Arthritis is a degenerative or autoimmune condition that affects the joints. Osteoarthritis specifically refers to the degenerative form while rheumatoid arthritis refers to the autoimmune type. The signs of the two conditions are similar in many respects. They include pain, stiffness and even joint deformities. If looking for arthritis relief Santa Cruz residents have a number of options to consider.
One of the main forms of management for this condition is the use of anti-inflammatory and pain relieving drugs. At the beginning one drug may be adequate but has the problem becomes worse over time, it is often necessary to have at least two of them. The challenge with this is that one is faced with a huge drug burden that may lead to noncompliance. Moreover, the drugs used may lead to a number of unwanted side effects either in the short term or long term. These are some of the reasons as to why many patients are seeking alternative solutions.
Weight loss has been shown to be hugely beneficial in the management of this problem. Since excessive weight exerts undue stress on major joints and hastens degenerative changes, it has been argued that reducing this stress through weight reduction may slow down progression of the condition or reverse some of the changes. Indeed, some patients have reported a dramatic improvement of their symptoms by losing weight.
Engaging in regular physical exercise is without a doubt one of the strategies that work quite well when it comes to weight loss methods. However, exercise has a lot more benefits with regard to the well being of joints. Among these benefits is an improvement in flexibility. This is quite important considering that stiffness is one of the most bothersome symptoms of the condition. The general recommendation is that one should avoid weight bearing exercises such as jogging, walking and running and instead opt for less stressful exercises such as swimming and aerobics.
Hot and cold therapies are generally accepted as treatment options for most forms of pain. Arthritis pain is no exception. Efforts should be made to incorporate this form of intervention in the daily routine. For instance one can take a warm shows or bath daily preferably in the morning when the symptoms are most severe. They may also opt for an electric blanket to keep them warm at night.
Traditional Chinese medicine has been tried in the management of this condition with variable degrees of success. Acupuncture has emerged as one of the most widely used techniques under this category. The technique is performed by piercing a number of special needles into the body with the aim of restoring the flow of life energy.
Stress management is one area that tends to be forgotten or ignored. Stress has been shown to be a causative or contributing factor in the genesis of many diseases and medical conditions. Arthritis is among these conditions. Taking care of psychological stress will go a long way in helping being many of the symptoms under control. Methods that can be used are many. Mediation and yoga are simple and cheap options that one may consider.
Last but not least, the role diet composition cannot be overlooked. Specific foods may either worsen or lessen the symptoms of this condition. Diets that are rich in omega 3 fats are said to be of great benefit. They have been demonstrated to reduce both stiffness and pain. Always ensure that you consult with your doctor before using an alternative form of treatment.
One of the main forms of management for this condition is the use of anti-inflammatory and pain relieving drugs. At the beginning one drug may be adequate but has the problem becomes worse over time, it is often necessary to have at least two of them. The challenge with this is that one is faced with a huge drug burden that may lead to noncompliance. Moreover, the drugs used may lead to a number of unwanted side effects either in the short term or long term. These are some of the reasons as to why many patients are seeking alternative solutions.
Weight loss has been shown to be hugely beneficial in the management of this problem. Since excessive weight exerts undue stress on major joints and hastens degenerative changes, it has been argued that reducing this stress through weight reduction may slow down progression of the condition or reverse some of the changes. Indeed, some patients have reported a dramatic improvement of their symptoms by losing weight.
Engaging in regular physical exercise is without a doubt one of the strategies that work quite well when it comes to weight loss methods. However, exercise has a lot more benefits with regard to the well being of joints. Among these benefits is an improvement in flexibility. This is quite important considering that stiffness is one of the most bothersome symptoms of the condition. The general recommendation is that one should avoid weight bearing exercises such as jogging, walking and running and instead opt for less stressful exercises such as swimming and aerobics.
Hot and cold therapies are generally accepted as treatment options for most forms of pain. Arthritis pain is no exception. Efforts should be made to incorporate this form of intervention in the daily routine. For instance one can take a warm shows or bath daily preferably in the morning when the symptoms are most severe. They may also opt for an electric blanket to keep them warm at night.
Traditional Chinese medicine has been tried in the management of this condition with variable degrees of success. Acupuncture has emerged as one of the most widely used techniques under this category. The technique is performed by piercing a number of special needles into the body with the aim of restoring the flow of life energy.
Stress management is one area that tends to be forgotten or ignored. Stress has been shown to be a causative or contributing factor in the genesis of many diseases and medical conditions. Arthritis is among these conditions. Taking care of psychological stress will go a long way in helping being many of the symptoms under control. Methods that can be used are many. Mediation and yoga are simple and cheap options that one may consider.
Last but not least, the role diet composition cannot be overlooked. Specific foods may either worsen or lessen the symptoms of this condition. Diets that are rich in omega 3 fats are said to be of great benefit. They have been demonstrated to reduce both stiffness and pain. Always ensure that you consult with your doctor before using an alternative form of treatment.
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