Five Silent Signs Of Arthritis You Should Stop Ignoring

From 360nobs.com

Have you noticed a few annoying aches and pains in your joints but you generally dismiss them. Watch it! They could be signs of age—or arthritis symptoms. Here’s how to tell the difference.

Joint pain, swelling, stiffness, and grinding joints are all classic arthritis symptoms. However, there are some silent early signs that may initially appear insignificant, but in truth indicate the onset of arthritis.
The first step is understanding the difference between the two main types of arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a concern for all ages. This autoimmune disease triggers inflammation that attacks the joints, triggering swelling, tenderness, pain, and limited mobility. RA can also target organs.
Osteoarthritis (OA) on the other hand, has similar symptoms to RA like stiffness and joint pain, but it’s brought on by wear and tear on the joints. OA generally only develops later in life, and the symptoms are limited to the joints.

Fatigue
Fatigue is usually one of the first symptoms of Rheumatoid arthritis. It can begin weeks or months before other symptoms appear, and is often accompanied by “not feeling right” or mild depression.
Sometimes this is just a reaction to the raised inflammation levels in your body, but occasionally it could indicate an underlying problem associated with RA.

Low-grade fever
If you have a persistent low-grade fever, accompanied by some of the other early symptoms of RA, this might indicate the beginnings of the disease. It’s usually not high or spiking fevers, but you may feel a bit warm. Unexplained fever, especially if it persists, is a reason to seek medical attention.

Poor Appetite and Weight Loss
Having uncontrolled inflammation can suppress your appetite. Weight loss is usually not very drastic, but patients may notice that they don’t have quite the appetite for food and thus start losing weight. There’s another reason that early RA might result in losing some weight. Because the inflammation in your body increases your metabolic rate, you burn calories more easily.

Dry Eyes and Mouth
Problems with the eyes are a common side effect of RA, and the symptoms may show before the classic arthritis symptoms kick in. RA can cause the surface of the eye to become inflamed (episcleritis). Usually, it’s just a mild redness and irritation at first.
Another eye symptom of RA can be a reduced tear fluid—called Sjögren’s Syndrome. People will notice that have a gritty sensation in the eye, or feel like there’s some dust stuck in it. They’re not producing as much tear fluid.

Stiffness
Many people with RA experience morning stiffness. When they wake up in the morning they feel like they can’t move and naturally think this is part of growing old. Lack of movement causes the joint to seize up; stiffness can also happen after napping or sitting.

https://www.360nobs.com/2018/11/five-silent-signs-of-arthritis-you-should-stop-ignoring/

12 Essential Oils for Arthritis Pain

From care2.com
By: Michelle Schoffro Cook

Arthritis pain can have a profound effect on a person’s quality of life, affecting the ability to fall and stay asleep, having a slow start in the morning and the ability to complete everyday tasks. Fortunately, essential oils can help. Here are my top picks for essential oils to address arthritis pain:

Black pepper oil (Piper nigrum)

Black pepper essential oil is a powerful oil that has warming properties when diluted and applied to arthritic joints. Its natural analgesic compounds immediately start working to reduce pain levels. Use diluted in small amounts topically for healing joint pain.

Camphor (Cinnamomum camphora)

The oil of the camphor tree has been used for centuries as a traditional remedy against pain and inflammation. It has been found to have antiseptic, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic and anti-infective properties, all of which make it an excellent choice in the treatment of arthritis pain. Most over-the-counter pain-relieving products that contain camphor usually contain a synthetic version that does not have the therapeutic properties of real camphor and are best avoided altogether. Because it is a potent oil, always dilute camphor and conduct a 48-hour skin patch test.

Clove oil (Eugenia carophyllata, Eugenia aromatic or Syzygium aromaticum)

Great for rheumatoid and osteoarthritis, clove oil is a potent anti-pain oil. As a result, it should be used sparingly and heavily diluted. Avoid use if you have extremely sensitive skin.

Copaiba (Copaifera reticulata, officinalis, coriacea, or langsdorffi)

This little-known rainforest tree produces one of the best pain relievers I’ve ever come across, particularly when it is in essential oil form. It contains cannabinoids that are similar to those in marijuana but do not have any mind-altering effects. Some varieties on the marketplace are minimally effective so you’ll want to make sure you’re getting a high-quality brand. Also, most companies cut the trees down to extract the oil when that is entirely unnecessary and a tragedy for the rainforests and planet as a whole. Choose a copaiba product that is harvested by tapping the trees similarly to how maple trees are tapped.

Ginger oil (Zingiber officinalis)

As an essential oil applied topically to the skin, ginger stimulates circulation in the joints, alleviates stiffness, warms the joints and helps reduce pain levels. Do not use if you have highly sensitive skin.

Lavender oil (Lavandula angustifolia or Lavandula officinalis)

While lavender can help with joint stiffness, it really shines when pain is keeping you up at night. You can apply it directly to the joints or diffuse into the air for up to an hour before bed to help relax your nervous system and help you sleep. Avoid use during pregnancy particularly if you have a history of miscarriage.

Lemongrass oil (Cymbopogon citratus or Cymbopogon flexuosus)

Lemongrass helps tone the connective tissues and can be helpful when the tendons no longer hold the joints with precision, which can cause excessive friction and arthritis pain. Be sure to conduct a skin test first as this oil can irritate those with highly sensitive skin.

Marjoram oil (Origanum majorana or Majorana hortensis)

Applied to affected joints, marjoram helps to cleanse the joints of the by-products of inflammation. Avoid use during pregnancy or if you suffer from epilepsy.

Peppermint oil (Mentha piperita)

A powerful anti-inflammatory with natural anagesic properties, peppermint is a great addition to the natural healing toolkit of arthritis sufferers. Unlike most oils, it can be used “neat” which means undiluted. You won’t need much—just a drop or two applied to the affected joints will leave a cooling sensation that helps alleviate pain. Wash hands immediately after applying and avoid eye contact.

Rosemary oil (Rosmarinus officinalis)

Not just good for cooking, the oil extracted from the herb, rosemary, has anti-pain properties, is a relaxant and is useful for joint pain. It also calms the nervous system, which is the route by which pain signals travel to and from the brain. Relaxing the nervous system is an important process to improve pain both in the short- and long-term. Regular use of rosemary oil on the affected joints but also through inhalation can be helpful for arthritis sufferers. Avoid during pregnancy and if you suffer from epilepsy.

Tansy oil (Tanacetum annum)

This naturally blue essential oil contains the active component thujone which is toxic when ingested but has potent anti-pain properties for topical use.

Wintergreen oil (Gaultheria procumbens)

Wintergreen is an excellent oil to alleviate pain due to its methyl salicylate content, which is similar in composition to aspirin. Few plants contain this potent analgesic compound.
Essential oils are best diluted for topical use. Dilute 2 drops in about 1 teaspoon of carrier oil like apricot kernel, almond or coconut. If you have sensitive skin, be sure to conduct a 48-hour skin test first after heavily diluting the essential oils. Don’t skimp on price. Most of the cheap oils on the market contain cheap, and sometimes toxic, ingredients. You really do get what you pay for when it comes to essential oils. You don’t need all of them. I generally pick a few and blend with carrier oil as a natural liniment for arthritis.

https://www.care2.com/greenliving/12-essential-oils-for-arthritis-pain.html

Arthritis: Five tips to protect joints and relieve arthritis pain

From express.co.uk

ARTHRITIS can be worsened by not looking after the joints properly, so it’s important to protect them in order to control the condition and alleviate pain. Follow these five tips.

Arthritis affects more than 10 million people in the UK. The condition is lifelong and causes pain, inflammation and stiffness of certain joints.
Looking after the joints can help control arthritis and prevent pain when using them, so it’s important to take measures to protect them.
“The way you use your joints can increase the aches, pain and strain that you feel and, over time, it can increase any deformity. This is why you should take notice of pain,” said Versus Arthritis.

Avoid gripping things tightly
Gripping objects tightly, such as a pen when writing or screwdriver when doing DIY, puts strain on the knuckles and thumb joints, which can increase pain and cause further joint damage.
To reduce the strain, take breaks frequently and rest your hands, try to relax your grip, and use padding on the object you are using to make the grip larger.

                               Avoid gripping too hard when writing (Image: Getty Images)

Spread the load
When carrying heavy items, spread the load over several joints by using two hands and keeping as much of your hands as possible in contact with the object.
Avoid gripping with your thumbs as this will put strain on the thumb joints. Try to keep the thumbs as relaxed as possible so as to prevent further damage.

Use stronger joints
Depending on which joints are affected by arthritis, you could try using other joints to do certain tasks in order to reduce the burden on the weaker joints.
For example, if you have arthritis in the hands, use your hip or shoulder to close a drawer or door instead.
When carrying large objects, hug them close to your body, and carry bags on your forearms instead of shoulders if you have shoulder pain.

Use splints and supports
Splints can help ease strain and pain in the joints. Working splints, for example, such as elastic wrist and thumb splints, provide more flexible support to help reduce pain while working.
Resting splints, which consist of custom-made cradles with straps to hold them in place, can help if you have pain at night which affects your sleep.
Compression gloves can also be helpful in reducing pain and swelling, and are easier to wear than splints.
Use less effort
Try using ‘labour-saving gadgets’ like vegetable peelers with chunky non-slip handles and electric can openers, to take excess pressure of the joints in the hands.
When moving heavy items, use a trolley or wheelbarrow to shift them instead of lifting and carrying them.

https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1046256/arthritis-rheumatoid-versus-arthritis-pain-protect-joints

Arthritis: Five of the best vegetables to prevent arthritis pain and symptoms

From express.co.uk

ARTHRITIS causes pain and inflammation which can be stressful to live with. While there is no direct cure, certain foods can help ease painful swelling, such as these five vegetables.

Arthritis affects around 10 million people in the UK.
It’s a lifelong condition, which can worsen during periods of flare-ups.
There is no direct cure for the condition, but eating a diet full of foods with inflammatory properties can help ease symptoms.

“When you have arthritis, the produce section is one of the most important stops you can make in the grocery store,” said the Arthritis Foundation.

“Vegetables are rich in antioxidants and other nutrients that protect against cell damage and lower inflammation throughout the body, including in your joints.”
Here are five of the best vegetables for treating arthritis, recommended by the Arthritis Foundation.

Dark green leafy veg
Green, leafy vegetables such as broccoli, spinach, Brussels sprouts and kale are rich in vitamins A, C, and K - antioxidants which protect against cell damage.
They are also high in calcium, which helps keep bones strong, while some contain a compound called sulforaphane, which blocks inflammation.

                  Dark green leafy vegetables are rich in vitamins and calcium (Image: Getty Images)

Red and orange vegetables
Sweet potatoes, carrots, red peppers and squash get their bright colours from carotenoids like beta-cryptoxanthin, and also contain antioxidants.
Beta-cryptoxanthin has been shown to reduce the risk of some inflammatory conditions in some studies.

                  Red and orange vegetables are full of antioxidants (Image: Getty Images)

Peppers
Peppers are rich in vitamin C, which protects bones and may protect cells in cartilage.

Onions, garlic, leeks and shallots
These vegetables are rich in a type of antioxidant called quercetin, which has a potential ability to relieve inflammation.
They also contain a compound called diallyl disulphine, which may reduce the enzymes that damage cartilage.

Olives
Olives and olive oil are potent inflammation fighters.
Extra-virgin olive oil contains the compound oleocanthal, an anti-inflammatory agent that has properties similar to ibuprofen.

https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1042586/arthritis-pain-rheumatoid-arthritis-symptoms-knee-vegetables

4 Strategies For Addressing Arthritis Pain

From axcessnews.com

Arthritis is a common health complaint that causes inflammation of joints throughout the body, and that comes in over 100 different forms. When we talk about arthritis, however, most people are talking about osteoarthritis, a form of the disease related to general wear and tear and common in older adults. But what can be done to manage the symptoms? In many cases, arthritis – not just osteoarthritis, but also many of the other variations – can be managed through basic lifestyle changes.
If you’re struggling with arthritis pain, begin with these four simple steps. Not only can they help reduce your discomfort, but they also form the foundation for overall wellness.

Mind Your Weight

One of the most common causes of osteoarthritis, specifically in the knees, is being overweight. Carrying too much weight puts strain on the joints, wearing down the cartilage and causing the bones to rub together. In order to minimize the pain associated with movement, it’s important to manage your weight carefully. Eating a healthy diet and beginning a gentle exercise routine can help you bring down your weight, reduce your pain, and improve your mobility. And once your weight is stabilized, it’s important to maintain these healthy habits.
What should you do if arthritis makes it difficult for you to exercise? Low impact activities like swimming can be a good alternative to walking or biking. However, if the pain makes it difficult for you to perform daily activities like climbing stairs or crossing a parking lot, you might also consider regenerative therapy using stem cells to boost joint healing. Stem cell therapy can help the body rebuild damaged cartilage and get you back on your feet.

Vary The Temperature

If you’ve ever sprained your ankle or pulled a muscle, you’ve likely used a heating pad or cold pack to reduce the pain and inflammation. The same practice is also useful when dealing with arthritis pain. Applying heat to the joint increases blood flow to the area, delivering nutrients and oxygen to the tissues, and aiding in healing. On the other hand, when inflammation is at its peak, cold therapy can pull blood away from the area, minimizing swelling and numbing the pain.

Be Smart With Supplements

Many arthritis patients rely on over the counter pain relievers to manage inflammation and discomfort, but there are also natural solutions to these issues that can be easier on the body. Consider adding supplements to your diet, such as turmeric, which has been shown to block inflammatory enzymes, and fish oil, which are converted by the body into resolvins, a chemical with anti-inflammatory properties. Those with rheumatoid arthritis can also benefit from immune boosting Cat’s Claw, gamma-linolenic acid supplements, and ginger.

Manage Your Mental Health

Living with daily pain can be hard on your mental health, causing depression, anxiety, and difficulty sleeping, yet few arthritis patients consider how pain and mood are related. Recently, though, research has shown that attending to the mental health aspects of pain can actually ease the symptoms. With this in mind, arthritis patients should consider practising meditation or other mindfulness activities that can reduce stress and quell anxiety. It’s also important to build a support system and to stay involved with friends and hobbies, as maintaining a sense of normalcy can help lift your mood and minimize your arthritis symptoms.
According to the Arthritis Foundation, nearly 50% of adults over age 65 have been diagnosed with arthritis, so knowing how to manage this disease should be a top priority. Luckily, by practicing healthy habits beginning early in life, including managing your weight and eating a nutritious, balanced diet, you can minimize your risk of developing arthritis later in life. Though not all forms of arthritis are preventable, most are manageable with lifestyle changes. The key is to support your joints so that they’ll keep supporting you well into old age.

https://axcessnews.com/national/health/4-strategies-for-addressing-arthritis-pain_7536/

Managing your arthritis with food and gentle exercise

From startsat60.com

If you live with arthritis, you know how it can sap your enjoyment of even your best-loved activities. Tenderness and stiffness around the joints, inflammation and muscle weakness make movement more difficult and can dampen your mood too.

But while there’s no cure for arthritis, there’s masses of research into simple lifestyle changes that could help people with arthritis live with less pain.

Some of the latest findings show the potential for certain types of food and exercise to have a real and positive impact on quality of life for people with arthritis. But before embarking on an exercise regime, taking new supplements, or making changes to your diet, it’s important to consult your health professional.

Try low-impact exercise 

There’s growing evidence to suggest that exercise can ease the pain of arthritis, but it’s not about lifting heavy weights or running marathons.

Research from around the world including Australia has found that older adults who have been diagnosed with musculoskeletal conditions including arthritis often experience an improvement in their condition and quality of life after completing low-impact exercise programs (usually involving regular exercise over a number of weeks).

In one study from New York, researchers measured changes after an eight-week program of one low-impact exercise class each week. The success of the program was judged by the number of participants who were able to undertake activities they’d previously been unable to. They found that the number who could climb several flights of stairs increased by an amazing 88 per cent; . there was a 69 per cent increase in the number who could lift and carry their groceries; and a 67 per cent rise in those who could bend, kneel or stoop.

There are many types of low-impact exercise – swimming, tai chi and exercises done in water or on a chair are just some – and it’s important to choose not only the one you like best but that’s also the most appropriate for your condition, which is something a health professional can advise on.

‘Chair yoga’, for example, is a low-impact exercise that’s been shown by researchers to help reduce pain in the ankles, feet, hips and knees in people with osteoarthritis.

Researchers at the Florida Atlantic University found that people who attended two, 45- minute yoga sessions a week for eight weeks reported not only less pain and improved walking speed during the eight-week program, but that pain interfered less with their daily activities for three months after the program ended.

The American College of Rheumatology says more broadly that although people with arthritis commonly limit their physical activities, becoming inactive risks making their ability to tolerate pain worse, as well as weakening their muscles, causing joints to stiffen and impacting balance.

Being active, with the right exercises, is vital for anyone with arthritis, it says. But the college cautions that anyone who has inactive, is suffering pain, has reduced joint motion or muscle strength or is recovering from surgery should start with therapeutic exercise prescribed by a health professional.

Review your diet 

Research also suggests that diet can play a vital role in managing arthritis symptoms.

Scientists created a list of foods that may help patients manage rheumatoid arthritis, on the back of a major review of the evidence regarding foods believed to have beneficial effects on signs and symptoms of arthritis. Foods including blueberries, pomegranates, ginger, turmeric, olive oil, and green tea were among the foods that may help ease inflammation, stiffness and pain, they found.

Other research indicates it may be possible to ease arthritis with more common dietary staples. For example, low-fat plain yoghurt and oily fish appear to help ease or prevent symptoms of joint inflammation and tenderness that are experienced by people with arthritis.

Scientists are continually examining new food and exercise options that could help people with arthritis; a recent piece of research from Europe indicates, for example, that an extract of brown algae may slow down the cartilage degeneration that happens in arthritic joints.

https://startsat60.com/countries/australia-countries/manage-arthritis-pain-inflammation-natural-solutions

10 eye-opening benefits of walking

From mnn.com

From your heart to your head, here's why you should get moving.

Whether you work hard to get 10,000 steps a day or just like a daily stroll with your dog, walking is a near-perfect exercise. It's good for your body and your mind and you can do it just about anywhere with no fancy equipment.
From strengthening bones to shedding pounds, researchers keep finding more and more health benefits from this simple activity. Need a reason to hit the trail or wander the pavement? Here are just a few impressive benefits of walking.

                      Walking helps nearly every part of your body. (Photo: Stasique/Shutterstock)

1. It helps you maintain a healthy weight. It may seem like a no-brainer, but regular walking can lead to weight loss because exercise burns calories. But with walking, the calories you burn depend more the distance you cover rather than your pace, according to Harvard Health. During a 15-year study, researchers found that people who walked gained significantly less weight than those who didn't and the more people walked, the less weight they gained.
2. It can help you live longer. Several studies have linked regular walking to longevity. A 2018 study found that walking can lower your risk of dying from cardiovascular disease. Another study in 2018 found that walking at a brisk pace seems to cut the risk of dying by 24 percent, while walking at an average pace reduces the risk by 20 percent. A study by the American Cancer Society found that even low levels of walking are linked with lower mortality.
3. Walking strengthens bones and muscles. All those steps can keep your bones strong and ward off bone loss, fractures and osteoporosis. That back-and-forth movement also tones the muscles in your legs and abs. If you swing your arms when you walk, you can strengthen those arm muscles, too.
4. It eases joint pain. Walking protects your joints by lubricating them and strengthening the surrounding muscles that support them. Several studies also have shown that walking eases arthritis-related pain and if you walk enough, it might prevent arthritis from forming in the first place, says Harvard.
5. It boosts your mood. The more people walk each day, the more energetic they feel and the better their mood, according to a California State University study. Walking releases endorphins, which are chemicals that trigger positive feelings in the body.
6. It can reduce your breast cancer risk. An American Cancer Society study found that women who walked seven or more hours a week had a 14 percent lower risk of developing breast cancer than those who walked three hours or fewer per week.
7. Walking can help you sleep. An hour of walking and stretching, especially in the morning, can help you fall asleep and stay asleep, reports WebMD.
8. It can reduce your risk of diabetes. Walking can help prevent diabetes or reduce its severity. Findings from the Harvard Nurses' Health Study suggest that walking briskly for 30 minutes daily reduces the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes by 30 percent.
9. It helps your heart. Walking does wonders for your heart and circulation, according to the Arthritis Foundation. It lowers your blood pressure, strengthens your heart, cuts your risk of stroke and wards off heart disease.
10. It saves your brain. Walking keeps your mind sharp. In a University of California at San Francisco study, researchers measured the cognitive abilities of nearly 6,000 women age 65 and older. They tracked their physical activity for several years and found that age-related memory decline was lowest in the women who walked the most.

https://www.mnn.com/health/fitness-well-being/stories/benefits-walking

Weight loss benefits: 5 reasons why you need to lose weight if you're suffering from arthritis

From timesnownews.com

Being overweight or obese increases a person’s risk for arthritis at the first place. Here are five benefits of weight loss if you're living with arthritis.

New Delhi: Losing a few pounds can offer a wide range of health benefits, from decreased risk of heart disease to improved sex life and energy. Shedding those extra kilos can actually help reduce arthritis pain. Being overweight or obese increases a person’s risk for arthritis at the first place. However, weight loss can ease arthritis pain and improve the quality of life of adults living with the chronic condition.
Carrying extra weight, particularly around the middle or belly, can contribute to serious health conditions. But when you have arthritis, it puts more pressure on your joints, causing pain and discomfort. Moreover, a number of inflammatory mediators produced in fat affect joint tissues, thereby playing a role in pain. Here are five reasons to lose weight if you have arthritis.

Weight loss can ease arthritis pain and improve the quality of life of adults living with the chronic condition  |  Photo Credit: Thinkstock

Arthritis and the benefits of weight loss

Reduces pressure on your joints: A 2005 study published in Arthritis & Rheumatism suggested that overweight and obese adults with knee osteoarthritis who lose one pound of weight experienced lesser pressure on their joints. The study found that losing just 10 pounds would relieve about 40 pounds of pressure from your knees.
Eases pain: Less body weight means less pain. A 2013 published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) showed that adults with osteoarthritis who lost weight through a combination of diet and exercise over a period of 18 months reported less knee pain. The study, led by Dr Loeser, concluded that dropping just 10 per cent of your body weight can cause improvement in joint pain and function.
Less inflammation: Fat itself is an active tissue that generates and releases pro-inflammatory chemicals, however, losing weight can ease the pain and lower inflammation levels in the body. Interleukin 6 (IL-6), an endogenous chemical which is active in inflammation, has been shown to play a key role in the development of rheumatoid arthritis. However, Loeser and his team found that the levels of IL-6 went down over the course of the participants' 18 months of exercise and weight loss.
Lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease: Losing weight will help you maintain healthy blood pressure or get back to a normal range. A healthy lifestyle, such as eating right and engaging in physical activity that promote weight loss can also lower your cholesterol. Studies have shown that even a moderate weight loss can help to reduce your risk of various conditions, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes, cancer apart from arthritis.
Improves sleep: Research has proven that losing weight can lead to better sleep. However, musculoskeletal pain can interfere with sleep and result in insomnia over the years. Engaging in a healthy fitness routine may help improve sleep pattern in patients.

Note: All content, including tips and suggestions, is purely for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or a dietician before beginning any weight loss programme.

https://www.timesnownews.com/health/article/weight-loss-and-arthritis-5-reasons-to-lose-weight-living-with-arthritis/298071

How an arthritis operation by a QA surgeon changed this Fareham pianist's life

From Portsmouth.co.uk

A MUSIC teacher is back to her best after life-changing surgery helped combat her arthritis. Queen Alexandra Hospital surgeon Dr Phil Sauve is leading the way on the Cartiva Synthetic Cartilage Implant operation, having completed the most in the world.

The surgery, for people with osteoarthritis in their thumb joints, inserts an implant into the bone to stop the pain and restriction on movement caused by the condition. Maria Howell, from Fareham, had the operation as part the Grip clinical studies being carried out by QA Hospital along with a centre in Derby and hospitals in Canada. She is one of 32 patients to have the surgery by Dr Sauve and said it had made a huge difference to her life. ‘I have been teaching singing and music for a very long time and I am a sports therapist as well,’ Maria said. ‘All these things were wearing my thumb joints out. I had to stop because I was in pain. My thumb was also partially dislocating. ‘The surgery made a tremendous difference, I am not miserable anymore and I was able to start teaching again. I am not in constant pain and my flexibility is back when playing the piano.

‘It is great to be able to play again. ’Dr Sauve, consultant trauma and orthopaedic hand and wrist surgeon, is one of two in England who can do the operation and said the study has been an exciting time for orthopaedic surgery. He said: ‘Other treatments for this condition are good for pain and movement but not for grip. The Cartiva implant gives the same results for pain and range of movement but grip strength increases by at least 100 per cent. ‘For people with an active lifestyle or are still working, it is a much better option.

‘This is still a study so we are closely monitoring the patients and the early signs are very good.’ Dr Sauve said it was great for QA Hospital to be involved in the surgery which is getting interest from overseas. It is being introduced in America and television network CBS flew over from the States to interview Dr Sauve about his work. He added: ‘It is great for us as surgeons for personal development but it is also good for QA to be leading the way.’

https://www.portsmouth.co.uk/news/health/how-an-arthritis-operation-by-a-qa-surgeon-changed-this-fareham-pianist-s-life-1-8652250

Arthritis: Five lesser known types of the painful joint condition

From express.co.uk

ARTHRITIS causes pain, inflammation and stiffness of certain joints. The most common types are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, but there are also other types. Watch out for these five, lesser known types of the painful joint condition.

Arthritis is a common joint problem affecting around 10 million people in the UK.
The two most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Osteoarthritis affects the large majority of arthritis sufferers, at around eight million people, while rheumatoid arthritis affects over 400,000 people.
Osteoarthritis mostly affects the hands, spine, knees and hips. It roughens and thins out the cartilage lining of joints, causing swelling and the formation of bony spurs called osteophytes.

Rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system targets joints, causing swelling and a change in the joint’s shape.
Here are five other, lesser known types of arthritis.

Fibromyalgia
Fibromyalgia is a long-term condition causing widespread pain all over the body.
Pain affects the body’s muscles, ligaments and tendons, and may also lead to muscle stiffness.

Lupus
Lupus is an autoimmune condition causing inflammation to the organs and body’s tissues, such as the skin.
It causes joint pain and stiffness, as well as skin rashes.

Gout
Gout is caused by too much uric acid in the body, which can be left in joints causing pain, redness and swelling.
It usually affects the big toe, but can develop in any joint.

The most common types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis (Image: Getty Images)

Psoriatic arthritis
Psoriatic arthritis is an inflammatory joint condition affecting people with psoriasis.
Psoriasis is a skin condition that causes red, flaky, crusty patches of skin.

Enteropathic arthritis
Enteropathic arthritis is a form of chronic, inflammatory arthritis associated with inflammatory bowel disease.
The most common affected areas are the limbs and spine.
“The symptoms of arthritis you experience will vary depending on the type you have,” said the NHS.
“This is why it's important to have an accurate diagnosis if you have: joint pain, tenderness and stiffness; inflammation in and around the joints; restricted movement of the joints; warm, red skin over the affected joint; weakness and muscle wasting.”

https://www.express.co.uk/life-style/health/1021337/arthritis-painful-joints-fibromyalgia-lupus-gout

Learning to live with arthritis

From timesofmalta.com

We do not know what causes some diseases. These are known as idiopathic diseases, from the Greek idios – ‘one’s own’ – and pathos – ‘suffering’.
Very often the words ‘primary’, ‘agnogenic’ or ‘cryptogenic’ are used in clinical notes to describe a disease the cause of which, or its progression, is not known. There are many diseases that have unknown causes. Unfortunately, one of the main diseases of older age, arthritis, remains idiopathic.
In 2013, approximately one in five US adults reported some form of disability, and the most frequently reported disability related to mobility – not being able to move around or to do things for yourself. A third of all mobility issues are caused by arthritis and back and spine problems. Although being the main cause of disability among older adults, very little is known about this disease.
Even though most older people suffer from arthritis – which results in swelling, pain, stiffness and reduced motion – the majority live with it without much interest from outside.

Being a disease that causes inflammation and attacks the joints, arthritis is more than just one disease. There are some 63 different types of conditions all lumped together under arthritis. Some of these diseases are known independently, such as bursitis, fibromyalgia, gout, inflammatory bowel disease, lupus, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, Paget’s, rheumatoid arthritis and spondyloarthritis.
We know more about some of these specific diseases than others, but we do not know what causes them. We see great variance of these diseases by geography, education, income, marital status and gender. More women than men have arthritis and generally the disease becomes increasingly more common in older age.

Arthritis is more than just one disease. There are some 63 different types of conditions all lumped together under arthritis. Photo: Shutterstock.com

Although diet can be a primary contender, especially for some diseases such as gout, there are some people who cannot control their arthritis through diet.

With other types of arthritis, we see a genetic relationship, as with spondyloarthritis, having identified 50 genetic mutations related to this disease – although there are other causes that are unclear. Some suggest infections. Especially for infectious arthritis, where a bacterium, virus or fungus enters the joints and triggers inflammation.

There can be many causes of arthritis, maybe even all of these causes combined. This makes the cause of the disease particularly difficult to determine and more difficult to manage. Symptoms of the disease are also variable.

Symptoms may come and go and they can be of different intensity and for different periods of time. However, severe arthritis can be debilitating. The constant pain might result in the inability to do daily chores, climb stairs or even walk.
Arthritis can also cause permanent joint damage. We can see some of these changes, while others remain hidden. These hidden changes can damage the joints but also the eyes, kidneys, heart and lungs.
Osteoarthritis, being the most common of the arthritis group, causes great pain. Where the joints meet, the bones have a polished soft surface called a cartilage. In osteoarthritis this cartilage wears down. This results in the two bones rubbing against each other.

The pain causes the body to protect itself by reducing the friction the only way it knows, by causing swelling and stiffness. This protective function, however, has negative consequences. Over time, joints can lose strength and pain may become chronic. The disease can be controlled in most cases by staying active, maintaining a healthy weight and by avoiding injury and repetitive movements.
Kate Lorig, a retired professor from Stanford University, developed a programme to help with controlling arthritis. The programme focuses on managing and not curing the disease. Most of the exercises are designed to reduce pain and improve mobility, using methods to reduce negative emotions such as anger, fear and depression through relaxation, visualisation, distraction and self-talk.

Exercises to ease the pain and increase movement include gentle circular movements. Some of the medications, both (cortico) steroid, as well as non-steroid drugs, can be useful, but all have some complications. Steroids work by reducing the inflammation, but they also have some negative side effects, including difficulty sleeping, blurred vison, weight gain and muscle weakness.

At the end of the day, we need to learn to live with the disease, taking pain medication when necessary, staying as active as possible without causing stress to the body, keeping our weight at an optimum to reduce the stress on the body and perhaps, most importantly, keeping a positive disposition.
A tall order. But arthritis is a long-term disease that will not be cured. Learning to live with it will save a lot of anxiety. Arthritis may have unknown origins but at least if we continue learning how to manage it, perhaps one day it will stop being idiopathic.

Mario Garrett was born in Malta and is currently a professor of gerontology at San Diego State University in California, US.

https://www.timesofmalta.com/articles/view/20180916/health-fitness/learning-to-live-with-arthritis.689251

3 Ailments Usually Mistaken As Arthritis - Neuritis, Rheumatics, Rheumatism

By Andy G

NEURITIS
This inflammation of the nerves is a common and painful condition which may affect any part of the body, particularly that area which is most involved in your daily labour. Nerve cells are sensitive to a lack of Vitamin B-1 and the increase of consumption of this essential matter (provided for in the Fountain of Youth Cocktail) frequently is all the treatment needed for neuritis.
Unlike arthritis, neuritis is not caused by infection. And unlike rheumatism, neuritis does not confine itself to joint areas, its home lying anywhere throughout the body's nervous system. It is now widely realized that neuritis is frequently induced through worry, fear and despair. This is another instance of the inseparable relationship between body and mind. The treatment for neuritis may therefore begin with a better understanding of the individual and his place in Nature's pattern.

RHEUMATICS
Chronic rheumatism can be said to have caused more human misery than all the wars fought since the beginning of time. Only a person who has had his body racked with the pain of chronic rheumatics can truly understand the truth of this statement. The dull throbbing pain that lingers day and night, intensifying during periods of cold and damp, is a mortal enemy of man and a direct product of modern man's flight from nature. Improper diet, lack of sufficient sunlight and a body that has not been hardened by Nature's agents are largely responsible for rheumatic conditions.
It is necessary to distinguish acute rheumatics or rheumatic fever from the more common ailment known as chronic rheumatism or simply, rheumatism. While rheumatic fever may cause chronic rheumatism, it is by no means the sole cause. The pain of rheumatism comes without fever and the affected joints need show no outward sign of the ailment, but are generally cold and stiff.

Rheumatism is apparently among the most deeply rooted of all human ailments. I have never seen a case of chronic rheumatism placed on the road to recovery in less than three months. And this only with the most stringent care and self-control on the part of the patient. But those months were well spent, as anyone who has been relieved of the pains of rheumatism can attest.
N. S. was a successful farmer in his mid-fifties suffering from chronic rheumatism. The pain of his ailment had forced him to give up all but supervisory work upon his farm, and this after nearly forty years of constant and agreeable work. The discontinuance of his life's work was as much a mishap for N. S. as the pain that had caused it, for he was a man devoted to his work. Retirement at his age would not only have been wasteful and difficult for him, it would have meant an early death for a man of his vigorous and enthusiastic existence.
First step in assisting N. S. was taken at the dinner table. He was placed upon a light and completely non-stimulating diet. All spices were removed and pork was strictly forbidden. Special attention was placed upon an increased consumption of green leafy vegetables and tobacco, coffee and tea were removed from the patient's living habits.
Sun-bathing, particularly the bathing of the affected areas, was prescribed. Steam baths were a daily requirement followed by a brisk wet rub of the entire body (never permitting the over-heated body to become too quickly cooled). The full pack was applied whenever pain was severe and the patient was permitted to remain within the pack for two hours. Following this and a thorough drying of the body, affusions were applied. The sensitive areas of N. S.'s body could not withstand the pain of direct affusion, and therefore the jets were applied in an area immediately surrounding the centre of pain.
Zone therapy was partially successful in alleviating the patient's pa ip and was applied quite simply. A steel comb was held by the patient in that hand corresponding to the side of his body in pain. By clenching his fist so that the teeth of the comb bit deeply into the palm of his hand and holding this position, N. S. was able to overcome his pain on repeated occasions.
Air-baths and frequent wet rubs were largely responsible for hardening the patient's body to the effects of changing temperature, so often the immediate cause of rheumatic pain. But only the combination of all these was able, after three months, to bring total relief to N. S. My last view of him came several years ago as I drove away from his New Jersey farm. There, standing upon the floor of his barn, Farmer N. S. was effortlessly pitching large pitchforks full of hay high into the hay loft of the barn. I would call that complete recovery.

RHEUMATISM
This condition is frequently mistaken for arthritis, since, like the latter, rheumatism settles in the joint areas of the body, producing great pain and discomfort. Unlike arthritis, rheumatism is not accompanied by some body infection. Many years ago it was recognized that rheumatic conditions frequently appear for the first time during the winter or early spring. Further research indicated that during these months the consumption of citrus fruits and fresh salad vegetables was at a critical low level among many people. In this way, the first knowledge of a link between rheumatism and Vitamin C deficiency was come upon.
The rational diet can prevent rheumatism. However, the correction of this condition is more involved. Once rheumatism has appeared, the programme for alleviation of this condition involves increased consumption of Vitamin C (provided in the Fountain of Youth Cocktail as described in "Your Daily Routine For Better Health" in my website). Nightly warm natural baths (8o°) and warm compresses (heating pad) will stem the pain almost instantly. Sun-bathing is particularly favourable in rheumatic conditions.

http://ezinearticles.com/?3-Ailments-Usually-Mistaken-As-Arthritis---Neuritis,-Rheumatics,-Rheumatism&id=9992570

Seven exercises for shoulder arthritis

From medicalnewstoday.com

Arthritis can affect any joint in the body, including the shoulder joints. Performing specific exercises on a regular basis can help relieve the symptoms of arthritis, which include pain and swelling.

Arthritis causes flares of inflammation in the joints, leading to pain and stiffness. These symptoms can have a significant impact on how much mobility people have in the affected joints.
As a result, arthritis tends to make it more challenging to exercise. However, keeping the joints active can have a powerful effect on the severity of arthritis symptoms.

The types of arthritis that commonly affect the shoulder include rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and osteoarthritis.
In this article, we look at exercises that may reduce the damage that arthritis does to the shoulder joints and help people manage pain.

Seven exercises for shoulder arthritis

The most beneficial types of exercise for arthritis include:

• range-of-motion and flexibility exercises, such as stretches, which reduce stiffness
• strength exercises that build muscle mass around the joints, which reduces the strain on them
• aerobic activities, such as walking, swimming, and cycling, as these improve heart, lung, and muscle function

The following exercises should stretch and strengthen the muscles around the shoulder joint:

1. Shoulder elevation stretch

This exercise improves the range of motion in the shoulder joints and stretches the muscles. Doing this exercise regularly should facilitate daily activities, such as reaching for items on shelves. To do this exercise:

1. Lie on your back.
2. Hold a broom handle or walking stick with both hands, keeping them shoulder-width apart.
3. Place the handle or stick gently on the thighs.
4. Slowly raise the pole up past the chest, then over the head so that it is almost touching the floor above the head. Keep the arms as straight as possible throughout.
5. Lower the handle or stick slowly back down to the thighs.
6. Perform 3 sets of 10 repetitions once a day.

You should feel a gentle stretch in the shoulders, back, and chest as the arms move overhead.

2. Shoulder outward rotation stretch

This exercise also requires a broom handle or walking stick. It improves the flexibility in the shoulder joints. Follow the steps below:

1. Lie on your back.
2. Keeping the upper arms by your sides, bend your elbows and hold the stick out above the chest with your hands shoulder-width apart.
3. Slowly move the pole to the left until you feel a stretch in the left shoulder.
4. Return to the starting position.
5. Repeat on the right side of the body.
6. Perform 3 sets of 10 repetitions once a day.

3. Shoulder blade rotations

This rotation stretches the shoulders to promote increased range of movement. To do this exercise:

1. Stand in a neutral position with your hands at your sides.
2. Raise your shoulders towards your ears and hold for 5 seconds.
3. Gently squeeze the shoulder blades together and hold for 5 seconds.
4. Pull the shoulder blades downward and hold for 5 seconds.
5. Repeat 10 times.

4. Pendulum exercise

The pendulum exercise helps relieve pain and relax the shoulder muscles. It involves the following series of movements:

1. Bend forward and rest a hand on top of a chair or counter for support and balance. Use the arm that is less sore to do this.
2. Allow the other hand to hang down.
3. Using motion from the legs and hips, gently swing the hanging hand back and forth and side to side in a circular motion.
4. Repeat this 30 times in each direction once a day.

5. Door lean

The door lean can help stretch the muscles in the shoulders and improve resistance in the joints. Perform the exercise as follows:

1. Stand facing toward a doorway and raise both hands above your head.
2. Place one hand on either side of the doorframe.
3. Gently lean forward until you feel a comfortable tension in your shoulders.
4. Hold this position for 15–30 seconds.
5. Repeat 3 times.

6. Door presses

Door press exercises can help build strength in the shoulder joints. To do these exercises:

1. Stand in a doorway and bend one elbow into a right angle with the thumb on that hand pointing toward the ceiling.
2. Press the back of your wrist into the doorframe.
3. Hold for 5 seconds.
4. Repeat with the palm of your hand, using the other side of the doorframe.
5. Do 3 sets of 10 repetitions on each side.

7. Strengthen the postural muscles

Strengthening the postural muscles will improve overall posture, allowing the shoulders to move more easily in all directions. These exercises require an exercise band, which it is possible to buy in a sporting goods store or online.
To do these exercises:

1. Stand straight with your shoulders back.
2. Loop the exercise band behind a solid, vertical object and hold one end in either hand.
3. Relax your shoulders and bend your elbows at your sides.
4. Pull your elbows backward while squeezing the shoulder blades together. If the exercise band does not provide any resistance, take a step back or loop the ends of the bands around your hands.
5. Hold for 5 seconds.
6. Perform 3 sets of 10 repetitions once a day.

Tips for safety

Arthritis can make exercising more challenging, so be sure to exercise with care to avoid injury. Follow these tips to stay safe when exercising with arthritis.
Warm up before doing any exercise to stimulate blood flow around the body. A warmup might include a brisk 10-minute walk or another light aerobic activity.

It should be possible to feel a stretch in the shoulders when doing these exercises, but they should not be painful. If a particular motion hurts, stop doing it right away. If the pain persists for several hours after the exercise, it may be necessary to see a doctor.
If the exercises cause any swelling in the shoulders, use an ice pack to reduce inflammation. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can also be beneficial.

What to avoid

It is crucial to avoid doing exercises that strain the shoulder muscles or put excessive pressure on them, as this can result in injury.
Certain stretches may be painful or uncomfortable for some people and not others, so it is vital to always listen to your body during exercise.
For some people, shoulder exercises such as push-ups or lifting heavy weights can be too intense for the shoulder joints. However, light exercise is necessary to build up the shoulder muscles.
Aerobic exercise is also essential for physical health and mental well-being. People with severe symptoms could try gentle alternatives to regular forms of exercise, for example, replacing swimming with water therapy. This form of exercise offers many of the same benefits as swimming but places less pressure on the shoulders.
Some people with milder symptoms may be able to continue with traditional forms of aerobic exercise.
The most appropriate type or frequency of exercise will vary from person to person. It depends on the severity of the person's arthritis symptoms and other factors, such as the amount of muscle surrounding the affected joints.
A physical therapist should be able to work with an individual to create a tailored exercise plan for them and explain any specific types of exercise that they should avoid.

Outlook

The outlook for arthritis in the shoulder joints is variable. In the early stages of the condition, symptoms are generally mild and do not have a significant impact on the range of motion.
When arthritis is more advanced, people may experience severe pain and reduced movement in the affected shoulder joints.
Regular exercise will keep the shoulder joints active, which can have a noticeable impact on reducing pain and improving the range of motion in this area of the body. People should exercise with care to avoid further damaging the joints or surrounding tissues.

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/322998.php