Six Questions to Ask About Joint Pain and Inflammation

When it comes to joint pain and inflammation, finding the source of the pain can require asking a few questions of you. These questions will narrow down the potential reasons why the joint pain is occurring and if inflammation is the source of the pain.

Is it new pain?

When did the pain first start? If there has been an injury of some sort in the past few months to a year, the joint pain could be associated with that injury. When tendons and ligaments are damaged, they need to be surgically repaired because they have no blood flow to stimulate healing. Sprains and strains can also lead to pain that can last months before the joint is completely healed.

Does the pain worsen during certain seasons or weather changes?

Drops in temperature can wreak havoc on painful joints. Pain tends to increase during colder weather, so if the pain is worse during the winter months, this could be caused by an increase in sensitivity of the pain receptors. Decreased blood flow during colder weather may also increase pain. Before storms come through, the barometric pressure will drop which can cause an expanding of the inflammation leading to stiffer joints and painful movement.

Does the muscle or the joint hurt?

Some people have trouble discerning whether the source of the pain is in the muscle or the joint. If muscles are strained, as is the case when exercising, only two to three days are required before the pain should subside. Muscle pain often comes with a point of origin or a tender spot in the area of the pain. Stretching can help to ease muscle pain.

Do you have more pain in the morning?

Rheumatoid arthritis is often associated with morning pain. Other causes can include fluid retention and an unsupportive mattress. Changing the diet to limit simple and refined (or processed) carbohydrates before bed are good solutions to prevent water retention. A new mattress or mattress pad can also decrease pain if the inflammation or joint pain is associated with poor sleeping patterns.

Do you have a family history of inflammation?

Certain forms of arthritis are passed on genetically. If someone in your immediate family suffers from arthritis, there is an increased chance of you having the same problem. This is only a chance, however, and does not signify that arthritis is the cause of the pain.

What is your mood like?

Some doctors associate joint pain and inflammation with mood. Depression, anxiety and stress can affect the body physically which can increase the pain felt around joints and connective tissue. These issues are often resolved with mental treatment or therapy instead of treating the joint pain or inflammation alone.

In most cases, joint pain is associated with some form of inflammation. Inflammation can be caused by several factors including being overweight, having a high sodium intake and consuming certain types of food. Women often find inflammation increases when they are reaching the time of month when their menstrual cycle is supposed to begin. As is the case with all joint pain, there are solutions, both natural and medicinal that can limit the pain and help the body to better heal.

Muscle Joint Pain and SLE - What Causes the Other?

The result of this pain in the joints and in the muscles is often inflammation. The symptoms of this condition closely resemble those of viral flu and sometimes those of arthritis.

The pain in the muscles and joint becomes so acute that one is unable to do any meaningful physical activity. As the muscle joint pain becomes more and more intense, the affected tissues seem to get more tender. In some few cases of SLE, the patient might not experience a lot of pain. In this case, the condition becomes very difficult to diagnose. It might not be until the individual has started losing physical strength before the problem is diagnosed by a specialist in arthritic conditions.

Sometimes, the symptoms of pain come before those of SLE. When things get to the extreme level, a person will experience muscle pain even when they are resting. In this case, doctors suggest that one engages in exercises as the situation is monitored closely. One has to ensure that an SLE test has been carried out so as to prevent future deterioration of the problem.

Remedial Measures

In order to overcome the effects of muscle joint pain, it is important that a person maintains a balance between rest and exercises of the joint. Care should be taken when one is engaging in any activity so as to prevent a situation where a joint is strained beyond threshold. Addition stress to the already swelling joints will not be a way forward in the fight against muscle joint pain.

This type of pain can occur in any part of the body. It might affect hip, shoulders and especially knees. Patients suffering from joint pain may have their problems compounded by being overweight. There are many other causes of muscle joint pains apart from SLE. Sometimes injury to some body parts might cause this type of pain.

Beware Of Muscle Joint Pain Killers!

Early detection of muscle joint pain is very important. A permanent cure might be impossible if detection does not take place early enough. A patient may have to undergo surgery in order to have the problem dealt with. The level to which the pain manifests itself determines the extent to which the problem may have been aggravated by negligence. Regular exercises should be part of the exercises. A balanced diet should also be ensured. It is important to consult a doctor when faced with serious problems which have something to do with muscle joint pain.

For many people today, painkillers have become the obvious solution to handling pain. There are many dangers associated with this approach to medication. It is better to consult a muscle joint specialist who is an authority on the matter. The specialist will tell you that pain killers often lead to damage to muscles and joints apart from killing the pain.The result of this pain in the joints and in the muscles is often inflammation. The symptoms of this condition closely resemble those of viral flu and sometimes those of arthritis.

The pain in the muscles and joint becomes so acute that one is unable to do any meaningful physical activity. As the muscle joint pain becomes more and more intense, the affected tissues seem to get more tender. In some few cases of SLE, the patient might not experience a lot of pain. In this case, the condition becomes very difficult to diagnose. It might not be until the individual has started losing physical strength before the problem is diagnosed by a specialist in arthritic conditions.

Sometimes, the symptoms of pain come before those of SLE. When things get to the extreme level, a person will experience muscle pain even when they are resting. In this case, doctors suggest that one engages in exercises as the situation is monitored closely. One has to ensure that an SLE test has been carried out so as to prevent future deterioration of the problem.

Remedial Measures

In order to overcome the effects of muscle joint pain, it is important that a person maintains a balance between rest and exercises of the joint. Care should be taken when one is engaging in any activity so as to prevent a situation where a joint is strained beyond threshold. Addition stress to the already swelling joints will not be a way forward in the fight against muscle joint pain.

This type of paincan occur in any part of the body. It might affect hip, shoulders and especially knees. Patients suffering from joint pain may have their problems compounded by being overweight. There are many other causes of muscle joint pains apart from SLE. Sometimes injury to some body parts might cause this type of pain.

Beware Of Muscle Joint Pain Killers!

Early detection of muscle joint pain is very important. A permanent cure might be impossible if detection does not take place early enough. A patient may have to undergo surgery in order to have the problem dealt with. The level to which the pain manifests itself determines the extent to which the problem may have been aggravated by negligence. Regular exercises should be part of the exercises. A balanced diet should also be ensured. It is important to consult a doctor when faced with serious problems which have something to do with muscle joint pain.

For many people today, painkillers have become the obvious solution to handling pain. There are many dangers associated with this approach to medication. It is better to consult a muscle joint specialist who is an authority on the matter. The specialist will tell you that pain killers often lead to damage to muscles and joints apart from killing the pain.

TMJ Pain Management - 4 Mistakes to Avoid in Managing the Pain of TMJ!

As someone suffering from TMJ disorder, you would know better than anyone else about the intensity of the pain caused by TMJ. The current medical set up in most world countries isn't cut out to give good TMJ pain management to those who seek. But that does not imply a lack of treatment methods or medications. What is lacking is understanding and care about a serious disorder which is highly prevalent.

TMJ poses multi-dimensional challenges to both the patient and the doctor. On one hand, there is pain relief, which by itself is a strenuous task and on the other hand, recovery from the disorder which both aids and abates TMJ pain management. Just how should one tackle this situation? What are the do-s and don't-s to follow?

1. Waiting to seek treatment till the condition becomes highly painful - The first and foremost mistake a person suffering from TMJ can make. There might be valid reasons to not seek treatment as early as possible - financial circumstances, failing to identify TMJ and so on. But remember that once TMJ becomes chronic, it becomes hard to deal with and almost always ends up requiring Surgery.


2. Taking over the counter pain killing medication - Self help treatments are not suggested for a condition like TMJ. You could soon end up requiring much stronger drugs and not make any progress in curing the problem. TMJ pain management requires proper therapies crafted from exhaustive research and experience.


3. Assuming that if one therapeutic system didn't work for you, neither would others - A big NO! TMJ has a variety of treatment methods and each person might have a sweet-spot for a particular type of treatment. If your current treatment doesn't seem to be working its magic, its time to change your treatment or your doctor.


4. Resorting to psychoactive substances as a last resort for TMJ pain management - Out of depression and unmanageable pain, some people resort to Marijuana or other addictive drugs to kill pain. These substances don't kill pain, they just knock out the sensation of pain from the body while letting TMJ get worse. Soon, you will have two problems to take care of, TMJ and addiction.

The Various Type of Pain Management Injections

As the number of pain management patients in United States continues to increase, pain itself is turning into big business. It is often times helpful for patients to receive an injection to avoid or delay surgery, or to allow individuals the ability to participate in physical therapy. Focal injections can also decrease the need for opiate pain medications.

Let's look at a few different types of injections and how well they work. The first type is soft tissue injections in the extremities. An example of this would be an injection of steroid medication into the shoulder area that is called the subacromial bursa. Impingement syndrome is one of the most common diagnoses seen in medicine today, and a subacromial injection can permit patients increased function of their shoulder and significant pain relief.

Another type of soft tissue injection example would be one for tennis elbow. This is a condition around the elbow that involves inflammation and pain of the tendon insertion on the outer part of the elbow. Injections of steroid work very well for this region, and often times the doctor will place small holes in the bony region to enhance blood flow and healing of the area.

Another type of injection performed in the extremities is a nerve block. Let's use an example of a supra-scapular nerve block which is a nerve that can become compressed around the shoulder region. Injecting steroid medication around the area of compression may allow a patient to participate in physical therapy along with providing excellent pain relief and may help the patient avoid surgery.

Additional examples of extremity nerve blocks will include a lateral femoral cutaneous nerve block, an ankle block, or a carpal tunnel injection. Occipital nerve blocks are utilized for occipital neuralgia. Occipital neuralgia may be a significant cause of migraine headaches, and blocking the nerves in this area may provide months of pain relief. If that works well, the pain doctor may move on to a radiofrequency ablation which may provide pain relief for over a year.

When it comes to interventional spinal injections, there are a few different types. These can be grouped into 3 different categories. The 1st are injections in or around the facet joint. Pain doctors may inject medication right into the joint or potentially around the joint which is called a medial branch block. The evidence for medial branch blocks is strong and can give weeks to months of pain related along with acting as a diagnostic injection. A subsequent procedure when that injection wears off called a radiofrequency ablation may allow patients to receive pain relief for over a year.

The next category of injections are referred to as epidural steroid injections. Evidence for these injections is strong, and there are currently three different types used by pain doctors. The first is known as interlaminar injections, which is the oldest type and has been done since the 1960s. Transforaminal epidural steroid injections are the newest type performed and allow the pain doctor to get fairly close to the area of the pinched nerve with steroid medication. The last type of epidural started injection is called a caudal injection, and works very well in situations where steroid is needed to work on multiple areas of compression.

The last category of spinal injections involves procedures to remove scar tissue. This is called an adhesiolysis and may be performed under a fiber-optic camera guidance. This is the least used of the interventional procedures.

Other procedures performed by pain doctors should be placed into a category termed exotic. These would be such things as superior hypogastric plexus blocks, sympathetic blocks, and Botox injections for neuromuscular conditions.

Lastly, one of the more exciting procedures in pain management they are spinal cord stimulator's. These are permanent implants that can help provide electrical stimulation around the spinal cord and decreased pain in situations where there is no solution to caring the painful problem.

As the years go by in pain management, technology continues to improve and it is a very exciting field presently. More research is necessary to keep up with the amount of pain issues in this country and keep coming up with new solutions to help those in need.

Joint Pain Relief - Naturally

The market for joint pain relief is a big one. There are millions of people suffering from joint pain in one form or another on a daily basis. Our nation is also increasing in its numbers of senior citizens every day. With the baby boomer generation moving up in years and our life span increasing, it is inevitable that joint pain-and the relief of that pain-is a big business issue.

There have been some highly publicized recalls on some joint pain medications. One of the biggest recalls on a medication in recent history was for the medication Vioxx. After several years on the market, the maker of Vioxx pulled it from the shelves as it appeared to be contributing to heart attack and stroke issues. Some of the medications that work in a similar manner all have increased their warnings while other medications have since been removed from the market.

Communication with your doctor is always a must when it comes to medications and therapies for your body. It is vitally important that your doctor is aware of each and every medication or supplement that is being taken. Medications and supplements are not all processed through the body in the same way and do not all interact nicely. Your doctor can help ensure that you are not doing more damage to your body while seeking relief from joint pain. Self-medicating is really not a good idea and should be avoided!

There are always other ways to ease up joint pain, beyond medication. Hot and cold applied to joints can often help to relieve pain. Each and every body and situation is different, and it is often necessary to experiment a little to find what system works for you. A general guideline regarding hot or cold application to a joint is to avoid applying it for more than 20 minutes. Exercise can also help to relieve pain and stiffness. It is important to make sure that the exercise will provide relief and not exacerbate any underlying issue. Consult your doctor about these options.

There are also items like creams and supplements. Recently a product was released that contains cetylated fatty acids, also known as CFAs. The product is called Celadrin, and is available in both cream and supplement forms. Many people have already found it to help relieve pain quickly. With continued use, both the cream and supplement become more effective for most people.

After all the medication recalls, many people find more natural options to be more appealing. Items like Celadrin and the other joint supplements on the market generally have little to no side effects. Again, this area is becoming big business. Of course, the increase in attention and money flowing into this section of the market is helping to put these supplements in the limelight. Researchers and studies are showing that even chronic joint pain sufferers are feeling better after giving these more natural selections a chance. By combining a few options, real relief can be attained!

The Best Natural Cures for TMJ

The best cures for TMJ (Temporomandibular joint) disorder are natural ones. Natural cures for TMJ would include stretches and exercises that would do the same for the TMJ or jaw joint as normal physical therapy exercises would do for your knee or ankle.

A mainstay of physical therapy guidelines is to first reduce the swelling and try to restore normal range of motion with stretching exercises. Then use other exercises to repair and strengthen the muscles to prevent re-injury. There are dozens of simple exercises you can find online that you can try to see if they help.

If you have a lot of pain associated with your TMJ disorder you may want to try ice packs or heating pads. Use one or the other and if it doesn't work try the other. Just apply either one for about 10 minutes at a time to help relieve your pain.

To work on your stress levels you can try some Yoga breathing exercises or some other stress reducing activities. You could lessen the list of things you are trying to do each day and start listening to some soothing music regularly. When you do stress reducing therapy you need to try to clear your mind and learn to relax every muscle in your body.

You could change your diet to only include soft foods. If some foods you feel you must have are somewhat chewy you should cut it into tiny pieces before eating it. Also, don't eat foods that are hard or crunchy like nuts or raw vegetables.

One thing that will help you is to find a magnesium supplement and start taking that. Magnesium will help to reduce swelling and offer some natural pain relief for your jaw and head.

There are a few cures for TMJ you may want to stay away from. They would include surgery which is very painful and expensive not to mention highly invasive and unproven, drugs which would only give you temporary relief and side affects you don't need, and TMJ guards which are plastic or nylon tooth guards that you sleep with in your mouth.

The TMJ guards can actually give you a TMJ cure depending on the cause of your disorder and whatever TMJ symptoms you are suffering from. They have been known to work great if the doctor is experienced using them. You would need to make sure to get a thorough exam from a dentist that has experience with TMJ symptoms in order to figure out the root cause and an effective treatment plan.

Cures for TMJ need to be tailored to fit each patient depending on the root cause and the symptoms that are presenting. The most common root cause of TMJ is stress, tension, or anxiety which leads some people to grinding their teeth in their sleep or clenching their jaw unconsciously. If that is the case with you your treatment plan will need to address that as well as your TMJ symptoms because, if not, you will continue to do damage to your TMJ in your sleep or unconsciously.

Another thing you can do is network with other TMJ patients. If you find someone with similar symptom they may be able to put you on the right path to finding your own cures for TMJ.

Can You Use Exercises for TMJ Pain Relief?

Exercises for TMJ pain relief are actually the first type of treatment plan every TMJ patient should explore. Actually, you need to see a dentist who is a TMJ specialist with experience treating the specific TMJ symptoms your are having and let them design a course of TMJ therapy custom tailored for your condition.

Exercises for TMJ (Temporomandibular joint) pain relief play an important role in all TMJ treatment plans. Since TMJ disorder is a physical condition and most physical conditions can be treated using physical therapy it's only logical to try therapeutic exercises for TMJ treatments. But the only way to know which ones are right for you is to see a TMJ doctor of some sort and get a treatment plan.

There are many different causes for the TMJ disorder and even more different symptoms you could be experiencing so getting a plan designed for you is the only way to go. Also, the most common cause of the TMJ disorder is gritting your teeth or grinding your teeth in your sleep because of high stress levels and if that's the case with you you'll want to make sure your treatment plan addresses those stress levels and does something about them.

As with any physical therapy designed to treat another joint in your body exercises for TMJ jaw disorder will first stretch out the muscles in an attempt to reduce swelling and improve the range of motion. Then the exercises will be designed to repair the surrounding muscles and strengthen them for protection against re-injury.

Stress is one of the leading causes so one of the first exercises for TMJ should be something like relaxing and breathing and trying to reduce stress. You could also put your tongue of the roof of your mouth and open your mouth as far as possible without your tongue losing contact. Do this slowly and hold it for a few seconds when you reach the limit.

The next of the exercises for TMJ you can try is designed to treat the popping or clicking of your jaw when you open your mouth. Keeping your tongue of the roof of your mouth and using your hand to guide it let your jaw drop down and back at the same time slowly and evenly. Do this exercise 5 times and try to do that 5 times per day.

This next exercise for TMJ is only to be tried after you have done the last exercise 5 times per day for 5 days. Keeping your tongue on the roof of your mouth again, put your pointer fingers right on top of your TMJ joints in front of your ears. Then open your mouth and let your jaw move down and back in a straight up and down movement. Do this exercise 5 times per day for the next 5 days.

For this exercise you are going to do the same as before. Put your tongue on the roof of your mouth and put one finger over the TMJ that is giving you the most trouble. Put your other pointer finger on your chin to guide it and let your jaw go down and back in a straight movement and when you get to the point your tongue is coming off the roof of your mouth, let it lose contact and open as wide as you can without pain. Do this 5 times a day for the next 5 days.

I want to caution you though, make sure to check with your TMJ doctor before doing any exercise for TMJ and remember there are no quick fixes so you may have to keep trying for a while. But the alternative is surgery and you don' t want to resort to that until you have given every chance to be healed using exercises for TMJ.

Zymosine Review - Can it Relieve Joint Pain?

Zymosine review will be an honest review of the product without trying to make you believe it's the greatest joint pain product since sliced bread. It can work for you, or it might not work for you but nobody will know until you read this review.

This zymosine review will not go into head to head details with other products. Most of the reviews I have read always slant a positive towards the product that will make them the most money, or the product that is the most popular at that time. Many times the product ingredients are so close to one another all they actually do is change the name to increase sales. Below are 3 critical areas you should really study with any product to help determine if you want to invest in that particular product.

• Testimonials


• Product Guarantee


• Special Offers

Zymosine testimonials: is an excellent joint pain product that has helped a lot of arthritis sufferers. Testimonials give you a good indication of the products ability to help people eliminate or curb the pain. But, does that mean it can help you? Not necessarily.

Many factors come into play when a product is introduced to your body. Some joint pain suffering patients have never introduced quality health and nutrition to their bodies in years. Other joint pain patients are very health conscious and never throw junk into their bodies. Zymosines 7 key ingredients target certain areas of the body that are prone to joint pain and the testimonials you read about are proof the product works for that person. Personally, you will never know if it works unless you give it a try like we did.

Zymosine Guarantee: Many of the products you read about, offer a guarantee and these are the products that should capture your attention first. Zymosine is no different because the manufacturer is confident enough that their product can assist you and your joint pain. If the product does not give you noticeable results you simply ask for a refund of your purchase. This no hassle guarantee is critical in your process to help you manage your arthritis pain.

Zymosine Special Offer: If you are serious about reducing your arthritis pain then you should try to find a product that offers at least a 90 day supply. This will give your body a chance to absorb the ingredients and help repair itself. Most manufacturers offer a 30 day supply and some offer a special that will help you reduce the cost of the product. Zymosine will run a special from time to time in which they will give you a 2 for 1 deal. That simply means you can purchase 2 bottles and get the next one free.

I hope this zymosine review has given you some ideas the next time you compare joint pain products.

Make it a pain free day.

How to Reduce Knee Swelling Pain

It has been observed by medical researchers that disorders of the knee joint, whatever the cause, start with pain which becomes worse with each movement that you make. The knee joint also becomes stiff and subject to increased friction when you move the joint. The increased friction results in the knee joint becoming hot and is one of the major causes of knee swelling pain.

The knee swelling pain can be reduced by administering pain relieving medicines to give relief to the sufferer. If there is an inflammation in the lining of the knee joint, it can do damage to the surrounding bones causing pain and swelling that continues for weeks. The painful inflammation occurs in the sac containing the lubricating fluid that is found around the knee joint.

This is also the site where there is a great deal of movement and friction. This inflammation also causes knee swelling pain. There is swelling of the knee and it becomes tender and sometimes hot to the touch.

Continuous strain on the knee joints may also be the cause of knee swelling pain. A set of exercises recommended by physiotherapists may help you to straighten the muscles and tendons as well. When there is a painful inflammation in the connective tissues (found around the knee joint) the knee becomes tender and you may feel this pain.

The symptoms of knee swelling pain can be alleviated by wearing knee support stockings (available over the counter) which help to reduce the swelling. To promote the drainage of fluid from the knees, it is advisable to keep the foot higher than the pelvis whenever possible.

Salts of calcium crystal form on the knee due to high levels of uric acid in the blood. These deposits can also be the cause of inflammation and knee swelling pain. Natural therapies like eating a diet rich in celery and other green leafy vegetables, drinking herbal tea, etc. are effective in reducing uric acid levels in the blood.

Appropriate drugs to protect the knee joint can also prescribed by medical practitioners to ease the swelling in the knee. It is safe to treat the swelling in the knee at home using a massage pack or a cold compress. You have to first make sure that you do not experience any pricking sensation in the knee before you start the home medication for treating knee swelling pain.

Glucosamine Sulfate

The most common form of arthritis is osteoarthritis. It is a degenerative disease that affects the joints, and at times causes inflammation. Osteoarthritis is most commonly known to degenerate cartilage and cause the formation of bone spurs. The age of the person is the primary cause of this disease. Most of the people over the age of 60 suffer from osteoarthritis to some extent.

Glucosamine sulfate is one of the most effective ways of treating osteoarthritis. There are three different types of glucosamine: glucosamine sulfate, glucosamine hydrochloride, and glucosamine NAS. Glucosamine sulfate is the most preferred form of glucosamine on the market today because of its ability to be quickly absorbed by the body into the joints. This rate of absorption is also known as bioavailability. Glucosamine sulfate has the highest bioavailability out of the other types of glucosamine.

The way glucosamine sulfate works is by encouraging the production of glucosamine glycans, which is a nutrient that helps cartilage naturally grow. By taking glucosamine sulfate, the production of your cartilage will increase over time, and begin the healing process of your joints. Once this process begins to take effect, the reduction of pain will commence.

Most people begin to feel the effects of glucosamine sulfate within the first two months of taking this supplement. Within three months, most patients are almost pain free.

And because glucosamine sulfate is naturally present in your body, its side effects are minimal. It has actually been proven in clinical tests that a person can experience more side effects by taking typical over-the-counter pain medications. In fact, during a double blind study of glucosamine sulfate and sugar pill placebos, the glucosamine sulfate had less recorded side effects than the placebos.

The best way to effectively prevent the degeneration of the joints due to osteoarthritis is to take a glucosamine sulfate supplement. It has the potential to repair the joints without the side effects. Consult your physician to see if this treatment is right for you.

Charcot Foot Diagnosis? Simple Tips You Can Do at Home

A Charcot foot diagnosis could accompany any athropathy or disease of the joints in the feet, but it most commonly accompanies diabetic neuropathy; loss of sensation in the nerve endings.

Regardless of the underlying disease, two main mechanisms are involved in the development and progression of the condition.

First, there is the neuropathy. Because of the lack of sensation in the nerve endings, a minor trauma, such as a fracture, goes undetected. The fractured bones may continue to rub against each other, causing further damage.

Second, there is poor vascular health. In diabetes, the blood vessels leading to the feet may become damaged to the point where they are no longer able to nourish the tiny nerve endings. That is what leads to the neuropathy.

In non-diabetes cases, there may be increased blood flow to the joints, which causes an imbalance in bone metabolism. Normally, bones are rebuilt over time, throughout a person's life, although the rebuilding can be negatively affected by many things. The increased blood flow can cause a kind of washing out of the minerals that would build up new bones. So, the bones become thinner and more fragile.

A definitive Charcot foot diagnosis can only be made after X-rays reveal bone loss and degenerative changes in the joints. But, there are some outward signs and symptoms that diabetics, in particular, should be aware. Watch for:

• Redness


• Swelling


• Pain


• Increased skin temperature-the skin around the joint feels hot

If caught early, the condition is manageable. The joints can heal, although it may take several months or even one-two years for complete healing.

If you receive a Charcot foot diagnosis, it is important to follow your doctor's instructions carefully. In order to prevent further damage to the joints, you should wear good, supportive shoes; no flats, flip-flops or sandals. You should never go barefoot.

Your shoes should have rubber soles, to prevent slipping and absorb shock. Oxfords with an extra-deep base are a good choice. There are many brands of orthopedic shoes. It is important to choose a good brand.

Your socks should be seam free, because a slight irritation can lead to an ulceration, which in a diabetic can lead to amputation. If a Charcot foot diagnosis accompanies Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease, it is important to wear seamless socks and supportive shoes, at all times. Additional ankle and arch supports are also be beneficial.

In all cases, it is important to maintain a healthy weight, to reduce the stress on the joints. Regular physical activity is recommended in order to maintain strength and flexibility. Water aerobics is a perfect form of exercise for anyone with joint disease.

As a last resort, there are some surgical procedures that have been shown to improve a person's physical condition. Although complex, surgery may help prevent further bone loss and restore the natural function of the feet.

Living with a Charcot foot diagnosis may be difficult, but it is not impossible. With the right footwear and sound medical advice, surgery is avoidable in most cases.

Collagen For Arthritis Treatment, Osteoarthritis and Back Pain

Collagen is the most effective arthritis treatment for osteoarthritis, back pain relief and joint pain relief whether from old age or injury. The reason lies in the structural make up of all your connective tissue, which is mostly collagen. Technology has finally found a way to stabilize collagen, in capsular form, so we can ingest it as an arthritis treatment for osteoarthritis and back pain relief instead of having it injected into our bodies. Good news for the 60 million people who suffer with arthritis pain, backache or joint pain.

If you have a vitamin deficiency, the solution is simple, take vitamins. If you are dehydrated and thirsty, drink water. But if you have joint pain, arthritis pain, osteoarthritis, back pain or are looking for an effective and inexpensive arthritis treatment for back pain relief or joint pain relief, the solution again is simple, take collagen to rebuild, heal, stabilize and strengthen your bones, tendons, ligaments, cartilage, muscles, hair, skin and nails, because all of your connective tissue is 85% collagen.

We make collagen everyday to replace and repair our bodies from the natural aging process, breakdown from injury or repetitive stress and invasive surgeries.

The more we make the stronger we are and the slower we age. But the older we get the less collagen we make, the slower we heal, and we start feeling the aches and joint pain associated with arthritis or osteoarthritis and the faster we age.

Wouldn't it be nice to have a supplement that would supply us with all the collagen we would need to repair and heal our aching backs, arthritis, osteoarthritis and joint pain as if we were 30 years old again?

To delay, stop, or even reverse arthritis, osteoarthritis, back pain or joint pain and to gain more mobility, strength, and experience the aging process more gracefully, add collagen daily to feel and see the difference. Most people report this arthritis treatment has given them noticeable arthritis pain relief and back pain relief within three weeks. For most, the results are life changing with far less arthritis pain or joint pain and more youthful vigor and looks.

75% of protein in the body is collagen. According to the FDA, Collagen is all natural and safe for everyone, including dogs and cats, and has awarded it the highest possible safety status. Without collagen, 40% of our organs, 70% of our joints, 80% of our skin, or a total of 30% of our bodies would simply fall apart. Collagen is the structure and glue that holds us together to makes us feel strong and looking young.

Collagen is a protein comprising only of amino acids, water and minerals and contains no fat, carbohydrates or preservatives. Collagen has no undesired side effects nor does it react with drugs or other food/food ingredients.

In conclusion, Collagen is the most effective arthritis treatment for osteoarthritis, back pain relief and joint pain relief whether from old age or injury. Collagen can now be taken in a capsule for arthritis treatment, osteoarthritis and for back pain relief instead of having it injected into our bodies. Collagen is safe, effective and inexpensive with no side affects or drug and food interactions. To heal faster from surgeries, old age or injuries, collagen will supply the building blocks to delay, stop or even reverse arthritis, osteoarthritis, back pain or joint pain within three weeks for most people. Staying strong, looking younger and living pain free has never been easier.

Luxating Patella in Dogs

Luxating Patella - What is It?

A luxating patella is a dislocating kneecap. The patella is also called the kneecap and is bound in place by ligaments, however these ligaments might get lax as the consequence of an injury or congenital abnormality. It's more common in littler dog breeds, and is frequently a continual issue.

Since a luxating patella can be inherited, afflicted dogs should not be bred. Likewise, you should not acquire a dog with a family history of luxating patellas.

Luxating Patella - What Causes It?

Patella Luxation can be a consequence from an injury or congenital malformations. A congenital abnormality where the dogs legs turn inwards could also be a causal agent. If the trochlear groove, this is the groove the patella glides in is too shallow or if the distal attachment of the patellar ligament is medial instead of central, the kneecap will luxate medially while the knee joint is bent. Once this happens, the dog will have trouble carrying weight on the leg until the ligament comes back into proper alignment. Occasionally just one knee joint is affected, however the impairment can turn bilateral, affecting both of the dogs legs in approximately fifty percent of cases.

Patellar Luxation Treated?

The treatment protocol and long term prognosis largely depends on the severity of the disorder, which is measured by how often the patella luxates, and how well it shifts back into the proper anatomical position, and whether there are secondary issues like degenerative joint disease. Moderate to severe cases frequently call for surgical operation to make certain that the patella stays in the patellar groove in the femur, and to prevent osteoarthritis from developing in the future. Physical exercise limitation is crucial for a period of time after operation, and the outcomes are generally extremely good.

Patellar luxation can be categorized into 4 grades, with grade 1 constituting the mildest. Grade 1 patellar luxation might be chanced upon as an incidental finding. Severe circumstances of luxating patella in growing dogs could lead to leg disfigurement. Surgical procedure is typically suggested in moderate or severe cases of luxating patella to steady the kneecap and fix the underlying anatomical malformation. Surgical correction might stop the advancement of osteoarthritis, but this is not guaranteed, and reluxation is a conceivable complication of the surgical procedure.

Can A Luxated Patella Be Fixed?

If your dog is merely experiencing a moderate luxating kneecap, then the patella can sometimes actually correct itself or your veterinarian can manually put the kneecap back in place. If the vet decides this is to be done then your dog will most likely be given pain drugs. Cases that are more severe will require surgical operation to fix the ligaments.

If the operation is executed prior to arthritis occurs, the forecast is very good, and your dog ought to regain complete use of its leg. But, if arthritis has set in prior to the operation, the knee joint will continue to be slightly painful, particularly in frigid weather, and the use of the leg can be affected.

Physical and Emotional Sources of Low Back Pain

Do you have low back pain? Does it hurt on your lower back when you get up, sit down, twist or even move in the middle? If you are suffering from low back pain, you probably have some degree of discomfort, from mild to severe, when you shift your body in some way that involves your lower back. With all of the bones, joints, ligaments, discs, nerves and muscles of our back, it is possible to suffer from many different reasons. There are several sources of low back pain, but also physical and emotional treatment modalities to make the pain subside or go away completely. Yes, there is healing for low back pain, in the form of conservative, non-invasive treatments.

Physical Sources

Almost all low back pain begins with stress or strain to the muscles. This can be caused by overworking it around the house, or during athletic or other heavy back movement activity. In addition, when your back muscles are tight, weak or out of balance, sometimes the slightest irritation will cause a great deal of aggravation. This may occur in the form of a harsh sneeze, bending over to pick up something, or a quick turn to respond to someone calling to you. There are exceptions of course, for example, when a person has been in an accident or had a serious fall. But underlying all that is the source of the pain, which are the muscles. The muscles are directly connected to the nerves that send pain messages to the brain.

Complicating the muscle pain is the issue of emotional trauma or stress. When a person is under duress, muscles will tighten and when contracted for too long, become stiff and uncomfortable, leading to pain.

There are also structural defects to the spine which may be causing pain. A back disc, which is the cushion between each vertebrae on the spine, can be ruptured and that places pressure on the nearby spinal nerves. This type of damage can occur in a patient as early as the age of 20. Spinal stenosis, which happens in older patients, is the compression, or narrowing of the spinal canal typically due to osteoarthritis or a congenital defect. There is also degenerative joint and disc diseases which when not treated, will only become more challenging to correct.

Emotional Sources

Unfortunately for humans, when a person is stressed, their muscles automatically tense up, as if for preparing for a fight. If a person has had an injury to their low back, these tightened muscles only agitate the low back pain. And even without a previous injury, a stiff, tensed up back could be compared to a dry twig instead of a leafy branch. With a slight provocation, it is apt to "snap" and cause low back pain. Stress comes from many sources and in many forms, relating to work, family and many other issues. If you have trouble sleeping or concentrating AND low back pain, the pain is probably stress-related.

Physical Treatment

The actual physical source of back pain can be difficult to diagnose directly to the source in some patients. A specific injury that you may or may not remember may have started the process. Sometimes the lower back will try to overcompensate for the injury, causing yet another problem. Add to that the stress of everyday life and you may have low back pain that may become chronic, lasting more than three months.

An orthopedic or pain management specialist can help diagnose the source of the pain and prescribe specific exercises, stretching or massage that will relieve pain and heal the low back pain over time.

Emotional Treatment

When a person is suffering from low back pain, it is best to treat the whole person, not just the back. There is certainly a connection between the mind and the body when a person is in consistent pain. Sometimes the tension in our back that makes our muscles contract and give lower back pain is caused by stress, worry and even anger.

Combined Relief

For a low back pain treatment analogy here, when you are diagnosed with strep throat, it is because a particular bacterium is found and so you are given specific antibiotics to treat it, as well as rest and plenty of liquids. In the same way, if you have low back pain, is could be a result of stress in your life as well as a disc or muscle problem. This must be treated from the perspective of the muscles of the back as well as the emotional point of view. This treatment strategy includes both the emotional and the physical structure of the back, and a scientific way of looking at both. An exceptional health care provider will ask questions about your lifestyle and current stress levels to see if your low back pain is related to your emotional state. If it appears that therapy would assist in treatment, he or she can refer you to a counselor to treat both sides of the problem.

What Are the Natural Remedies For Wrist Arthritis Inflammation?

Wrist arthritis inflammation is a painful condition and it may be caused by gout, infection, trauma, degenerative joint disease, or autoimmune conditions.

Symptoms of this problem include pain, tenderness, swelling, stiffness, and locking of the wrist joints. Treatment varies according to the specific type of arthritis, symptoms, and the patient's age, health status, and existing medical conditions. If the symptoms are not that severe, natural remedies such as those mentioned below are enough to relieve and alleviate the problem.

Natural remedies for wrist arthritis inflammation include:

1. Rest - Rest is essential during bouts of active inflammation of the wrist. Patients are advised to take ample rest and to avoid doing physical tasks that require the use of hands.

2. Spices - Including spices like turmeric, ginger, and black pepper in one's daily diet can help curb this condition according to Ayurvedic medicine. This claim is also supported by various scientific studies that reveal that these spices contain antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds.

Turmeric, for instance, contains a compound called curcumin, which is effective in stimulating anti-inflammatory activity. Ginger contains gingerol while black pepper has piperine, both of which have the same anti-inflammatory benefits.

3. Fiber - Also to include in your diet are other anti-inflammatory foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, and seeds, which are fibrous enough to stimulate and improve blood flow.

4. Olive Oil - Good fats like olive oil contain oleocanthal, which also has anti-inflammatory activity.

5. Exercise - Proper exercise is recommended to maintain good functioning of the joints. This is also essential for weight loss, as excess weight can be overbearing on the joints and further cause pain.

6. Fish Oil - Another type of good fat is fish oil, which is one of the best natural remedies for wrist arthritis inflammation and painful joints. Research has proved that omega 3 fatty acids stimulate the production of molecules that signal the immune system to inhibit the inflammation.

To be more specific, the DHA present in omega 3 fatty acids in fish oil is converted into a chemical called Resolvin D2 after taken in by the body. This chemical reacts with the inner linings of the blood vessels and counters the inflammation.

Fish oil is abundant in tuna, mackerel, salmon, halibut, and other similar types of fish. However, due to the alarming level of mercury absorbed by fish in the sea, it is safer to take in nutritional supplements that have undergone extensive purification to get rid of this toxic chemical.

It is just important that you are able to choose high quality fish oil supplements from reputable suppliers so you can be assured of potency and purity. Always choose a good brand and an authorized dealer so you can enjoy the anti-inflammatory benefits of this supplement.

For best supplements, look for those that are made from healthy cold water fish like hoki, tuna and salmon. Also, ensure that the supplements have undergone the proper molecular distillation process. Don't let yourself be debilitated by this condition. Use natural remedies for wrist arthritis inflammation to help fight this problem before it becomes severe.

To learn more about how omega 3 fatty acids can help wrist arthritis inflammation, please visit my website where I share what products I have personally been using daily for several years.

While You Were Sleeping

Wikipedia explains bruxism from the Greek word brugmos as grinding of the teeth accompanied by clenching the jaw during nighttime sleep or daytime naps. It is classified mostly as a form of habit and at the same time, considered as one of the sleep disorders. While chewing is a neuromuscular activity controlled by the subconscious process, teeth grinding is more of an activity governed by the unconscious mind during the sleep process.

During the waking life, a person grinding his or her teeth usually happens if he or she needs to say something but unable to do so thus causes frustration. However this teeth grinding ceases when the situation is resolved by allowing the person to express what he or she needs to say. A person dreaming of chewing gum may also exhibit teeth grinding. Thus a person who grinds his teeth at night is unaware of such activity until someone tells him he does or until complications such as dental problems, persistent headache and muscle pain somewhere in the mandible and neck area occur.

Although bruxism is not a life-threatening condition, proper medical, dental and psychological attention are needed depending on the causes why it is experienced by a person. The management also depends on the severity of the disorder. Some bruxers need only to bite on towels, munch on apples, while others who have more severe form undergo psychotherapy, surgical intervention and biofeedback mechanism or through the use of scientifically proven and medically accepted gadgets such as mouth guards and biofeedback headbands.

Mona Lisa's enigmatic smile which has captured majority of us had some untold story about it. Mona Lisa believed to have suffered from bruxism as a result of the strain of prolonged posing for the great Leonardo da Vinci. Nirvana lead singer Kurt Cobain has been constantly seen moving his jaw in most of his footage. Majority believe that this may be due to the side effects of the drugs that he has been taking while others say that it has become his habit which started as a kid in an attempt to maintain or keep-up with the rhythm which he never learned to overcome. The late Anna Nicole Smith, was informed by a dentist named Nick Luizzi, that her teeth grinding due to nervousness, resulted in her need of 20 crowns. It was never reported if Ms. Smith had a major dental work-up but judging from the look of her teeth when she smiled, it was evident that she sought medical and dental treatment.

Although it was never reported how and when those other personalities sought treatment, what was crucial was that, they were aware of the existence of the disorder and people around them encouraged treatment procedure.

Flexcin - An Effective Joint Pain Reliving Supplement

Joint pain is the most irritating and productivity killing ailment of the modern world. That constant weight loading sense in our back, hip and shoulder make us get weary easily. The pricking pain in our knees and joints when we walk or stretch adds to our irritation, distracting our concentration from the work. Flexcin is a supplement suggested for people suffering from joint pains.

Introduction
Flexcin is the in the market for over ten years. Many doctors suggest this supplement for athletes and patients suffering from joint discomforts. The doctors usually prescribe up to three bottles of the supplement for patients suffering from extreme pain. Most of them start experiencing better health after taking a bottle.

The Features of Flexcin
It is 100 % safe to use. It is a great alternative for Ibuprofen or Aleve as there are very little side effects. It is a good cure for injuries like Tennis Elbow, knee swelling and hip soreness. Flexcin contains CM8簧 an all natural substance, which gets absorbed into your body easily. There are no side effects like ulcers or lung related diseases. So, you can use the supplement for a prolonged period of time without any worry.

100 % Money Back Guarantee
They give back the money really. There is no time limit or extra questions. If you are not 100% satisfied with the product, you get the money back. The point is, most of the people who had tried the supplement once, come back to the company for more, not the refund. The physicians suggesting this supplement are increasing day by day. Flexcin can be purchased at any medical retail outlet easily. You don't require any prescription to get buy the supplement. Hikers, water surfers and other adventure lovers use it often.

Pros of the Product
1. Good pain reliever
2. The capsules don't taste or smell bad
3. No side effects experienced

Cons of the Product
1. The three bottle package comes in an affordable cost of $700. Too costly for commoners
2. It is more of a pain killer, rather than a permanent problem fixer.

Final Verdict
The bottles are worth the money we spent. If you are looking for a really good alternative to your normal pain killers, Flexcin is the best choice. In addition to providing fast relief, it helps a little in long term healing too. Consult with your doctor and see if flexcin is right for you.

How to Stop Arthritis Pain Naturally

Arthritis means inflammation of the joints and it is accompanied by swelling and pain. It is a degenerative disease that can cause disability to millions of people because in severe cases sufferers find it hard to move around and perform basic tasks like walking and using their hands. Of course it is best to consult your doctor to know the best treatment for you to relieve the pain and swelling. Medications and therapy are the common treatments and in severe cases, surgery maybe recommended by your doctor. Although doctors and therapists may recommend treatments for you to cope with arthritis, you also play an important role in improving the quality of your life despite the presence of arthritis. While you are under treatments, there are also natural remedies and home care that you can do to stop arthritis pain naturally.

Use of splints and arthritis devices. Living with arthritis can be very difficult and there are limitations with your movements and the things that you can do. With the use of proper arthritis devices, the joints will be protected, the pain will be reduced and your everyday life will be easier. The use of splints on the aching and swollen joints can offer relief and can help the joints to relax. Ask your doctor and therapist about the proper splint and arthritis device suitable for your condition.

Practice stretching. It is important to practice stretching to relieve stiffness, relieve fatigue and to stop arthritis pain naturally. Resting the affected joint too long or holding one position for too long can make the joint more stiff and painful. Work with your therapist with the proper exercise and stretching program suitable for your condition.

Sleep. Although the pain will make it hard for you to sleep, a complete 8-10 hours night sleep is important for your recovery and can be very helpful to stop arthritis pain naturally. Relaxation techniques and meditation can be very helpful if you want a complete rest and night sleep. If the pain is so severe that it prevents you from having a goodnight sleep, talk to your doctor.

Acupuncture. There are people who found relief in natural remedies like acupuncture. This is a method done by professional and licensed acupuncture therapist to help sufferers stop arthritis pain naturally. The method involves the use of needles on specific points to relieve arthritis pain.

Heat and cold treatments. The application of heat and cold can be very helpful to stop arthritis pain naturally. Swelling can be reduced with the application of cold packs on the affected area while hot packs or a warm towel applied on the affected area will increase blood flow and will ease the stiffness and pain. Ask your doctor what is the best treatment for you.

It is important for you to know how to manage your arthritis to improve the quality of your life. If not treated, arthritis can make your life miserable. If the conventional treatments failed, alternative treatments are another option. Find out more on how to stop arthritis pain naturally visit Cure Painful Arthritis.

Back Problems in Dachshunds

Back problems are extremely common amongst Dachshunds. In fact, it is believed that Intervertebral Disc Disease is most prevalent amongst them, with an estimated quarter of the breed suffering from some form of spinal issue in the course of their lifetime.

What is Intervertebral Disc Disease?

The spine is made up of several vertebrae, which are separated by discs that act as shock absorbers. These discs, in their healthy state, have a jellylike center that is surrounded by toughprotective casing. Unfortunately, as the dog becomes older the discs lose flexibility and can become calcified.

Subsequently, the brittle discs can become herniated, rupture, or lodge into the spinal cord. Obviously, this is very painful for the dog and can ultimately result in paralysis. Invertebral Disc Disease is also known by its acronym IVDD, alternatively, it is referred to as a slipped disc, or simply called disc disease.

Why are Dachshunds Susceptible?

Tragically, in the quest to create differing breeds of dog, we humans have caused numerous genetic problems for many breeds. The Dachshund is just one such breed. The issue, which causes back problems in Dachshunds, is known as chondrodystrophy, which is an inherited condition that affects cartilage. Cartilage is transformed it into bone while the dog is still in the womb, causing dwarfism.

There are a number of chondrodystrophic breeds, including Basset Hounds, Bulldogs. All of these breeds are distinguishable by their short crooked legs. In addition, they all suffer with premature degeneration of the joints and vertebrae, which can lead to the aforementioned IVDD.

Symptoms of Invertebral Disc Disease

If you own a Dachshund, it is always advisable to watch out for symptoms of IVDD, because although it is more common in older dogs, it can occur at any age. However, typically, symptoms begin to present themselves when the dog is between the ages of 3 and 6 years. If your dog is suffering from IVDD, his, or her, symptoms may present themselves gradually or may suddenly appear very acutely. Things to watch out for include:

A hunched appearance when walking, which can be indicative if back pain.

Clumsiness or disorientation while walking.

Weakness in the hind legs.

Whimpering or yelping when the dog is lifted, again, this indicates that the dog has severe back pain.

Difficulty getting up from a lying position.

Difficulty climbing steps or stairs.

And, obviously, paralysis.

These symptoms can indicate IVDD, but they can also suggest other problems, such as a tumor, infection of the spine or other medical condition. Therefore, if your dog is experiencing any of the listed symptoms, he, or she, should be taken to a veterinarian who will perform a thorough examination to ascertain the problem.

How to Treat IVDD

If a dog's condition is recognized and diagnosed early, the prognosis for recovery is usually good. Often in mild cases, dogs with IVDD are prescribed anti-inflammatory medication and given strict rest to allow the spinal cord and discs to heal. In more severe cases, dogs with IVDD may need to undergo surgery in which discs are removed to give the spine an opportunity to recover.

Ways to Prevent IVDD

Although Dachshunds are genetically predisposed to the problem, there are still measures that owners can take to help their four-legged friend.

One of the principal exacerbating factors for Dachshunds is their weight. An overweight dog will have an even greater impact on an already fragile spine. Therefore, if you're worried about your Dachshund's weight, it is wise to seek the advice of a vet who will supply you with a diet plan.

It is good to ensure that your dog is getting plenty of exercise. However, rough play, jumping or any action that causes twisting motions should be avoided, as these will place further pressure on the spine.

Unfortunately, in our efforts to create designer dogs we have caused many medical conditions that cause great pain and suffering to our canine companions. Therefore, it is a good idea for all dog owners to assess their dog's risk of inherited problems.

Knee Pain? Maybe It's Your Feet

There are several painful conditions of the knee that may be caused by problems with your feet. The knee joint is one of the most complex joints in the body. It is a hinge joint, a sliding joint and a rotating joint all at the same time. The proper and pain-free functioning of the knee requires near perfect alignment of the bones, ligaments and tendons that make up the knee joint. Pain in the knee is usually an early warning sign that something is wrong with the alignment. It is important to address these problems early to avoid serious, long term problems such as severe arthritis.

The improper alignment that causes knee pain is often the result of improper alignment of the joints of the foot and ankle. Let me give some examples.

Pain on the inside part of the knee may be caused by bursitis at the location where three of the tendons from the thigh muscles (sartorius, gracilis and semitendinosus) come together and insert into the upper/inner part of the tibia (bone of the lower leg). This condition is known as Pes Anserine bursitis. Pes Anserine is Latin for "goose foot". I suppose it is called goose foot because these three tendons coming together look somewhat like a goose's foot. The pain is caused by inflammation of the bursa beneath these three tendons. A bursa is a fluid-filled sac that is found where tendons and ligaments rub against bone. The bursa is designed to prevent the bone from irritating and damaging these tendons and ligaments as the rub back and forth over the bone. When these bursa become inflamed this is known as bursitis. Pes anserine bursitis is inflammation of the bursa beneath the three tendons that form the goose foot. Pes Anserine bursitis can be caused by excessive pronation of the foot. The excessive pronation (see article on normal foot motion) causes excessive stretching of these tendons which over time results in inflammation. The treatment and prevention of this condition involves an arch support to prevent excessive foot pronation.

Pain on the outside of the knee is sometimes caused by a condition known as iliotibial band syndrome. The iliotibial band runs from the pelvis down the outside of the leg and attaches to the outside part of the knee. Problems with the foot together with overuse (such as running or bicycling) can lead to inflammation where the iliotibial band inserts into the outer knee. There are several different foot problems that can cause this inflammation. If the person is flat-footed (over-pronatnor) this causes the tibia (lower leg bone) to excessively internally rotate. This increases the stretch on the iliotibial band and causes inflammation. On the other hand if someone has a high-arched foot, the foot is in a supinated position (see normal foot motion) and this too can cause excessive stretch on the iliotibial band and inflammation. These two very different types of foot problems result in the same painful condition (iliotibial band syndrome). However the two problems require very different treatments. In order to correct the problem it is essential to determine what exactly is causing the problem.

Knee arthritis can be caused or exacerbated by problems with the foot. Someone that has arthritis pain on the part of knee closest to the midline (medial compartment) may have a supinated foot that contributes to a bow-legged type of stance. Someone with pain in the lateral compartment (the outer part of the knee furthest from the midline) may be flat-footed, a hyper-pronator, which leads to a knock-kneed type of stance. Through the proper use of a foot orthotic I believe that we can, over time, reduce the load on the painful knee compartment, reduce the pain and at least slow down the degeneration of the cartilage.

Pain in the center of the knee is often cause by chondromalacia patella, also known as retropatellar (behind the kneecap) pain syndrome. This is often seen in someone with excessive pronation (flat-feet). As the knee straightens and bends the kneecap is supposed to ride smoothly in a cartilage-lined groove on the lower end of the femur (thigh bone). Someone that is a hyper-pronator has excessive internal rotation of the tibia. This excessive internal rotation changes the angle that the kneecap rides up and down in this groove (known as the Q angle or Quadriceps angle). Over time this leads to irritation behind the kneecap and the retropatellar pain syndrome. An arch support or orthotic can be very helpful in treating this condition.

In conclusion I have discussed a few of the common causes of knee pain that can be relieved or at least improved through the use of a simple foot orthotic. For more information please visit. http://www.Archatomics.com/

Pain Relief For Dogs - Aspirin

When pain relief for dogs is necessary for mild to moderate arthritic pain, aspirin is a possible choice. One of the good things about aspirin is that is is not addictive, and its effectiveness does not diminish over time. When it is taken in low dosages it relieves pain, and in higher dosages it acts as an anti-inflammatory.

However, there are a few draw backs that pet owners need to be made aware of. The first draw back is that joint inflammation responds slowly to aspirin, and it should not be taken with any other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, without supervision from a veterinarian.

Pet owners also need to be made aware there are side effects of aspirin. One side effect is that it can irritate the stomach and aggravate gastrointestinal problems, and could cause peptic ulcers. It also puts stress on the kidneys. The best choices are coated or buffered aspirin, as this offsets the effects. If your dog has intestinal bleeding, anemia could develop. If this occurs a diet rich in iron could be necessary.

Cats however, are different than dogs and should not be given aspirin unless absolutely necessary. Aspirin could actually be fatal for cats if taken at the dog level.

When using aspirin for pain relief for dogs, it should always be given with food to avoid upsetting the stomach. If your dog has a sensitive stomach, a buffered aspirin is highly recommended, as it contains an antacid to neutralize gastric acid in the stomach, which lessens the chance of ulceration.

Another option is aspirin with the enteric-coating. This passes through the stomach before dissolving and it absorbed later as it moves through the small intestine. Some doctors believe that enteric-coated aspirin is not absorbed well, however, there is no medical proof to back the theory up. One thing they have agreed upon though, is that it takes longer to reach the bloodstream and therefore is not recommended for quick pain relief.

As you can see, aspirin is an option for pain relief in dogs. However, you should not give your pet aspirin or any other medication without first consulting with your veterinarian. Some medications could be dangerous and life threatening to your pet, especially if given the wrong dosage. Never give your pet an human/adult dosage, as dosage varies between humans and animals.

Glucosamine for Joint Health and Repair

Glucosamine is an amino acid and sugar (glucose) combination. It is essential for the maintenance and repair of joints and is naturally produced in the body. As we age the body's ability to produce glucosamine from glucose decreases because the quantity of the enzyme glucosamine synthetase, responsible for the process declines. After an injury to joints, cartilage or spinal discs the body is often unable to make sufficient glucosamine for healing to occur.

Glucosamine acts as a supportive building material and stimulates the production of other ingredients essential for cartilage and joints. Research has shown conclusively that glucosamine considerably alleviates painful, tender and swollen joints. There is also a marked improvement in joint mobility in arthritis sufferers. In some studies there was also a reversal of cartilage degeneration. Taking glucosamine as a supplement can effectively inhibit cartilage deterioration. Clinical studies have shown that glucosamine sulphate relieves the pain and inflammation of osteoarthritis It is a safe alternative to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs eg ibuprofen). Although NAISDs are able to provide quick relief they have been shown to inhibit repair and accelerate the degeneration of the cartilage. Glucosamine achieves very positive results but it takes several weeks- so you need to be patient!

Glucosamine sulphate is the first line of treatment for arthritis - taking precedence over conventional medication in several European countries. There are no known side effects and no contraindications for its use - diabetics need to be careful as glucosamine might have an effect on insulin resistance.

Although the exact mechanisms for alleviating osteoarthritis symptoms is not known research suggests that glucosamine encourages cartilage matrix formation, reduces enzymatic break-down of cartilage components and had an anti-inflammatory effect. It also stimulates the production of hyaluronic acid in joint fluid. Hyaluronic acid relieves pain and improves mobility by repairing damaged cartilage.

There are many research studies into the benefits of glucosamine in arthritis. In a double-blind study 178 osteoarthritis patiens reported the effectiveness of glucosamine sulphate in reducing pain. In another study 252 patients with osteoarthritis of the knee received 1,500 mg per day of glucosamine sulphate in three doses. After 4 weeks glucosamine sulphate was more effective than the placebo in reducing pain and increasing mobility.

As well as having a role in treating arthritis glucosamine can be used following sporting injuries. After trauma or tearing during strenuous activity, the body often cannot make enough glucosamine for optimal healing. In one study 68 athletes with knee cartilage damage were given 1,500mg glucosamine sulphate daily for 40 days, then 750mg for 90 - 100 days. 52 of the athletes had complete resolution of the symptoms and returned to full training. Follow up after 12 months the athletes showed no signs of cartilage damage.

As well as glucosamine there are other substances that can play a role in joint health. These include:

· MSM (methyl sulfonyl methane) - a natural, safe and physiologically active sulphur compound. It has ano-inflammatory and antioxidant action. It is found in our bodies and in some foods such as raw seafood and fruit and vegetables. It plays a role in creating new cells and stimulating healing. It is used in the treatment of all forms of arthritis and joint infections.

· Chondroitin - is another important component of cartilage. It acts as a shock absorber by providing structure, holding water and nutrients and allowing other molecules to move through the cartilage. Glucosamine and chondroitin work together to protect the cartilage against degeneration.

· Vitamin C and manganese also work to strengthen the body's natural healing mechanisms.

· Multivitamin and mineral supplements and essential fatty acids also have beneficial effects on joints and musculoskeletal problems.

There are many studies that demonstrate the effectiveness of glucosamine in the treatment of joint and cartilage problems. Glucosamine is a safe alternative to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs eg ibuprofen). Although NAISDs are able to provide quick relief they have been shown to inhibit repair and accelerate the degeneration of the cartilage. Glucosamine and other joint and bone repair products take a little longer to be effective but it will actually benefit the cartilage and aid in repair.

Back Pain Tips For Golfers

Golf, one of America's favorite sports, is also a cause of lower back pain among many of its players. Compared to football or baseball, golf seems like a relatively low-impact sport. Yet the physical demands placed on the lower back by the golf swing can cause both short-term and chronic back pain.

The two main back injuries associated with golf are muscle strains and disc wear. Muscle strains are the most common and occur due to the twisting of the back during the golf swing. Disc degeneration and vertebral misalignment problems are surprisingly more common in young golfers between 30 and 40 years of age. Disc degeneration is very common among the general population, even young people who feel no pain. Golfers may begin to feel pain when the game exacerbates a preexisting degenerated disc.

The lowest lumbar vertebra (L5) and the first segment of the sacrum (S1) are most affected by the golf swing. This spinal segment allows for the most rotation, whereas the others mainly facilitate forward and backward bending. The constant rotation at L5 and S1 can aggravate the spinal disc between these bones, causing it to bulge or herniate. This can lead to nerve impingement problems like sciatica.

The following tips will help you prevent back pain from golf:

Warm Up

One of the best ways to eliminate back pain from muscle strains is to warm up before playing golf. Many might not think warming up is necessary when participating in a low-impact sport, but the golf swing is anything but low-impact on the back. If the muscles are not warmed up, the sudden wrenching of the golf swing will cause tears in the muscle that will be exacerbated with every swing to follow. Taking a few gentle practice swings before your game will get the blood flowing to the muscles of the back, loosening them and preparing them for work.

Stretch Regularly

Muscles and joints are kept limber by a regular stretching routine. Stretching sends fresh blood to the muscles which both delivers nutrients and flushes out waste. Joint range of motion is also maintained through stretching. For golfers, light stretching before and after games should be part of a back pain prevention plan. Hip muscles and hamstrings should be included in your stretching routine. The hamstrings attach to the hip, and the muscles within the hip connect to the lower back. If these muscles are tight, the position of your pelvis is altered and your ability to rotate without strain is diminished. Tight muscles in the hips and legs also change spinal alignment since they alter the position of the pelvis, which makes you more susceptible to disc injury.

The hamstrings can be stretched by lifting one leg at a time up onto a nearby object - a table, chair or golf cart - and bending at the hips to touch your elevated toes. Keep your toes pointed straight up for best results. An easy way to stretch your torso on the course is to put a golf club behind your neck, hold the ends with your hands and rotate side to side. For a quick and easy hip stretch, see the video at http://www.videojug.com/film/how-to-stretch-your-hips-for-golf.

Proper Form

As with any sport, proper form in golf is essential to avoiding injury. If your posture is off during your swing, you can wrench the joints, discs and muscles of your back. It is important to adopt a gentle and fluid swing. Since the golf swing is not a natural movement, it is best learned under the guidance of a professional. Keep in mind that the hips, torso and shoulders should all rotate together to share the impact. See the video at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z6eWfyI8Am0 to learn how to position yourself properly before your swing.

Stretching, warming up and practicing proper form can help you prevent lower back pain from golf. Maintaining a healthy back will ensure that you can enjoy your sport for many years to come.

Elbow Joint Pain - Causes and Treatments

Elbow joint pain is a very common complaint among people of all ages. There are many different possible causes when it comes to elbow joint pain. The source of the pain may not even be at the elbow. Simple movements like turning your hand, using a pen, or bending and straitening your arm can cause shooting pain or a dull ache. With so many different things that could cause this pain (and different names to go with them), its good to be knowledgeable about the possible diagnoses so that you will be able to give the doctor all the information that you can.

The most common source of elbow joint pain is known as tennis elbow. This is when the outer tendon becomes inflamed from overuse of the lower arm, such as when you hit a ball with a tennis racket. The twisting motion can irritate the tendon, causing you pain. Though it is called tennis elbow, such elbow joint pain is not always caused by tennis, as many athletes know. With the constant motion required for sports using the upper body, the possibility of having elbow joint pain increases and it is very important that precautions are taken.

Golfer's elbow is a name given to elbow joint pain that is located in the inside of the arm. It is called "golfer's elbow" because of the tendons and muscles used to swing a golf club. This form of elbow joint pain is not only found in golfers; it can be caused by many different things, from awkwardly lifting a bag to a repetitive motion you may do at work or home. Usually, the pain will gradually come on and continue to get worse until it is treated.

Trigger finger may have a funny name, but it can be anything but funny. Pain in the joints of the finger is caused by inflamed tendons that are pulled through little tunnels in the hand. When the tendon becomes too inflamed, it can become difficult for the tendon to move through the tunnels. The small tunnels may also become inflamed, making it difficult for the tendon to pass through. When you have trigger finger, you may hear a small pop when the tendon finally pushes through. This can also cause the finger to lock in place for a moment. This causes the pain in the joints.

Nursemaid's elbow is called such because it mostly happens to children under the age of five, and is usually caused by someone taller than them holding them tightly by the hand or arm as the child falls or jerks away. It also happens quite often when adults lift the child by the arms or swings them by their hands. This movement can pull the joint just enough to cause a partial dislocation. The child may start crying immediately, or only when they use the arm or have it held by someone else. They may hold it close to their body, or not use the arm at all. If you suspect your child may have nursemaid's elbow, it is very important that you call your pediatrician immediately to get it fixed.

Is Your Migraine a TMJ Migraine?

Many people who suffer from chronic headaches and migraines do not know that temporomandibular joint disorder (TMD) causes them. Your temporomandibular joint is where your lower jaw connects to your skull. When this joint gets out of alignment, it is referred to as TMD, and it can cause many different physical problems.

When your temporomandibular joint is out of alignment, it causes the muscles in your face, head, and neck that surround the joint, to strain at everything they do. Even while at rest, the muscles are having excess stress put on them because of the misaligned joint.

The strained muscles in your head, face, and neck can cause headaches or TMJ migraines. TMJ headaches are often so painful, severe, and frequent that they are misdiagnosed as migraines. One of the ways to determine if you are suffering from headaches or migraines as a result of TMD is by getting diagnosed by a specially trained neuromuscular dentist like Dr. Pavlenko in Edmonton, Alberta.

When the muscles are constantly strained or contracted they can cause tension headaches. TMJ headaches can also be caused by a build-up of blood pressure. When the muscles in your face, head, and neck are strained, they prevent blood from flowing to the correct places. When this happens, your body attempts to correct the problem by sending more blood to the area, which increases blood pressure. This can cause a very painful feeling of pressure around the head, called a vascular headache.

A neuromuscular dentist will work with you to diagnose your headaches or migraines and determine if TMJ is causing them. If it is, he will design a treatment plan specifically suited for you. First he will relax and rid the muscles around the joint to stop the pain they are causing. Then, your jaw will be stabilized so that the best treatment for you can be determined. Finally, the two of you can discuss a long-term treatment that is designed specifically for you.

The symptoms of TMD can cause discomfort and they can lead to serious physical damage. You could be suffering from TMD if you are experiencing symptoms like:

·	Sensitive/Sore Teeth
·	Sore jaw muscles
·	Pain in the head, neck, and shoulders
·	Facial Pain 
·	Headaches
·	Migraines
·	Ringing in the ears
·	Locking of the jaw
·	Clicking/Popping of the jaw
·	Limited jaw movement
·	Worn Teeth
·	Chipped Teeth

Herbal Medicines For Arthritis and Rheumatism

There are many different types of arthritis, each of which involves some disorder or inflammation of one or more joints. The two most common forms are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis (OA)

Osteoarthritis is the most common type of arthritis, affecting the middle-aged. It is a degenerative joint disease and is characterized by pain, stiffness, and swelling in spinal joints, hips, knees, and joints of the hand, with progressive loss of function. The cartilage that lines the bones degenerates, becoming inflamed, rough, and hardened, and eventually wears away. Tendons, ligaments, and muscles that are holding the joint together become weaker, causing deformity, pain, and reduced movement.

Osteoarthritis is the result of natural wear arid tear, but other causes can include

repeated strain to joints, ligaments, and muscles

joint deformation from birth or previous injury

rheumatoid arthritis

gout

nutritional and hormonal influences.

Treatment

Diet and Nutrition Correct body weight should be maintained to prevent strain from causing osteoarthritis. Tomatoes, potatoes, eggplants, peppers, and simple carbohydrates, such as white flour and refined sugar, should be eaten in moderation. Avoid coffee, red meat, artificial additives, and processed foods. Increase your intake of vegetables, fruits, complex carbohydrates, wheat germ, and oily fish. A nutritionist might suggest daily supplementation with vitamins A (10,000iu), C (2g), E (600iu), and B6 (50mg).

Massage Joints can be massaged effectively with tiger balm, lavender and camomile oils, and with Ruta grav. cream.

Yoga This will help to encourage joint mobility and improved posture.

Consult a qualified practitioner/therapist for:

Acupuncture With or without using moxibustion, this will act to balance energies and reduce both inflammation and pain.

The hand is a complex arrangement of bones, joints, and tendons, which make it vulnerable to wear and tear

Ayurveda Treatment is aimed at balancing the elements of air, fire, water, and mindbody connections.

Herbal Medicine Some herbalists might recommend celery seed, yucca leava bogbean, and devil's clal taken daily. Infusions alfalfa and nettle may be suggested as nutrition supplements. Wild yam root and glucose amine (1500mg per day) are also useful.

Homeopathy Rhus tox.6c is suitable when the condition is worse with rest anij dampness, and Ruta grav. is appropriate when symptoms are relieved by warmth.

Osteopathy and Chiropractic These are useful for maintenance of efficient body mechanics and pain relief.

Rolfing Treatment will address postural integration.

Sciatica Syndrome

Pain across the low back, mid-back (lumbosacral), or on the low broad bone (sacrum), or in the joints formed by the sacrum and the hip bone (ilium), the sacroiliac joints, can precipitate an acute sciatic attack. This occurs when there is a severe trauma, a wrong movement, or anything that can cause an irritation or pinching of the nerve roots involved. When the low lumbar and the higher sacral roots that form the sciatic nerve are involved, the back, buttocks and the outer border of the thigh and the calf will be extremely painful. If the lesions involve the more numerous nerves of the lower sacral plexus (Cauda Equina), it may produce symptoms bilaterally (both buttocks), and of the lower extremities. The symptoms may also affect the groin, and can also produce sexual dysfunction.

The incidence of sciatica can increase with age and at age 60 can be as high as 50% for those with low back problems. These problems can be of many varieties. The most prevalent causes of low back pain that can result in sciatica are due to degenerative joint disease. Other causes can be; congenital defects (Spina Bifida, a defective closure of the spinal column), bulging or ruptured discs, inflammation, pinched nerve, tumor, forward slippage of a vertebra on the one below (spondylolisthesis), and osteoarthritis are but few of the possible precipitating factors of the onset of sciatica.

If any of the above conditions are present, they may remain dormant until there is a trigger mechanism that will set off an acute attack of sciatica. That trigger can be a trauma, such as a fall, golf or tennis swing, wrongly lifting an object (no matter how light or heavy), reaching for an object above your head, a minor auto accident, or any overexertion of the back that causes a severe sprain/strain. Another less obvious trigger can be such an innocuous thing as keeping a thick wallet in your back pocket and constantly sitting on it. That will cause a pressure on the sciatic nerve where it exits from the spine into the buttock area inflaming the nerve, thus precipitating an acute attack.

Misalignment of the vertebrae of the spine is one of the greatest causes of sciatic syndrome. The misalignment reduces the foramina (opening) between the vertebrae where the sciatic nerve exits the spine, causing a pinching of the nerve. The pinching results in inflaming the nerve and causing an acute attack. Poor posture over the years can also place stress on the spine with the same result. A Chiropractor can generally correct these anomalies with manipulation of the spine.

A severe sciatic attack will also affect deeper lying tissues, such as the paravertebral muscles and ligaments (the muscles and ligaments alongside the spinal column), causing inflammation, pain and muscles spasms. The severity of the muscle spasms will determine the amount of limitation of motion of back movement. In severe cases the patient will be unable to move without eliciting sudden severe, sharp, stabbing pain. The patient will present "Antalgic Posture" (bent over and unable to move). Coughing, straining or sneezing will cause a sudden sharp stabbing pain. Your Doctor will refer to this as the "Valsalva's maneuver. Lifting the leg straight up while lying on your back will increase the pain in the leg and back.

A less common form of sciatica can be due to "Spinal Stenosis" This form of sciatica resembles a circulatory condition in that it will involve the nerve roots and manifests itself by causing pain in the buttocks, thighs and or calves when walking, running or climbing stairs. Here again the causative factors can be pinching of the nerve as it exits the spine. The numbness and tingling may be more pronounced here. At times rest will alleviate the pain, but not the numbness and tingling. Another causative factor can be toxic inflammation due to alcoholism or diabetes. Although rare, diabetes can cause a diabetic neuritis.

Seeing your Chiropractor or Physician can help determine the causative factor of your condition. The Chiropractor, once the condition is diagnosed, can correct any spinal misalignment or imbalance that causes a pinching of the nerve. He will also use several modalities, consisting of physiotherapy that will reduce muscle spasms and reduce the inflammation. There are also many things that you can do to help alleviate the symptoms of sciatica. Sufficient rest is of the utmost importance. Prevent overexertion of the back in any form, such as lifting, excessive bending at work or sports. Over the counter pain relievers can take the edge off the pain. Using analgesic gels will aid in reducing the pain. Taking hot showers and the use of a heating pad can be soothing to the back.

When symptoms permit, the individual can start walking for short distances, but should be using the proper back brace to prevent further muscle injury at this time. The patient with vertebral joint arthritis may also respond to a proper back support. Wearing of a proper back brace will help the muscles that have become spastic to relax and limit motion by splinting them. Mild exercises can be started when symptoms permit. Exercise will help strengthen the back and abdominal muscles that maintain the integrity of the spinal column. Lumbosacral flexion exercises should be avoided if they make you feel uncomfortable, as they can also aggravate the condition. The overweight or seriously obese individual should make every effort to lose weight. The extra pounds place an enormous amount of strain on the spinal column.

In conclusion, the condition of sciatica can be an extremely painful and debilitating as previously stated. Do not ignore it, but make every effort to help yourself. An acute flare-up of sciatica when ignored can easily become a chronic condition that will plague you for life. Follow the previous suggestions and life will be more bearable. And remember, in the final analysis, when symptoms permit start your exercise program to strengthen your back and abdominal muscles, which in the future will help prevent recurrences.

Understanding The Hip Replacement Surgery

Hip replacement joint surgery is a surgical procedure whereby the damaged parts of hip joint are replaced with prosthetic implants (artificial parts). The hip replacement surgery is categorized into two: Total replacement also referred to as total hip arthroplasty and the hemi or half replacement also referred to as hemiarthroplasty. The total hip replacement involves replacement of both the femoral joint and the acetabulum (hip bone) while the hemiarthroplasty consists of replacing only the femoral head. Nowadays, hip replacement surgery is the most popular orthopaedic operation, although the patient's short term and long term satisfaction varies widely.

When is the right time for a hip replacement surgery?

Hip replacement procedure should be carried out when the hip joint is experiencing painful symptoms that can no longer be controlled through medicinal treatment. Depending on the severity of the hip damage, your surgeon will recommend a total hip replacement or a hemiarthroplasty.

What leads to hip substitution?

Joint failure is the reason why hip replacement is performed. Joint failure can be as a result of Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid arthritis, Traumatic arthritis, avascular necrosis, Hip fractures, protrusion acetabuli, Bone Tumors, Malignant and Benign.

Alternatives to Hip Surgery

The first alternative to hip replacement can be referred to as conservative management. Before a doctor concludes whether to perform a hip replacement surgery, the doctor will try other methods. These methods are: exercise, walking aids and medication. Taking part in exercises will strengthen the hip joint muscles while walking aids such as walkers and canes may relieve stress from the painful and damaged hips hence delaying or avoiding surgery.

For patients who experience hip joint pain without inflammation, the doctor will recommend analgesic medication acetaminophen. On the other hand, for patients with hip joint pains with inflammation, treatment involves use of NSAIDs or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Aspirin and ibuprofen are among the most common NSAIDs.

For some cases, a much stronger analgesic medicine or a product containing both the narcotic analgesic and acetaminophen such as the Codeine may be recommended by the doctor in order to control pain.

Topical analgesic products may also offer pain relief. Some people may find pain relief from a combination of chondroitin and glucosamine. Patients should first inform their doctors before settling for nutritional supplements, herbs and alternative medicines to avoid destructive drug interactions.

Another alternative is hip resurfacing. This is a minor surgical procedure that involves placement of a cobalt chrome metal cup over the femur head while another similar metal cup is fixed in the pelvis socket (Acetabulum). The metal cup placed on the pelvis socket replaces the articulating surface of the hip joint by removing little bone material. The metal cup is hollow with a mushroom shape.

Viscosupplementation is another alternative to hip substitution procedure. This involves injection of artificial lubricants into the hip joint. An example of these lubricants is hyaluronan. This lubricant can also serve as a pain reliever.

Risks involved in joint Replacement

After the surgery some patients may develop blood clot in their leg vain. This is dangerous as it may not allow the flow of blood from the legs to the heart or to the lungs.

Some patients may also get infections in the hip joint or in the wound. This risk is likely to occur in people who suffer from diabetes, chronic liver disease or rheumatoid arthritis.

Nerve injury around the surgery site may also occur during the surgical procedure. Nerve injury may cause numbness, difficulty in muscle movement or tingling.

Difference in length height may arise from the surgical procedure. Usually the height difference is minimal and does not cause any pain or malfunction of the leg.

Elbow Joint Pain

The elbow is a hinge joint where three bones meet in the middle portion of the arm. The elbow functions to move the arm forward and backward and in rotation twisting outward and inward like a hinge. Biceps is the major group of muscles that flexes the elbow. Triceps is the major muscles group that extends the elbow. Tendons are attached to both the outer and inner portion of the elbow. A fluid filled sac or bursa covers the tip of the elbow and serves to reduce friction. Some of the conditions that can cause elbow joint pain are listed below.

Tendonitis

Tennis elbow and golfer's elbow are the two forms of tendonitis that cause pain in the elbow joint. With repeated movements of the forearm, the tendons attached to muscles of forearm can be injured. This can happen for persons who often use a manual screwdriver, wash windows and play tennis or musical instruments like violin. Repeated twisting motions or activities that strain the tendon result in elbow pain. Simple braces for the elbow can help to rest the joint and alleviate pain.

Golfer's elbow is characterized by pain and tenderness over the inner elbow. Repetitive motions like swinging a golf club affect and injure the tendons of the forearm that attach to the bone of the inner elbow.

Bursitis

Bursitis or inflammation of the bursa on the tip of elbow can occur from injury or minor trauma. Bursitis causes swelling over the tip of the elbow and pain.

Fractures

The bones of the elbow can break into the elbow joint or adjacent to the elbow joint causing pain in the elbow joint and surrounding areas.

Sprain

Sprain occurs when ligaments in the elbow area are stretched or torn. This may occur due to impacts on the elbow or when the elbow is hyper extended. The severity of the injury will depend upon the extent of injury to a single ligament and the number of ligaments involved.

Arthritis Joint Pain

Today Arthritis has trapped half of the world, which literally means joint inflammation. Arthritis is not a single kind of disease - people from all over the world suffer from several kinds of Arthritis.

Different Arthritis

Worldwide, Arthritis is classified under 8 categories as:

1) Osteo Arthritis:Osteoarthritis is most frequently seen after the age of 45 and is also more common in women. Osteo arthritis mostly affects knees, hips, spine and feet.

2) Rheumatoid Arthritis:RA (Rheumatoid Arthritis) typically affects the small joints, such as the hands, wrists, elbows and feet. Occasionally, RA (Rheumatoid Arthritis) can cause inflammation in other body organs such as the heart and lungs.

3) Gout: Gout is a painful type of very painful, which can attacks both large and small joints, though it only attacks one joint at a time. This disease begins with pain in the big toe.

4) Fibromyalgia: Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain disorder that can cause severe pain in the muscles, ligaments and tendons but not in the joints such as neck, hip, shoulders etc.

5) Systemic Lupus Erythematosus: Systemic Lupus Erythematosus it is a connective tissue disease, which affects through out the body. Lupus generally affects skins and heart.

6) Carpal tunnel syndrome: Carpal tunnel syndrome causes pain in tingling and weakens our fingers and thumbs.

7) Juvenile arthritis: This is a common type of arthritis observes in children which affects our hands, feet, knees or ankles and other internal organs, causing rashes and fever.

8) Back pain: It is very common and a major cause of disability and people having days off work.

Causes and symptoms:

Arthritis may cause severe pain, stiffness and swelling at joints parts. Some of its common symptoms are,

1) Swelling in joints
2) Difficulty in moving joints
3) Joints appear red
4) Stiffness around joints

It generally affects toes, knees and wrists. If left untreated can cause non-curable damage to joints, bones, and skins. Though there are 8 kinds of Arthritis but Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Gout are the most observed. Approximately more than 350 million people suffer from this disease. The sufferers include men, women, children and adults out of which most are under 65.

Scientists believe that including lifestyle and heredity several other factors are major cause of Arthritis such as,

1) One suffers from Arthritis when his/her family member has same disease (i.e. this disease is transferred through genes)
2) Females are more vulnerable to this disease than men.
3) People having more weight or fat persons are more vulnerable to this kind of disease.
4) And sometimes in our day-to-day life heavy weight lifting leads to joint pain.

Control Arthritis

1) Don't opt for painkillers
2) Keeping your weight balanced is a key to control joint pain
3) Fight Arthritis by regular exercise

Cure Arthritis and joint pain (e.g. Synotrex)

The most popular treatment for Arthritis is Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs such as Vioxx, Celebrex and Bextra. Unfortunately these have lots of side effects as they increase risk of stroke and heart attack. So people are seeking safer, natural alternatives such as glucosamine, chondroitin, turmeric, SAMe, MSM and fish oil to treat their painful symptoms.