Saturday, April 5, 2014

Joint Pain Remedies for Natural Relief From Pain and Inflammation


If you are suffering from joint pain, then you are one among the million sufferers. It is a common disorder that affects many in varying degrees. Aging that causes degeneration of bones and cartilages is the most prevailing factor, which ultimately leads to osteoarthritis. In this case the protective cushioning of the cartilage wears away due to constant friction causing immense pain. Not only age, but unhealthy and sedentary life style may induce osteoarthritis at an early age. Apart from this, various strenuous activities or over exertion of the joints can result in joint pains e.g. sportsmen experience serious joint pain conditions.

Women pose a higher risk of joint pain than men after menopause due to low estrogen levels. Main joints like those of hips, shoulders and knees face the brunt of this wear and tear, as maximum mobility of the body is dependent on these joints. Other joints of ankles, heels, fingers and wrists are also affected by arthritis.

Symptoms

1. Swelling and inflammation of the joints followed by pain.
2. Redness and tenderness in the joints.
3. Free movement is impaired to a great extent.

Causes

1. Degeneration of bones and cartilages leading to Arthritis.
2. Autoimmune disease like Rheumatoid arthritis.
3. Gout
4. Low estrogen levels in women after menopause.
5. Obesity
6. Sprain or physical injury.

Remedies

It can be very bothering and restrict the free movement but the good news is that you don't have to suffer the pain alone as there are a number of remedies, which if followed regularly with consistency can reduce the pain significantly.

1. Firstly, you should control your body weight and reduce the craving for sweet food, sugar and other refined foods. Being overweight puts greater load on the joints leading to fast wearing of the cartilage.

2. Regular massage with Rumatone Gold oil helps in this condition.

3. You should avoid some foods like red meat, beef, pork, certain dairy products, some citrus fruits and vegetable oils which may aggravate inflammatory condition.

4. Various stretching exercises, yoga postures benefits in treating joint pains, as exercises help in strengthening of the bones, joints and the muscles around. Always seek an expert advice before going for these exercises.

5. Alternative cold and hot treatments are helpful in reducing the problem, as the cold pack relaxes the stretched nerves and the heat treatment improves the blood circulation along the joints.

6. Taking Epsom salt baths in hot water for 30-40 minutes regularly is a useful remedy of joint pain.

7. Massaging of camphor oil, eucalyptus oil, oil of wintergreen and menthol give good results in treating joint pains.

8. Extracts of Birch, Boswelia Serrata, Arnica and Devil's Claw are good remedies.

Craniosacral Therapy - Description and Benefits


Craniosacral therapy (CST) was developed about 30 years ago by John Upledger, DO. Dr. Upledger originally studied the practice of cranial osteopathy, which was devised by William Sutherland, DO in the early twentieth century, but adapted it based on his own research and personal observation during his career as an osteopathic physician.

Craniosacral therapy is based on several theories. The first of these is that the bones of the skull do not fuse completely in early childhood as is usually believed. Also, in his early career Dr. Upledger observed, while assisting during a surgical procedure, that the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord - the meninges - actually move rhythmically. At first it was thought that this rhythm was due to the heartbeat, but Dr. Upledger discovered that the rhythm of the meninges is a different pattern from that of the heartbeat.

Craniosacral therapists are taught to detect and evaluate the movement of the meninges by just holding the head and the base of the spine - the sacrum - very still and focusing on what they feel with their fingers and hand. After the evaluation, it is possible to very slowly and gently "adjust" the bones of the skull, so that the cerebrospinal fluid - the fluid lining the brain and spinal cord - can flow more naturally.

Craniosacral therapy is used for a wide range of symptoms, including neck and low back pain, chronic fatigue, temporomandibular joint syndrome, fibromyalgia and even emotional issues like depression and anxiety. It is especially good for chronic conditions that may have a neurological component, like coordination problems, hyperactivity and learning disorders. It has even been used to treat autism; Dr. Upledger has found that the meninges of most autistic children are unusually tight and that it is possible to loosen them during a CST treatment.

Craniosacral therapy is performed with the client lying on a treatment table while the therapist holds the head and/or the sacrum. The therapist's hands then move slightly as they do the needed adjusting. It may not feel like much is happening during the treatment; the therapist needs to maintain their concentration, so they don't talk much and the client, because they are not moving much themselves, may fall asleep. The effects are subtle and it can take a lot of sensitivity to notice them at first.

And what are the effects? To begin with, the client may notice that they are calmer and can concentrate more easily. Their posture or coordination may improve and they may have less pain; perhaps that nagging headache they've had is now gone. Or maybe they feel more optimistic about life in general. The issues in their life that have been a source of anxiety no longer seem so challenging - or hard to get over. (Because it has such a wide range of benefits, CST can be used in conjunction with other therapies, including emotional treatment.)

Craniosacral therapy can help people of all ages, from infants to elders. About the only time it is definitely not recommended is when there is a high-risk condition located in or affecting the brain or spinal cord, like an aneurysm or intracranial hemorrhage. The craniosacral therapist will obtain a medical history and may consult with a physician or other practitioner before doing a treatment.

Craniosacral therapy can be practiced by massage therapists, but it is not massage. It can be done by osteopathic physicians, but it's not an osteopathic adjustment. It takes special training to do this sort of work. But many people - practitioners and clients alike - swear by it and would never try anything else.

Harmful Free Radicals & Antioxidants


What are free radicals?

Without becoming too technical, there are numerous studies that point to oxygen free radicals as a causative factor in an ever-expanding range of degenerative health issues such as heart disease, cancer, allergies, macular degeneration, arthritis and even premature aging. However, free radicals do play an important health role. Some free radicals arise normally during metabolism. Sometimes the body's immune system's cells purposefully create them to neutralize viruses and bacteria. Normally, the body can handle free radicals, but if antioxidants are unavailable, or if the free-radical production becomes excessive due to stress, excessive alcohol, unhealthy foods, and cigarette smoke, that's when damage can occur. Free radicals are also introduced into the body through external sources such as exposure to the sun or pollution.

Symptoms of Excessive Free Radicals in the Human Body

The free radicals damage the biological structures through the natural oxidation process. Free radicals may give rise to various degenerative diseases. Few of the symptoms are joint stiffness, coupled with pain on motion of the affected joint. At times they are also responsible for heart disease, cancer, arthritis and Alzheimer's disease, and accelerate general ageing, including that of the skin. Importantly, antioxidant deficiency can go unnoticed in the human body.

What are antioxidants and how can they help in countering excess free radicals?

Antioxidants are molecules that slow down or prevent the oxidation of the other molecules- the start of the free radicals formation process. Antioxidants, present in many foods and nutritional supplements may act to protect cells in the body and fight oxidation caused by free radicals.Antioxidants (or anti-oxidation agents), reduce the effect of dangerous free radicals by binding together with these harmful molecules, decreasing their destructive power. Antioxidants may possibly assist in repairing damage already sustained by cells. Certain antioxidant enzymes are produced within the body. Antioxidants are also known to support the immune system.

How can you increase antioxidants in your body?

Doctors recommend consuming bright-colored fruits and vegetables to increase antioxidants in your body. Vitamin A, C, and E are most beneficial, and found in carrots, squash, broccoli, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, collards, cantaloupe, peaches, apricots, citrus fruits, watermelon, nuts, grains, vegetable/liver oil, green leafy vegetables, fish, chicken, eggs, red meat, garlic, amongst a host of fruits, vegetables and juices. As you can see, you have plenty of diet options to increase antioxidants in your body.Choosing raw fruits and vegetables rather than cooked, provides the highest concentration and best absorption of antioxidants.Dietary supplements are also available for those that do not consume enough antioxidant-producing foods.
Few good vitamin supplements available widely in the market are:


  • Green Tea Plus: The green tea helps build energy, facilitates a healthy heart, as well as support the immune system.

  • Ruby Red: With red fruits, antioxidants, probiotics as its key ingredients, Ruby Red can help increase energy levels, as well as support digestive and immune systems.

  • Royal Greens Ultra: Having green vegetables, spirulina, and more, Royal Greens Ultra can help build stamina, as also aid the improvement of the digestive and immune systems.

Jaw Misalignment


TMD, or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder, is a term used to describe the structural imbalance in the jaw to skull relationship, caused by the way your teeth come together. This can lead to a group of symptoms including headaches; facial pain; jaw pain; sore, chipped, broken or worn teeth; clicking or popping in the jaw; and limited jaw movement. People suffering from TMD report chronic pain in the jaw, teeth, face, head, neck, shoulders or back or any combination of these areas. Snoring, grinding of the teeth and restricted airway are other problems associated with TMD.

Jaw misalignment can be a great source of pain for those suffering from TMD. Often, patients are unaware of the cause of their discomfort and attempt to wait out the pain, allowing the disorder to cause further damage. Speaking with a neuromuscular dentist can help identify your neuromuscular disorders. If you have long, searing headaches and a tendency to grind your teeth, the source of your discomfort could be TMD. Speaking with a neuromuscular dentist as soon as possible is highly recommended.

If you are interested in the field of neuromuscular dentistry, it is important to be aware of the intricate details involved in diagnosing the source of patient pain and discomfort.

End Joint Pain With Natural Remedies


Joint pain relief and treatment options vary with the causes of the pain and when the pain is a result of an underlying condition, treating the condition, may offer long-term relief.

There is currently no known cure for conditions like Osteoarthritis (OA) and Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) and medical treatment of these conditions aims to reduce joint pain, improve joint mobility and quality of life and restrict functional impairment, whilst limiting any toxic side effects of therapy. Although most conventional medication and drug treatments are prescribed purely for relief of symptoms, they do not offer a cure for the underlying condition and because of this many people around the world are opting for safer, all natural, non-drug, alternative remedies and therapies to avoid any potential drug related side effects.

Alternative treatment methods such as heat and ice applications or applying pain patches, can offer safe and effective relief from joint pain. Natural herbal and homeopathic remedies have been proven to effectively address the underlying cause of joint pain and encourage joint pain relief. Though there are no standard supplements that are available for the treatment of joint pain, throughout the years numerous clinical studies have proven the effectiveness of them and a few that could help alleviate painful joint conditions are mentioned below:

Devil's Claw has used for centuries to treat symptoms of joint pain in conditions such as osteoarthritis, fibrositis, rheumatism and small joint disease.

Glucosamine and Chondroitin are commonly found dietary supplements which help repair cartilage and maintain joint mobility. Glucosamine is an essential constituent of cartilage and Glucosamine sulphate is the dietary supplement most frequently used by patients who suffer from Osteoarthritis (OA) and joint pains. Considerable research has shown that it effectively reduces the inflammation and pain associated with OA whilst slowing down the progression of the disease. It has also been shown to control OA symptoms as effectively as ibuprofen and without the gastro side effects of Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs).

Chondroitin is a compound that is essential for the formation of our joints' matrix structure. Long-term use of Chondroitin supplements could slow the progression of the disease by slowing the narrowing of the spaces between joints. Chondroitin has not shown any benefit over glucosamine and can probably be considered as a modest supplement to alleviate pain.

Boswellia is a fragrant tree resin (Boswellia Sacra is thought to be the Biblical incense Frankinsence) and a natural anti-inflammatory. Bromelain is a natural enzyme in pineapple used as a joint pain reliever and anti-inflammatory. There are also the additional complementary physical therapies such as:

- Massage
- Aromatherapy
- Physiotherapy
- Chiropractic
- Acupuncture

The above are but a few of the many pain relief treatments now readily available as alternatives to the usual drug solutions so favoured of the medical profession.

Then, in addition to the above, what with advent of functional and affordable self-care products such as, Acupressure tools and Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (acronym TENS) machines, which work by producing a small electrical impulse current to stimulate the nerves for pain management and pain relief - and also infrared and ultrasonic devices that perform similar tasks - there are plenty of alternatives to over-the-counter and prescription medications and their potentially harmful side effects.

Friday, April 4, 2014

How to Understand Rheumatoid Arthritis & Osteoarthritis - Chronic Pain and Treatment Strategies


The previous two articles in this series analyzed and discussed rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in some detail. The link between chronic pain and RA was analyzed and the progression of the RA chronic pain complex was revealed. Particular attention was paid to small joint pain, usually involving the neck, hands, and feet in the early stages of the disorder, then spreading as the disease takes hold and progresses. The progression of chronic, often acute pain affecting the larger joints, to include the upper, middle, and lower back, hip and knee pain, and even leg pain, usually expressed as sciatica, was discussed. As discussed in "Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis - Dealing With Chronic Pain Associated With RA Part I & II," RA is a chronic and systemic disorder, widespread throughout the body, and without cure. In this article we will discuss the differences between rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and an often misdiagnosed, misunderstood "cousin," osteoarthritis (OA). We will discuss diagnostic features distinguishing the two disorders, the symptoms of RA versus OA, and some treatment variations and similarities. The very different outcomes, or prognoses, as well as certain strategies for confronting the two conditions head on will also be explored. Finally, strategies for alleviating, and in some cases eliminating, the chronic pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis will be offered. Chronic pain treatment strategies, to include treatment for neck pain, back pain, hip and knee pain, and sciatica, will be compared and analyzed.

As noted above, rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, systemic disorder. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease occurring when the individual's immune system doesn't work properly or malfunctions. Rheumatoid arthritis causes chronic, often acute pain, stiffness and swelling, and progresses from small joint involvement, to large joint involvement, and ultimately to multiple organ consequences. Chronic pain associated with RA is usually the result of an inflammation of the synovial membrane, synovitis. The inflammation of the synovial membrane leads to friction, the friction leads to joint degeneration, which leads to more inflammation, which leads to more friction and joint degeneration. As the disease progresses, and begins to affect other organ systems, the result is usually total disability. The exact cause of rheumatoid arthritis has not been established. Many experts believe that RA may be the result of genetics, environment, and/or a number of other factors to include hormones and the body's reaction or response to stress. Onset of RA typically occurs in women between the ages of 30 and 50 years of age. However, rheumatoid arthritis has been known to strike the very young, men, and certain ethnic groups, to include a disproportionately high number of Native Americans. RA is also seen in higher numbers among smokers. Rheumatoid arthritis is generally not attributed to such things as aging, trauma and injury or obesity. Beginning with small joint pain and stiffness, the disorder culminates in deformity and chronic, often acute, back pain, hip and knee pain, and sciatica.

Osteoarthritis (OA) is generally considered an age-progressive phenomenon. Sometimes called the "wear and tear" disorder, OA may also be attributed to injury, trauma, stress, and/or obesity. Osteoarthritis typically expresses with joint pain, stiffness, and loss of function and did decrease in the range of motion. Unlike rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis generally affects weight bearing joints, particularly the spine, the pelvis or hips, and the knees. Chronic back pain, particularly of the lower back, and leg pain (sciatica) are quite common. However, OA may also be present in the neck, the hands, particularly the finger joints, and even the big toe. Osteoarthritis generally worsens later in the day or after considerable activity. Alternately, rheumatoid arthritis is generally known for morning stiffness or stiffness occurring as the result of a lack of activity or after periods of prolonged inactivity.

Significantly, while as many as 1.5 million individuals in the United States have been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, over 20 million people have been diagnosed with osteoarthritis. While diagnosis for osteoarthritis is usually established with the use of x-rays, in some cases CAT scans, rheumatoid arthritis usually takes a more comprehensive battery of diagnostic tests to properly diagnose. RA sufferers may require extensive blood tests, x-rays, CAT scans, and in some cases even an MRI to properly diagnose the disorder. The very different symptoms of the two disorders, one systemic and the other a "wear and tear" disorder, are evident in the laboratory and radiographically (x-rays).

Treatment strategies for RA and OA are often remarkably similar. Although RA requires pharmacological intervention, generally in the form of disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs or DMARDs, to reduce stiffness and chronic pain, as well to inhibit joint damage, this should not be the only treatment strategy employed. DMARDs often take weeks, even months to build up in the bloodstream and fully take effect, so NSAIDs are often used synergistically, and as a stop-gap until DMARDs are effective. Osteoarthritis, on the other hand, may also be treated by NSAIDs. However, ibuprofen and acetaminophen are routinely prescribed for pain associated with osteoarthritis.

In addition to medication, both rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are responsive to physical therapy and ice to reduce inflammation and swelling. Individuals suffering from RA or OA typically respond well to exercise. Exercise is particularly effective for RA sufferers in order to offset periods of inactivity and the stiffness associated with a sedentary lifestyle or simply the stiffness related to characteristic morning stiffness. Osteoarthritis, on the other hand, responds well to exercise for different reasons. Individuals affected by OA, a typically age-progressive, trauma, and stress related phenomenon, respond quite well to strengthening of the musculoskeletal system, particularly the core muscles responsible for posture and overall strength. As muscles atrophy, deterioration of the bones, particularly the vertebrae and weight-bearing joints, is quite common, leading to "wear and tear" and an exacerbation of the overall condition and subsequent degeneration. The degeneration leads to a constellation of chronic pain symptoms, to include neck pain, back pain, and sciatica.

Ultimately, while etiology or cause of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are quite different, symptoms, such as swelling, inflammation, stiffness, and chronic pain are characteristic of both conditions. Individuals suffering from RA and OA are affected by a progressive disorder, both leading to total disability if not properly treated. Individuals diagnosed with osteoarthritis, because of the very nature of the disorder, have a much better chance of alleviating and even eliminating the long-term effects. RA is, by its very nature, more problematic. That being said, individuals suffering from rheumatoid arthritis may take control of the outcome, their prognosis, by engaging in an aggressive, holistic treatment strategy, one typically designed to treat the symptoms, since etiology is still unclear. In both instances, medication, ice for inflammation, swelling, and to reduce pain, and a medically approved, individualized program of stretching and exercise should be commenced as soon as possible. Chronic pain associated with both conditions should be taken as a warning to do something, rather than to do nothing. To do nothing will exacerbate either condition, leading to further degeneration and the progression of both disorders and their symptoms, to include chronic pain in the form of joint pain, neck pain, back pain, and/or sciatica.

The Less Invasive Treatments Available From an Experienced TMJ Specialist


TMJ is a condition caused by the imbalance of the jaw joints that lead to severe pain in the jaw whenever the patient opens or closes his/her mouth. This disorder affects around 10 million people in America alone each year. TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint which causes pain when it starts working ineffectively. Any ordinary dentist can detect TMJ disorder by analyzing the uneven muscles that are affecting the facial joint. However for treating this particular problem going to a TMJ specialist is always a better idea. A specialist is more experienced in this particular area and will be better able to help you get cured. Other ordinary dentists deal more with the teeth and gums of the mouth rather than the jaw joints. This is why it is highly recommended that anyone experiencing these symptoms should seek medical attention from a specialist rather than any ordinary dentist.

A specialist provides cure for this disorder in many different ways. The treatment will be decided after analyzing your particular case. Each patient has a different case and severity of this disorder. For more extreme cases of this disorder, the specialist will most probably recommend surgery. However other less pervasive measures are also available. A specialist can also cure this disorder through physical therapy and exercises. When looking for a specialist search for those dentists that have particular training in the field of neuromuscular dentistry. A Dentist with this added training will be more suited for diagnosing this condition and offering the right care and treatment to rid you of this disorder.

Some forms of treatment might contain dental guards. These dental guards are specially designed to fit your particular jaw. These guards are to be worn at night while going to bed to avoid any unconscious teeth grinding that you might do while sleeping. A TMJ specialist might train you on different exercises as well to help you get cured without having to go into surgery. Jaw exercises that your TMJ specialist will ask you to perform include opening and closing of the mouth for a fixed number of time while watching closely in the mirror to notice any movements or your mouth going too much in one side.

If your case of TMJ disorder is more severe your TMJ specialist might recommend you to go for jaw surgery. In this particular surgery the Dental surgeon treats your jaw and your mouth to make it more aligned so as to relieve you of the pain caused by the jaw imbalance that you have. To search for a good Dentist you should look online at various dental websites or try searching for this particular disorder and then a list of all the doctors that are specialized in this particular field. You can also try asking your dental society to recommend you a good Dental surgeon. If the thought of going into surgery makes you uncomfortable you can talk to your Dental surgeon to recommend you physical massage therapy. This is also known to work great for patients suffering from TMJ disorder.

There are various reasons that can cause the TMJ disorder out of which one major reason is stress. This is why your Dental surgeon might first ask you to start seeing a psychiatrist, psychologist, or psychotherapist. You can also find a Dental surgeon that specializes solely in pain management. This is also a great form of treatment for TMJ disorder. Regardless of the type of treatment you go for, it is important that you find the right TMJ specialist for yourself.

Diagnosing and Treating Hip Pain and Injuries


Hip pain and injuries are one of the most painful and stubborn that a runner can get. This is because there are so many types of hip injuries one can come down with, and the symptoms are all quite similar to one another.

Could it be a stress fracture? A hip stress fracture is characterized by a pain on the front of the hip that travels to the groin, back, or leg. When your hip bone can't handle the force of pounding and torque, it will develop a crack. Stress fractures develop rather easily in patients who have poor bone density, which is the result of poor calcium intake or absorption, usually caused by inadequate diet, biological changes (i.e. menopause), and disease. Stress fractures can also be caused by going too hard, too far, too soon. I hate to say, if you come down with a hip stress fracture, the only effective remedy is to take three months off of running, during which time you should do physical therapy, pool running, and swimming.

Could it be femoral acetabular impingement. This injury is characterized by an ache in the front of your hip or near your groin, which gets worse after a run. It is caused by the ball of the hip joint on being able to fit into the socket. This grinds and tears the cartilage lining within the socket. This injury usually requires eight to ten weeks of physical therapy. Sometimes surgery is needed to correct the injury.

Speaking Of The Truth: Reiki And Effective Communication


When examining the particulars connected to the fifth chakra, the throat, zone of communication and expression, imbalances or diseases that manifest can produce a myriad of symptoms: Sore throat, thyroid imbalance TMJ (Temporomandibular joint disorder of the jaw bones), weak voice, hearing loss, repeat colds, shyness, feeling dis-empowered, overly emotional, uncommunicative, egoic you speak...but others look as though you are an alien!

Some suggestions to help clear away the energetic traffic jam may include: Singing, Humming Chanting Screaming-Yes. A good scream can do wonders in terms of releasement. Trust me, I've done it a few times to shed what I needed to release,

For those who are familiar with The Law of Attraction, we can also apply this concept to imbalances in the throat chakra; what we send out is returned to us. The Universe is quite explicit in guiding us to live our truth. I recently read a quote that states "Living your truth is as much about knowing who you are as what you stand for".

From a Reiki practitioner's perspective, clients who seek out Reiki as a means of restoring balance to their physical vessel, typically express feelings of overwhelment, frustration or anger. In assessing and observing, we find it may be a reflection of feeling as though they aren't being heard. Or, perhaps they are not speaking their truth.

While the practitioner focuses on all seven chakras (root, sacral, solar plexus, heart, throat, third eye and crown), extra attention may be placed on the throat chakra to allow the congested energy to come towards the surface and melt or burn away, further completing the client's healing process.

Channeling Universal Love & Healing Energy can assist in releasing congestion in our communication zone. A byproduct of this healing can surface as a cough, scratchy throat, excess phlegm, metallic or "funky" taste in the mouth. While they may seem annoying to the client, I reinforce that it's a positive step in their healing journey. This allows life force energy to move in a more natural rhythm. It also allows the client to speak clearly, concisely and with defined intention.

I once worked with a client was an airline attendant. She was cute as a button. During our session, I observed congestion to her throat chakra. Through the discussion process, she shared that one of her co-workers had been making sarcastic comments towards her. Frustrated, she would stay silent and not engage in a banter of words. When she returned for a follow up session a few weeks later, I asked how things were going with this person. Her eyes widened and she explained that when she returned to work, the co worker made yet another sarcastic comment. My client firmly told her that her comments were unwarranted and basically put her in her place! From that moment forward, there was no more comments from the peanut gallery!

Now, while each case is unique, Reiki clearly was instrumental in this situation. My client was able to release the frustration, anger and self critical feelings regarding herself and her coworker in a healthy, positive way. Reiki allowed her to feel confident in communicating her thoughts and intentions.

Furthermore, we are seeing more people opening up to their Spiriutal gifts. In the early stages, uncertainty of how to step into their Light can cause im-balances to their throat chakra. Again, the bond between client and Reiki practitioner can provide loving assistance in working through these feelings.

At the end of the day, Spirit reminds us how much our truth shapes our experiences. A valuable lesson for everyone.

And So It Is...

The Wonderful Healing Power of the Dead Sea


The Dead Sea is the lowest point on earth in any land mass: -417 meters below sea level and can also be called "the lowest health spa in the world." It's the only place in the world that combines all for greatest health effects: year-round hot weather, the higher atmospheric pressure, an enriched oxygen and very low content of allergens in the atmosphere, reduced UVB solar radiation, a mineral-rich salt and mud.

Cleopatra and the Queen of Sheba is known to have used the black mud and salts, which contain more than 20 kinds of mineral elements and provides health, relaxation and beauty.

Research has shown that Dead Sea products have a long lasting positive therapeutic effect on dermatological diseases such as psoriasis, eczema and other skin diseases. The most popular is the mud mask, which helps tighten the pores and stimulates and nourishes the skin, giving it a radiant and more youthful appearance.

The Dead Sea mud is rich in minerals which have antiseptic qualities. Covering the body in mud helps the minerals absorb into the body while the top layer of skin is purified and cleanse. Cover your body with the black mud can provide skin protection from physical ailments, such as black spots, acne, pimples on the back, arthritis, muscle stiffness, rheumatism and degenerative joint diseases.

Salt is a natural ingredient with few side effects. Used topically or in a bath, salt has many healing properties that can benefit you. It can be used to relieve acne and skin irritations, hives, psoriasis, dry and cracked skin, rheumatologic conditions, muscle aches, stress and insomnia.

Salt packs have been used for years as a remedy for swelling and pain relief. A hot compress made with salt is said to reduce inflammation and infection.

A salt scrub is a formulation of salt and other ingredients which is used to exfoliate dead skin from the body. Regular exfoliation promotes healthy, glowing skin by removing layers of detritus and dead material all at once.

Dead Sea salt is renowned for its ability to renew the skin, reduce the appearance of wrinkles, smooth and soften, and leave skin looking younger. Dead Sea cosmetics help the skin retain water and help keep it moisturized. More moisture in the skin leads to a reduction in the appearance of wrinkles and the prevention of new wrinkle formation.

For over 2000 years people have recognized the healing powers of the Dead Sea. The extraordinary chemical composition has made the Dead Sea products an ideal solution for people seeking relief from skin, rheumatism and other disorders.

CM8: What Is CM8 and Does It Really Make a Difference?


If you are looking for joint pain relief for arthritis, bursitis, fibromyalgia, repetitive stress injuries, sports injuries, or post-surgical aches and pains in your knees or hips, the range of treatments and supplements on the market can be overwhelming. As you read each label you will see all kinds of chemical formula names with some being all-natural and some not.

Two natural ingredients that you will see most frequently are Glucosamine (used to treat joint pain and inflammation) and Chondroitin (usually chondroitin sulfate - used to reverse cartilage loss when used in connection with Glucosamine). Both occur naturally in the body and doctors and chiropractors recommend supplements to relieve age-related, surgical, or sports-related joint pain.

As the victim of a sports injury or two myself, I went looking for such a supplement and found one that has a third ingredient that is claimed to not only boost the effects of Glucosamine and Chondroitin but also to vastly improve joint flexibility. That supplement is Flexcin with CM8??

What is CM8??
I'll do my best to avoid this turning into a chemistry lesson! Cetyl Myristoleate (much easier to pronounce as "CM8"!) is a patented naturally derived formula that, based on blind chemical tests, is claimed to offer three specific properties in the relief of joint pain: pain relief, anti-inflammation, and improved joint lubrication. Because of its chemical formulation (it is technically an ester of myristoleic acid), it has been found to have a long life in the body with no harmful side effects or danger of habit formation. Flexcin is currently the only joint pain relief supplement on the market that includes CM8??as a core ingredient.

Flexcin Customer Reviews - Is Flexcin a Scam?
While the fact that Flexcin uses all natural ingredients should be reassuring to you, it's important to do your research before starting any new supplement regimen (as I did). In this case, the official Flexcin website offers strong endorsements by prominent medical doctors, and customer testimonials seem very positive. Of course, there are always some users who don't appear to like the product, but the positive reviews definitely outweigh the one or two negatives.

Does CM8??Really Make a Difference?
If you look at all the positive reviews of Flexcin customers who have tried other joint pain relief supplements, all the supplements they have tried in the past included the usual ingredients (Glucosamine and Chondroitin), which explains why the manufacturer of Flexcin is so confident in its promotion of CM8??If you have been unsuccessful with other supplements in the past and are still looking for joint pain relief, you should seriously consider giving Flexcin a try. The ingredients are all natural and, unlike many of their competitors, they offer an "Anytime, Anywhere, No Questions Asked, Money Back Guarantee".

Thursday, April 3, 2014

7 Ways of Dealing With Hip Pain Without Surgery


1. Hip Specific Exercises - Hip pain can often be relieved or even eliminated completely with specific exercise routines designed to treat this particular problem. Pain in any of your joints may be an indication that the surrounding muscles are under unbearable strain. Being overweight, sitting improperly with poor posture, and a diet poor in nutrients but high in fat, calories, and sugars all contribute to pain in your joints. Exercise helps relieve this pain by strengthening the affected muscles, and improving your mental outlook.

2. Massage Therapy or Muscle Manipulation - Muscle manipulation or massage can help to eliminate pain in your joints and muscles, and also help you to relax at the same time which diminishes the pain sensations some. When your muscles and nerves are under constant tension or stay tightened up for long periods of time this can cause pain. Having a massage on a regular basis can keep your muscles relaxed and loose, and this can also be done with muscle manipulation in your hip area.

3. Biofeedback - Biofeedback has proven very effective with some people at stopping hip pain without the need for surgery. This method must be learned, and is not something that you can do on the spur of the moment. If you are willing to take the time and put in the effort to learn this method you could get considerable pain relief without drugs or invasive methods.

4. Ice and Heat Packs and Ointments - Joint pain can often benefit from either ice or heat. There are a number of ointments and patches available that can apply either ice, heat, or both to your hip joint and help to relieve pain. Some of these products alternate between a cooling sensation and heat for the best relief. These will also help relax your muscles surrounding the affected joint, which can also contribute to pain in the area.

5. Meditation - If you suffer from hip pain, or any other type of pain, then meditation can be an effective tool you can use to minimize this pain. With meditation you learn to focus and clear your mind. You will be able to minimize the discomfort you feel by focusing on other aspects instead, and clear all of the previous pain from your thoughts. Chronic pain can be devastating both physically and psychologically, and meditation can help with both of these aspects.

6. Electrotherapy - Electrotherapy can help relieve pain that affects muscles and joints. In this treatment you will receive a low dose of electricity, which will stimulate your nerve endings and cause the pain to be eliminated. Some patients swear by this method, while others may not get the best results. Some patients find the treatment a little unsettling, but it is not painful and can be a big help in stopping chronic pain before surgery is required.

7. Physical Therapy - For hip pain that is chronic or severe your doctor may prescribe physical therapy. During this treatment a combination of approaches and treatment methods are used to find out which ones work best for you. Your physical therapist will customize a treatment plan designed to eliminate your pain using exercise, relaxation techniques, whirlpool soaks, and other methods.

Pain in the Back of the Head - What is the Cause?


What to do with pain in the back of the head?

Pain located in the back of the head, neck, and shoulders is very common. There can be many causes of pain located in the back of the head and neck. Pain can originate from tension headaches and migraines, as well as physical conditions brought on by stress, poor posture, injury, inflammation, pinched nerves, and other problems of the spine and neck.

Is it Tension Headache or Migraine?

Many people with pain in the back of their head, neck, and shoulders do not stop to consider that the source of their pain could be migraines. Instead, we assume that the source of our pain must be due to a physical problem such as chronic forward head posture, a "stiff neck" from too much computer use, or other muscle stiffness and cramps. At this point many of us take over-the-counter pain killers, rearrange our desks to meet ergonomic standards, join a gym, start practicing yoga, and seek treatment from chiropractors and massage therapists to relieve our pain. Unfortunately for many of us, the relief brought on by these treatments or lifestyle changes is fleeting at best.

The lack of response to common pain treatment for head and neck pain can be very frustrating for many people. Chronic pain sufferers will frequently go from specialist to specialist seeking out a diagnosis. Many people do get diagnosis ranging anywhere from occipital neuralgia, cervicogenic headache, to TMJ disorders. Unfortunately, treatment for these conditions can sometimes have no effect on their pain.

Why is this? Essentially, many of these people are suffering from migraines that have never been correctly diagnosed. Too frequently people believe that migraines only cause single sided, throbbing, severe headaches accompanied by nausea, light sensitivity, and visual disturbances. In fact, as many as 60% of all migraine sufferers report neck pain (sometimes throbbing,) stiffness, or tightness, at some point during their migraine attack. The reason for this is simple - migraine causes blood vessel and surrounding tissue inflammation anywhere in the head, neck, and shoulders.

Conclusion

If all the other treatments you have tried for your head and neck pain have been unsuccessful - please consider that you may have migraines and may respond better to treatments which address the cause of your pain, not just the symptoms.

The Dreaded Back Pain


According to Stats Canada, four out of five adults will experience at least one episode of back pain at some point in their lives. Sometimes solace can be found in statistics, but that just unnerves me. Although four out of five adults is a huge number, there are even more alarming statistics about back pain. In Britain, an estimated 4.9 million work days are lost per year due to back pain, which translates to monetary loses of approximately 瞿5 billion a year, or roughly $8 billion (CDN).

Interestingly, Stats Canada offers some reasons that we might 'get' lower back pain, including poor muscle tone, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking, poor posture and psychosocial factors (chronic stress and depression). As an Osteopath, it seems to me, that that some crucial factors have been missed, namely; muscle imbalance, postural control, sacroiliac dysfunction and digestive problems.

So how can we ensure that we are not just another 'statistic'? Well, first thing's first - let's look at what Stats Canada suggests may contribute to back pain:

1. Poor muscle tone and sedentary lifestyle.

Well, that should be pretty easy to change by joining a gym, walking more and stretching during the work-day, so why aren't more people doing it? In my practice, common excuses I hear for avoiding these simple activities are, "I work too hard to exercise" and, "I don't have enough time." Time is always a challenge, and if there genuinely isn't enough time to exercise, there are small things you can do. Rather than spending 3 hours straight at the computer, you can get up and stretch every 45 minutes or so. This will keep your joints and muscles more subtle, allow better blood flow though your body and, hopefully, make you feel like doing more. Rather than driving to the supermarket and seeing how close you can get to the entrance, make a conscious decision to park a little further away to lengthen your walk. These seemingly little efforts do add up and contribute to a better quality of life.

2. Overweight

In a few rare cases there are clinical explanations for obesity, but the vast majority of people are eating the wrong stuff at the wrong time in the wrong place. There are plenty of fantastic nutritionists out there, qualified in helping people tackle obesity. Why aren't we utilizing such invaluable resources and supports? Even a few simple changes can make a huge difference. Obesity prevention and reduction involves understanding the importance of walking at least 20 minutes per day, and recognizing that breakfast truly is important daily meal (for metabolic function), that a sugary drink is not a substitute for water, and that white bread raises blood sugar levels as quickly as eating sugar itself.

3. Smoking

Enough said.

4. Poor posture and psychosocial factors.

It is interesting that Stats Canada put these factors next to each other, as sometimes they do go hand in hand. We have all had the experience of seeing an old friend and, without exchanging words, been able to infer their emotional state. Posture and body language are reflective of the psyche. There are many psychosocial factors that can lead to a person developing back pain and many of them are under appreciated. In the western world, we are taught that the body is similar to a machine and immune to psycho-emotional influence. Many of my patients have had little or no findings on MRI or X-ray, and so the 'unspoken' conclusion by their Doctors is there is nothing wrong with them and they shouldn't have any pain. Well...they do have pain, so it must be coming from somewhere! A classical, well-accepted example of pain's psychosocial connection involves the phenomenon of phantom limbs. Many individuals with amputations have reported feeling pain in the missing limbs. Doctors accept these symptoms as real and visceral experiences, as phantom limb pain has been documented for centuries and it is understood that the pain is being generated in the brain. Through these studies of phantom limb pain, modern medicine is beginning to map the connection between back pain and psychosocial factors. (Schielp 2008)

Further Osteopathic Insights into Back Pain

There are many more reasons for back pain that Stats Canada does not list. I have highlighted 4 massive reasons for back pain that I routinely see in my clinic:

1. Muscle Imbalances

Research has shown that imbalance in hip flexor muscle length, strength, and endurance can play a role in back pain (1). Range of motion differences, in which one hip moves more than the other, have also been proven to affect the lower back. As long ago as 1964, a Czech researcher, Valadmir Janda, observed that weak gluteal muscles are significant in lower back pain (2). All these factors are reasonably easy to screen for and, unless there are multiple predisposing reasons for these imbalances, they are fairly simple to correct.

2. Postural Control and coordination

The spinal muscles should be able to contract in coordination with the other muscles of the trunk, namely the abdominals. To ensure correct muscle firing and contraction, the body relies on clear input from the eyes, ears and joints. All the information collected from these sites is processed by the brain, which enables correct muscle response to be executed. For example, if a person bumps into your shoulder while you are walking down the street (perturbation), your body should reflexively bring your trunk back to an upright, balanced position. Your ears, eyes and joint receptors provide instant feedback to your brain, which, in turn, sends out signals to the muscles in your trunk to contract and stop you from falling over. Researchers have also determined that people with chronic back pain have poor postural control. In instances of poor postural control, people may use their hips to correct movements instead of their ankles, leading to an overuse of the lower back. Also people with lower back pain showed delayed or altered muscle-firing times to perturbation.

3. Sacroiliac Dysfunction

In our clinic we have lots of people complaining about SI joint pain, a form of pain felt at the top of the buttocks on one side. Before treating for SI dysfunction, it is important to insure the pain actually originates from the SI joints, as the hip and surrounding muscles and ligaments can refer pain to that area. Fortunately, there are some simple tests we use to differentiate between these structures. Valadmir Janda worked out that the big gluteus maximus muscle can be 'switched off' if the SI joint isn't working properly. In addition to that effect, the SI joint can cause inhibition of one of the supporting muscles on the other side, the gluteus medius. He also found that this could happen in the absence of pain, so your SI joint doesn't even have to be painful for the inhibition of the muscles to happen. In addition, it has been discovered that the latissimus dorsi (the big back muscle) and the gluteus maximus work together to stabilize the SI joint. The latissimus dorsi is attached from the lower back, via the lower ribs and scapular, to the arm, so its proper function is affected by the mobility of the upper back. Since the average individual spends hours hunched over their computer, their upper back rounded and shoulders raised, it may be inferred the latissimus dorsi is negatively impacted and at the root of any SI dysfunction or pain.

4. Visceral (abdominal) Problems.

The contents of the abdomen, stomach, liver, intestines etc, are all attached to the spine. In fact, the spine acts as a bony scaffold that gives support to all those structures. As the back moves, the abdominal contents must also move. If the structures are not mobile, whether due to surgical scarring or internal adhesions, they can prevent the back from moving optimally. This leads to areas of stiffness in the spine and concomitant areas of hyper-mobility. The hyper-mobile areas of the spine are prone to overuse and injury and are commonly at the heart of complaints brought to Osteopaths. Clients will experience the pain as originating from their backs, which is true to an extent, but an Osteopath will recognize that the source of their discomfort lies in the abdomen. These abdominal adhesions can be helped with gentle visceral manipulation, freeing up the organs and reducing the load carried by hyper-mobile spine areas. Once visceral problems have been addressed, the body will be capable of repairing any damage to the back/spine and the associated pain will dissipate.

Treating Back Pain Through A Whole-Body Approach

Popular medicine addresses and successfully treats many causes of back pain, but, as reflected by Statistics Canada's areas of focus, other crucial sources are frequently overlooked. An Osteopath will not only consider the usual suspects, namely poor muscle tone, sedentary lifestyle, obesity, smoking, poor posture and psychosocial factors, but will approach the symptoms of back pain from a more holistic perspective. Back pain may be intimately connected to any of the above conditions, but, often, such broad diagnoses fail to recognize the intricacies of the body's systems. Through acknowledging the interconnection between muscles, connective tissue, the nervous system, viscera (organs), and the structural skeleton, an Osteopath is able to thoroughly comprehend and successfully treat the various elements that inform and contribute to back pain.

(1)Nourbakhsh, M.R, and Arab, A.M. (2002) Relationship between mechanical factors and incidence of low back pain. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 32 (9): 447-60.

(2)Janda, V. (1964) Movement patterns in pelvic and thigh region with special reference to pathogenesis of vertebrogenic disturbances. Thesis, Charles University.

(3) Byl, N and Sinnot, P.L. (1991) Variations in balance and body sway in middle aged adults: Subjects with healthy backs compared with subjects with low back dysfunction. Spine 16:325-30

Back Pain Relief - Rehydrate Your Discs


Back pain relief is essential and targeting your spinal discs is an essential part.

Everyone I'm sure knows that there are discs in your spine; however these are not the most important part of your spine. There are the smaller facet joints at the back of your spine that determine how well your joints will move, there are also the small muscles around the joints that will create a lot of your back pain as well.

The discsheight to the spine and help elongate it; they allow for shock absorption.

If either of these two functions decline, then the facet joints and intrinsic muscles will start to fail also. This leads into back pain very quickly. Sure there are also many other factors that create back pain and to remove your back pain totally, you need to address all the factors relating to it. Back pain relief should be a complete process of relaxing tight muscles, strengthening weak muscles, getting your joints moving correctly and balancing your pelvis.

Back to the discs though...

Your spinal discs are made up of a jelly like substance. When you stand or sit the pressure of gravity actually allows your discs to leak a small amount of fluid. Your discs then decrease in height and lose their functional ability to shock absorb and to maintain your height.

This is why if you measure your height in the morning when you wake up; you are taller than when you go to bed. As you age your height shrinks, which you may notice in your parents and grandparents.

If your discs remained at their full height and fluid levels, then your shock absorption would remain and your height also. To do this you need to make sure three things are occurring every day...


  1. You need to drink approximately 2 liters of water every day. If your fluid levels decline, so will the fluid levels in your discs. Water will help your muscles function, organs to work better, your nervous system to fire properly and a lot more.


  2. You need to be eating 1/2 teaspoon of salt (actually 1/4 teaspoon for every liter of water you drink). Salt helps your discs rehydrate, salt also allows your Adrenal glands to function correctly. Your Adrenals help produce the anti-inflammatory products, help to distress your body and mind, re-energize you and more.



  3. Lie down more... yes lying down actually allows your discs to remain at their true height for longer. IT is gravity that is the biggest cause of disc shrinkage - if you lie down when you read, listen to music or watch TV, and then your discs have time to rehydrate by removing pressure off them.

Three simple things you can do that will improve the status of your spinal discs. Back pain relief is not just a matter of correcting your out of balance muscles, joints and pelvis. Back pain relief is also looking at the many other contributing factors to your back pain problems.

Do Joint Supplements Work?


There are mixed reviews on whether joint supplements work to aid in painful joint conditions associated with arthritis, especially osteoarthritis, which is the most common type. Arthritis is a degenerative disease that involves the inflammation of joints. This condition causes pain, infection and affects many people. There are treatments available through the medical community in the form of prescription medications, but some sufferers have decided to add joint supplements to their care regime.

The ones that people are talking about are Glucosamine and Chondroitin. What exactly are these natural aids? Glucosamine and Chondroitin are actually components of the cartilage in the human joints. The idea is that an additional dose of these two will cause enhanced growth of healthy cartilage in your body in order to alleviate painful symptoms. While this is a great theory, the opinions about whether it actually works are mixed.

There have been several studies done so far but some medical authorities feel that the length of the studies have not been long enough to prove anything accurately. The longer and more comprehensive a medical study is, the more valuable the findings. Of the studies that have been done, there has been indication that these are helping. The participants of the studies have had a higher percentage of pain-free days than those that were merely taking a placebo. There was also an encouraging European study that showed that participants had better findings on x-rays, as well.

Glucosamine and Chondroitin, can be purchased separately or as a combined supplement. There is reportedly a wide variety of quality available. It would be wise to query the local health food store advisor on vitamins and supplements in order to learn about the different brands. Go with the most reputable distributors. Reading consumer reports on vitamin manufacturers should give one a head's up on the best distributors, as well. Consumers should also be aware that these supplements aren't well regulated.

A bit of positive news about these supplements is that they have very few side effects. They have also been shown to have some protective effects on the surface of the joint. Osteoarthritis is a slow moving disease. It is definitely helped by proper diet, keeping at a healthy weight, obtaining adequate exercise, and taking prescription medication properly.

It's an individual choice, of course, but these health aids are showing positive and encouraging results so far. More studies will occur as time passes, in order to shed more light on the validity of the current research.

Treating Bursitis With a Therapeutic Home Ultrasound Machine


The bursa is a tough, flat, membranous sac enclosing any joint between bones in our body. This sac contains a lubricating fluid and lies close to the tendons that attach the muscles to the joint. The fluid in the bursa keeps the ends of the bones in a joint well lubricated and in good condition.

Bursitis is a very painful condition resulting from an excessive accumulation of fluid in the bursa, causing it to swell up and press on the neighboring tissues. Bursitis may be acute, occurring suddenly as a result of injury or trauma. It may be chronic, occurring frequently. When any one of the joints in the body is stressed by being frequently, repeatedly and/or overused for a sustained period of time, the bursa responds by producing excess fluid and becomes painfully inflamed.

There are many other causes for bursitis. These are: staphylococcal or some bacterial infection; deposits of calcium or uric acid crystals; abnormal joints because of difference in leg lengths; arthritis; bone spurs; rheumatoid arthritis; psoriatic arthritis; tuberculosis; thyroid diseases; diabetes; or gout.

The type of bursitis you have depends on which of the joints in your body is affected. Shoulder and elbow bursitis are often associated with excessive physical activity that stress these joints. Bursitis of the hip joint may be due to infection or injury. Runners and ballet dancers are subject to hip bursitis. Sitting for a long time in the same position may cause ischial bursitis. The knee joints could be affected by frequent kneeling in upright position, obesity in conjunction with diseases like diabetes or osteoporosis. Young athletes who do not take care to wear well fitting shoes may develop calcaneal bursitis of the heel or ankle.

There are several options for treatment of bursitis. Very often treatment for bursitis may involve simple procedures of bursitis physical therapy like R.I.C.E, which is resting, icing, compression and elevation of the affected joint. Other bursitis physical therapy procedures are stretching and muscle strengthening exercises, and soft tissue manipulation.

Bursitis treatment may also utilize therapeutic ultrasound. Ultrasound physical therapy reduces pain and inflammation in the bursa because the ultra sound waves increase blood circulation and oxygen to the injury site. In short, ultrasound therapy causes micro-vibrations in the soft tissues beneath the skin's surface to increase blood supply and subsequently decrease local swelling and chronic inflammation. The vibrations also help to speed healing and relieve pain associated with bursitis.

Home ultrasound machines are now available for ultrasound bursitis treatment and rehabilitation. Such ultrasonic treatments are more affordable and convenient than chiropractor and physical therapist visits. Previously, ultrasound therapy treatments have only be available for professional athletes, but it is now possible to rehab bursitis, and many other chronic injuries, in the comfort of your own home.

Soft tissue injuries, such as bursitis, require a specific kind of home ultrasound machine. A home ultrasound physical therapy machine should emit 1Mhz ultrasound waves. It is also important to purchase an FDA approved ultrasound unit that is quality manufactured. Your portable therapeutic ultrasound device should also be covered with at least a 1 year warranty.

Because these home ultrasound machines utilize pulsed ultrasound waves, they are very safe for use by the general public. Pulse ultrasound also is just as effective as continuous wave ultrasound that is used by doctors, but in home treatments will just be more often. With a portable therapeutic ultrasound machine, you can treat your bursitis daily in the comfort of your own home.

Wednesday, April 2, 2014

Gout Pain Relief - 6 Foods to Eat to Help Gout


People often wonder what foods cause gout, but another key question to ask is, "What foods can I eat to help gout?". This article will show you 6 foods you can eat that will help with this painful joint disease.

1. Potatoes. Potatoes are helpful because they contain potassium. Potassium is noted for helping to liquefy uric acid crystals. This helps the body to eliminate or excrete excess crystals out of your body. Excessive uric acid settles in your joints causing swelling and pain. One serving of potatoes contains approximately 10% of your recommended daily allowance of potassium.

2. Bananas. Bananas also contain potassium. This makes it very nice because they have multiple sources of getting rid of gout. It is recommended to have 3500mg a day. A serving of bananas provides you with almost 10% of the daily allowance. Bananas also contain vitamin C. This potent vitamin is noted for helping you reduce your overall uric acid levels when taken regularly.

3. Water. Water helps you flush out excess uric acid. Proper hydration also helps keep your kidneys and the rest of your body working properly and helps to reduce inflammation.

4. Grapes. A serving of grapes provides 4% of the daily allowance of potassium. They also contain almost 20% of the daily allowance for vitamin C. Grapes are also beneficial because they consist mostly of water which will help you avoid dehydration. Dehydration can lead to a gout attack.

5. Pineapples. Pineapples contain almost all the major ingredients of these other great gout fighting foods. They contain potassium, vitamin c, and bromelain. One serving contains a small percentage of potassium (2%), however it also contains a large percentage of vitamin C (60%). Bromelain has been used to treat gout because it helps reduce swelling.

6. Cherries. Cherries are noted by many to be the best food to help you get rid of gout. They are loaded with multiple ways to help you reduce your pain and symptoms. Cherries have anthocyanins, the dark color that you see in the cherries skin that helps you reduce swelling in the inflamed joints. Cherries also have a lot of vitamin C, and they contain potassium.

Total Hip Replacement Means You Need To Change Your Life


Hip replacement is one of the most successful medical technologies. Hundreds of thousands of people have their hips replaced every year, the vast majority with every expectation of many years of pain-free function from their new joint.

But can you go on with your life just the same after your hip is replaced? Not exactly. Even though your pain will be gone, it is wise to remember that a new hip is not your old hip. You will find you can go back to do all the things you used to do, the walking, the activities, the hobbies and the jobs, without pain. But it's useful to observe a few thoughts about your new hip if you are going to get the best long term use from it.

Your new hip is different. It is steel alloy and plastic, the ball of the hip being much smaller than your original one. The steel thigh component is often cemented into the shaft of the femur. The metal and plastic parts bend in different ways to the bone into which they are inserted, setting up stresses across the junctions. The artificial materials do not have the ability to become inflamed and then heal like our own tissues, so if they become altered then they will either stay that way or worsen.

You want to ensure a long, pain-free life for your hip replacement. Revision surgery, where the hip is redone, is not the same as the original surgery in many ways. Apart from the fact that it is another operation to undergo with its attendant risks, revision surgery is harder to perform and the satisfaction scores of patients afterwards are lower than with first time surgery. First time is best.

There are things you can do to keep your new joint in good shape for as long as possible:

1. Observe the post-operative advice. The team who take you through the procedure are experts at getting the best results. If they ask you to do this or to avoid that, then observe their recommendations. There are always good reasons behind treatment programs, along with many years of experience. Use this knowledge.

2. Observe the weight-bearing instructions. Every operation is different and there may be different instructions for you depending on how the surgery went and what the surgeon hopes to achieve. Sticking to the recommended weight through your joint is very important. You may well find you can put much greater weight, even your whole bodyweight, on the new hip. However, what you can do and what is wise are two different things, so pay attention to the instruction and carry it out until told otherwise.

3. Avoid getting your thigh too close to your chest. The angle between the chest and the thigh should not be less than 90 degrees. If your new hip bends too much, the neck of the thigh component can impinge against the plastic socket component, levering the hip out of the socket. This is called dislocation and is potentially a significant problem as it can then recur. When you reach down to your shoes, let your knee fall outwards so you reach down between your legs, and do it slowly until you feel secure.

4. Watch putting your feet up. You may feel you want to put your feet up for a rest or to reduce swelling. This is fine as long as you don't lean forward for something. If you want to lean forward, take your feet down first.

5. Avoid rotating with your weight on the new joint. This is similar to point 3 above. Standing on your replaced hip and swinging your bodyweight around puts huge leverages on the hip. Get used to moving your legs to get into a new position, leading with the replaced one.

6. Take care when sitting down. The correct technique will soon become automatic, but sitting down can be a risk. When we sit, our body weight forces our hips into a new position. This is fine as long as it does not happen too fast or go too far. Sitting onto an unexpectedly deep sofa would be an example of an risky scenario. Know your chair heights so you don't get surprises, with 18 inches being a minimum. Chairs with arms are best as they allow you to let yourself down in a controlled way.

7. Avoid high impact activities. I know you want to do things you haven't been able to, but there is a price to be paid for having an artificial joint, if you want it to last. What you can do with it and what you should do are two quite different things.

Avoid sports and activities such as running and jumping, carrying heavy weights, repetitive heavy work, football, rugby, soccer, squash, downhill skiing and anything else which requires extreme joint stresses. You really want your joint to last more than twenty years. Invest the care in it and it will.

Suitable activities could include walking, cycling, swimming, bowls, cross-country skiing, amongst others. Take advice if you are unsure.

For more detail about what goes on in the interfaces between the metal, bone and cement, see The 5 facts of implant fixation.

8. Avoid crossing your legs when you sit. This puts the hip into a more vulnerable position and should certainly be avoided during the first three months after surgery. Many people do cross their legs later on without ill effects but it remains a risk to some extent.

7. Avoid bending over rapidly. This can cause impingement on the socket like leaning forward too far, and risks dislocation. Using a long handled reacher and a long shoe horn can be sensible.

8. If you get an infection, tell your doctor straight away. Infection is the single biggest risk for successful joint replacements. Infections such as teeth, urinary or chest can spread to an artificial joint via the bloodstream, either in illness or during a procedure. Consult your doctor or dentist and get the problem sorted early on. This applies no matter how old your replacement is.

9. Enjoy yourself! Despite these restrictions, the positive aspects of joint replacement vastly outweigh the negative ones, so go on, enjoy all the things you've wanted to do, without the pain.

Even though these precautions are mostly more important during the initial 6 to 12 weeks after surgery, they remain sensible guidance over the long term.

Reduce Joint Pain Stiffness With Herbal Remedies


Joint pain and stiffness look closely associated with each other in the case of joint discomfort but sometimes one is a symptom of another and sometimes both of these conditions occur almost simultaneously. Joint pain occurring either due to relatively moderate reasons like muscles sprains or due to serious medical conditions like arthritis is accompanied by stiffness immediately or later.

Join pain signifies malfunctioning of the joint due to muscle sprains, injury to ligaments, infections, inflammation and cartilage damage. These conditions promote stiffness while moving the joint as the smooth and friction free movements of bones, muscles, tendons and ligament get obstructed. In the case of osteoarthritis stiffness has been noted to appear prior to the pain, particularly in the morning when person is getting out of bed or after a period of inactivity, which goes away after sometime and with the movement. Later mild to severe pain is experienced while moving the joint. In case of rheumatic arthritis, pain is experienced prior to stiffness and stiffness signifies the progression of the disease.

Stiffness either due to arthritic conditions or due to infections and injury suggest the damage caused to the normal functioning of the joint. Ligaments hold two bones of joint at a proper place and if any trauma has caused some swelling to ligaments the position of bones may get disturbed to cause pain and stiffness. Muscles move the joints and if not contracting or expanding properly may cause pain while moving the joint. Person suffering from osteoarthritis have brittle cartilages, this condition disallow the smooth movement of bones and severe pain is caused when the joint is moved along with stiffness. Rheumatic conditions can infect the tissues of the joint, synovial fluid present between the bones and other parts of joint to cause stiffness and joint pain. With the progression of rheumatic conditions the stiffness also progresses and can lead to complete immovability of the joint.

Massages, herbs, dietary supplements and exercises can treat and cure stiffness of the joints. Though if stiffness is due to any underlying medical condition use of all of these methods or anyone shall be in accordance with the main treatment of the medical condition but in case of benign conditions any of these methods can surely alleviate the problem. Massages can improve blood flow to the affected area which oxygenates the tissues and muscles improving them in strength and endurance. Exercises keep all the related parts and the joint itself in proper shape. While herbs and dietary supplements can help the body in withering infections and controlling the damages caused to the joints, causing stiffness and pain.

Besides all of these condition old age, obesity and lethargic life style also contribute in causing and promoting joint pain and stiffness. Extra pressure exerted on the bones due to excess fat is transferred to joints which increases wear and tear of cartilage promoting pain and stiffness. Degradation of joints due to age is a natural process and cause stiffness which can be delayed or slowed down with proper and light joint exercises.

Treatment for TMJ


The objective in the treatment for TMJ or Temporomandibular Joint syndrome is to manage the pain caused by the disorder, such as pain in the neck, head, facial muscles, ear and jaw. Every individual has two TMJs and each is located on each side of the jaw. The TMJ connects the lower jaw to the skull just in front of the ear and can be damaged due to a certain disease, habit, wear and tear due to aging, or trauma. TMJ trauma is subcategorized into macro-trauma which is an impact due to accident or a blow to the jaw, and micro-trauma, a damaging habit such as clenching or grinding the teeth. The common indications of TMJ disorder are locking or stiff jaw, problems in biting, and a popping or clicking sound when opening the mouth. Finding the right treatment for TMJ can be a difficult task, to say the least.

Treatment for TMJ Explained

Since the body typically recovers from TMJ syndrome within two weeks when the jaw is given the right amount of rest, a full-blown TMJ disorder is rare. However, there are severe cases that are difficult to treat and can cause severe discomfort which may affect the quality of life of the people suffering from the disorder. There are several methods used in the treatment for a TMJ disorder which range from holistic treatments to surgeries. Most people start from holistic approach first and only resort to surgery when no improvement is achieved after several months of applying natural remedies. Regardless of the underlying cause of the disorder, here are some methods generally recommended as protocol in treatment for TMJ syndromes:

Natural Treatment for TMJ

Facial Exercises and Warm Compress

Applying warm compress to the jaw has been known to release the tension on the affected area. After the warm compress, specific facial exercises recommended by a health care professional should be performed. An example of these facial exercises is the gentle mandibular movement wherein the mouth is opened and closed by slowly moving the lower jaw from side to side.

Eating the Right Kinds of Food

Avoiding chewy and hard foods is generally advised for an individual currently experiencing pain and discomfort on the jaw area as these foods only add to the tension to the jaw. Patients should stick to eating soft foods but must see to it that a well-balanced meal is not compromised.

Correct Jaw Positioning

Promoting relaxation in the jaw area helps ease the pain and discomfort caused by a TMJ disorder. This can be achieved by maintaining the correct position of the jaw. The lower teeth and the upper teeth must be kept slightly apart while the lips are kept closed. The tongue should be positioned at the top part of the mouth and breathing must be made through the nose.

Biofeedback Treatment

In the biofeedback treatment for a TMJ disorder, the patients are trained to relax their muscles as well as to normalize their pulse and heart rates by using a biofeedback device. The device is worn during bedtime to keep the patients from grinding their teeth when asleep. The treatment using a biofeedback device is also referred to as splint therapy as the device has anterior splints that absorb pressure during teeth grinding, and the procedure involves non-repositioning stabilization.

Reversible Treatment

This type of treatment is recommended by health authorities who discourage surgery or permanent alteration of the jaw or teeth as a treatment for TMJ syndrome. This involves mandibular exercises and temporarily alleviating the symptoms by taking non-damaging pain relievers available over the counter until the disorder completely heals naturally.

Repositioning of Mandible

Mandibular repositioning type of treatment for TMJ requires patients to wear flat bite plate which covers either the lower or upper teeth to get rid of the clicking sound and sensation when the patient's mouth is opened wide. This device is worn at night with the purpose of repositioning the mandible. Since the longer use of this device may cause permanent alterations of teeth or jaw, it is recommended to be worn only for a brief period of time.

Oral Surgery

For severe cases of a TMJ disorder that don't show any improvement after natural treatments are done, oral surgery is the last option left. However, most health professionals recommend a minor surgery known as arthrocentesis which typically doesn't cause any permanent alteration to the patient's teeth and jaw. In this type of surgery, surgeons cleanse the TMJ with a solution in order to ease the inflammation of the temporomandibular joint. In extreme cases wherein the disorder is not treatable with arthrocentesis surgery, a more complex oral surgery that involves permanent alteration to the jaw or teeth may be performed as an ultimate treatment for a TMJ disorder.

Causes Of Body Joint Pain And Ways To Deal With It


In the human body, one or more joints can be affected by joint pain and contradictory to the common fallacy, joint pain can affect a person of any age group.

In fact, joint pains are afflicting an increasing number of young people these days and the causes of body joint pain are diverse.

The most common causes of body joint pain include injury to the ligaments, bursae or the tendons of the concerned joint.

Injury not only affects the ligaments but can also impact the cartilage and bones of the joint. Pain is one of the strongest symptoms of joint inflammation and joint infection.

Pain can also signal the presence of a tumor within the joint. Joint pain has many variations to its name, the medical term being Arthralgia.

Injury or swelling of joints is one of the main causes of body joint pain. Joint pain can be subdivided into two general categories namely, acute joint pain and chronic joint pain.

Acute joint pain affects the joints temporarily. It generally lasts for a few passing seconds or longer, but sooner or later it will decline as the healing process takes place.

Chronic joint pain varies from mild to severe, and usually lasts for a relatively longer period of time.

Causes Of Joint Pain

Joint pain can be caused due to a variety of reasons. Some of the most common reasons for joint pain include:

Arthritis

Aseptic Necrosis

Bursitis

Osteochondritis Dissecans

Sickle Cell Disease or Sickle Cell Anemia

Steroid Withdrawal

Tearing of cartilage

Bone fracture

Septic arthritis

Sprain

Synovial sarcoma

Tendonitis

The other causes of body joint pain include rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder that leads to stiffness and pain in the joints.

On the other hand, osteoarthritis involves deterioration of the cartilage surrounding the joint. Osteoarthritis is fairly common among people in their mid forties and above.

Another common cause for joint pain is bursitis. Bursitis means the inflammation or the swelling of the bursae.

Similarly, there are further causes for joint pain, which include septic arthritis, tendonitis and infectious diseases like influenza, rheumatic fever and hepatitis. External damage like fractures and sprains are also one of the main causes of body joint pain.

Remedial measures for joint pain

Home remedies can be effective, but before using them it is advisable to get the cause and type of the joint pain diagnosed. This can be done with the help of a few inexpensive medical tests. There are many easy-to-do and natural methods of achieving relief from joint pain.

Devil's claw has proved to be effective in the treatment of body joint pain. However, it is advisable to consult a doctor before attempting this method. There are many people who swear by its effectiveness, and its ability to cure painful joints, making mobility easier.

Glucosamine has been well tested, and is considered to be an extremely effective method of easing arthritis pain. However, in some cases, side effects do occur.

Different types of arthritis require various methods of preparation of glucosamine. Studies have shown that this product can be effective.

Nevertheless, it is strongly recommended to first consult with your doctor before trying out this potent product.

Water therapy is another popular remedy for joint pain.

It is also known as water aerobics as it involves performing different types of aerobics exercises in a pool.

Joint pain is certainly not life threatening, but it can definitely cause a lot of suffering and discomfort, making it amongst one of the most debilitating conditions ever encountered by man.

Is Your Back Pain Due to SI Joint Dysfunction?


A painful sacroiliac joint is one of the more common causes of mechanical low back pain. There are two SI joints, each located on either side of the sacrum.

These joints allow twisting movements when we move our legs.

There are many different terms for sacroiliac joint problems, including SI joint dysfunction, Sacroiliac joint strain, and joint inflammation (sacroiliitis). Each of these terms refers to a condition that causes pain in the sacroiliac joints from a variety of causes.

Sacroiliac joint dysfunction may occur when an SI joint is injured or irritated. This is seldom dangerous and rarely requires surgery.

There are many different causes of SI joint pain. These joints have a cartilage layer covering the bone which allows for some movement and acts as a shock absorber between the bones. When this cartilage is damaged or worn away, the bones begin to rub on each other, and degenerative arthritis (osteoarthritis) occurs. This is the most common cause of Sacroiliac joint dysfunction.

Pregnancy may be a factor in the development of joint problems. During pregnancy, hormones are released that lets ligaments relax. The relaxation of the ligaments holding the SI joints together allows for increased motion in the joints and can lead to increased stresses and abnormal wear.

If a person has one leg which is shorter that the other, the abnormal alignment may cause joint pain.

SI joint dysfunction can also occur from trauma, such as injuries resulting from a fall or associated with a motor vehicle accident.

The most common symptom of SI joint dysfunction is pain in the low back that is aggravated by prolonged sitting, standing, and stair climbing.

The diagnosis is often overlooked.

The most accurate method of diagnosing joint dysfunction is by performing an injection that can numb the irritated area. An anesthetic material with a steroid can be injected directly into the SI joint. This is usually performed with X-ray guidance to verify that the injection is correctly placed in the joint.

If the anesthetic and steroid relieves the pain from inflammation within the joint, this helps to verify that the Sacroiliac joint is the source of the pain, and treatment can target the SI Joint specifically.

Call your physician to determine if your back pain is due to Sacroiliac Dysfunction.

穢2011 Winifred Bragg, MD. All Rights Reserved.

Tuesday, April 1, 2014

High Heels - Pros and Cons


High heel shoes have been around since the 1500`s, where they begin as a foot wear for men. And while that quick trend for men didn`t last, it did make its way over to women who have been wearing them ever since. High heels have been an important part of wardrobe planning for the last few decades and shoe stores are lined with various heels. However, there are some pros and cons to using high heels that are worth noting.

Back in the eighties and nineties, high heels were big and they were accessorized with bright colors. It wasn`t odd to see people wearing bright red or pink thick heels that just looked very chunky. And not only were they made bigger but some of them were designed with bows and rose shapes, straps and dangling string. It was almost like an extension of their purse, which was also big and colorful. Luckily for current heel wearers the trend has shifted toward something more sophisticated and glamorous.

These days` heels look much different than they did in the past. And they can look different based on the function there being worn to. For example a women going out at night for dinner might have on a sexy looking shoe that reveals skin, where as a women going to work might have a plainer heel that still looks great.

There are some cons to wearing high heel shoes that are important for women to know. High heel shoes can cause knee joint issues and wearing the shoes all the time can create a greater risk for developing degenerative joint disease in the knees. In heels you can`t run very well, which makes a difference when you`re running to your car because it`s raining. They can also cause an unsteady gait, foot pain, and even foot deformities such as hammer toes and bunions.

The good news is that there are pros to wearing the shoes that seem to be more on peoples mind. They can change the angle of a food and make the calves and muscles in the legs look more defined and nicer. They give a taller look and the appearance of longer legs with shorter toes, and not only do they do all that but they also just look nice.

High heels can have different heel shapes and designs. There is the cone shape which has a round heel that grows broad and then meets the sole. A kitten heel is when the heel is short and slim where the maximum height would be two inches. A prism heel is a flat three shape that looks like a triangle. A spool heel is a where it is broad and then meets at the sole. A stiletto is a tall and very skinny heel that is minimum two inches, and a wedge heel is one that uses up all the space under the arch.

Heels are usually worn out to fancy places such as restaurants or bars. They are also worn at weddings and anything formal like that. Many women wear high heels to work to feel professional and show off a great little shoe. High heels can also be worn under dress pants or with a skirt to wear just about anywhere that you can imagine, as long as you are comfortable and do not have to do any running.

High heels help a women feel more confident and pretty. They boost up the height and almost make women feel like models. High heel shoes can look really nice and show off the mood that you are feeling. A stiletto is a huge difference from a wedge high heel, perhaps one might be worn to a restaurant while the other to the mall shopping.

Four Forms Of Ankylosing Spondylitis


Ankylosing spondylitis is considered as a chronic disease of the joints of the spine and joints of other localization of the swelling nature. Thus there is restriction of joints because of ankylosis, ridge and calcification ligaments. The inflammatory procedure is spread out to the cervical spine that causes pain to the neck, smack in the shoulder and arm. There are some patients acquire a syndrome of vertebrobasilar deficiency. It marked vertigo, stagger while walking and headaches. The beat of the peripheral joint is less frequent. However, as might occur in ankylosis of the knee, heading to loss of function of the knee and hip joints. Furthermore there are four forms of ankylosing spondylitis that is important to know.

Central Form
This kind of form marked only beat of the spine. It develops slowly, imperceptibly for the patient. The pain is first felt in the sacrum and goes up to the spine. The pain increases once driving the load. There frequent nocturnal pain. Slowly, the posture of the patients alters and it increased curvature to the cervical spine, curved in forward and the thoracic spine convexity ago. The patient head bend forward and the chin close to the chest. When it comes to thoracic the spine is bent and chest respiratory movements are limited. During the later phase of motion sickness in the spine is restricted drastically. Patients acquire asthma, increased blood pressure and muscles spasms. The entire of these are associated with pain in the whole parts of the spine.

Rizomelicheskaya Form
In this form of the disorder graze is associated by the defeat of huge joint. Most frequently suffer shoulder and hip joints. The disease as well progress slowly. Depending on the affected joint pain is felt in the buttocks, hip, thigh, joint, provide the groin and knee or shoulder, upper arm pain with irradiation towards the arm.

Peripheral Form
When it comes to this form of disease the first signs are felt in the sacroiliac joints. Then, after several months or even some years, acquiring swelling grazes of the knee ad ankle joints. In the joints acquires a deforming arthritis, near the joist of muscles contractures. This form is more ordinary among young people.

Scandinavian Form
This form is the same to the peripheral however compare to her suffers even more little joints and these joints of hands and feet. Pain in the joints in this form of disease is limp.

How to Avoid Surgery for Arthritis in Your Neck


On a daily basis in America, neck pain affects millions of Americans. Most commonly this is coming from arthritis in a person's neck either at one particular level or it may be coming from multiple. This causes pain in the neck itself that may radiate out into the shoulders and may also cause significant headaches. Also, patients who have been in a car accident with whiplash often end up with arthritis problems in the neck.

This pain may bother an individual daily, with the analogy being the same as if you have a pebble in your shoe that bothers you every day. Surgery for neck arthritis is usually a terrible idea, and here are 5 ways to avoid it.

1. Physical therapy and chiropractic treatment- the patient has arthritis in the neck, the joints there have cartilage just like any other joint. So the theory with physical therapy is that strengthening and stretching the muscles around the neck can help unload those arthritic joints. It is been shown in research studies to work really well and so has chiropractic treatment. Arthritis can cause misalignment in the joints of the neck, and chiropractic treatment can help put those back into proper position.

2. Medications- anti-inflammatory medications along with Tylenol can be extremely helpful at alleviating neck pain. Make sure to take them according to the manufacturers recommended dosing or otherwise a person will risk injury to their liver, kidney, or get an ulcer. These medications can allow patients to concentrate better, work more, play with their kids, and avoid depression that comes with the chronic neck pain of arthritis.

3. Cervical traction- cervical traction for arthritis has an excellent track record. Unlike lumbar traction, traction in the neck has been shown to have great benefits and it can be done a couple of times a day. There is an apparatus that provides traction for the neck with a rope and pulley system going over a door, and there's also one where the patient can wear a neck brace that pumps up and separates the area of arthritis. These give temporary relief as gravity will bring the joints back down but they may provide pain relief in the meantime (that's why it should be repeated daily). There is also an intermittent traction technique called spinal decompression therapy which has also been shown in the neck to help a lot.

4. Facet injections and medial branch blocks- these interventional pain management treatments are shown to work really well for neck arthritis. One involves placing steroid medication directly into the arthritic joint. This can be repeated every few months if they're working well. Medial branch blocks are injections that do not go inside the joint but go around it in the area of the tiny little nerve endings that cause joint pain. These also can provide pain relief for months and can then be repeated.

5. Radiofrequency ablation- also called radiofrequency neurotomy, this procedure represents a revolutionary technology in pain management and one of the best procedures that exist for neck arthritis. This involves burning the tiny little nerve endings that supply pain to these joints may provide pain relief for upwards of 2 years in affected individuals. It's really impressive what this procedure can do for patients who have had no other relief or only temporary relief but the other treatments mentioned.

Surgery for neck pain from arthritis that does not radiate out into the arms from radiculopathy has never been shown to be a great idea unless there's instability of the neck from trauma or extenuating circumstances for the procedure.

Relief From Joint Inflammation


Joint pain is no laughing matter. Different people experience different levels of pain in different areas for many reasons. Joint inflammation is usually the root cause of most joint pain. In order to really understand how to treat joint inflammation and pain it helps to understand why the pain develops in the first place.

Joint inflammation has several key symptoms. These include redness, swelling, joint pain, joint swelling and stiffness, and decrease in the mobility of a joint. In order to determine if a joint in the body is inflamed it is not necessary to be experiencing all of these symptoms at the same time. In many cases, people may only experience a few of these symptoms and can also feel as if they may have the flu. Some of the other feelings that can come along with joint inflammation are fevers, chills and fatigue. Each person may have their own unique set of symptoms present. It is very important to give the doctors and other medical personnel a thorough and detailed medical history in order to help them diagnose what is going on in your body.

According to WebMD, "Inflammation is a process by which the body's white blood cells and chemicals protect our bodies from infection by foreign substances, such as bacteria and viruses." Joint pain that comes from arthritis stems from a reaction within the body. Most types of arthritis are autoimmune diseases, a response in which the body is fighting off something foreign when there is nothing foreign to fight off. The resulting inflammation causes joints to ache and be painful. In fact, arthritis is a word used to describe inflammed joints.

Pain can also come from the inflammation itself. Discomfort can be the result of the body's response to the supposed intruder. When joints swell in order to defeat the either imagined or unimagined threat, cartilage can be damaged. The body needs cartilage in order to function properly and comfortably. The joints of the body can become permanently damaged due to inflammation, whether it is chronic or not.

There is an obvious need for joint pain relief in a large section of our population. Not only do people find themselves battling joint pain as they age, but many suffer from it as a reslult of living an active life style. People who keep their bodies moving in high-stress ways often find themselves with joint pain. This can effect people of all ages!

Relief from joint pain is becoming an issue that is getting a lot of attention. In recent years there have been some newer choices in joint pain relief. Glucosamine has been one of the bigger "buzz" words finding its way to the market. A newer and more effective joint pain supplement, Celadrin, has recently been introduced to a wide market. The main ingredient of Celadrin, Cetylated fatty acids (or CFA's), has been the subject of several studies, and has been shown to be very effective in relieving joint pain, inflammation, and increasing mobility. Thankfully, joint pain relief may be just a cream or supplement away!

Low Back Pain - Can Sitting All Day Be the Culprit?


Low back pain seems to be epidemic these days. Many people feel they are at low risk for back pain. They do not have physically demanding jobs. After all, they sit at a desk all day behind a computer. It is very likely that all that sitting may literally turn into a back ache (or butt pain).

The human body is miraculously designed to move, that's what it's meant to do. With all of today's technology and automation, our bodies move less and less. Just think of how many hours you spend sitting. Do you commute to and from work? How many hours do you sit behind a desk at work? Then what do you do when you get home... watch some TV? All this sitting has a huge negative impact on the body. The lack of physical activity causes muscles to shorten and get tight. If they become too tight, you may experience painful muscle spasms. These shortened muscles lead to muscle imbalances which are often the root cause of most back or neck pain.

Ever try to stand up after sitting for a while and feel like you have to crank your hip joint and low back so you can stand up straight? Maybe it takes ten or twenty steps for you to "get the kinks out" before you can stand up straight and walk freely. This back pain is usually caused by specific muscles becoming particularly tight which then pull on the back. Regular movement helps avoid this tightness and helps keep the muscles limber.

We've only mentioned muscles, but sitting for prolonged periods of time has a negative impact on all the body functions. The body slows down, including the circulatory and digestive systems, and also our metabolism and mental capacity. Physical movement gets the muscles pumping which assists blood flow to all organs, getting the much needed oxygen to all parts and transporting waste products away. Needless to say, moving simply makes you feel better in many ways.

Inactivity Causes Back and Joint Pain

Most individuals don't realize how profound the effects of inactivity can be. It can sometimes take months or years for the aches and pains to manifest and people don't connect the dots with inactivity being a cause of their back pain. But many aches and joint pain are attributed to lack of movement and muscle weakness or tightness that leads to muscle imbalances.

A simple step towards pain free movement is simply that... to get moving again. One can start with some basic stretches done hourly for a minute or two to break up hours of sitting and help to avoid the muscles from tightening. Other stretches can be done daily but held for longer (from 30 seconds up to a minute). These stretches should be done to the point of mild discomfort but not pain. While holding the stretch for 30 seconds or more, focus on long, deep breaths. This will give you a chance to breathe deeply, another health factor than many of us ignore on a daily basis. Focusing on deep breathing allows your muscles to relax and lengthen and takes your mind off the stretching.

After working in the Corporate Wellness field for over two decades, there are several simple ergonomic stretches that you can do easily at your desk. These ergonomic stretches help your body adapt to the workstation (in this case - long hours of sitting). They require no special equipment and take only seconds or a couple minutes to do. These stretches generally involve muscles of the neck, shoulders, legs, hips and low back. Most people feel instant relief but the key is to do them periodically throughout the day and then do more extensive stretching or strengthening exercises daily to address existing muscle imbalances. To receive your copy of "7 Simple Office Stretches" visit http://www.easyontheback.com