leg’s position:
*Lie on your back with one leg bent at the knee.
*Extend your other leg and slowly trace out the letters of the alphabet in broad strokes.
*Switch legs and repeat the same.
*Do this with each leg three to five times, or until your muscles feel fatigued.
Some discomfort, pain and even a bit of soreness is likely to be experienced during exercising which is completely normal. But severe pain, swelling or stiffness is not advisable, which is why it is suggested to do exercises in consultation with your doctor. Start slow and increase gradually.

Pre and post exercise

About 20 minutes before you begin exercising, you can out a moist-heat pack on your knees. This will allow the blood to come to the surface, reduce stiffness and also soothe in case of pain.
If pain medications are included in your intake, try having these 45 minutes prior to exercising.

After you are done exercising, make sure you do some stretches to prevent the muscles from tightening. You can also put an ice pack on your sore knee after exercising for 10-15 minutes as this would bring down any swelling that may have been caused.

Before starting out with exercising your arthritic knee, some tips to be considered include

*Keep the impact low.
*Apply heat as it relaxes the joints and muscles and relieves any pain you have before you beginning.
*Remember to move the joints gently at first to warm up.
*Exercise with slow and easy movements.
*Apply ice to your joints as needed after activity.
*Don’t exert more energy than your joints can handle.
*Increase your exercise length and intensity slowly as you progress.
*In the case of sore muscles, exercise every other day.
*Do not overdo.
(Inputs: Dr. Roopa Tekkatte Consultant Rheumatologist, Aster RV Hospital.)

https://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/health/arthritis-exercises-at-home-knee-joint-pain-6310537/

Say goodbye to aches and pains with these natural arthritis remedies

From startsat60.com

Arthritis is a common problem that affects one in seven Australians. The debilitating condition can cause joint pain and stiffness, which typically worsens with age. The pain and stiffness can make everyday tasks harder, which can ultimately lead to stress.

While there are medical treatments available, some cause serious side effects, which is why a natural approach to pain relief is becoming more and more popular. A study published in the journal Annals of Internal Medicine recently found methotrexate, a drug commonly used to treat rheumatoid arthritis, could be associated with a higher risk of skin cancer and heart disease. Below, we’ve outlined a number of natural methods that could be used to treat arthritis without causing more pain. Try one or a combination of these methods and see what works for you.

                                                                      Source: Getty.

Supplements

Supplements are usually the best place to begin when looking into natural remedies and rosehip, a berry-like fruit that grows on a few species of wild rose plants, is one of the best, nutritionist Holly Arnold tells Starts at 60. Research suggests that the anti-inflammatory may be effective in relieving some symptoms associated with arthritis. Other popular supplements include Pycnogenol, glucosamine and chondroitin

Acupuncture

If you’ve ever experienced chronic pain, headaches or even insomnia, chances are acupuncture has been suggested to you as a possible way of treating these problems. It’s a part of traditional Chinese medicine that’s been around for thousands of years that entails stimulating certain points of the body by penetrating the skin with fine needles in a bid to encourage the body to heal itself.

“The treatment is shown to reduce inflammation, increase blood flow and relax the body,” Arnold says. Meanwhile, according to a study published in JAMA Internal Medicine, acupuncture can ease osteoarthritis symptoms.

Meditation

Meditation has been around for a long time, but more recently the practice has gained popularity thanks to its stress-relieving benefits. Meditation teacher Luke McLeod says by practicing meditation you’re lowering your stress levels, which in turn reduces inflammation and arthritis-based joint pain. “Stress does a lot of nasty things to the body, one of them is increased inflammation.” 

Heat therapy

Heat therapy is another great way to help relieve arthritis pain, Arnold says, explaining that “[heat] helps ease stiffness and improve circulation”. Heat treatment can include kicking off the day with a warm bath or shower, placing heat pads on aching joints and using an electric blanket as you go to sleep.

Maintain a healthy weight

Believe it or not, maintaining a healthy weight has many benefits, including reducing pressure on your joints — especially your knees, hips and feet. One study published in the journal Annals of Translational Medicine found weight loss significantly reduces knee pain, function, and stiffness associated with knee osteoarthritis. If you’re looking for the best way to lose weight, Arnold reckons low-impact exercises that are easier on your joints like swimming, walking and cycling are the way to go.

Important information: The information provided on this website is of a general nature and information purposes only. It does not take into account your personal health requirements or existing medical conditions. It is not personalised health advice and must not be relied upon as such. Before making any decisions about your health or changes to medication, diet and exercise routines you should determine whether the information is appropriate in terms of your particular circumstances and seek advice from a medical professional.

https://startsat60.com/health/health-issues/arthritis/natural-arthritis-remedies

Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms: The typical sensations of the condition

From express.co.uk

RHEUMATOID arthritis affects the hands, feet and wrists. People with the long-term condition may also experience flare-ups. Which typical sensations accompany the painful disease?

Rheumatoid arthritis can progress to joint damage, if early treatment isn't administered. Learn to recognise the painful sensations symptomatic of the disease.
The NHS explains that rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease.
This means the immune system mistakenly attacks the cells that line the joints.

The condition can affect any joint in the body, but tends to affect the joints in the hands and feet first.

As a result, joints become swollen, stiff and painful – and it's described as a throbbing and aching sensation.
Typically, the pain is worse in the mornings and after periods of inactivity.
Stiff joints can result in people not being able to bend their fingers or form a fist.
And morning stiffness is common. It often lasts longer than 30 minutes after waking.

                             Rheumatoid arthritis: The symptomatic sensations (Image: Getty)

The swollen joints may also feel hot and tender to touch.
Although the condition can develop gradually over time, it can progress fairly quickly - within a matter of days.
Other general symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, as pointed out by the NHS, include:

• Tiredness and a lack of energy
• A high temperature
• Sweating
• A poor appetite
• Weight loss

It's not yet known what triggers the autoimmune disease in people.

The antibodies released from the immune system - that attack bacteria and viruses - try to destroy the tissues surrounding the joints.
This causes a thin layer of cells, called synovial, covering the joints to become sore and inflamed.
The synovial then releases chemicals that go on to damage bones, cartilage, tendons and ligaments nearby.
If rheumatoid arthritis isn't treated, these chemicals gradually cause the joints to lose its shape and alignment, eventually destroying the joint altogether.

Although there's no cure for the disease, early treatment can be beneficial.
Intervention, such as medicine, lifestyle changes, supportive treatments and operations can reduce the risk of joint damage.
It can also limit the negative impact of the condition on somebody's quality of life.
DMARD (disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs) ease the symptoms of the condition and slow down its progression.

They work by blocking the effects of the chemicals released when the immune system attacks the joints.
Steroids may also be given to reduce pain. A more recent form of treatment is biological injections.
These stop particular chemicals in the blood from activating the immune system.
Without the immune system being activated, it prevents it from attacking the lining of the joints.

https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1278689/rheumatoid-arthritis-pain-stiffness-swelling

Coronavirus: New app developed to help young arthritis sufferers through pandemic

From thecourier.co.uk

A Dundee University student is among those being helped by a new mobile app aimed at helping teenagers and young adults with arthritis through Covid-19 self-isolation.

Melissa Tavendale said she had already felt the benefit of the Arthritis Tracker which provides round-the-clock access to information and advice, helping those affected to rate and record symptoms in seconds and track their pain, medication side effects, fatigue, physical activity, sleep and emotional well-being.

An estimated 2.98 million people under the age of 35 in the UK are living with a musculoskeletal (MSK) condition and the charity Versus Arthritis has launched the app.

Versus Arthritis digital engagement officer, Sophie Mullen said; “Arthritis is too often dismissed as an old person’s disease, but it doesn’t discriminate by age – two thirds of people with arthritis are under 65.

“Technology is helping us bridge the gap to those who were already isolated, and who face more restrictions to their life because of Covid-19.
“Most will never have met other young people their age with the condition, who understand what they’re going through. This app will help us change that.”

Melissa, 19, was recently diagnosed with Seronegative inflammatory arthritis after experiencing painful joints and stiffness for more than a year.

Now living with her parents in the north east during lockdown, she has already had one medical appointment cancelled during the pandemic.
“The app is very easy to use and seems to be working very well. I like the extra info with tips and advice about managing my condition,” she said

https://www.thecourier.co.uk/fp/news/local/dundee/1311940/coronavirus-new-app-developed-to-help-young-arthritis-sufferers-through-pandemic/

Study: Individuals at high risk of knee arthritis can indulge in vigorous exercise

From news-medical.net/news

People at high risk for knee osteoarthritis (OA) may be nervous and reluctant to participate in strenuous physical activities such as jogging, cycling, singles tennis and skiing.

But a new Northwestern Medicine study that followed high-risk individuals for 10 years showed vigorous exercise did not increase their risk of developing OA and may even protect them from it.

The study will be published in JAMA Network Open May 4.

Osteoarthritis is the most common joint disorder in the United States, affecting an estimated 32.5 million adults, according to the Centres for Disease Control. The knee is the most commonly affected joint. The lifetime risk of developing symptomatic, radiographic knee OA (as diagnosed on an x-ray) is approximately 38% to 45%. The estimated median age of diagnosis is 55 years.

In this observational study of 1,194 persons at high risk for but without radiographic evidence of knee OA who were followed for up to 10 years, long-term participation in strenuous physical activities was not associated with risk of developing radiographic knee OA.

In fact, the vigorously exercising individuals in the study were 30% less likely to develop OA, although the number was not considered statistically significant.

The activities included jogging, swimming, cycling, singles tennis, aerobic dance and skiing. Persistent extensive sitting was not associated with either elevated or reduced risk.

Excessive body weight, history of joint injury or surgery, aging and chronic knee symptoms place an individual at elevated risk for developing knee OA. Although regular physical activity and exercise provide multiple health benefits, uncertainty about whether vigorous physical activity participation could cause pain and further tissue damage is a common concern.

The researchers' analysis showed nearly 50% of the adults at high risk for this disease did not engage in any strenuous physical activity over eight years.

How the study worked

The study analysed data from the Osteoarthritis Initiative, a longitudinal observational study of men and women (age range: 45 to 79 years) with or at an increased risk of developing knee OA, recruited from four communities in the U.S.

At the study onset and subsequent visits for up to 10 years of follow-up, the participants received X-rays for both knees to determine knee OA disease status and reported their weekly strenuous physical activity participation and sitting patterns.

In 1,194 participants who had no knee OA confirmed by X-ray at the study onset, researchers identified four distinct long-term trajectory patterns of strenuous physical activity participation and three distinct trajectory patterns of extensive sitting over an 8-year period.

They then examined if long-term engagement of strenuous physical activity or extensive sitting behaviour were each associated with risk of developing knee OA.

Source:

Northwestern University

Journal reference:

Chang, A. H., et al. (2020) Association of Long-term Strenuous Physical Activity and Extensive Sitting With Incident Radiographic Knee Osteoarthritis. JAMA Network Open. doi.org/10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2020.4049.

https://www.news-medical.net/news/20200505/Study-Individuals-at-high-risk-of-knee-arthritis-can-indulge-in-vigorous-exercise.aspx

What Does Arthritis Feel Like? Plus, the 7 Most-Googled Questions You Want Answered

From parade.com
By Erica Sweeney

If you’ve felt a little stiffness in you knees after sitting for too long or experienced pain or swelling in your joints, you may have wondered if arthritis could be the cause.

The condition affects about one-third of adults age 18 to 64, but the number is likely higher since many people don’t get treatment for arthritis, according to the Arthritis Foundation. Arthritis is also one of the main causes of disability in the U.S.

                                                                           (iStock)

What is arthritis?

Arthritis broadly refers to inflammation of the joints, and there are actually hundreds of different types of arthritis that can affect anyone of any age.

Because arthritis comes in so many forms, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis, it’s often misunderstood and raises many questions about symptoms, treatments and more. To help, we asked experts to answer some of the most-Googled questions about arthritis.

What does arthritis feel like?

Joint pain, whether it’s in the knees, hips or fingers, is the No. 1 symptom of arthritis, says Gautam Yagnik, sports medicine orthopaedic surgeon at Miami Orthopaedics & Sports Medicine Institute.
But, the severity of the pain varies from person to person. Arthritis pain can be constant or intermittent, and it can occur when you’re moving or at rest, according to the Arthritis Foundation.

Swelling is another sign of arthritis, Yagnik says, “You’ll actually notice in the knee, for example, that there’s some fluid and the knee gets bigger.”

The swelling can also cause redness and warmth around the joint. You may also have difficulty moving and stiffness, especially when waking up in the morning or after sitting for a length of time.
Stiffness is the classic arthritis symptom. If you feel stiffness in your joints, especially after sitting at a desk or riding in a car for a long time, it could be a sign of arthritis.

Crepitus, the grinding, cracking or popping sound you hear when moving a joint, could also signal arthritis, Yagnik says.

What does arthritis look like?

In many cases, you can’t look at a joint and tell whether someone has arthritis. People with severe cases may notice changes in the appearance of a bone or a joint’s alignment, which can get worse as arthritis progresses, Yagnik says.
“There are some changes that you can see,” he says. “The bony prominences get a little bit bigger, and so, say you have one knee that has post-traumatic arthritis and the other one that’s normal, you may see that that knee looks bigger, or swelling in the knee will cause a knee to look a little bit different than the other side.”
Tests for arthritis, including X-rays, CT scans or MRIs, reveal joint damage. But the relationship between actual joint damage and level of pain varies.

“You may have someone with very mild arthritis in their knee, but it affects them tremendously, and they have a lot of pain and difficulty walking and getting up from a chair,” Yagnik says. “Then, you may have another patient that comes to your office who actually is way worse. They look like they’ve lost a lot of cartilage, there’s bone rubbing against bone, and they’re actually functioning quite well.”

How to get rid of arthritis in fingers

Arthritis in finger joints is common, especially after age 50. While it’s not possible to get rid of arthritis in your fingers, treatment focuses on helping patients maintain function and relieving pain, and it’s individualized based on the level of pain and joint deterioration.

Common treatments for arthritis in fingers include anti-inflammatory medications, like ibuprofen or naproxen sodium, as well as cortisone or hyaluronic acid injections, physical therapy or surgery.

“When we start helping people to manage their arthritis, we always start least invasively and then go to most invasively,” Yagnik says. “The most invasive being something like a joint replacement. But, therapy is often a first-line treatment.”

Hand exercises, like fist stretches, fingertip touches, thumb stretches and knuckle bends, can also help lessen the pain of arthritis in fingers and increase flexibility.

How is arthritis diagnosed?

Diagnosing arthritis is a multi-step process that starts with your doctor taking a medical history and discussing your symptoms, according to the Arthritis Foundation. Medical history includes general health, family history and habits, like smoking, diet, exercise, stress and sleep.

When and how long you’ve experienced arthritis symptoms, which joints are impacted, and whether they occur at certain times of day or after being active are some topics your doctor will discuss. You’ll also be asked to describe the level of pain and other symptoms, like swelling and redness, and whether any over-the-counter medications or exercises provide relief.

A physical exam involves checking blood pressure, listening to your heart, looking at the joints for swelling or redness and moving them to check range of motion. Then, they may decide to conduct imaging tests, like an X-ray or MRI, or a nerve test to see if electric activity in the nerves has been affected.

“A good history can give you a lot,” Yagnik says. “A physical exam looking at the joint, if there’s swelling, mobility and crepitus, and then basic X-rays. That’s most helpful (in diagnosing arthritis).”
In X-rays, doctors examine the “joint space,” he says. Cartilage doesn’t show up on X-rays so seeing if there’s little space between the bones can help diagnose arthritis.

What is psoriatic arthritis?

Psoriatic arthritis is a form of inflammatory arthritis that commonly affects the skin and joints, according to The Cleveland Clinic.
“Psoriatic arthritis falls into the bucket of arthritis that’s an autoimmune disease,” Yagnik says, meaning the body’s immune system wrongly attacks healthy tissue causing pain, inflammation and damage to the skin or joints.

Cleveland Clinic dermatologist Anthony Fernandez, MD, PhD, says psoriatic arthritis is one potential systemic aspect of psoriasis that can progress quickly. Without early treatment, it can cause significant and irreversible damage to bones and cartilage.
“Early diagnosis is important to maximize chances that the proper medications are started,” Fernandez says. “That will protect quality of life and joint function.”

Symptoms of psoriatic arthritis:

• Itchy skin with painful red patches or an accumulation of dead skin cells that appear white, usually on the knees, elbows and scalp
• Pain, swelling or redness in the fingers, wrists, ankles and knees
• Cracking or white spots on the nail, and lifting from the nail bed
• Inflammation and swelling in areas where tendons or ligaments connect with bone like the back of the heel
• Fatigue and low-grade fever can also accompany psoriatic arthritis

What causes psoriatic arthritis?

The exact causes of psoriatic arthritis are unknown, according to the Arthritis Foundation, but researchers believe it’s both genetic and triggered by environmental factors like stress, infection or physical trauma.

Regular exercise, managing stress, eating healthy, keeping skin moisturized and using fragrance-free cleansers can help people manage their psoriatic arthritis.

Psoriatic arthritis treatments include over-the-counter and prescription medications, like ibuprofen, naproxen sodium, corticosteroids and disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs, or DMARDs, which reduce inflammation. Surgery and physical therapy may also be needed.

https://parade.com/1029596/ericasweeney/what-does-arthritis-feel-like/

How to deal with arthritis

From timesofmalta.com
By Alistair Pace

"Diagnosis is aided by radiological investigations which, in degenerative disease, show loss of joint space, sclerosis ‒ which is whitening of the bones ‒ and bony projections called osteophytes"

The word arthritis derives from the Latin ‘arthro’ meaning joint and ‘ritis’ meaning inflammation.
There are broadly two main types of arthritis although one can classify 100 different types.  The two main types are the degenerative (wear and tear) and the inflammatory types of arthritis.

Arthritis can affect any age group, not just the elderly. Juvenile inflammatory arthritis can be a disabling illness in young children.
In the vast majority of cases, degenerative arthritis is primary i.e. with no preceding cause. In rare cases, however, degenerative arthritis may be secondary to a fracture of the joint, infection or inflammation.

Arthritis can affect any joint; but those most commonly affected by degenerative arthritis are the hip, knee, neck and back.
The patient suffers from a variety of symptoms which may develop and progress over time into degenerative arthritis.

In contrast, in inflammatory arthritis, these symptoms may develop suddenly. The symptoms include pain which usually worsens with activity and stiffness mostly in the morning and following inactivity which might be accompanied by swelling. In advanced cases, there will be deformity and muscle-wasting. The symptoms cause lack of function of the joint and disability.

Diagnosis is aided by radiological investigations which, in degenerative disease, show loss of joint space, sclerosis ‒ which is whitening of the bones ‒ and bony projections called osteophytes.
Interestingly, there is not always a direct correlation between the severity of radiological findings and the symptoms described.

Treatment of arthritis broadly falls into four categories:

1. Weight loss for lower limb arthritis, routine and regular exercise and physiotherapy helps build muscle, decrease stiffness, decrease pain and also improve psychological well-being. Cycling, swimming and the cross-trainer are ideal for hip, knee and foot arthritis.

2. Medications include cartilage-nutrient supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin. Medications including anti-inflammatories shouldn’t be prescribed on a long-term basis due to side effects. They should be used to allow the patient to exercise and undertake regular physiotherapy.

3. Other options for treatment include injections. There are principally three types of injections I use. These are not all necessarily adapted for each arthritic joint.
While steroid injections are a mixture of a local anaesthetic and steroid injected directly into the joint, viscosupplementation involves injecting a thick viscous fluid in the joint which is thought to act as a shock absorber.
On the other hand, PrP or platelet rich plasma involves extracting about 15ml of blood from the patient, centrifuging it and injecting the fluid left without the cells into the joint. This plasma contains nutrients and other factors that help  regenerate cartilage, prevent its breakdown and decrease inflammation.

4. Surgery remains the best option for those patients who fail to improve with the other options.  Different surgical techniques are adapted for different joints but broadly, these may include washout of the joints by keyhole or arthroscopic techniques.  Examples of these techniques include excision of the joint (excision arthroplasty) such as the collar bone joint; fusion of the joint (arthrodesis) such as the foot big-toe joint and replacement (arthoplasty).

In the latter, the arthritic joint is excised and replaced by a metal and plastic artificial joint. In fact, most joints in the body may be replaced including the small joints of the hand, wrist, elbow, shoulder and, of course, hip and knee.  Although these are fairly major procedures, the benefit they provide to the patients’ quality of life is tremendous.

https://timesofmalta.com/articles/view/how-to-deal-with-arthritis.789230

How Drinking Can Affect Your Psoriatic Arthritis

From healthcentral.com

If you have psoriatic arthritis (PsA), you may be wondering if you should give up your nightly glass of wine or your weekend cocktails. Well, that depends. There actually haven’t been a whole lot of studies on the relationship between alcohol and psoriasis, and even fewer on alcohol and psoriatic arthritis (PsA). To help you weigh the risks of drinking when you have PsA, here’s an overview of what experts know about the relationship between the two right now.

Research Is Cloudy, But There Are Helpful Takeaways

Take for instance a recent review that looked at the available research on alcohol and psoriasis. The scientists concluded that “more research is needed” to get a better handle on whether alcohol does indeed trigger or worsen psoriasis and if so, how much alcohol it takes. (We know. Super helpful.) That said, other studies have found several links between drinking, psoriasis, and PsA, especially where medication is concerned, so there is some evidence that alcohol could potentially have negative effects.

If You Have Psoriasis, Alcohol Could Up Your Risk for PsA

A 2020 study in The British Journal of Dermatology (BJD) investigated whether factors such as obesity, smoking, and drinking put people with psoriasis at a higher risk for developing PsA. They found that having up to three drinks per day increased the odds by 57%. But this isn't a guarantee, notes Brett Smith, D.O., a rheumatologist at Blount Memorial Physicians Group in Alcoa, TN. Plus, “you can do everything ‘right’ by maintaining a normal BMI, not smoking and not drinking, and still develop a rheumatic disease,” Dr. Smith says.

Drinking May Worsen Your Quality of Life

Alcohol is a potential trigger for flare-ups because it increases inflammation, particularly in your joints. "Alcohol can also make patients more tired, have more pain, and become less functional,” says Shaiba Ansari-Ali, M.D., a rheumatologist at Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital in Winfield, IL. Plus, the extra calories can increase your weight over time, potentially escalating inflammation, Dr. Smith adds. If you notice that your PsA symptoms get worse after drinking, try tracking your alcohol intake and symptoms to see for sure. Simply cutting back may make a difference.

                                                                                     Getty Images

Alcohol Could Further Raise Your Heart-Disease Risk

Heavy drinking can make you more prone to metabolic syndrome, a group of conditions that puts you at higher risk for heart disease. Both heart disease and metabolic syndrome are already more common in PsA patients anyway, thanks to underlying inflammation, says Dr. Ansari-Ali. So while an occasional drink may be fine, you could be increasing your risk for heart disease and other health problems later on if you regularly overdo it.

Drinking May Interfere With Your Medication

Alcohol may reduce your medication’s effectiveness, which could decrease your response to treatment, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation. Drinking can also increase your risk of side effects. For instance, consuming alcohol when you’re taking something as seemingly harmless as over-the-counter pain relievers like aspirin, Tylenol (acetaminophen) or Advil (ibuprofen) ups your chances of having a faster heartbeat, upset stomach, bleeding, and stomach ulcers.

You Shouldn’t Drink at all With Certain Medications

Experts do know for sure that alcohol can lead to serious issues when you’re taking specific medications. Avoid alcohol altogether if you’re on one of the most common types of disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) like Otrexup or Trexall (methotrexate), Azulfidine (sulfasalazine) or Arava (leflunomide), advises Dr. Smith. Why?

Alcohol Can Contribute to Liver Damage

First off, having PsA increases your risk for non-alcoholic fatty-liver disease (NAFLD), or “fatty liver.” NAFLD can eventually cause cirrhosis, which is scarring. Second, many PsA medications are processed through the liver; if you have NAFLD, too, “this ‘double hit’ can lead to more liver damage,” Dr. Ansari-Ali says. Adding alcohol to the mix is a potential triple whammy. “You could have NAFLD and normal liver function on blood tests, but over time, alcohol consumption can scar the liver permanently, especially in combination with various medications,” says Dr. Smith.

What’s Best for You May Not Be What’s Best for Another PsA Patient

As you can see, the evidence isn’t exactly crystal clear on precisely how alcohol contributes to or affects PsA. “Complete avoidance of alcohol is not necessarily needed, but it does depend on each individual’s circumstance,” Dr. Smith says. Weighing the benefits and risks may help if you’re trying to make a decision. For instance, if alcohol is clearly making your symptoms worse, you already have heart or liver disease, or you’re taking certain medications, it might be reasonable to teetotal. Cutting back can also help if you're trying to lose weight.

Wondering if You Should Make a Change? Ask Your Doctor

Don’t forget to let your rheumatologist weigh in. They may have some valuable insight on your unique health challenges and needs, plus they can answer questions and give you other resources to help if you think you need to quit for good, especially if you’re having a hard time.

https://www.healthcentral.com/slideshow/psoriatic-arthritis-alcohol