Arthritis not just for adults

From sookenewsmirror.com

When one hears a medical diagnosis of arthritis, they might fairly assume the patient is elderly.

This was not the case when Sandra Cameron of Sooke first heard the diagnosis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA). Her first response was “Yeah, right!,” in utter disbelief, followed by a sharp, “This can’t be right!”

In this case, the patient being diagnosed was not elderly — quite the opposite. The patient being diagnosed was Sandra’s one-and-a-half-year old daughter, Kailen. For Sandra, it was inconceivable that her toddler could have arthritis.

It all started with a visit to the beach. “Last year [Kailen] was with my in-laws. They have a trailer down at the beach,” explained Sandra, “When she came back the next day, she was limping. We thought she had rolled her ankle. We took her to the doctor, and the doctor said it was just a mild injury.”

Sandra and her husband Scott have two other children (Paiton 12 and Averie 5). They were used to the normal aches, tumbles, and growing pains. But this time around things were different. Young Kailen’s pain was not subsiding.

“A week later it still hadn’t gone away,” Sandra continued, “So we went back to the doctor who then said there is something more to this, and she referred us to an orthopaedic surgeon.”

It took two months to get in to see the surgeon — a long time when you are watching your young child in constant pain. “She was really stiff in the morning. She couldn’t walk properly, and she really was in pain,” said Sandra. Bearing witness was difficult, especially in one so young. “You don’t know what she’s going through. You don’t know how much pain she is really in.”

By the time the surgeon’s appointment came around, Kailen’s foot had completely turned out at the ankle. Even though the two-month wait seemed painfully long, the diagnosis from the surgeon came relatively quickly. Many are not that lucky. According to the Arthritis Society’s website (arthritis.ca), “It may take longer for children and teenagers with JIA to be diagnosed because many people (even doctors) do not realize that children and teenagers can get arthritis!”

Kailen had what’s known as oligoarticular JIA. According to the Canadian website, aboutkidshealth.ca, this is the most common type. “It affects up to four joints in the first six months of symptoms.” The most affected joints are knee, ankle, wrist and elbow, comes with a high risk of eye disease called uveitis, and tends to affect girls more than boys. When the joints are seriously affected for a prolonged period of time, growth can be impeded.

Kailen has the eye disease, and has “three joints on her left side that are affected: her index finger, her knee and her ankle,” said Sandra.

Her family doctor confirmed the diagnosis, and it was then a relatively short two-week wait to see the paediatrician, Dr. Roxana Bolaria, from the Victoria Arthritis centre.

Having a diagnosis often helps put suffering into context — a manageable framework. But when something unexpected hits you, it often hits full-force. For Sandra, the additional emotions were overwhelming.

One of the hardest things Sandra had to cope with was the sense of guilt — the belief that there was something she as a mother could have done differently. “When we first got diagnosed, I questioned everything. I questioned food choices, medications I’d given her when she was sick, immunizations. A whole host of things go through your head, like ‘How could I have stopped this?’ There was the impending sense that the choices that I’ve made have done this.”

But, as the Arthritis Society explains on their website (arthritis.ca), “’idiopathic’ means the cause is not known.”

After a time trying to find the right treatment, Sandra and Scott settled on an oral medicine. When they went to a type of autoimmune medicine that also acts as a chemo drug, Sandra broke down. “You feel bad and you want to be strong, and you want to be able to handle it all … you can’t. And I completely broke down. And they [at the Victoria Arthritis Centre] said, ‘This is a normal response, it’s ok.’”

Sandra was told that it takes time for the medicine to work. After three months, the change came … literally overnight. At first, Sandra was cautiously optimistic, as it may have been just the euphemistic good day.

But the change was real. “In one day, she became a different kid,” said Sandra. “These good days have continued, and now Kailen is jumping, skipping and singing as a two year old should.”

“It’s been an incredible journey thus far, and it’s getting easier. The nicest thing is seeing Kailen’s change, the day-to-day not being so difficult. She jumps downstairs now, she runs more than she used to.” Kailen is now “doing great.”

Sandra’s words of advice cut to core of maternal guilt: “The biggest thing is, it’s nothing you did. It’s not your fault. And that with the help [of whatever resources are available to you] that it will get easier.” She adds that parents should “Watch for the signs, and be persistent.” You will have to be your child’s advocate.

https://www.sookenewsmirror.com/news/arthritis-not-just-for-adults/

FITNESS: Arthritis pain? Exercise relieves symptoms

From sookenewsmirror.com

Obesity is the worst thing for arthritis

Fact: if you have arthritis, you are less likely to exercise than people who do not have arthritis

I think it’s human nature, like a turtle pulling into its shell, to back off when we are in pain. Often it is the best choice to allow our body to heal.

However, we need to differentiate between getting pain from spending eight hours in the veggie garden and having pain every day from a chronic condition such as arthritis.

When we irritate our body, causing temporary pain and stiffness, rest, ice, and analgesics are suitable treatments. After a day or two off, you should be able to resume normal activities.

Chronic conditions are very different because we are reminded of the minute we get out of bed each day.

Even though pretty fit, I have arthritis symptoms in my low back and feel very much like the grandpa I am when I get up in the morning or do too much. My solution is to be more active, not less, but when I say active, it does not including doing dumb things.

When I train at the gym, my weights are lower than they used to be, and my stretching and core work is much longer. My warm-ups are longer as well because as we age, it takes longer to loosen up. My days of doing Olympic lifting and heavy squats are over, and I am okay with that because part of aging successfully is adapting – both mentally and physically.

What are the best forms of exercise for arthritis? For severe cases where there is a lot of joint swelling and mobility is impacted, swimming is number No. 1. When in water, more than 90 per cent of our body weight is suspended by the water, reducing the strain on our joints. Lots of people are bad swimmers. I have the trophy for that. You can compensate by using buoyancy aids such as kickboards. I also strongly recommend swim stroke lessons so that you are more efficient in the water.

No. 2: Resistance training is beneficial because we lose strength as we get older, placing more stress on the joints. Muscles stabilize and mobilize. When we build muscle around a joint, then the load to the joint is reduced when we are not working out. The critical aspect of strength training for older people or persons with arthritis is to use moderate loads (15-20 repetitions for two sets) and a full day of rest between workouts with an alternative activity such as swimming, walking, or biking. Resistance training is also anti-inflammatory because it boosts the immune system while building lean muscle tissue, which has more anti-inflammatory properties than fat tissue.

You need to differentiate between getting pain from spending eight hours in the veggie garden and having pain every day from a chronic condition such as arthritis, writes personal trainer Ron Cain. (Metro-Creative)

No. 3: Tai Chi. This ancient martial art combines fluid, slow motions with muscle building and balance, along with serious mental training by pushing the brain to learn movement patterns. Many people practise this art well into their 90s. There is a program here in Sooke which will resume when the COVID restrictions are lifted. I plan on joining as I miss martial arts, but I no longer want to go back to the hardcore training I did for almost 20 years; the old body does not enjoy that anymore.

The key is daily movement, not working out hard enough to cause damage, doing various exercise modes to balance the body, and keeping your body weight at an ideal level - obesity is the worst thing for arthritis.

Getting old is not an option, but how we handle it is full of opportunities. Remember folks: motion is lotion.

Ron Cain is the owner of Sooke Mobile Personal Training

https://www.sookenewsmirror.com/sports/fitness-arthritis-pain-exercise-relieves-symptoms/

Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms: Sweating, dry eyes and other surprising symptoms

From express.co.uk

RHEUMATOID arthritis symptoms mainly affect the joints but the symptoms can show up in other areas too. Here are six non-joint symptoms that may indicate the autoimmune disease

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease, which means the body's immune system targets affected joints. The result is pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints. It's also possible to experience a range of non-joint symptoms.

According to Versus Arthritis (VA), sweating is a symptom of rheumatoid arthritis. Other symptoms can include:

• Tiredness and lack of energy – this can be known as fatigue
• A poor appetite (not feeling hungry)
• Weight loss
• A high temperature, or a fever
• Dry eyes – as a result of inflammation
• Chest pain – as a result of inflammation.

Are specific joints affected?

According to VA, rheumatoid arthritis can affect any joint in the body, although it is often felt in the small joints in the hands and feet first.

"Both sides of the body are usually affected at the same time, in the same way, but this doesn’t always happen," explains the health body.

It adds: "A few people develop fleshy lumps called rheumatoid nodules, which form under the skin around affected joints."

                      Sweating is a warning sign of arthritis (Image: Getty Images)

How to respond

According to the NHS, you should see a GP if you think you have symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, so they can try to identify the underlying cause.

"Diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis quickly is important, because early treatment can prevent it getting worse and reduce the risk of joint damage," explains the health body. "The GP may arrange blood tests to help confirm the diagnosis."

How to manage the condition

Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms can make it hard to perform even basic tasks. Unfortunately, there is no cure for the painful joint disease but there are things you can do to alleviate symptoms.

Improving your diet can help to bring rheumatoid arthritis symptoms under control. That's because a balanced, nutritious diet makes it easier to maintain a healthy weight, says the Arthritis Foundation (AF).

It is important to maintain a healthy weight because excess weight places pressure on the joints. What's more, being overweight may make people with rheumatoid arthritis more likely to develop high cholesterol, diabetes, heart disease and high blood pressure.

Certain dietary decisions also confer direct benefits for managing rheumatoid arthritis.

Fish such as sardines, mackerel, herring, salmon, and snapper have a darker flesh which is rich in omega-3 polyunsaturated fat.

According to the British Dietetic Association (BDA), in addition to their heart-health benefits, fish oils have been shown to help dampen general inflammation and may help to reduce joint pain and stiffness.

"Try to eat two portions of oily fish a week," advises the BDA.

As the health body explains, omega-3 fats from plant sources (GLA) such as linseed, evening primrose and borage oils have a weaker effect on reducing inflammation and are of limited benefit.

A Mediterranean-style diet is packed with omega-3 fats and oily fish.

https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1427745/rheumatoid-arthritis-symptoms-sweating-high-temperature-dry-eyes

5 Ways Weight Affects Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis

From healthcentral.com

Look, we’d never dream of telling anyone that they need to lose weight—that’s simply not our style or our place. But, because there’s a well-established link between obesity and symptom severity among folks with psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, we figured it could be helpful to hit you with some facts on the subject, along with some easy, actionable steps you can take should you be interested in losing a few pounds in hopes of improving your symptoms.

The Challenge: Obesity Increases Inflammation

Low-grade systemic inflammation is already prevalent in people with psoriasis, and having obesity—or a body mass index (BMI) of 30 to 34.9—adds more inflammation, which can exacerbate psoriatic lesions, says Dr. Pooja Sodha, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist based in Washington, D.C. The daily low-grade inflammation associated with obesity can also put you at a higher risk for developing psoriatic arthritis, especially if you already have psoriasis.

                                            iStock

Your Intake of Inflammatory Foods

Foods and bevs that are high in sugar can spark inflammation in the body, so do your best to save sweet treats and alcohol for special occasions. Speaking of alcohol: Dr. Sodha highly recommends avoiding it. “You definitely want to minimize your alcohol intake as it can induce immune dysfunction, which can worsen psoriasis—plus it causes weight gain,” she says. If you’re someone who’s accustomed to drinking fairly often, try experimenting with making fun mocktails, as there are so many delicious and refreshingly alcohol-free recipes out there that are also low on sugar.

The Challenge: Being Overweight Puts You at Risk for Other Ailments

Obesity is also associated with diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia; not coincidentally, having psoriasis also puts you at risk for these cardiovascular challenges. That being said, if you have psoriasis and want to lower your chances of acquiring one of these diseases, it’s definitely in your best interest to maintain a healthy weight if you’re able to. After all, the last thing you want to deal with is another medical condition that affects your quality of life.

Your Rx: Count Your Calories (in Moderation)

Tracking your calorie intake can be a helpful weight-loss technique for people with psoriasis, as it allows you to see what’s working (and what’s not) for your body. “If you can mentally handle it, try counting your calories,” says Dr. Joshua Zeichner, M.D., a board-certified dermatologist based in New York City. “If you take in less calories than you burn off, the weight will come off and your symptoms can improve.” Apps like Noom can help you set (and stick to) daily calorie goals.

                                            iStock

The Challenge: Being Overweight Can Lead to Inverse Psoriasis

People with psoriasis who are overweight or obese may experience heightened discomfort in areas of the body where we have skin folds, such as under the breasts and in the groin area, due to the constant friction. Being overweight actually puts you at risk for inverse psoriasis—a form of the disease characterized by red, shiny lesions that appear in the skin folds. Having symptoms in these sensitive areas can be especially debilitating because of the continual friction, which makes it more difficult to manage and treat.

Your Rx: Sleep More and Minimize Stress

This one is a biggie. “Lack of sleep and excessive stress encourages excessive calorie intake and reduces the ability to exercise, thereby leading to weight gain that can worsen your psoriatic symptoms,” Dr. Sodha says. So it’s extremely important to get adequate sleep and reduce stress as much as possible. Making meditation and breath-work part of your day can be very effective ways to get your stress down—and they don’t take long. To help with sleep, try shutting off all your screens an hour before bedtime to signal to your brain that it’s snooze time.

The Challenge: Carrying Extra Weight Can Impact Certain PsA Drugs

How rude, right? And yet, unfortunately true. Being obese can in fact make certain medicines, like biologics, less effective because they’re dose-dependent—meaning a certain amount of the medication is needed to reach clinical efficacy, and if someone is obese, it could be dangerous to give them the amount that they require to effectively treat their symptoms. This obviously isn’t good, especially for those with severe cases of psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis who could really benefit from biologic medications.

Your Rx: Implement a Daily Exercise Routine

No, it doesn’t have to be intense. In fact, it doesn’t even have to be a full half-hour, but when it comes down to it, the more you can get your body up and moving, the better. “Do whatever you can to get off the couch,” says Dr. Zeichner. “Whether it’s a walk in the neighbourhood or a game of tennis, exercise helps burn fat and build muscle, which can subsequently potentially improve your psoriasis symptoms.” In addition, Dr. Sodha says that when you combine a low-calorie diet with daily exercise, it’s almost a surefire way to achieve a healthy weight that you can maintain.

                                        iStock

The Challenge: Extra Weight Puts Stress on Your Joints

According to Dr. Sodha, being heavier inherently puts more stress and pressure on your joints, which can lead to even more joint pain and discomfort, as well as the potential for injury and heightened inflammation during the healing process. As if that wasn’t enough, if you already have psoriatic arthritis and are overweight, it also increases your risk of developing osteoarthritis—a.k.a. the most common type of arthritis, which results from wear and tear.

Your Rx: Amp Your Nutrient Intake

In addition to reducing your intake of inflammatory foods, one of the best things you can do for your body is add more good into your diet. Think: nutrient-dense foods in all different colours of the rainbow. The more healthy vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants you can incorporate into your meals, the better. At the end of the day, if you eat more fruits, veggies, and good-for-you grains, and fewer fatty, sugary foods, you’ll be doing yourself—and your PSO or PsA—a big favour.

                                           iStock

https://www.healthcentral.com/slideshow/how-weight-affects-psoriasis-and-psoriatic-arthritis

Snacking On Walnuts May Help Alleviate Arthritis Symptoms, Experts Suggest

From newswire.net

Glucosamine has long been researched on due to its arthritis-fighting benefits, particularly for its ability to repair or prevent cartilage damage in the joints

Orlando, FL -- Today, there are many arthritis sufferers who turn to the use of medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in managing arthritis. 

However, it is also worth noting that some edible items have long been scientifically found helpful in alleviating symptoms of arthritis.  

It is important to note that certain types of snacks like walnuts could be useful in battling inflammation linked with the joint disease. It is important to realize that today, there are many commercially-produced snacks found to promote inflammation. 

It may be wise for individuals with arthritis to snack on walnuts instead of these pro-inflammatory food items. 

Scientists carried out an analysis of 13 studies and found that consumption of walnuts was linked with lessened markers of inflammation. It is important to note that walnuts are particularly found to have increased levels of omega-3 fatty acids.  

In previous research studies, these fatty acids are found useful in reducing the symptoms of arthritis. 

In a study involving 90 sufferers of rheumatoid arthritis, it has been found that these fatty acids worked in lessening pain levels. 

What makes their intake even more beneficial is that they have also decreased the use of arthritis medications. 

It is further worth noting that the use of medications like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) has been linked with certain side effects. These specifically include the increased odds of stroke and gastrointestinal bleeding. 

Today, individuals who suffer from arthritis turn to safer alternatives like the use of supplements, such as VitaBreeze Glucosamine. Glucosamine is an amino sugar that can be found in some of the world’s most delicious seafood items, such as shrimps and lobsters. 

Glucosamine has long been researched on due to its arthritis-fighting benefits, particularly for its ability to repair or prevent cartilage damage in the joints. This natural remedy is believed to be beneficial in better managing arthritis. 

https://newswire.net/newsroom/pr/00191963-snacking-on-walnuts-may-help-alleviate-arthritis-symptoms-experts-suggest.html

Science fact or fiction: Separating rheumatoid arthritis myths from facts

From medicalnewstoday.com

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) causes inflammation and pain in a person’s joints, including their hands and feet

A person with RA or a family member, friend, or caregiver of someone with RA can test their knowledge about the condition by choosing whether the statements below are true or false.

RA is an autoimmune condition

Fact

According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), RA qualifies as an autoimmune condition. This means that a person’s immune system attacks otherwise healthy areas of their body.

In the case of RA, the immune system attacks the joints, causing pain, swelling, and stiffness.

RA is rare, affecting fewer than 500,000 people

Fiction

RA is a common condition that affects close to 1.5 million people in the United States. Worldwide, approximately 1 out of 100 people receive an RA diagnosis, according to the GlobalRA Network. 

The GlobalRA Network add that RA is the most common autoimmune type of arthritis. It is also one of over 100 different types of arthritis that affects all sexes, races, and ages.

RA only affects the joints

Fiction

Although RA does affect the joints of the hands and feet, the condition can also affect other parts of the body.

According to the Arthritis Foundation, RA can also lead to:

• inflamed blood vessels that can damage other areas of the body, such as the skin, nerves, and other organs
• rheumatoid nodules, which are small lumps that form under the skin
• dryness, redness, swelling, or pain in the eyes, as well as sensitivity to light
• scarring on the lungs that can lead to shortness of breath or lung conditions
• inflammation and dryness in the gums that can lead to infections
• inflammation that damages the heart and surrounding tissue
• low red blood cell count

Females and people who smoke are more likely to develop RA than most others

Fact

According to an article in American Family Physician, females and people who smoke are more likely than others to develop RA in their lifetime. In addition, people with a family history of RA and older adults are more likely than others to develop RA.

According to the Arthritis Foundation, females are three times more likely than males to develop RA. They are also more likely to develop it earlier. RA commonly starts between the ages of 30 and 60 years in females. Males are more commonly receive a diagnosis after the age of 45 years.

Treating RA often focuses on achieving remission by reducing inflammation

Fact

According to the Arthritis Foundation, reducing inflammation to help put the condition into remission is one of several goals of treatment. Some other common treatment goals include:

• improving overall well-being
• reducing the impact of long-term complications
• easing the symptoms 
• improving the functioning of joints 
• stopping organ and joint damage

A person should talk with a doctor about reasonable treatment goals for their individual condition. The doctor can help the person tailor their treatment to improve their overall quality of life.

Once symptoms improve, a person can stop taking their medications

Fiction

RA is an autoimmune condition that goes through periods of flares, when symptoms get worse, and remission, when symptoms improve. Doctors prescribe medications to treat any current symptoms a person has and to prevent symptoms from returning. 

According to the Global Healthy Living Foundation, doctors most commonly prescribe disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) to treat RA. These medications work by slowing down the progression of the condition.

Some common DMARDs include:

• methotrexate (Rheumatrex)
• sulfasalazine (Azulfidine)
• leflunomide (Arava)
• hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil)

People with RA should do both cardiovascular and resistance exercises

Fact

Although symptoms such as joint pain can make exercise more painful, people with RA should try to incorporate both cardiovascular and resistance training into their weekly routines, if possible.

According to a 2011 review of studies, researchers found that exercise helped people with RA avoid losing muscle, improve functioning, and reduce cardiovascular risks. They also found that exercise did not make the symptoms worse or cause the condition to progress any faster.

All a doctor needs to diagnose RA is a simple blood test

Fiction

A doctor will order blood work to look for markers of inflammation and antibodies associated with RA, but they need more evidence to properly diagnose RA.

According to the Arthritis Foundation, a rheumatologist will need to:

• review the person’s medical history
• use X-rays or other imaging devices to check for joint damage
• perform a physical examination to look for bumps, check for tenderness, and check for stiffness

The author of the American Family Physician article adds that although doctors often use X-rays to check the joints, they can still diagnose RA even if there is no obvious joint damage. The same is true for rheumatoid nodules. Both of these symptoms are often not present in the early stages of the condition.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/science-fact-or-fiction-separating-ra-myths-from-facts#1

Physical activity and psoriatic arthritis: Everything you need to know

From medicalnewstoday.com

Psoriatic arthritis (PsA) causes joint pain and can lead to limited mobility. Although certain exercises can worsen symptoms, others can help in several ways

PsA is a type of inflammatory arthritis that can worsen over time. Chronic swelling can damage joints, which can limit mobility.

There is currently no cure for PsA. However, treatments and lifestyle changes, such as getting more exercise, can help improve the symptoms.

The following are some of the best exercises that can help improve the symptoms associated with PsA.

Best exercise types for PsA

Tai chi is a gentle form of exercise that people with PsA may find beneficial

Moderate exercise can lead to health benefits such as improved endurance and weight loss. Exercise can also help reduce joint pain and stiffness and improve range of motion.

The following exercises may help ease the symptoms associated with PsA.

Tai chi

Tai chi is a form of Chinese martial arts. It focuses on breathing, gentle movements, and meditation.

One 2016 study compared tai chi with physical therapy for people with osteoarthritis. The researchers found that tai chi helped improve quality of life and depression associated with arthritis.

Tai chi may have similar effects in people with PsA.

Yoga

The benefits of yoga include improved strength and flexibility. According to one 2014 study, yoga can also help increase pain thresholds over time.

The researchers found that people who regularly practiced yoga had double the pain tolerance than those who did not practice yoga.

Walking

Walking is a low impact aerobic activity that may help people with PsA. Walking can help build strength, improve joint mobility, and provide a light cardio workout.

If PsA affects the knees, feet, or ankles, a person should talk to their doctor about shoe inserts or other walking aids to reduce stress on the affected joints.

Swimming

Swimming provides a full body workout. It can improve joint stiffness and relax the muscles.

Swimming is also low impact, which means that a person can work out without putting stress on their joints.

Resistance training

Lifting weights can help improve muscle strength and support strong joints. A person should plan to have 2–3 days per week of weight training.

Individuals can use isometric holds if their joints are painful. An isometric hold works the muscle without moving the joint.

Can exercise make PsA worse?

Certain exercises can worsen PsA symptoms.

For example, exercises that put stress on the joints can lead to additional pain or stiffness. These exercises include running, high intensity interval training, or playing a game of basketball.

A person should stop doing any exercise that causes their symptoms to get worse. A healthcare provider or personal trainer can recommend safe, alternative routines that will not aggravate a person’s symptoms.

Exercise tips

PsA can affect the hands and feet, causing stiff joints, pain, and swelling. There are several steps a person can take at home to help relieve pain in these areas, especially while exercising.

For example, taking good care of the hands and feet can help prevent extra discomfort. Try the following tips before or after exercising:

• Use a foam roller to massage the wrists and arches of the feet.
• Wear gloves to prevent nail damage.
• Massage any stiff joints.
• Take breaks when exercising and rest frequently when walking long distances.
• Use cold or hot compresses to reduce swelling or pain.
• Regularly stretch the feet and legs.
• Use inserts to help alleviate pain from walking.
• Get proper footwear that provides support, stability, and space for swelling.
• Soak the hands and feet for short periods to alleviate joint pain, and use moisturizer afterward to prevent the skin from drying out.

Summary

Light-to-moderate exercise can help a person stay healthy. It also provides some relief from joint stiffness and inflammation. However, people with PsA should avoid any exercise that puts additional stress on the joints.

Both low impact cardio workouts, such as swimming or walking, and resistance training can help a person gain the benefits of exercise and prevent pain.

Making lifestyle changes, such as taking better care of the hands and feet, can also help.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/physical-activity-and-psoriatic-arthritis#tips

How to Relieve Hand Pain

From consumerreports.org

The treatments that can really make a difference

We use our hands for activities from cooking to brushing our teeth to gardening to writing a shopping list. So when our hands, wrists, or fingers hurt, that pain can interfere with much of what we do.

This kind of discomfort can also be more likely to occur with age: The Arthri­tis Foundation estimates that about half of all women and a quarter of men will experience hand pain due to osteoarthritis (OA)—when the protective cartilage between bones wears down—by age 85. But there are ways to ease the ache.

3 Reasons Your Hand Hurts

Hand pain and stiffness are typical with OA. “The base of the thumb is one of the most common places in the entire body to develop osteo­arthritis,” says Jacob Tulipan, MD, an orthopaedic hand surgeon at Rothman Orthopaedics at AtlantiCare in Egg Harbour Township, N.J.

People with hand OA, especially at the base of the thumb, will often experience achy pain that worsens with tasks that require pinching, gripping, and grasping—for instance, turning a car key or tightening a jar lid, says Julie Adams, MD, professor of orthopaedic surgery at the University of Tennessee Health Science Centre College of Medicine in Chattanooga.

Another culprit could be trigger finger, when one of the cordlike tendons that let your fingers bend and straighten becomes inflamed. This condition causes an often painful locking or catching sensation when bending and straightening the finger.

Numbness, pain, or tingling in the hand, wrist, or arm can also be caused by carpal tunnel syndrome—when one of the major nerves leading to the hand becomes pinched as it passes through the wrist. Older age and conditions like diabetes and rheumatoid arthri­tis can hike the risk of carpal tunnel, Tulipan says.

Handling It at Home

Over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-­inflam­matory drugs, including ibuprofen (Motrin) and naproxen (Aleve), may help relieve joint swelling and inflam­ma­tion due to OA, according to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, but won’t reverse joint damage.

A hot or cold compress may ease pain, though finding out which works better could require some trial and error, ­Adams says. Heat might be useful for stiff joints prior to an activity because it helps increase blood flow to the area, and cold may reduce pain and swelling after use.

For thumb pain due to OA, you may want to modify frequently used items, such as pens and toothbrushes, “so you don’t have to exert as much force when holding,” ­Adams says: For instance, “try wrapping tape around the pen so that when you grip it, it’s bigger and doesn’t hurt as much.”

A simple drugstore finger splint, worn occasionally at night, might help symptoms of trigger finger; a wrist splint may ease carpal tunnel symptoms. “Splinting helps keep the wrist straight at night,” Adams says. 

Exercises to Try

To help prevent and counter stiffness and pain, no matter the cause, Tulipan recommends doing these five exercises (10 repetitions of each, twice a day). Your doctor may recommend other exercises for specific conditions.

Exercise 1: With wrists and fingers straight, make a “tabletop” with fingers. Bend at the knuckles. Hold briefly, then straighten.

Exercise 2: Make a fist, then straighten fingers.

Exercise 3: Make an “O” by touching your thumb to your fingertips, one at a time.

Exercise 4: With one hand resting on a flat surface palm down, spread your fingers wide apart and bring them together again.

Exercise 5: Start as you do with No. 4, then raise and lower each finger, one at a time.

When to See the Doctor

If bothersome symptoms persist, it may be time to see an orthopaedic hand surgeon, Adams says. These doctors are hand pain specialists, and though the title implies surgery, most cases do not require surgical treatment, she adds.

Treatments vary depending on the pain’s cause and severity. Corticosteroid injections could reduce discomfort and inflammation caused by OA or trigger finger. “Some people find little relief, while others experience complete relief of symptoms for a year or more,” Tulipan says.

Prescription topical anti-inflammatory medicines can sometimes help, too. Surgery may be an option when other treatments fail—or for carpal tunnel—to prevent permanent sensation loss.

https://www.consumerreports.org/pain/how-to-relieve-hand-pain/

FITNESS: Tackling the pain of arthritis

From sookenewsmirror.com

Diet changes and exercise are proven to show relief

One-in-six people live with some form of arthritis. That is an incredible amount of people living with pain and disability from inflammation and joint degeneration. Two-thirds of those are women, and 3-out-of-5 are younger than age 65, so it’s not an older adult’s disease, although the longer you live, the more likely it is that you will have pain and discomfort from arthritis.

There are many types of arthritis, but in general, the term refers to pain or swelling in the joints.

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, and it can be isolated to a specific joint, such as in the fingers or a knee, etc. It is very commonly the result of wear and tear or injury.

When you look at a person who’s done heavy manual labour for decades, you will see this type of degeneration in the areas that have taken the most abuse, such as the lower back. Whenever you subject the human body to repetitive pounding such as running a jackhammer doing concrete work, digging ditches, climbing ladders, the result accelerates degeneration and inflammation.

The second most common type is rheumatoid, and it is an autoimmune disease, which means the body is fighting an internal war with its immune system. The joints can be directly impacted, becoming swollen, hot, and movement is painful.

Is there anything we can do to reduce the risk of developing arthritis? In most cases, yes, but not always. Generally speaking, there are contributing factors that we can control:

Obesity – Just standing your knee joints are loaded at a rate of 1.5 times your weight, add in walking, hill climbing, or squatting, and that increases significantly. Imagine going for a walk and adding two 20 lbs. sacks of flour, and yet that is not an unusual amount of extra weight to be carrying around. Packing excess weight all day, year in and out, gradually breaks down the joints leading to degeneration and inflammation.

Obesity leads to proteins circulated in the body that cause inflammation in seemingly unrelated areas such as the hands. When you are too old for birth control, start worrying about girth control.

Diet changes – Reducing the intake of foods that cause inflammation is recommended. The diet that is recommended specifically for arthritis is the Mediterranean diet. Having travelled in Italy, I can attest to the wonderful foods and tastes prevalent in that part of the world. This type of healthy eating is heavy on fish, omega 3, fruits and vegetables and light on red meats.

A high-fibre diet rich in veggies and fruits plus nuts, legumes, and whole grains helps prevent inflammation and contributes to sustainable weight loss. It is also associated with lower risks of dementia, lower cholesterol and blood pressure.

What to avoid – Diet drinks, sugary drinks, pop of any kind, refined foods made from white flour, box cereal, sugary foods, and smoking.

https://www.sookenewsmirror.com/sports/fitness-tackling-the-pain-of-arthritis/

How Menthol Eases Arthritis Pain

From verywellhealth.com

Menthol creams and lotions can provide temporary relief from minor arthritis pain and pain from strains, bruises, and sprains. Generally considered safe, these pain-relieving products still need to be applied according to the packaging instructions or the advice of your doctor.

How Menthol Works

Menthol comes from peppermint oil extracted from plants. It can be both naturally extracted from plants and produced from chemicals. Menthol creates a pleasant diversion with its cooling sensation from pain and other irritations. It can therefore only provide relief for minor pain, and is not really a treatment for pain or inflammation.

One small study compared the ability to complete functional tasks and knee pain while completing functional tasks among patients with knee osteoarthritis (OA) after topical application of either 3.5% menthol gel or an inert placebo gel. Participants who used the menthol gel had significantly reduced pain during exercises and while climbing stairs compared with those who used the placebo gel. However, there were no differences detected in functional tasks or pain following the placebo and menthol conditions.

What Is a Counterirritant?

Counterirritants are used to produce surface irritation of the skin to counteract underlying pain or discomfort. Examples of counterirritants include menthol, camphor, capsaicin, and methyl salicylate.

Topical Menthol Treatments

Topical menthol treatments contain menthol and sometimes other active ingredients as well:

• Absorbine Jr. contains menthol.
• Activene Arnica Gel Cream contains menthol and other ingredients.
• Bengay sometimes contains menthol as active ingredient, but also contains camphor and methyl salicylate in other types.
• BioFreeze contains menthol.
• Dr. Bronner’s Arnica-Menthol Organic Magic Balm contains a blend of arnica, camphor, menthol and peppermint oils.
• Flexall contains menthol, camphor, and methyl salicylate.
• Icy Hot contains menthol and sometimes methyl salicylate depending on the strength of the product.
• Mentholatum contains menthol and camphor.
• Mineral Ice Menthol Pain Relieving Gel contains menthol.
• Sombra Warm Therapy natural pain relieving gel contains menthol and camphor.
• Stopain topical pain reliever contains menthol.
• Tiger Balm contains a combination of menthol and camphor.
• Vicks VapoRub contains menthol, camphor, and eucalyptus oil.

Before using

Menthol can cause eye and skin irritation. A high-percentage menthol product can cause irritation and even chemical burns. There are a few reports of people having severe skin reactions to even small amounts of menthol.

It is possible for menthol products to cause organ failure if it's swallowed or inhaled in concentrated amounts. Serious effects include seizures, coma, and death. Also, menthol pain relievers should be kept out of reach of children and not applied to a child under 12 years old.

Here are some important rules to follow when using menthol lotions:

          Don't apply menthol products to damaged or irritated skin.

          Don't put bandages on the area where you've applied the lotion.

• Don't apply heat to the area using heating pads, hot water bottles, or lamps. Doing so increases the risk of serious burns.
•  Don't allow these products to come in contact with eyes and mucous membranes (such as the skin inside your nose, mouth, or genitals).

It is normal for these products to produce a warming or cooling sensation where you've applied them. But if you feel actual pain after applying them, look for signs of blistering or a burn. Most topical pain relievers should not be used for more than seven days because it could result in a rash or chemical burn on your skin. If you see any of these signs, stop using the product and seek medical attention.

If you experience pain, swelling, or blistering of the skin where an over-the-counter (OTC) menthol lotion was applied, stop using the product and seek medical attention immediately. These products should produce a warm or cool sensation, not pain or skin damage.

How To Use Topical Menthol Treatments

When using any menthol lotions, apply it to a small skin area first to see how your skin reacts to it. If you experience a burning sensation, wash the skin with soap and water and then call your doctor.

A menthol patch typically works well on an area where it can be applied to a flat surface, so it might be best to get a menthol patch if you have back or neck pain. If you have pain in an area that moves a lot or is in a joint that bends, a cream or gel may be best so that you can still move that joint.5

For menthol creams or gels:

• Wash hands with soap and water
• Clean the skin of all other lotions, creams, or ointments
• Dry your hands
• Apply a thin layer to the affected area
• Rub it gently into painful area until thoroughly absorbed into skin
• Do not reapply more than three or four times per day, allowing a minimum of two to three hours between applications
• After applying, wash hands with soap and water again

For a menthol roll-on:

• Rub a thin film over the affected areas, not more than four times daily
• Do not massage the liquid into your skin

For menthol patches: 

• Peel off the protective backing and apply sticky side to affected area
• Carefully remove backing from patch
• Should be used up to eight hours
• Should be used no more than three times a day 
• Consult your doctor if you want to use them on children under 12 years old

Possible Side Effects

The side effects that can occur with menthol product use include:

• Skin redness
• Skin irritation
• Eye irritation
• Chemical burns (with higher-percentage menthol products)

In severe cases: 

• Rapid breathing
• Shallow breathing
• Eye irritation
• Vision loss
• Ringing in the ears
• Thirst
• Throat swelling
• Agitation
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Fever
• Hallucinations
• Loss of appetite
• Nausea and vomiting

Products that contain menthol are flammable. In 2000, the FDA added a warning against putting products with menthol near flame, in hot water, or in a microwave.

A Word From Verywell

While it is convenient and generally safe to use OTC topical pain relievers, it is possible to have a severe reaction or apply too much of these products. Menthol lotions and gels are no different. If your pain lasts more than seven days, treating the area with a pain-relieving topical product may just be masking a more serious problem. See your doctor if your pain keeps coming back, or if the topical cream, gel, lotion, or patch is causing skin irritations, burns, or making you feel sick.

https://www.verywellhealth.com/menthol-lotion-5113142

Can Acupuncture Help Arthritis Pain?

From verywellhealth.com

Acupuncture is a form of traditional Chinese medicine that utilizes the insertion of thin needles into various parts of the body to reduce pain and inflammation. This practice is based on the concept of qi, an essential form of life energy that flows throughout the body along 20 different pathways called meridians. When the flow of qi through a meridian is blocked or disrupted, pain or illness is thought to result.

Acupuncturists use small needles to stimulate specific acupuncture points in an attempt to correct the flow of qi and alleviate bodily imbalances to relieve pain and illness. Acupuncture has been around for thousands of years. While Western medicine does not support the theories behind acupuncture, the medical community recognizes the potential benefits of using acupuncture to help relieve pain by directly stimulating problematic soft tissues through needle insertion. 

There is a lack of consistency and generalizability of clinical trials studying acupuncture, but emerging evidence suggests that acupuncture may provide symptom relief for patients suffering from joint pain, especially those with arthritis, specifically osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Dean Mitchell / Getty Images

How Acupuncture Benefits Arthritis

The actual method by which acupuncture reduces pain and inflammation remains unclear. Proposed theories include anti-inflammatory effects from needle insertion by suppressing inflammatory responses, improving blood flow, and relaxing muscles. While acupuncture cannot cure or reverse arthritis, it may be useful for managing pain and decreasing associated symptoms, especially in conjunction with other treatment options.

What the Research Shows

Research has shown that acupuncture has benefits for rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and chronic pain. However, more evidence is needed in some of these areas to support the effectiveness of acupuncture for pain relief.

Rheumatoid Arthritis

While research is still preliminary and unstandardized, a systematic review of 43 different studies including human and animal subjects with rheumatoid arthritis demonstrates varied results, though many studies suggest improvement in symptoms and a decrease in biologic markers of rheumatoid arthritis following one to three sessions of acupuncture for four weeks or more.

Beneficial outcomes following acupuncture treatment for patients with rheumatoid arthritis include less pain and joint stiffness and improved physical functioning. The results of various human and animal studies also suggest that acupuncture has the potential to down-regulate levels of interleukins and tumour necrosis factor, specific cell signalling proteins collectively called cytokines that are involved in the inflammatory response and become elevated in autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.

Most of the patients enrolled in these studies were also receiving other forms of treatment, especially medications, so it is difficult to conclude if acupuncture is beneficial alone or only as a supplemental option in addition to medical treatments.

Osteoarthritis

According to the 2019 American College of Rheumatology and Arthritis Foundation guidelines, acupuncture for osteoarthritis of the hand, hip, and knee is conditionally recommended, meaning that acupuncture may be worth trying although more research is needed to confirm how effective treatment is.

Efficacy of acupuncture for the treatment of osteoarthritis remains controversial as research study results are limited due to small sample sizes, variability of outcomes, and the possibility of the placebo effect. Because of these factors, it is difficult to conclude the true magnitude of the beneficial effects of acupuncture, but since the risk of harm is relatively minor, acupuncture for osteoarthritis can generally be considered a safe alternative treatment option for managing the symptoms of osteoarthritis.

Chronic Pain

Because clinical trials of acupuncture treatment suggest that acupuncture may be effective for providing pain relief, acupuncture may be an appropriate option to try for those who suffer from chronic pain. A recent systematic review that included data from 20,827 patients and 39 trials concluded that acupuncture is effective for the treatment of chronic musculoskeletal pain, headache, and osteoarthritis pain. Make sure to ask your doctor if acupuncture is safe for you to try based on your medical history.

Other possible benefits of acupuncture use include antioxidative effects by alleviating oxidative stress and inflammation, improving energy metabolism, and triggering the release of endorphins, hormones that help reduce pain. Inconsistency among clinical research about the exact therapeutic mechanisms and efficacy of acupuncture treatment requires further research.

Risks and Side Effects

Safety

Acupuncture is generally a safe procedure if performed by an appropriately licensed and credentialed professional. If you decide to get acupuncture done, make sure that your acupuncturist holds a current acupuncture license and underwent appropriate training.

To practice acupuncture in the United States, an acupuncturist needs a minimum of a master’s degree from a program accredited by the American Academy of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine as well as a license in the state that you receive your acupuncture treatment. Doctors with an MD or DO degree who are licensed in the United States to practice medicine can also be licensed and credentialed by the American Academy of Medical Acupuncture after undergoing additional training.

Risks

The biggest risk associated with acupuncture treatment is bleeding and bruising from needle insertion, especially if you have a bleeding disorder like haemophilia or take a blood thinner like warfarin. Make sure to ask your doctor if acupuncture is a safe option for you to try.

Other potential risks include infection and damage to blood vessels or nerves if acupuncture is performed incorrectly or the needles are not clean. Because the lungs are very close to the skin, there is a possible risk of lung puncture if needles are inserted too deep into the upper back and shoulder blade area.

Side Effects

Most people do not experience any side effects from acupuncture treatment, although possible reactions may include: 

• Bruising
• Scarring
• Soreness 
• Needle shock

How a Typical Session Works

During your first acupuncture treatment, you will be taken into a private room to discuss your medical history and what joints and areas of your body are in pain with your acupuncturist. After a brief physical exam, you will then lie down on a treatment table so that your acupuncturist can insert needles into specific points. 

You may lie face up or face down depending on what areas of your body your acupuncturist needs to access. It is best to wear loose clothing that can be rolled up or moved out of the way so that the acupuncturist can easily access different areas of your body. Depending on what areas of your body need to be accessed, you may be asked to change into a gown. 

Your acupuncturist will use alcohol swabs to disinfect the skin before placing needles in various points throughout your body. The needles are made of stainless steel and are at least 10 times thinner than medical needles used for vaccines or drawing blood. Because of this, needle insertion is often painless, especially in thicker areas of the body. You may feel a slight pinch in more sensitive areas like the hands and feet where the skin is thin, but needle insertion should be comfortable and well tolerated without significant pain.

If you are going for electroacupuncture, your acupuncturist will pass a mild electric current through the needles, usually 40 to 80 volts.

Your acupuncturist will then leave the needles in place for 20 to 30 minutes while you relax. The lights in your private treatment room are often dimmed, and you acupuncturist will exit the room but stop in periodically to check on you during your treatment. Sometimes a heat lamp is placed over you during treatment.

After your treatment is finished, your acupuncturist will remove all of the needles and dispose of them.

Frequency

Your frequency of acupuncture visits will vary depending on the severity of your symptoms, and may also be dictated by whether your visits are approved and reimbursed by your health insurance company. Acupuncture visits are typically performed once or twice per week.

Finding a Practitioner 

To find an appropriately certified and credentialed acupuncturist near you, you can find a practitioner through your local state board to find one who is licensed in your state. You will have to call or visit each acupuncturist's website to find out more about visit costs and availability of appointments.

Cost and Insurance (US)

Costs for acupuncture can vary from $75 to $200 per session. Your first session, which involves an initial assessment and evaluation, may cost more than your follow-up visits. Whether your health insurance will cover some or all of the costs of acupuncture visits depends on your individual insurance company and condition for which you are seeking acupuncture treatment for. 

Medicare currently covers acupuncture services up to 12 visits within a 90-day period for chronic low back pain only. Acupuncture for any other condition will not be covered by Medicare.

A Word From Verywell

While acupuncture cannot cure arthritis, it may be a useful tool to use in conjunction with other medical treatments to help manage pain and other symptoms of arthritis. Further research is needed to determine the exact therapeutic mechanisms of how acupuncture works as well as the overall effectiveness of the treatment. Because the potential risks of trying acupuncture are relatively minor, acupuncture can be a safe, alternative treatment option for many.

https://www.verywellhealth.com/can-acupuncture-help-arthritis-pain-5105273

Diagnosing Juvenile Arthritis

From webmd.com

What is juvenile arthritis?

Juvenile arthritis is a disease in which there is inflammation (swelling) of the synovium in children aged 16 or younger. The synovium is the tissue that lines the inside of joints.

Juvenile arthritis is an autoimmune disease. That means the immune system, which normally protects the body from foreign substances, attacks the body instead. The disease is also idiopathic, which means that no exact cause is known. Researchers believe juvenile arthritis may be related to genetics, certain infections, and environmental triggers.

What are the different types of juvenile arthritis?

There are five types of juvenile arthritis:

• Systemic arthritis, also called Still's disease, can affect the entire body or involve many systems of the body. Systemic juvenile arthritis usually causes high fever and a rash. The rash is usually on the trunk, arms, and legs. Systemic juvenile arthritis can also affect internal organs, such as the heart, liver, spleen, and lymph nodes, but usually not the eyes. Boys and girls are equally affected.
• Oligoarthritis, also called pauciarticular juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, affects fewer than five joints in the first six months that the child has the disease. The joints most commonly affected are the knee, ankle, and wrist. Oligoarthritis can affect the eye, most often the iris. This is known as uveitis, iridocyclitis, or iritis. This type of arthritis is more common in girls than in boys, and many children will outgrow this disease by the time they become adults.
• Polyarthritis, also called polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis (pJIA), involves five or more joints in the first six months of the disease -- often the same joints on each side of the body. This type of arthritis can affect the joints in the jaw and neck as well as those in the hands and feet. This type is also more common in girls than in boys and more closely resembles the adult form.
• Psoriatic arthritis affects children who have both arthritis and the skin disorder psoriasis. The child might get either the psoriasis or the arthritis years before developing the other part of the disease. Children with this type of arthritis often have pitted fingernails.
• Enthesitis-related arthritis is a type of arthritis that often afflicts the spine, hips, eyes, and entheses (the places where tendons attach to bones). This type of arthritis occurs mainly in boys older than 8 years of age. There is often a family history of arthritis of the back (called ankylosing spondylitis) among the child's male relatives.

What are the symptoms of juvenile arthritis?

Children with juvenile arthritis can have no symptoms at all. Symptoms may also vary depending on the type of arthritis. Symptoms of juvenile arthritis may include:

• Joint stiffness, especially in the morning
• Pain, swelling, and tenderness in the joints
• Limping (In younger children, it may appear that the child is not able to perform motor skills they recently learned.)
• Persistent fever
• Rash
• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Irritability
• Eye redness or eye pain
• Blurred vision

How is juvenile arthritis diagnosed?

Because a child may have no symptoms of juvenile arthritis, and because some of the symptoms can be associated with other diseases, a diagnosis may be difficult. Because there is no actual test for juvenile arthritis, the diagnosis is made by excluding other conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as bone disorders or breaks, fibromyalgia, infection, Lyme disease, lupus, or cancer.

The doctor is likely to begin by taking a complete medical history and performing a complete medical exam. Additional testing might be useful in determining what type of arthritis the child has. Some of the other tests that might be ordered include:

• Complete blood count (white cells, red cells, and platelets)
• Lab tests on blood or urine
• X-rays (to rule out breaks or damage to bones)
• Imaging tests, such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans
• Blood culture to check for bacteria, which could indicate an infection in the bloodstream
• Tests for viruses
• Tests for Lyme disease
• Bone marrow exam, which is used to check for leukemia
• Erythrocyte sedimentation rate to see how quickly the red blood cells fall to the bottom of a test tube (The rate is faster in most people who have a disease that causes inflammation.)
• Test for rheumatoid factor, an antibody that may be found in people with arthritis (An abnormal result is more common in adults than in children.)
• Antinuclear antibody test to show evidence of autoimmunity (Autoimmunity is a disease state in which the body's defence system, the immune system, malfunctions and attacks the body itself. This test is also useful in predicting if eye disease will develop in children with juvenile arthritis.)
• Bone scan to detect changes in bones and joints (This test may be ordered if the symptoms include unexplained pain in the joints and bone.)
• Joint fluid sampling and synovial tissue sampling, which might be performed by an orthopaedic surgeon

What is the treatment for juvenile arthritis?

Treatment for juvenile arthritis generally includes both exercise and medications. The treatment plans are also based on the type of juvenile arthritis. For instance, children who have polyarticular juvenile arthritis and who have a positive result on the rheumatoid factor test have the potential for more joint damage and may need more aggressive treatment.

In general, though, treatment for juvenile arthritis has several main goals:

• To relieve pain
• To reduce swelling
• To increase joint mobility and strength
• To prevent joint damage and complications

The following types of drugs may be used to treat juvenile arthritis:

• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are used to treat pain and swelling. There are NSAIDs available over the counter and others that are prescription only. NSAIDs include products such as ibuprofen and naproxen. Possible side effects are nausea and stomach ache; these drugs should be taken with food. Aspirin is included in the NSAID category, but is rarely prescribed for treating arthritis.
• Slow-acting anti-rheumatic drugs (SAARDs) are used to treat pain and swelling over time and usually take several weeks or more to work. These drugs are also called disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs). The doctor may prescribe drugs in this category in combination with NSAIDs. Lab tests to check for possible side effects are usually necessary. One of the most commonly used DMARDs is methotrexate (Rheumatrex). Other DMARDs include hydroxychloroquine (Plaquenil), sulfasalazine (Azulfidine), and drugs that block tumor necrosis factor (TNF), also called anti-TNF drugs. Etanercept (Enbrel) and etanercept-szzs (Erelzi) are examples of anti-TNF medication used to treat juvenile arthritis.
• Corticosteroids are also used to treat pain and swelling. Sometimes, before any other treatment is tried, steroids are given as an injection into the affected joint. In certain cases, the doctor might prescribe oral steroids (taken by mouth), but these are generally avoided in children because of adverse side effects, which may include poor growth and weight gain.
• Antimetabolites are a type of drug that is an aggressive therapy aimed at helping reduce further joint damage and preserve joint function. The new drug Xatmep is an oral form of methotrexate that can be used to treat polyarticular juvenile idiopathic arthritis in paediatric patients, usually when NSAIDs have been proven to be ineffective.

https://www.webmd.com/rheumatoid-arthritis/diagnosing-juvenile-arthritis

How Practicing Yoga Can Help Relieve Your Arthritis Pain Naturally

From prevention.com

Bonus: It will work wonders for your mood, too

Some who suffer from arthritis pain might assume that all types of exercise are off-limits, but yoga can help you feel better physically and mentally. Certified yoga therapist Steffany Moonaz, Ph.D., a professor and director of research at Maryland University of Integrative Health and the founder and director of Yoga for Arthritis, explains why it works.

How does yoga help with arthritis pain?

Pain is probably the biggest reason people with arthritis come to yoga—and pain is incredibly complicated. Physically, strengthening the supporting muscles around a joint may increase stability, which may reduce irritation within it. Or there could be nerve pain associated with degeneration—perhaps the spine is pressing on a nerve, leading to sciatica—and yoga may help alleviate it.

Some yoga practices affect the nervous system too. For example, research shows that deep breathing shifts us out of our stress response (which people with chronic pain are often in) and into the relaxation response, and that can reduce pain. There are also pain pathways between the body and the part of the brain where we interpret sensation; yoga may decrease pain by changing activity in those pathways.

Are there mental health benefits as well?

Yes. Arthritis includes more than 100 conditions that can affect just one joint or many. Some, such as systemic lupus erythematosus, are autoimmune inflammatory diseases associated with depressive symptoms.

Plus, living with chronic pain from arthritis can be incredibly frustrating, stressful, and depressing. Fortunately, several aspects of yoga, including the deep breathing mentioned above, can boost mental health. Another approach we use, progressive relaxation, can help calm muscles and our emotional state.

So what’s the best way to get started?

First, ask your doctor if there are any poses or movements you should be careful about. Then, if you’ve never done yoga before, ideally you want an instructor with experience and training in working with arthritis to guide you one-on-one (in person or over Zoom). They can offer specific tips on adapting a yoga practice for your body, which is going to be different if you have, say, rheumatoid arthritis in your hands than if you have osteoarthritis in your knees.

With these considerations, you can attend a class and let the instructor know about your condition. When choosing a class, look for descriptions like “gentle,” “beginner,” “therapeutic,” “restorative,” “adaptive,” “accessible,” and “for seniors.”

How long will it take to feel better?

There isn’t good research that says how much yoga you need to do, but think of yoga as a lifestyle rather than an activity. Proper posture, deep breathing, and morning stretches are things you can do all the time, and they’ll help more than if you do one class a week and nothing in between. It could take a month to see physical results, but you’ll likely feel better mentally right away.

This article originally appeared in the April 2021 issue of Prevention.

https://www.prevention.com/health/a35843625/yoga-for-arthritis/