Mummified body from 16th Century found in JAR could contain answer to arthritis

From express.co.uk

SCIENTISTS have been studying a mummified body from the 16th Century found in a jar which they believe could hold a cure to arthritis.

The well-preserved mummy, which was discovered in Ecuador, has bones containing traces of arthritis.
French pathologist Dr Philippe Charlier, who is studying the mummy, said: “The mummy of Guano may be the link missing that will allow us to understand how this disease, which was originally American, then became a global disease by hybridisation, by the confrontation between two worlds.”
Rheumatoid arthritis was first found in America before the arrival of Christopher Columbus.
The body is thought to be the guardian of then convent from 1560 to 1565 and around 90 years old when he died.

The mummy could solve questions about the widespread arthritis disease (Image: REUTERS )

The mummy was found in a jar between the walls of the convent Asunsion de Guano in Ecuador next to a mummified rat.
It was kept in a cold and dry environment so it was well preserved and kept out of reach from flies and larvae.
It was found following an earthquake in 1949 that caused the walls of the church to fall down.
Dr Charlier also said: “This is an extremely important mummy for the history of diseases.”

Arthritis is a term often used to mean any disorder that affects joints. Symptoms generally include joint pain and stiffness.
Across the world, 350 million suffer from the condition which can be debilitating.
Last year a 16th-Century child Mummy had the oldest known case of Hepatitis B.

At the time, science author Edward Holmes said: “The more we understand about the behaviour of past pandemics and outbreaks, the greater our understanding of how modern pathogens might work and spread, and this information will ultimately help in their control.”
A mummy is a deceased human or an animal whose skin and organs have been preserved by either intentional or accidental exposure to chemicals, extreme cold, very low humidity, or lack of air.

https://www.express.co.uk/news/world/1081221/mummy-ecuador-discovery-arthritis-disease

What to know about psoriatic arthritis of the knee

From medicalnewstoday.com

Psoriatic arthritis can develop in people who have psoriasis, and it affects many joints, including the knee.

Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes skin cells to build up and form patches of itchy, dry skin called plaques.
If a person with psoriasis develops psoriatic arthritis as well, it may cause one or more joints, such as the knee, to become stiff, inflamed, and painful.
Psoriatic arthritis is a long-term inflammatory disease. Symptoms may get progressively worse over time without effective treatment.
It is possible, however, to slow the progress of the condition with the correct treatment. Early diagnosis is vital to minimize damage to the joints.

How does psoriatic arthritis affect the knee?

Psoriatic arthritis does not follow the same pattern in everyone. The symptoms, such as stiffness and painful swelling, may appear differently in each person.
For example, some people with psoriatic arthritis of the knee will experience symptoms in one knee, while others will experience symptoms in both knees.
Psoriatic arthritis in the knee may also cause swelling in the ligaments, tendons, and synovial fluid in the surrounding area. Symptoms may also show up in the elbows, feet, and hands.
Some people may notice slight stiffness or pain in just one of their knees, whereas others may have severe pain in both knees that makes it difficult to walk.

Symptoms

Symptoms of psoriatic arthritis in the knee may vary from person to person. Common symptoms include:

• stiffness, especially after resting or sleeping
• swelling and inflammation in the knee and surrounding area
• pain in the joint, tendons, or ligaments
• feeling that the joint is stuck, difficult to move, or has a reduced range of motion
• warm or hot skin on the knee due to inflammation

A person may also experience other symptoms not confined to the knee, including:

• fatigue
• changes in the nails, such as pitting or separation
• pain and redness in the eyes
• swollen fingers or toes
• difficulty walking due to pain in the feet or Achilles tendon
• back pain

Symptoms may go through a pattern of relapses and remissions. A person may have a sudden attack where symptoms get worse over a short time.

After the flare-up, symptoms may improve as the condition goes into remission. The symptoms may stay away for a long time until the next flare-up.
The severity of a person's psoriasis symptoms does not always determine that of their psoriatic arthritis symptoms. For instance, a person may have severe psoriasis symptoms but only mild psoriatic arthritis symptoms.
Likewise, someone with only mild psoriasis may still experience more severe psoriatic arthritis.

Causes

Obesity may influence the development of psoriatic arthritis.

Psoriatic arthritis occurs because the body's immune system mistakenly attacks healthy cells and tissues.
In people with psoriasis, the faulty immune response causes the body to make new skin cells very quickly, which stack on top of each other and form plaques.
When the condition affects the joints, it leads to inflammation.
While there is no clear cause for psoriatic arthritis, researchers have found connections to both genetics and environment.
People whose close relatives have psoriatic arthritis may be more likely to also develop the condition.
A 2017 review that appears in The New England Journal of Medicine also noted other factors that may influence the development of psoriatic arthritis, such as:
obesity

severe psoriasis

nail disease

traumatic injuries

smoking

The condition may occur at any age, but according to the National Psoriasis Foundation, most people with psoriatic arthritis first notice symptoms about 10 years after their psoriasis begins. Symptoms often begin between the ages of 30 and 50.

Not all people with psoriasis develop psoriatic arthritis. In fact, psoriatic arthritis only occurs in about 30 percent of people who have psoriasis.

Diagnosis

Doctors can use imaging tools to help them diagnose psoriatic arthritis in the knee. Using MRI, X-rays, or an ultrasound of the knee may help them check for irregularities or signs of inflammation in the joint and surrounding tissues.
Doctors can use additional tests to rule out other common forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis.
They may also order blood tests to check for inflammation and specific antibodies from other types of arthritis.
In some cases, they may remove some fluid from the joint to help eliminate the possibility of other underlying conditions, such as infections.

Treatment

There is currently no cure for psoriatic arthritis. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and increasing the person's quality of life.
Treatments for psoriatic arthritis of the knee may include:

Anti-inflammatory medications

Doctors may prescribe prescription-strength nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroid injections for the knee.
Doctors are cautious about using steroid injections, however, as they may cause long-term side effects.

Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs

Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs may also slow the progression of psoriatic arthritis. These drugs work best when a person starts taking them as early as possible.

Newer versions of these drugs are called oral small molecules.
They can take a while to build up in the body and be effective, so it is important to continue taking them even if symptoms do not immediately improve.

Immunosuppressants and biologics

Doctors may recommend immunosuppressant or biologic drugs such as tumour necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors. These drugs may help block TNF, which has a key role in inflammation in the body.
Other promising biological agents called biologics may help put the disease into remission. These drugs work by blocking other chemicals in the blood that activate the immune system. This may halt an attack, prevent symptoms, and avert further joint and bone damage.
Biological agents may cause unwanted side effects in some people. Doctors will monitor a person for any adverse side effects.

Home remedies to ease inflammation

Taking NSAIDs may provide some relief from psoriatic arthritis.

Many people may find some relief from psoriatic arthritis in their knees using home remedies, including:

• taking over-the-counter NSAIDs such as ibuprofen (Advil) or naproxen (Aleve)
• alternating applying ice and heat packs
• gently exercising to promote range of motion
• gently stretching or taking yoga classes to help relax tight muscles

Some additional alternative therapies may be helpful to manage pain, but they may not work in everyone. These include acupuncture, massage, an anti-inflammatory diet, and electrical stimulation.

Doctors may also recommend that the person maintains a healthy weight through exercise and diet to reduce pressure and stress on their joints.
In some cases, wearing special shoes may help reduce symptoms in the feet and knees.

Summary

Psoriatic arthritis of the knee is a chronic condition. Successful treatment involves working closely with a healthcare provider to discuss any medications and their side effects to find a treatment for the pain and help stall the condition's progression.
Pain and inflammation from psoriatic arthritis in the knee can disrupt a person's everyday life. While there is currently no cure for psoriatic arthritis, there are many medications and home remedies available to help manage symptoms and reduce pain.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324338.php

‘Shock absorber’ implant boosts mobility in people with arthritis

From accessandmobilityprofessional.com

A special implant that is surgically fitted into patients’ knees has been found to increase mobility in people with arthritis and is now being trialled by NHS hospitals.
The device acts as a shock absorber and is designed to grant people suffering with arthritis better mobility without requiring major surgery to replace the joint.
Currently in the development phase, the device – called Atlas – is being used by a handful of NHS hospitals in Harrogate, Aintree, Rotherham, Warrington and Glasgow.
The implant works by acting like a car suspension and claims to remove the equivalent of two stones of pressure of strained knees.
Private treatment costs about £13,500 and its developers hope it will be used on younger, highly active, sporty people who place a lot of strain on their knees.
Around 60,000 people have their knees replaced in the UK each year but artificial joints often need to be replaced in active people every 10 years.
The Atlas device is attached to the femur with surgical screws and then another metal plate is attached to the tibia. A spring between the two metal plates made from compressible resin absorbs impact.  
Mike McNicholas, a consultant orthopaedic surgeon at Aintree University Hospital, told a national newspaper that one of the patients to receive the implant has since completed a number of Ironman triathlons.

https://www.accessandmobilityprofessional.com/shock-absorber-implant-boosts-mobility-in-people-with-arthritis/

Best Exercises To Ease Wrist Arthritis Pain

From bitneni.com/health

The hand is a common place in our body that can be affected by arthritis. As the condition tears away the cartilages of our joints, it makes the patient to feel pain, soreness and stiff. Simple activities such as gripping a pen, opening a jar or typing on your computer can become difficult and painful. Medical treatments for arthritis are available. Your physician may recommend pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications to help stop the symptoms from appearing. In severe cases, injection of steroids can be performed. There are also surgical procedures for wrist arthritis that can be performed if your condition cannot be stopped by simple treatment.
However, before you decide to undergo complex surgeries, you may want to consider doing several exercises to alleviate the swelling, stiffness and discomfort. Try the following exercises alongside the wrist paint medications recommended by your physician. The following exercises will aid with the flexion of the joints found in your wrists and hands and can be practiced anywhere at any time.

Make A Fist

Begin by holding the affected hand up in a straight position as if you are about to do a handshake but you don’t need to reach out your arm. Gradually curl your hand into a fist wherein your thumb must be seen outside of the fist. It is critical to do this as gently as you can so that squeezing the hand is unneeded. Once the fist has been completed, slowly open your hand and go back to its original position. Repeat these routine 10 times then switch to other arm if it is also affected.

Bending The Fingers

This exercise starts the same way as the previous exercise. Then bend your thumb down slowly until it reaches your palm. While you are doing this, keep the other fingers from moving. Hold the position for a few seconds then slowly bring your thumb back up. Repeat the exercise for each finger. Also do this on the other hand.

Stretching The Thumb

This exercise starts the same as the bending the fingers exercise but, rather than bending your thumb to reach the palm, your aim is to reach the base of your pinky finger. It is not required to touch the base of the pinky finger. However, you should stretch your thumb as far as it can reach. Hold the position for 10 seconds then slowly release the pressure. Repeat it 10 times and then switch to the other hand.

“O” Exercise

Also called the “claw” exercise, it begins with your affected hand held up in the sky as if you are about to give someone a high-five. Spread all your fingers apart then gently curve all your fingers until they touch each other. Remember that you don’t need to let them touch all at once. This exercise is best done when you feel your hands are getting painful and stiff.

Table Bend

Begin the exercise by doing the handshake position but rest the side of your hand on a table or any flat surface so that your thumb is point to the ceiling. Keep your thumb in that position while slowly folding your fingers inward. By the end of the exercise, you should be in a “thumbs up” pose. Keep this position for 10 seconds and then back to the starting position. Repeat 5 to 10 times then switch to the other hand.

Finger Lifting

Place one hand on a table with the palm facing down and fingers are wide spread. Gradually raise your thumb as high as possible while keeping your other fingers flat on the table. Hold the thumb in that position for 10 seconds then lower it to original position. Repeat the exercise for each of your fingers.

Wrist Stretching

When arthritis of the hand strikes, it does not just affect your fingers but your wrists as well. Start by stretching out one arm with your wrist loose and the palm of your hand hanging down facing inwards. Reach around using the other hand and press against the back of the loose hand. Slowly push the loose hand towards your body. Push until you feel the pressure from your wrists and arms then hold the position for 10 seconds before going back to original position. Repeat the exercise 10 times and then switch to the other hand.

https://bitneni.com/health/best-exercises-to-ease-wrist-arthritis-pain/

Manage your arthritis with exercise

From monitor.co.ug

Resty Nakimbugwe had battled painful knees for quite a while before she was diagnosed with arthritis. Due to the pain, movement became cumbersome with time. “Although I had lived an active life, I started slowing down because sometimes the pain would become intense,” Nakimbugwe says. With time, she even stopped bothering to take a simple walk. “That came with weight gain, which made the pain worse,” she shares.

Arthritis is when there is wear and tear of joints and cartilages. It affects people in various ways. However, Norbert Bwana, a physiotherapist at Physique Physiotherapy Services, says when one gets arthritis in the knees and ankles, weight loss is very important. “Excess weight would make the pain excruciating,” he says. However, since arthritis comes with pain, there are some exercises that these persons may not indulge in. Bwana says these include running where one has to wholly bear their weight.
Robert Ddamulira of Robbie Fitness, suggests some exercises that these persons can do in order to either reduce weight or keep the weight at bay.

As you consider starting an arthritis exercise program, understand what’s within your limits and what level of exercise is likely to give you results.  

Step-ups
Find a raised platform such as a step or board and slowly step on it as you raise the other leg. It is important that one does the exercise slowly so as not to make the knees or ankles hurt more.

Squats
These can be single leg squats or both legs. However, depending on the level of arthritis, the squats could be painful. Therefore, modifying them would be great to help in building strength and balance.
Start while seated; say on a chair, then stand, keeping your weight on your heels. That stops your knees from shifting forward. Then sit again and repeat. If that is not working, you could stand with a fitness ball between your back and a wall. Then press on the ball as you slowly lower yourself toward the floor.

Muscle strengthening
Bwana adds that apart from weight reduction, there is need to strengthen the muscles that support your knees and keep them flexible. Hence the need for muscle strengthening exercises. One of such exercises is one that strengthens the quadriceps (upper thigh muscles). However, these must be done without putting a lot of weight on your knees.
For example, lie on your back on the floor or any flat surface. Then bend one knee, placing your foot flat on the floor while keeping the other leg straight. Raise the straight leg to the height of the opposite knee. Repeat the work out for about 10-15 times in a slow manner.

Apart from strengthening the quadriceps, you also need to work on the hamstring curls - muscles along the back of your thigh. To do that, lie flat on your stomach and slowly bring your heels as close to your bottom as possible and maintain that position. Just like with the upper thigh muscles, do these for 15 minutes.
Apart from lying down, you can do the exercise while standing as you hold on to a chair or table and lift one leg at a time. With time, it will get easier making it possible to add ankle weights during the exercise. Gradually increase the weights to make the exercise more effective. However, Bwana advises against straining a lot as that will intensify the pain.

Knee braces
Should pain set in, Bwana suggests the use of knee braces. “There are various types, such as the elastic ones. Get the one that suits your level of arthritis to reduce the pain and the impact of the weight,” he advises.
One can also use a cold compress for 10 minutes, tops to relieve the pain. “Beyond 10 minutes may cause a cold burn,” Bwana cautions.

How will I know if I have overdone it?
If an hour after you have finished exercising, you are still aching or feel more sore than when you started, you may have overdone it. You should feel as if your muscles have done some work and have stretched a little after exercise, but you should not be exhausted or in more discomfort. Have a rest for the following day and start again the day after, but halve the amount of exercise. Then gradually increase it by a few minutes each day. If you have overdone it, particularly if a joint is hot or swollen, cover the joint with an ice pack wrapped in a damp towel for 10–15 minutes.

https://www.monitor.co.ug/Magazines/HealthLiving/Manage-your-arthritis-with-exercise/689846-4943488-15hlby2z/index.html

Arthritis: Four exercises to help relieve shoulder pain

From express.co.uk

Arthritis causes pain, stiffness and inflammation of certain joints. The most commonly affected joints are the hands, spine, knees and hips, but the shoulders can also be affected.
Shoulder pain can be caused by both rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis, which are the two most common types of arthritis in the UK.
While there is no cure for arthritis, exercising the affected joints can help relieve pain and symptoms.

Shoulder pain that is not linked with arthritis will usually disappear after a couple of weeks, but exercise can help speed up the process.

Here are four exercises, recommended by Versus Arthritis, to help relieve shoulder pain and strengthen the shoulder muscles.

Shoulder stretch
Standing in an upright position, squeeze your shoulder blades back and together, holding the pose for five seconds.
Pull your shoulder blades downwards and hold this position for another five seconds. Relax and repeat 10 times.

Door press version A
Stand in a doorway with your right elbow bent at a right angle and the back of your wrist against the right side of the door frame.

Try to push your arm outwards against the door frame and hold for five seconds. Do three sets of 10 repetitions with each arm.

Door press version B
Stand in a doorway with your left elbow bent at a right angle and the palm of your hand against the right side of the door frame.
Try to push the palm of your hand towards the door frame and hold for five seconds. Do three sets of 10 repetitions with each arm.

Shoulder circle
Stand with one hand resting on the back of a chair. Let the other arm hang down and try to swing it gently backwards and forwards in a circular motion.

Repeat about five times and try to do this two to three times a day.
“Although you should aim for a balance between rest and exercise, it’s best to remain generally active and try to exercise every day,” said Versus Arthritis.
Taking painkillers can help ease pain, while taking them before exercise can help you to stay active without causing extra pain.
If pain increases when exercising, stop doing it and seek medical advice, warns Versus Arthritis.

https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1068335/arthritis-rheumatoid-arthritis-osteoarthritis-symptoms-shoulder-pain-exercise

Rheumatoid arthritis warning - the feeling in your chest you should never ignore

From express.co.uk

RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS symptoms include joint pain, inflammation, and restricted movement. But the condition, which affects about 400,000 people in the UK, could also cause this feeling in the chest - are you at risk?

Rheumatoid arthritis is the second most common type of arthritis to be diagnosed in the UK.
It’s an autoimmune condition, where the immune system mistakenly attacks the lining of the joints.
It can leave the joints feeling sore and inflamed, and could even damage the surrounding cartilage or tendons.
You could be at risk of the condition if you have a severe pain in your chest, it’s been revealed.

People with rheumatoid arthritis are at risk of some symptoms in other parts of their body, including in their mouth.
They’re more at risk of an autoimmune condition, known as Sjogren’s syndrome.
The condition’s main symptoms include dry mouth and dry eyes, said the Arthritis Foundation.
“Everyone has a dry mouth now and then – from nerves, stress, too much exercise or too little water,” it said.
“But if your dry mouth doesn’t go away – no matter how much H2O you drink – the problem may lie with your salivary glands.
“If you have rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, you’re also at increased risk of Sjogren’s syndrome, an autoimmune disorder whose main symptoms are dry mouth and eyes.

“Dry mouth is uncomfortable and can present daily challenges, including the inability to taste or enjoy food.
“More important, it affects your oral health and digestion. Saliva contains antibacterial compounds that prevent tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath.”
Sjogen’s syndrome is a long term condition that affects part son the body that produce fluid, said the NHS.
As well as dry mouth and eyes, it can lead to tiredness, joint pain, vaginal dryness and dry skin.
Speak to a GP if you’re worried about the symptoms of Sjogren’s syndrome, it said.

Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms: Common symptoms include joint pain and restricted movement                                                                     (Image: GETTY Images)

Rheumatoid arthritis patients are also at risk of long-term other medical conditions.
Widespread inflammation is a common complication of rheumatoid arthritis, and is likely to affect the lungs, heart, eyes, and blood vessels.
Spotting the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis early is crucial, as early treatment could limit the risk of complications.
People most at risk of rheumatoid arthritis include women and smokers.
Those with a family history of the condition could also have a higher chance of developing the arthritis.

https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1039617/rheumatoid-arthritis-symptoms-joint-pain-signs-dry-mouth

Do You Have Arthritis? Stay Away From These Five Foods

From 360nobs.com

Arthritis has been a common disorder and it is usually characterized by inflammation and pain in the joint. While there are different types of arthritis including psoriatic, rheumatoid, and osteoarthritis – the treatment for all kinds usually focuses on reducing inflammation.
Researchers have however found that certain foods commonly trigger painful swelling, and your doctor may recommend that you try an elimination diet to determine which ones bother you the most. While no diet can cure arthritis, you can have reduced inflammation when you pay attention to your diet.
Here are a few foods that trouble people with arthritis.

Dairy Products
Dairy products contain a type of protein that scientists believe irritate the tissue surrounding your joints. It doesn’t bother everyone, but adults don’t really need much dairy in their diets anyway.
You can try eliminating dairy to see if your bad arthritis days decrease. It’s easy to replace the protein in dairy with foods like quinoa, lentils, nut butters, tofu, beans, and spinach.

Tobacco
Tobacco is not technically a food, but is something that is quite harmful to put into your body. Studies reveal that smokers are at a higher risk for rheumatoid arthritis, and it is damaging to joints, bones, and connective tissue. If you don’t have arthritis already, you may be able to prevent it by quitting smoking now.
If you have been diagnosed, definitely quit smoking! Not only does it cause painful symptoms, it makes arthritis treatment less effective and causes additional complications if you ever need surgery.

Alcohol
Drinking alcohol frequently makes you more likely to develop gout, a disease that can cause arthritis particularly in the feet. When you have gout, uric acid is not metabolized correctly, creating tiny crystals that irritate your joints and results in inflammation. Too much alcohol also forces your liver to work overtime, weakening it and causing yet more inflammation.

Added Sugars
A high daily intake of sugar can worsen your inflammation and that is exactly what you are trying to avoid. That’s because of a spike in advanced glycation end products (or AGEs), which occur when protein or fat in the body interacts with sugar.
AGEs are responsible for accelerated aging, increased risk factors for heart disease and diabetes, and of course, inflammation. Processed sugars can also cause the release of cytokines, the body’s inflammatory messengers.

MSG
Food additives such as monosodium glutamate are notably troublesome for people with arthritis. It is a salt-based powder added to many Asian foods like soy sauce, but not just Asian foods.
You are likely to find MSG in many salad dressings, soup mixes, fast foods, and deli meats. The main issue with it is probably the sodium content, which can cause water retention and swelling.

https://www.360nobs.com/2019/01/do-you-have-arthritis-stay-away-from-these-five-foods/

Home Remedy of the Week: 6 Natural Remedies to Reduce Gout Inflammation

From latestly.com

Arthritis is a wide term for more than 100 types of bone or joint pains. The pain related to arthritis can be mild to severe, with further symptoms such as swelling, stiffness and reduced motion range depending on the type of arthritis you are having. Gout is a type of arthritis that becoming increasingly common these days among people of old age. While the causes of Gout is similar to osteoarthritis, Gout is caused by high uric acid build-up in the blood. The problem increases when the Uric acid gets stored in joints and cause inflammation, pain and discomfort.

While you are always advised meet a professional and get on the expert treatment, a few natural remedies can also help relieve the symptoms of gout. Here are a few natural remedies that have known to help people having gout.

Foods Rich in Magnesium

Magnesium is an essential dietary mineral that your body needs. A deficiency in magnesium is known to be a significant cause behind the chronic inflammation in the body. Moreover, studies have proven that an appropriate amount of magnesium can also help lower the levels of uric acid to a healthy level.

Celery

Celery seeds or celery is known to have anti-inflammatory effects on the body and is also known to be a popular home remedy for gout. Including celery in the diet in form of sticks, extracts, supplements, juice etc. may be of good help.

Ginger

Ginger is anyway known to be a great food to help decrease any kind of inflammation in the body, and this culinary food and herb are also known for its ability to help relieve gout. Studies conclude that topically applying ginger can help reduce pain related to uric acid in gout cases. Moreover, Ginger is also known to reduce high levels of uric acid (hyperuricemia) and their serum uric acid level.

Hibiscus

The beautiful Hibiscus is known to have excellent health benefits as well. Consumed in forms of food and tea as well this garden flower serves as a great herbal remedy to help treat gout. Hibiscus has also been known to maintain lower uric acid levels.

Cold or hot packs

Treating the inflamed area with hot and cold packs or simply immersing your feet in hot or cold water can also help relieve gout. Sometimes an alternate hot and cold application may also help.

Epsom salt baths

Epsom salt baths have gained immense popularity in recent times. While Epsom salt baths have been known to have many health benefits, it can also help relieve gout and prevent gout attacks. Magnesium from Epsom salt can can’t be absorbed through the skin via an Epsom salt bath, and in turn, help ease inflammation.
Home remedies may not provide you with the "cure" for any health issues, but they do act as therapies that can help you heal apart from the primary treatment.

https://www.latestly.com/lifestyle/health-wellness/home-remedy-of-the-week-6-natural-remedies-to-reduce-gout-inflammation-570525.html

Knee pain at night, causes and home remedies

From belmarrahealth.com

Knee pain at night is a common problem, as by the time the night falls and you finally lay to rest, the day’s activities finally catch up to you, causing worsened knee pain. Nightly knee pain can keep you awake, disturbing your sleep and thus causing even greater health problems.
The likelihood of experiencing knee pain at night grows with age. Night-time pain is also commonly seen in overweight or obese individuals, or those put an added stress on the knee through strenuous activities.
To better understand knee pain at night, we will outline the common causes and share how you can treat knee pain at night from the comfort of your own home.

Knee pain at night causes

Common causes of knee pain at night include sprains and strains, anterior knee pain, menisci or cartilage damage, osteoarthritis tendonitis, bursitis, torn ligaments or tendons, bleeding into the joint, Osgood Shatler’s disease, gout, septic arthritis, overuse, and obesity.
Osteoarthritis: This is the most common cause of knee pain at night because when you lay down the muscles surrounding the knee begin to relax. When cartilage between the bones is thin, as seen in osteoarthritis, the bones end up rubbing against each other, causing pain.
Rheumatoid arthritis: Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease and a form of arthritis. It can contribute to knee pain at night as the immune system wrongfully attacks the joints, thus causing pain and deformity.
Gout: Another type of arthritis, gout is caused by excess uric acid, which forms crystals in the joints, causing pain and swelling. Gout flare-ups are quite common at night.
Trauma or obesity: Injuring the knee or being overweight can cause knee pain at night. Carrying extra weight puts added stress on the knees, so pain can emerge at night when you relax.
Certain medications: Certain medications like statins for cholesterol have been found to lead to night-time knee pain.
Ankylosing spondylitis: Another autoimmune disease, which typically involves the spine, but may also affects the knees, too. Pain in ankylosing spondylitis worsens when a person is lying down.
Bursitis: This is caused by repetitive movements that cause build-up of fluid over the knee joint. Pain worsens when the knee is bent. The condition is seen in professions like carpet layers and football players.
Septic arthritis: This is a serious painful condition, which is also followed by feelings of unwell and a fever. The knee becomes infected and built-up fluid must be drained for proper treatment.
Tendonitis: Overuse of the knee or injury to the connective tissue is often caused by jumping activities. Tendonitis can cause redness, swelling, and knee pain at night. Ice packs, pain relievers, and rest can often help heal tendonitis.

How to prevent knee pain at night

There are means to help you reduce knee pain at night, such as resting the knee and applying heat or ice to the area before heading to bed. You may also consider taking an over-the-counter pain medication to reduce inflammation prior to going to sleep.
During the day, take the time to exercise the leg muscles in order to strengthen the surrounding muscles of the knee for greater support.
If knee pain at night persists, you will then want to speak to your doctor to uncover exactly what the underlying issue is and get into any treatment plan they may put you on.

Home remedies for knee pain at night

Here are some further prevention tips and home remedies to help you better manage your knee pain at night.

• Avoid carrying heavy objects
• Wear knee guards when engaging in sports and other activities
• Stretch prior to any physical activity
• Use correct techniques when lifting, exercising, or performing any physical activity
• Use appropriate equipment for your size, strength, and ability
• Avoid overuse of the knees and make modifications to prevent it
• Ensure you exercise your legs and perform stretches whenever possible
• Avoid activities that put excess stress on the knees
• Wear proper footwear – avoid heels
• Replace shoes every 300 to 500 miles (480 to 800 kilometres) – this is roughly three months
• Rest your knee
• Apply ice or a heat pack
• Use compression wraps
• Keep the knee elevated
• Use an assistive device like a cane or crutches to avoid added stress on the knee until it begins to feel better
• Get a massage
• Don’t smoke – smoking delays healing as it limits blood circulation
• Take over-the-counter pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications

By following these tips, you can help promote relief to your aching knees. If the cause of your knee pain at night is more serious, ensure you follow your doctor’s orders and treatment plan.

https://www.belmarrahealth.com/knee-pain-at-night-causes-and-home-remedies/

The latest on arthritis: What we learned in 2018

From startsat60.com

Around 350 million people around the world are impacted by arthritis, a common condition that results in pain, discomfort and inflammation of the joints. Whether it’s osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis or other conditions including gout, psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis, there’s currently no cure.

Still, there’s been plenty of research in 2018 about possible treatments and causes of the painful condition. Starts at 60 is looking back at some of the biggest developments research and science made when it comes to arthritis.

Menopause could worsen symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis

A study of 8,189 women with rheumatoid arthritis published in the Journal of Rheumatology earlier this year found pre-menopausal women experience slower physical decline than women who are post-menopausal. As it is, women already experience this type of arthritis at a rate three times greater than men and researchers from Oxford University were keen to find out why.

Conducting an observational study, researchers discovered that menopause has a significant impact on the level and rate of functional decline in women with rheumatoid arthritis and is also associated with a worsening progression of the effects of the disease.

“Not only is this decline causing suffering for women, it is costly to both individuals and the healthcare system as a whole,” leader author Elizabeth Mollard said in a statement at the time.

Researchers believe this has something to do with hormonal levels, but further research is needed to determine why women with rheumatoid arthritis are more effected after menopause.

Bacteria in milk linked to rheumatoid arthritis

Researchers from the University of Central Florida discovered a strain of bacteria commonly found in beef and milk may be a trigger for developing rheumatoid arthritis in patients who are genetically at risk.
The bacteria, known as Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP), can spread to humans if they consume infected milk, beef or even produce that was fertilised by cow manure. It had also previously been linked to Crohn’s disease – which shares the same genetic predispositions as rheumatoid arthritis. Researchers believe people with this specific genetic mutation who unintentionally consume MAP are at greatest risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis.

“We don’t know the cause of rheumatoid arthritis, so we’re excited that we have found this association,” lead author Shazia Beg said. “But there is still a long way to go. We need to find out why MAP is more predominant in these patients – whether it’s present because they have RA, or whether it caused RA in these patients.”

Diabetes linked to elevated risk of arthritis

A study involving more than 109,000 people presented at this year’s European Association for the Study of Diabetes annual meeting in Berlin found patients with diabetes had 70 per cent higher chance of also living with rheumatoid arthritis.

Researchers analysed the links between musculoskeletal pain in patients with type 2 diabetes and found those with diabetes were 27 per cent more likely to report back pain and 29 per cent more likely to have shoulder and neck pain compared to those without diabetes.

It is thought the strong association between rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes is the result of chronic inflammation or steroid treatment.

New treatment targets cause rather than pain

Researchers from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) this year designed a new material that could improve treatment by administering drugs directly into the cartilage of those with osteoarthritis. The material can penetrate deep into the cartilage, allowing medication to enter bones that has the potential to heal damaged tissue, according to the study published in the Science Translational Medicine Journal.

Researchers said this is a new way of getting directly to the cells that experience the damage and treat them with therapeutics that could change their behaviour. Testing on rats, researchers were able to use the new material to deliver an experimental drug called insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) to prevent breakdown. Trials shows it was more effective than injecting the drug into the joint on its own without the material.

Researchers are now hopeful humans could also benefit from similar joint injections, although further trials are needed.

Yoghurt could prevent arthritis pain

Research published in The Journal of Nutrition found daily consumption of yoghurt has the potential to ease the pain associated with arthritis and that eating just one low-fat pot of the dairy product a day can calm chronic inflammation.

Participants in the study were given an 8oz (226.7g) tub of low-fat yoghurt before a 900-calorie breakfast of sausages, hash browns and muffins. It was found these participants had lower levels of inflammatory markers in their blood stream than those who didn’t eat a yoghurt before their meal.

Not only did the study find low-fat yoghurt can lessen inflammation, it could also be used as a safer alternative to aspirin, naproxen, hydrocortisone and other medications used to treat arthritis, asthma and an array of other health issues including inflammatory bowel disease, obesity, metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease.
It’s always important to talk about arthritis with your doctor and to discuss potential treatments before trying them.

https://startsat60.com/health/health-issues/arthritis/the-latest-on-arthritis-treatments-causes

Arthritis: New research reveals these four everyday foods could worsen the condition

From express.co.uk

ARTHRITIS is a lifelong condition, but making certain dietary changes can improve symptoms. New research into autoimmune conditions has shown four everyday foods could worsen arthritis and other health problems.

The research, conducted by food intolerance testing specialist YorkTest Laboratories, found autoimmune disorders can be affected by food such as milk, egg whites, wheat and rice.
An autoimmune disorder is one in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks the body.
Some forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis, are autoimmune disorders, as are certain skin conditions such as psoriasis.
In the study, 100 patients with autoimmune diseases were compared with 25 people without any autoimmunity.

Researchers said they could find a “clear” difference in food intolerance profiles, with sufferers displaying a much greater reaction to certain foods.
The findings have now prompted calls for food intolerance testing to become standard on the NHS for patients with autoimmune diseases.
“A food intolerance test is very important tool in patients with AI disease and should be performed in each patient to tailor an individual diet programme,” said Dr Francis Coucke, lead researcher of the study.
“If properly followed, this could relieve symptoms and probably stop or slow the progression of the autoimmune disease.”
“More research on great scale and multi centre around this topic is mandatory and urgent.”

                                Arthritis is an autoimmune condition (Image: Getty Images)

The findings back up a study conducted earlier this year by YorkTest Laboratories.
This study examined patients with arthritis, psoriasis, Crohn’s disease, fibromyalgia, multiple sclerosis and a skin condition called urticaria.
Of the arthritis sufferers, 74 per cent of the 130 examined showed improvements in symptoms three months after changing their diet.
Of 51 people with multiple sclerosis, three-quarters reported improved symptoms, while 88 per cent of the 42 psoriasis patients noticed improvements.
Ten out of 11 Crohn’s disease sufferers saw improvements in symptoms, as did eight of 24 patients with fibromyalgia.

Seventy-six per cent of the 29 patients with urticaria also reported improvements.
“The immune system is constantly exposed to challenges from food ingested and the gut microbiota,” said scientific director Dr Gill Hart.
“If immune reactive compounds are similar in structure to those of the body's auto-antigens, the production of antibodies that react not only to foods, but also the body's own tissues could result.”
“A role for IgG-guided elimination dietary change in benefiting those with autoimmune conditions makes sense immunologically.”
“Our own data has shown that this approach could potentially benefit many suffering from autoimmune disorders. Sadly this approach is yet to be adopted into mainstream care, but it is something that is vitally important.”
YorkTest Laboratories’ findings were revealed during a presentation at the Institute for Functional Medicine’s Annual International Conference in Florida.

https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1063121/arthritis-pain-symptoms-rheumatoid-arthritis-knee-milk-eggs-rice-wheat

All I Want for Christmas Is a Cure for Arthritis

By Eileen Davidson

I am grateful to live in one of the mildest parts of Canada when it comes to harsh winters. I do wish I didn’t feel those cold brisk days in my bones. I wish I could enjoy winter without extra pain. I wish rainy days didn’t make me feel so foggy and tired.

Winter months are a struggle with autoimmune arthritis. How I have come to almost fear the colder months. Please get your flu shot or stay in if you are sick. You can’t always tell who has a weakened immune system; a simple cold can affect us significantly.

For Christmas I wish I didn’t have limitations and adversity in life. I wish there was a cure for arthritis.

Sometimes, though, it is adversity that teaches you the true meaning of gratitude and support.

My grandmother passed away days after Christmas. I wish Christmas didn’t remind me of her passing and how my sense of family also died with her. I wish Christmas wasn’t the last time I saw my aunt who passed away the same week I was diagnosed with the same autoimmune form of arthritis.

I wish I could work and pay for my son’s Christmas presents. It wasn’t long ago where I could, but not since my diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis which landed me on the number one cause of long-term disability in Canada. His birthday is 12 days before Christmas which is added celebration as well as stress, cost and energy during the cold busy December. I am grateful to have my son to spoil during this month. He makes the cold evenings at home full of love, warmth and laughter. I am grateful my son at 5 years old was able to tell me he understood I can’t work because I am sick.

I wish I could be healthy and strong enough, financially stable enough to take him to all the Christmas events around the city. I too want to be amazed by the lights, scents and love Christmas can generate in the air. I can barely keep up with my own self-care routine with how busy this season gets. I am running on near empty. I wish my pain didn’t increase if I am not careful not to overdo it. I wish treating my disease wasn’t so expensive, others wouldn’t make comments on the price we are willing to pay for some relief or to just keep moving. I wish others understood the guilt that comes with being chronically ill.

I wish dating wasn’t so difficult as a chronically ill single mother. I wish men saw me for me, not that I have a disease. I wish I wasn’t alone this Christmas. I wish my invisible illness didn’t make me invisible to others. I wish it didn’t make me afraid to start anything because my fear of rejection.

I am thankful this year my father is in town visiting from China. He is approaching 70 and has more energy than me nearing 33. I am grateful for the help; I wish having company didn’t tend to trigger fatigue and I could keep up with my senior father. I wish I was used to being in pain with someone other than my son around. I wish pain didn’t make me feel this vulnerable and weak.

I am thankful those around me have adapted with me and know that when I ask for help, it is difficult for me to do so but it is the physical limitations I now live with, though invisible, that do require me to ask for help. I am grateful for my son’s father setting up the Christmas tree and lights; he knew that would be too physically demanding on me now, even though I have done it in the past. I wish my disease wasn’t progressive.

I am thankful for Amazon with their affordable toy prices and to-my-door delivery. Having debilitating chronic fatigue can make the Christmas rush even more difficult; I’ve learned to pace myself so I can get everything done and not toy too much with fatigue.

I am thankful for the Christmas Bureau, but not thankful for the people who ruin it for others. I wish there was more for us single disabled parents because we are a demographic who gets looked over quite often, even more so when your disability is invisible. I wish people weren’t so quick to judge me because I have tattoos; it’s not the reason I can’t work. It’s the debilitating autoimmune disease you can’t see inside me.

I wish my hands were strong enough to use the garlic press. I wish chopping vegetables didn’t make my wrists sore. I wish standing didn’t make my knees, hips and back ache. I wish looking down to concentrate on what I am doing didn’t make my neck sore. I wish I didn’t have difficulty lifting the turkey out of the oven.

I am thankful for pre-cut vegetables. I am thankful for my electric mixer. I am thankful for all pre-made options that don’t taste like garbage or are full of garbage. I am grateful for the foods that are also a medicine and don’t irritate my stomach or pain levels.

I wish there was a cure for arthritis. I wish others understood the disease, showed us more compassion and understanding. For now, I will just have to be grateful for what I have until that cure comes. I am grateful for those who have dedicated their time to research and finding treatments for those living with arthritis.

https://www.yahoo.com/news/want-christmas-cure-arthritis-235305592.html