Be well: 6 tips to preserve your knees as long as possible after an arthritis diagnosis

From foxnews.com

Osteoarthritis has no cure, but a joint surgeon says symptoms can be managed

About one in four U.S. adults has been diagnosed with arthritis, according to the CDC — and the knee is the joint that is most commonly affected.

With arthritis of the knee, the cartilage gradually breaks down until bone is rubbing directly on bone.

"When the bones in the knee joint rub together, it causes friction that makes the knees hurt, become stiff or swell," said Dr. Nakul Karkare, a joint replacement surgeon at Complete Orthopaedics in New York. 

Although there is no cure for arthritis, there are treatments that can relieve symptoms and slow the condition’s progress.

Fox News Digital spoke to the doctor, who shared six tips to help preserve the knees as long as possible after an arthritis diagnosis.

1. Maintain a healthy weight

The more you weigh, the more weight must be supported through your knees, said Karkare. 

About one in four U.S. adults has been diagnosed with arthritis, per the CDC — and the knee is the joint that is most commonly affected. (iStock)

"This additional strain on your knees exacerbates arthritis symptoms," he said. "Losing weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help relieve stress on your knees."

2. Stay active

Arthritis can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, which can contribute to weight gain and increased pain, the doctor said.

To break this vicious cycle, he recommended trying low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling and walking.

"These activities can help strengthen the muscles around your knees without putting excessive pressure on the joints," he said. 

"If cycling causes soreness in front of the knee, try moving the seat up to decrease the stress on the underside of the knee cap."

Engaging in regular strength training can also help stabilise the knees, said Karkare.

     Engaging in regular strength training can also help stabilise the knees, said Karkare.  (iStock)

He said focusing on exercises that target the quadriceps, hamstrings and calf muscles can provide better support to the joint. 

"Before exercising, make sure to warm up and perform gentle stretches," the doctor suggested. "This can help improve flexibility and reduce the risk of injury."

High-impact exercises such as running or jumping should be avoided, as these can worsen knee pain. 

3. Use assistive devices and braces

Although many people resist using a cane due to associations with aging and disability, canes can benefit individuals with hip or knee pain, enhancing stability and comfort, the doctor said. 

He recommended using a cane on the opposite side of the affected joint, which will reduce pressure, aid movement and minimize pain flare-ups during activities like shopping.

Walkers and canes also help to prevent falls, while braces can correct flexible deformities and alleviate knee pain.

4. Choose supportive footwear

Wearing shoes with proper cushioning and arch support can help absorb shock and reduce strain on the knees, Karkare said. 

Those with arthritis should try low-impact exercises like swimming, cycling and walking, said a joint replacement surgeon in New York.  (Cyberguy.com)

"If you have flat feet, custom orthotics from your podiatrist will improve limb alignment," he added.

5. Try injections for pain relief

There are two types of injections for arthritis pain relief: gel and cortisone.

Cortisone injections, which contain synthetic corticosteroids, swiftly reduce inflammation, said Karkare.

In contrast, "gel" or "rooster comb" injections, which use hyaluronic acid, have a different mechanism of action — they are intended to alleviate joint pain and enhance mobility in osteoarthritis patients.

"While there is significant interest in injection using platelet-rich plasma and stem cells, further research is required to establish their effectiveness," Karkare said. 

"Moreover, these injections are not covered by insurance."

6. Stay informed

When arthritis pain no longer responds to other treatments, Karkare said some newer, minimally invasive surgical techniques are available. 

                           There are two types of injections for arthritis pain relief: gel and cortisone. (iStock)

"As an example, custom knee replacement is a surgical technique that involves replacing a damaged knee joint with a custom-designed implant through smaller incisions, minimizing tissue damage," he said.

"This approach aims to improve implant fit and alignment by using advanced imaging to create a personalized 3D model of the patient's knee."

The benefits of this procedure may include quicker recovery, reduced post-operative pain and potentially better long-term outcomes, he said.

Approximately 43% of people with osteoarthritis in the U.S. are 65 or older, while 88% are 45 or older, according to the Osteoarthritis Action Alliance. 

For knee arthritis, however, the annual incidence is highest between 55 and 64 years old. 

More than half of individuals with symptomatic arthritis of the knee are younger than 65.

https://www.foxnews.com/health/be-well-6-tips-preserve-knees-long-possible-arthritis-diagnosis

All you need to know about turmeric

From hollandandbarrett.com

What is turmeric, and what are the benefits? Find out all about turmeric food supplements, including what it does, the benefits of taking it and how much you might need.

Turmeric is responsible for helping to make a lot of good stuff happen. So, if you’ve ever wondered, ‘is turmeric good for you’, then you’ll be pleased to hear that there’s lots of evidence to suggest that it is. In so many ways.

For more on why turmeric is so good for you, keep reading. But first, before we start focusing on the many benefits of turmeric, we’ll spend a brief minute explaining what it actually is.

What is turmeric and what are the benefits?

Turmeric is an orangey, yellow-coloured spice that comes from the turmeric plant. It has been used for thousands of years as both a cooking ingredient and a medicinal herb. It’s the curcuminoids, also known as curcumins, that give turmeric its striking colour - so much so, they’re often used to colour food and cosmetics.

Extracted from the root of the turmeric plant, it’s part of the Zingiberaceae family, which also includes ginger. Interestingly, the turmeric plant is related to ginger and originates from India and other parts of Asia and Central America. Using turmeric dates all the way back to 4,000 years ago in India.

Historically, it’s mainly been used in Ayurvedic medicine, primarily in South Asia, for many conditions, including breathing problems, rheumatism, serious discomfort and fatigue.

You can buy turmeric powder, tea, essential oil and scrubs. You can also take turmeric tablets, too.

Like most spices, turmeric goes by more than one name - turmeric root and Indian saffron. However, it’s not to be confused with the Javanese turmeric root either which, despite the reference to turmeric, is something else entirely.

What is curcumin and what does it do?

The compound curcumin, which gives turmeric its yellow colour, has been isolated by scientists as turmeric’s most important active ingredient.

Studies show curcumin has anti-inflammatory properties and may support digestion, too – but more on that later.

Between 2-6% of turmeric consists of curcuminoids, active plant compounds, most of which is curcumin.

Turmeric and black pepper

Heard about taking turmeric and black pepper together? There’s a good reason. Scientists have discovered that black pepper helps your body absorb curcumin, so you may sometimes find turmeric and black pepper together.

6 benefits of turmeric

What is turmeric good for?

Traditional Ayurvedic medicine, a holistic approach to medicine that originated in India, has long praised the health and wellbeing benefits of turmeric, and now Western studies are discovering the following:

It may help manage bodily discomfort

There are many turmeric benefits for men and women, but our first pick is its ability to help with the reduction of bodily discomfort. A 2013 study in the journal Biofactors found that curcumin may be responsible for helping with discomfort and swelling. Researchers say it has this effect by blocking enzymes and other proteins that create an inflammatory response in the body.

It may support your joints

Another benefit of turmeric is that it may help to protect your joints from wear and tear thanks to curcumin contents. This includes helping to ease symptoms of arthritis like joint movement and stiffness, according to a 2016 study in Journal of Medicinal Food.

The curcumins in turmeric have soothing properties, so much so, that they are said to help improve the symptoms of arthritis.

According to research carried out on people with rheumatoid arthritis, curcumin may be even more effective than some anti-inflammatory drugs. What’s more, many other studies have looked at the effects of curcumin on arthritis and noted improvements in various symptoms.

It may ease digestion problems

Curcumin may also be able to help support gut health, including managing excess gas, abdominal discomfort, and bloating. A 2013 trial by the University of Nottingham found curcumin stimulates the gallbladder to produce bile, an essential substance needed to break down fat in foods.

It may support skin health

As well as having soothing properties, turmeric is also said to have antioxidant properties, making it effective for skin types and conditions, such as blemish prone skin and psoriasis. The soothing properties can help calm sensitive skin.

You can also use it, or different variations of it, like face cleansers, skin masks and night creams within your skincare regimes. This can regulate oil production, cleanse the skin, and even, manage facial hair.

Turmeric can also be used for pimples, thanks to its antiseptic and antibacterial properties that help with breakouts and can help manage redness and scarring.

For glowing skin, why not give our lemon and turmeric face mask a go? You only need three ingredients to create it, it takes just six steps to make and, the good news is, two of them are available here online and in-store.

It may help with acid reflux

You may not have put the two together until now, but turmeric may also help with acid reflux and gastrointestinal problems, too.

Research into acid reflux and gastroesophageal reflux disease has shown these conditions may be caused by inflammation and oxidative stress and that they can be managed with antioxidants and supplements with soothing properties.

Turmeric, and its extract curcumin, are both said to possess these properties. Because of this, turmeric may help with acid reflux.

Meanwhile, a separate study revealed that the soothing effects of curcumin manage the risk of oesophageal issues.

It may help with symptoms of depression

It’s believed that curcumin might be able to help ease depression and enable antidepressants to work more effectively.

Some studies says there’s a connection between depression and chronic inflammation, suggesting that chronic inflammation and depression can aggravate one another.

It’s thought that antioxidants, such as curcumin, can help with the symptoms of depression by managing the chronic inflammation that’s been highlighted by wider research.

How much turmeric is safe to take?

There is no reference nutrient intake (RNI) for turmeric tablets, but be careful to not exceed the dosage stated on any label. However, there is an RNI for curcumin. The World Health Organisation advises up to 3mg per kg of bodyweight of curcuminoids, which includes curcumin.

The average daily intake in an Indian diet is much higher, between 60 and 100mg per kg of bodyweight.

For the best effect, you should have turmeric in combination with black pepper. A 2017 study by USA’s Central Michigan University reported that an important compound in black pepper, piperine, can promote the body’s ability to absorb curcumin by 2000%.

Children under 12 years old and women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should not take turmeric, as its safety in these groups not been proven.

How to take turmeric

Fortunately, there are lots of ways to use turmeric. Some people believe that the best way to take turmeric is to mix the powder with liquid to form a drink. You can do this with water (but it may not taste great) or you could add it to a smoothie so that it’s a little easier on the palette.

But that’s not all. Turmeric is also available in capsule, gummy and liquid form – so you can find the ideal format and flavour to suit your tastes.

Check out our turmeric coffee recipe if you’re not sure where to start. Not a coffee fan? Don’t worry.

What are the side effects of taking turmeric?

So, what are the side effects of taking turmeric? While they’re considered to be rare, some side effects when taken in large amounts can include:

• Upset stomach, including diarrhoea
• Yellow stools
• Headache
• Rash
• The Final Say
• Now you know what turmeric is and why it’s good for you, will you add it to your diet? 
• With so many different types to choose from, you’ll find the ideal turmeric supplement for your taste buds.
• Before taking any supplements or minerals, it’s best to make sure you’re getting all the nutrients through your diet first.
• Food supplements must not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle.

https://www.hollandandbarrett.com/the-health-hub/vitamins-and-supplements/what-is-turmeric/?lid=0g86wrnu7vq3&utm_source=Braze&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=UK_Campaign_Email_FY23P10WK46_Newsletter_Turmeric101Resend_&utm_term=UK_Campaign_Email_FY23P10WK46_Newsletter_Turmeric101Resend_%2525%253Dv%2528%2540GA_target%2529%253D%2525%2525&Braze_ID=6418b518b3d8af0001faf690 

What Is Gout? 6 Signs, Symptoms And Treatment Of This Painful Inflammatory Arthritis

From india.com 

Gout is a kind of inflammatory arthritis that makes your joints hurt and swell. The accumulation of uric acid in your body leads to gout

Gout, an instance of arthritis, is brought on by the build-up of uric acid crystals. If neglected, this incapacitating and excruciating condition can cause joint deterioration and be very unpleasant. Your big toe joint is most frequently impacted by gout. But it can also impact your elbows, hands, wrists, ankles, knees, and feet. Gout bouts often last one to two weeks. It’s possible that some flares continue longer than others and that some of them are associated with more severe symptoms.

If you have a family history of gout or certain genetic diseases, you may be more prone to develop gout. It’s possible that having diabetes, renal illness, or high blood pressure will increase your chance of developing gout. The symptoms and diagnosis of gout may be influenced by your prescription drugs, lifestyle choices including drinking, and dietary habits.

GOUT SYMPTOMS YOU MUST BE AWARE OF

Gout episodes can occur unexpectedly, frequently overnight, and are quite painful. A gout episode may cause the following symptoms in your afflicted joints:

1. Intense pain
2. Discolouration or redness
3. Stiffness
4. Swelling
5. Tenderness
6. Warmth or feeling the joint is on fire

GOUT TREATMENT AND PREVENTIVE MEASURES

Gout symptoms at this stage can be effectively controlled and treated with dietary modifications, medication, and lifestyle changes. If left untreated, gout can worsen and cause permanent joint damage, persistent pain, and disability.

Gout is often treated by controlling flare-up symptoms and limiting your intake of purine-rich foods and beverages.  Purine-rich foods and beverages, such as sugary drinks and sweets, alcohol, certain seafood, and even organ meat, are more prone to create excessive uric acid levels in your body, which cause gout.

In the first 24 hours after they begin, gout symptoms usually reach their climax. They will usually start to get better gradually without any medical intervention. You should still visit your doctor for a diagnosis and to rule out any problems.

https://www.india.com/health/what-is-gout-6-signs-symptoms-and-treatment-of-this-painful-inflammatory-arthritis-6230058/

Six Treatment Options for Psoriasis and Psoriatic Arthritis

From healthline.com

A number of treatment options, from topical medications to immunosuppressants, are available to help relieve symptoms of psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. Your doctor can help you determine which treatment is best for you.

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Overview

Many people living with psoriasis also experience psoriatic arthritis. Although the conditions are closely linked, each has its own recommended first-line treatment.

New guidelinesTrusted Source recommend a “treat to target” approach. That means a treatment plan has more flexibility based on a person’s individual preferences. First, you and your doctor determine a specific goal and how to measure progress. Then your doctor works with you to select treatments.

Together with your doctor you may be able to choose a treatment that improves symptoms or stops progression of the disease.

1. TOPICAL MEDICATIONS

Seventy to ninety percent of people with psoriasis experience itch associated with the condition, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation. Psoriatic itch may feel like burning or biting on the skin.

Topical hydration, such as rich moisturizers and scale-softening lotions, may ease this symptom.

Some find greater relief from a topical steroid like hydrocortisone, calamine lotion, camphor, or benzocaine. Although these topicals may relieve your itch, they may also cause dryness.

If these aren’t working for your case, there are prescription options to treat psoriatic itch. These include antihistamines, steroids, capsaicin, and topical anaesthetics.

2. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)

For both psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis, NSAIDs are a common first-line treatment. Typically available over the counter, NSAIDs include aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil), and naproxen sodium (Aleve). Your doctor may provide a prescription-strength NSAID if appropriate.

NSAIDs are anti-inflammatory medications. They reduce joint pain and swelling, therefore reducing symptoms of psoriatic arthritis (PsA).

Some people experience stomach irritation from NSAIDs. It’s important to take them with food. Other possible side effects of long-term use may include liver and kidney damage and heart problems.

3. DISEASE-MODIFYING ANTIRHEUMATIC DRUGS (DMARDS)

DMARDs reduce immune system activity, which reduces inflammation. Unlike NSAIDs and topical medications, which treat symptoms of PsA, DMARDs stop the disease progression and, in some autoimmune conditions, rebalance the immune system. This treatment not only relieves pain but it should also slow joint damage.

This class of drugs can be nonbiologic or biologic. Nonbiologic DMARDs are widely prescribed. The most common is methotrexate. This medication reduces psoriasis symptoms and may help with PsA.

Methotrexate has several potential side effects, including:

• nausea
• vomiting
• lung inflammation
• low white blood cell count
• liver damage

Leflunomide and sulfasalazine are other nonbiologic DMARDs that may also work against psoriatic arthritis, although their effectiveness in people living with PsA has not yet been shown.

There are also biologic medications that are considered DMARDS, such as Humira and Remicade.

4. BIOLOGICS

Biologics are medications made from biological materials. They mimic normal immune system cells and products. They can be created using sources such as proteins, antibodies, and cells.

Enbrel, Cosentyx, and Humira are three biologics used to treat psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis. These medications are highly targeted, which means they may have fewer side effects than other treatment options.

Since these drugs work by blocking a protein important to the immune system, they reduce immune function. This means you may have a higher risk of infections.

5. IMMUNOSUPPRESSANTS

PsA is the result of an overactive immune system and is considered an autoimmune disease. That’s why a class of immunosuppressant drugs may slow the disease by reducing inflammation and inhibiting the immune attack against your own cells.

Examples of immunosuppressants are azathioprine and cyclosporine. Both medications may ease the joint pain and swelling characteristic of PsA.

Each also has potential side effects. For cyclosporine, side effects can include nausea, vomiting, liver and kidney problems, and birth defects. Azathioprine may cause stomach irritation and rash.

Like biologics, these drugs work by blocking the immune system. This means you may have a higher risk of infections.

6. ALTERNATIVE AND COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES

PsA and psoriasis are long-term conditions, so it’s common for people to seek alternative or complementary therapies to improve their physical and emotional well-being.

Stress often triggers psoriasis flares. Using mind-body techniques such as meditation, yoga, and tai chi may assist with overall health and potentially improve your symptoms.

Nutrition, diet, and exercise can also help keep PsA symptoms under control. Keeping a healthy weight reduces pressure on the joints and lowers systemic inflammation. In general, exercising releases feel-good endorphins, which may improve your overall mood.

Lastly, physical or occupational therapies are recommended for PsA patients to maintain joint health and improve their quality of life.

TAKEAWAY

Your doctor can help determine the best treatment plan for you, based on your symptoms. Some people find it helpful to monitor their symptoms and treatments in a journal. Over time, you’ll discover what medications work well to manage your psoriasis and PsA.

https://www.healthline.com/health/psoriatic-arthritis/moderate-to-severe/know-rx-biologics/6-treatment-options?slot_pos=article_1&utm_source=Sailthru%20Email&utm_medium=Email&utm_campaign=psoriasis&utm_content=2023-08-15&utm_term=s:hl_n:pso&apid=39239719&rvid=058431b717dcfa59c0cdd27cd0a9313769e8b3dd4ad59d88efd0ded7ddb4774e