Natural arthritis pain relief for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis symptoms.

People also often refer to arthritis as rheumatism. Arthritis is a very general term used to describe any aches and pains in the bones, muscles and joints. The term rheumatism is often colloquially used in the same context as Arthritis although technically it refers to a group of conditions affecting not only the joints but also muscles, ligaments, cartilage, and tendons. Rheumatic diseases also have the potential to affect internal body areas.

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Arthritis is not only isolated to the joints. Many forms of arthritis can affect the whole body including eyes, skin, chest (including the heart), lungs, and kidneys. While the term arthritis is often used as if it is one particular disease, there are in fact more than 100 different medical conditions that can be classified as a type of arthritic or rheumatic disease. The two most common forms of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis is often associated with osteoporosis, is the form that is usually brought about by age. It is a degenerative joint disease caused by the wear and tear and eventual loss of cartilage in one or more joints. Most often, it affects the fingers, hips and knees.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an auto-immune disease (when the body's own defense system does not work properly) that causes inflammation of the joints. Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms occur if the joint lining becomes inflamed when the body’s immune system attacks it and breaks it down. Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms affect joints and bones (most commonly the hands and feet) as well as body organs. Rheumatoid arthritis symptoms can be debilitating and this disease is one of the more serious forms of arthritis and typically women are affected more than men.

Other Common Forms of Arthritis

• Gout which is a result of a defect in the body chemistry causing increased levels of uric acid in the bloodstream. It is extremely painful, often attacking small joints, the most common and well known being the base of the big toe. It mostly affects men but fortunately can often be controlled with natural treatment and changes in diet.
• Lupus is a systemic auto-immune disorder that can inflame and harm the joints, the heart, the skin, the kidneys, and other organs.
• Viral hepatitis is an infection of the liver and secondary joint involvement can occur
• Ankylosing spondylitis is a type of arthritis that affects the spine. It is brought about by inflammation, and causes the bones of the spine to grow together and fuse, resulting in decreased mobility and deformity.
• Juvenile arthritis is a general term for all types of arthritis that occur in children. Children may develop juvenile rheumatoid arthritis or childhood forms of lupus, ankylosing spondylitis or other types of arthritis.
• Scleroderma is a disease of the body’s connective tissue that causes a thickening and hardening of the skin and can involve the joints.
• Fibromyalgia mostly affects women and causes extensive pain that affects the muscles and attachments to the bone and joints,

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• Genetics
• Being overweight
• Age
• Metabolic disorders, immune disorders or inflammatory disorders
• Chronic stress across joints or joint trauma
• Nutritional deficiencies
• Certain occupational hazards such as working in heavy construction or on an assembly line

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More and more arthritis sufferers, particularly those with chronic conditions, are turning to natural and holistic treatments because conventional medicine has failed to produce the desired results. Natural arthritis pain relief can be obtained with treatments such as herbal and homeopathic remedies that are gentle and mild, yet effective and offer symptomatic relief. Ingredients such as Glucosamine can be used to provide natural arthritis pain relief and to repair cartilage and maintain joint mobility while Boswellia acts as a natural anti-inflammatory.

Clinical studies have proven the effectiveness of Devil's Claw in treating joint conditions like osteo-arthritis, fibrositis, rheumatism and small joint disease. Other useful herbs for natural arthritis pain relief like Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) can help to soothe the affected area, in a gentle manner without harsh side effects – helping with the recovery process. Cayenne can also be used in an infused oil to rub into arthritic joints for added relief.

Remember to obtain all herbal and homeopathic remedies from a reputable source.

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Learning to manage the pain associated with the various forms of arthritis can be extremely difficult. Whether your symptoms are moderate or severe, there are some helpful techniques to cope with pain and create positive results.

Gentle exercise such as swimming, biking and water aerobics can reduce joint pain. Exercise increases blood flow, builds strong muscles and minimizes the chances of injury. Stretching or range-of-motion exercises help you stay flexible while preventing stiffness and joint deformities. Applying heat and cold to painful or stiff joints also provides temporary relief.

It is very important to also listen to your body and to discontinue activities that cause pain. If you are overweight or obese, you would need to control your weight if it is placing strain on your knees or ankles. Follow a healthy eating plan or natural weight loss program under the strict supervision of a doctor or dietician.

Make your life as easy as possible – walk around periodically and avoid remaining in the same position for a long time. Take regular breaks when performing tasks, sit on high back chairs rather than chairs without support and avoid placing unnecessary pressure on the area affected by pain or inflammation. Use helpful devices such as a cane, crutches, walker or cart to pull heavy items.

Arthritis is often a chronic disease that will probably be with you for the rest of your life. The pain and discomfort of arthritis can be debilitating and often brings about feelings of depression, anger, and isolation. Deal with your emotions in a positive manner by using various techniques of relaxation.

Practice breathing techniques, positive thoughts, meditation or listen to calming music to release stress and tension. Gain the support of family and friends to help you to achieve optimal health and wellbeing.

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