The Natural Approach For Joint Pain Relief

As we all know, many of our elders are very much affected by joint and muscle pain these days. It is also a surprising fact that the number of younger people are also experiencing chronic joint pains which effect their quality of life.

Although today there is a wide range of medicinal assistance readily available, the best pain relief solution is to first try a natural joint pain relief method, like some of the methods I will discuss below:

Exercise

The best conventional treatment for joint pain, such as osteo­arthritis generally involves prescribed exercises to keep the joints flexible, encourage nourishment of the cartilage, and strengthen the surrounding tissues; joint protection, often based on the suggestions of a physical or occupational therapist, to limit further damage; and, when necessary, both drug and non drug measures to ease discomfort and decrease stiffness.

It is the movement of a joint that forces oxygen and nutrients into the cartilage and removes waste products, thus helping to keep the cartilage healthy. When the pain and stiffness sets in, however, moving the affected joint is the last thing on many peoples' minds.

Range-of-motion Exercises

Range-of-motion exercises are used to put a joint through the full range of its natural motion without excessive stress. They are essential to any treatment plan for joint stiffness such as osteoarthritis. Your doctor or a physical therapist can show you appropriate exercises.

Reflexology

To help relieve pain in a joint, reflexology may prove helpful. The ancient healing art of reflexology has been known to man for many thousands of years. It was first practiced by the early Indian, Chinese and Egyptian peoples.

Reflexology is the application of pressure using thumb and fingers on reflex points in the feet and hands to stimulate a physiological change in the body. IT IS NOT A MASSAGE! If a body part is not functioning correctly, uric acid, calcium and mineral deposits may accumulate in the reflexes, impeding energy flow and circulation. A skilled, professional Reflexologist can assist in breaking down and dispersing these deposits, helping to restore the body to better health.

Weight Management

Losing excess weight, and eating a nutritionally balanced diet often can help diminish inflammatory actions.

Diet

Food choices can help greatly. For example: diary products, citrus fruits along with meat category such as meat, pork and lamb, alcohol and vegetable oil when avoided helps to prevent joint pain caused by such foods that provide inflammation.

Water

Water is extremely important to the joints. Because the synovial fluid contains water, if you become dehydrated less synovial fluid is available to protect the joints. Synovial Fluid is a fluid in the body that reduces friction between the articular cartilage in joints to lubricate and cushion them during movement.

Failure to keep yourself hydrated will play havoc on your joints. Remember, by the time you are thirsty, your body is already dehydrated. Once dehydrated endurance is diminished, strength can drop, and the effect can last into the following day(s). Instead of relying on a thirst signal, drink water at regular intervals regardless if you're thirsty or not to help maintain your overall health, including your joint health!.

Hydrotherapy (e.g., hot/cold water treatment, hot/cold compresses.

Additional measures to help ease the joint pain and stiffness include heat and cold treatments. Simple hot or cold water treatments are easy ways to soothe joint pain. To relieve stiffness and dull, penetrating pain, warm (not hot) compress applied directly to the affected area is the best option. For sharper, more intense pain, a cold compress or an ice pack wrapped in a plastic bag and placed over a towel on the skin for 10 to 20 minutes, and repeat every four hours as needed is a standard successful treatment plan. never apply a cold treatment for more than 20 minutes at a time, or you'll risk damaging your skin. Hot showers or baths or heating pads may also help by improving flexibility, especially before exercise or other physical activity.

Natural Supplements

There have been several studies showing potential benefits of dietary supplements for treating osteoarthritis. Potential treatment options may include:

Glucosamine sulfate. Glucosamine sulfate is one natural substance that has been shown useful for osteoarthritis pain relief.

Chondrotin. One of the most popular remedies you can use at home is chondrotin. Many scientists have made study of this natural product and found it to improve the way your bones are protected from impact. Many people begin to have problems with arthritis when the cartilage in their bodies wears away due to age. Taking a regular chondrotin supplement can help conduct more fluid into your cartilage, helping it to take the shock of simple impacts on a daily basis. You can find more information on chondrotin in many of the other articles on our website. You may also find a few places to purchase it if your local drug store does not carry it with their regular supplies.

MSM, methylsulfonylmethane. MSM provides sulfur, a vital building block of joints, cartilage, skin, hair and nails, and methyl groups, which support many vital biochemical processes in the body, including energy production. MSM is a naturally-occurring nutrient found in small amounts of many foods. As a dietary supplement, MSM is synthesized. When made correctly, it is identical to that found in nature. MSM can be taken alone or in combination with other joint health supplements, such as glucosamine and chondroitin. Published, peer-reviewed clinical research in the U.S. has shown MSM is safe and effective in increasing joint comfort and supporting a normal range of motion.

Vitamins B9 (folate) and B12 (cobalamin). .Both taken in large doses significantly reduced osteoarthritis hand pain, presumably by reducing systemic inflammation. B vitamins also balance the nervous system, reducing pain.

Vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiency has been reported in patients with osteoarthritis, and supplementation with Vitamin D3 is recommended for pain relief.

Vitamin C. Vitamin C is an anti oxidant that also helps promote healing, calcium builds stronger bones and the B vitamins balance the nervous system, reducing pain.

Calcium. Calcium builds stronger bones.

Vitamin/Mineral combination therapies. Some People with joint pain may get relief from the following daily nutrient intakes: 5,000 milligrams of vitamin C, 800 to 1,400 milligrams of calcium and a B-complex supplement containing the six important B vitamins (thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B 6, vitamin B12 and pantothenic acid). Vitamin C is an anti oxidant that also helps promote healing, calcium builds stronger bones and the B vitamins balance the nervous system, reducing pain.

Antioxidants, including Vitamins C and E. Antioxidants, including Vitamins C and E in both foods and supplements, has shown in studies to provide pain relief from osteoarthritis.# Pycnogenol. A new study to be published in the April 2008 edition (Volume 22, issue No 4) of the journal of Phytotherapy Research shows Pycnogenol (pic-noj-en-all), an antioxidant plant extract from the bark of the French maritime pine tree, was shown to reduce all osteoarthritis symptoms by 56 percent. The study revealed a particularly high efficacy of Pycnogenol for lowering joint pain by 55 percent. Moreover, patients required dramatically less standard pain medication (-58 percent), which greatly improved the gastrointestinal complications resulting from the pain medication by 63 percent. In addition to the osteoarthritis results, 76 percent of the patients in the Pycnogenol group and 79 percent in the placebo group showed visible ankle and foot edema at inclusion of the study. After the three months, edema decreased in 79 percent of the Pycnogenol patients and only one percent in placebo-treated patients. A even larger more detailed study on osteoarthritis carried out at the University of Arizona Tucson (published in Nutrition Research) prior to this study had discovered that Pycnogenol was effective for improving pain and joint function. After three months in the Pycnogenol group, there was a reduction of 43 percent in pain, 35 percent in stiffness, 52 percent in physical function subscales, respectively. The placebo group showed no significant scores throughout the entire study. Based on the studies the benefits of Pycnogenol for arthritic joints are suggested to result predominantly from the anti-inflammatory potency of Pycnogenol. There are more breakthrough studies on Pycnogenol and osteoarthritis expected to be published next year allowing for development of innovative, natural formulas for joint health.

Selenium. deficiency has been correlated with a higher risk and severity of osteoarthritis.

Boswellia. Boswellia is an herbal supplement in Ayurvedic medicine also know as Indian frankincense, salai guggal, and boswellin. The proper botanic label for boswellia is Boswellia serrata. It is derived from the resin of the bark of the Boswellia tree. While it grows in other parts of Southeast Asia, it is found abundantly found in the Indian subcontinent. The condition for which boaswellia has had the most supporting evidence for a beneficial effect is arthritis. The most convincing study was published in 2003 (Phytomedicine. 2003 Jan;10(1):3-7) when a research study examined patients with osteoarthritis of the knee. Half of the patients received daily supplementation with 333 mgs of Boswellia. The other half received placebo. After the first intervention, washout was given and then the groups were crossed over to receive the opposite intervention for eight weeks. All patients receiving boswellia reported decrease in knee pain, increased knee flexion and increased walking distance. The frequency of swelling in the knee joint was decreased. Radiologically there was no change. The observed differences between drug treated and placebo being statistically significant, are clinically relevant. The conclusions of the study were: "Boswellia serrata extract is recommended in the patients of osteoarthritis of the knee with possible therapeutic use in other arthritis." Other studies have demonstrated anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Diseases that have been studied where good results have been reported include rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, inflammatory bowel disease, and bursitis.

Ginger (rhizome) extract. Ginger has shown in some studies to improve knee osteoarthritis symptoms moderately.

Hydrolyzed collagen (hydrolysate). Hydrolized collage (a gelatin product) may also prove beneficial in the relief of osteoarthritis symptoms, as substantiated in a German study by Beuker F. et al. and Seeligmuller et al. In their 6-month placebo-controlled study of 100 elderly patients, the verum group showed significant improvement in joint mobility.

Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids is a vitamin supplement comprised of important oils derived from fish has shown to benefit bone health. In fact, recent studies have shown that plant-based omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) contained in such foods as flaxseed and walnuts may have a protective effect on bone health, according to a team of Penn State researchers who carried out the first controlled diet study of these fatty acids.

Oil Herbal Remedies. An herbal remedy includes ingredients such as boswellia, ashwagandha, ginger, menthol and camphor. All this tends to give a natural way of immune system modulation. Generally the oil when rubbed over the pain zone provides good result by improving the blood circulation and giving a warm and relaxing sensation from pain. Where as medicines and syrups have to be continued with the adjoin diet suggested. This gradually leads to comfortable movements of joints and muscles. Additional natural joint pain relief action includes ayurvedic medicines, capsules, syrups, medicated artho oil etc.

Head and Jaw Pain - How to Make it Stop

TMJ disorder can also be the cause of headache, or head and jaw pain.

If you thought that Temporomandibular Joint Disorder (TMD) only affected the jaw and was occasionally accompanied with earaches then you should also look into it the next time when you experience slight headaches as well.

The connection between the head and the TMJ can be felt if one pushes the lower jaw forward to its maximum extent while keeping the head and neck in position. As soon as this is done a sort of pressure or tension is felt at the back of the neck.

The headache occurs as a result of secondary symptom of the actual disorder of the jaw joint. Therefore, the sufferer may experience dizziness also. This has a simple explanation; since the TMJ connects the lower jaw to the temporal bone in the skull, any feeling in the joint can be easily transmitted to the head.

The TMJ is responsible for the movement of the lower jaw. If you notice carefully, it is only the lower jaw in our mouth that is movable. When we chew, yawn, grind or even talk, it is the lower jaw that goes up and down or sideways. So now you know why hand puppeteers move the lower jaw of the puppets only!

You see, there are groups of muscles for your lower jaw. One set will pull one way to close the jaw and another set will pull the opposite way to open the jaw.

When there is a disturbance, the muscles don't pull together evenly, leading to TMJ and headache. So this head jaw pain connection is telling you that your muscles and tendons of the neck and jaw and the joint or joints of the jaw are in trouble.

Read on and I will mention that I took care of these problems in an easy manner that you often can do at home.

In addition to the headache, you may be experiencing jaw clicking, neck pain or stiffness and even difficulty opening or closing the mouth.

Just to note - Heart diseases can also have a connection to the headaches. This is because heart disorders can cause the jaws to ache, which in turn transmit the pain to our heads. However, one should get a thorough check up for proper diagnosis to rule out heart disease.

Now you can see the head and jaw pain connection. If you have not, please begin to notice your symptoms and what you were doing that may bring this on. Although it could be something else such as stress or even heart disease, Often people find that it is caused by TMD.

It is best to start doing something as soon as you start to have the symptoms, as it can get quite bad, the longer you let it go. It may eventually end up in Lockjaw or your Dentist may suggest jaw surgery.

What Are You Doing to Reduce Arthritis Pain?

Arthritis Pain? Stiff and Sore?
Learn what to do to stay more flexible!

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that primarily affects the large, weight bearing joints and the joints in the hands. It is a slow, progressive cartilage deterioration followed by "hardening of the joints" due to calcification and bone spur formation. The "joint cushion" deteriorates, which leads to pain and limited movement of the joint.

Signs and symptoms include:

-Early morning joint stiffness
-Pain that is worse after use
-Stiffness after periods of rest
-Creaking/cracking of joints after movement
-Tenderness and swelling in certain areas
-Restricted mobility
-Pain in the joint before or during changes in the weather

Possible causes include age. In the U.S., over 80% of the population over about 50 show signs of osteoporosis due to decreased ability of the collagen matrix to repair itself, and also from general wear and tear. Other causes include: obesity, poor diet, genetic predisposition, skeletal defects, hormonal imbalances, injury and food allergies and sensitivities. It develops in joints that are injured by repeated overuse from performing a particular task or playing a favorite sport.

SOME COMMON THERAPIES TO CONSIDER

Everyday Routines

Do some gentle exercises/stretches before you go to bed. While watching tv or sitting at your desk: Adjust your position frequently, periodically turn your neck from one side to the other, shake out your hands and bend and stretch your legs. Take frequent breaks throughout the day, every few hours, to stretch stiff joints and sore muscles.

Use an analgesic cream to massage the painful joint(s).

When ready for bed, use a moist heat pad on the painful joint. Another option, is to soak in a warm bath with 翻 cup Epsom Salt and 翻 cup Baking Soda. When you awake in the morning, you'll feel less stiffness in your joints.

Make Tasks at Home and Work Easier To Protect Your Joints

Avoid excess stress on your joints by finding products that are comfortable, easy-to-use or have friendly packaging. For example, in the kitchen use rubber jar openers and reachers, in the bedroom use zipper pulls, buttoning aids and bedrails and in the bathroom use tub bars and handrails.

Keep Moving

Movement helps to decrease pain, increase range of motion and endurance, strengthen your muscles, decrease fatigue and improve overall muscle fitness. Choose the activities that build the muscles around your joints but don't damage them that are good for arthritis. Include low-impact aerobic exercise such as Walking, Cycling, Aquatic Exercises, Tai Chi, Yoga, Pilates, Country Line or Ballroom Dancing, or a gentle exercise/stretch class.

The key is to have a regular exercise program. The goal is to do a minimum of 30 minutes of physical activity about 5 days/week.

Gardening can be very therapeutic and digging in the dirt can be helpful for sore hands.

Avoid: Running, Jumping, Tennis, High-impact aerobics, repetitive motions and inactivity.

Medications

No medications are completely free of side effects. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) are the primary drug used for treatment with aspirin as the most common. Although NSAIDS provide temporary relief, they accelerate joint destruction in the long run. They prevent prostaglandin formation in order to decrease inflammation; they also inhibit cartilage synthesis and increase cartilage destruction, which accelerates osteoarthritis progression. Also, it may cause damage to the gastro-intestinal tract and increases ones' ulcer risk. Therefore, discuss with your doctor a medication plan for your specific pain symptoms.

Dietary and Lifestyle Modifications

Consider eating fish as salmon, mackerel, tuna, and herring as a source of omega 3's. Eat organic, unprocessed, unrefined foods with emphasis on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, complex carbohydrates, dietary fiber, legumes, lean meats, nuts, seeds and essential fatty acids from cod liver oil, flax seed oil, walnut oil, etc. Increase boron-rich foods including lettuce, cabbage, apples, dates, prunes, raisins, almonds and hazelnuts. Sulfur and methionine-containing foods as cabbage, brussel sprouts, garlic and onions are also beneficial. A half lb of fresh cherries or blueberries may be beneficial per day. They contain proanthocyanidins that aid in collagen metabolism and decrease joint inflammation. Consider juicing especially using pineapple due to its bromelain content and ginger due to its anti-inflammatory agent. Eat one cup of white or red grapes daily as the skin contains resveratrol, a natural compound known to act as a Cox-2 inhibitor and an antioxidant.

Drink six-eight 8-ounce glasses of filtered water per day to flush toxins and avoid dehydration.

Drink 1-2 cups of Green or Black Tea daily which is rich in polyphenols - compounds that suppress the expression of a key gene involved in arthritis inflammation.

Decrease or avoid eating dairy products, refined foods, meat, nightshade foods (tomatoes, white potatoes, eggplant, peppers (not black pepper) and margarine)

Nightshade foods are alkaloids that increase inflammation and inhibit collagen repair.

Avoid caffeine, alcohol, tobacco and allergenic foods. An elimination/rotation diet is recommended. Avoid environmental toxins as much as possible. Avoid smoking, as the toxins in smoke cause stress on connective tissue.

Nutrient Applications

Although there may not be a magic bullet to "cure" arthritis, some supplements and/or extracts may help it to keep it better controlled. When buying a supplement, check its quality control, read labels carefully and try one product at a time to keep track of its effect.

Some supplements to consider:

Bromelain, Feverfew, Ginger and Turmeric-(have significant anti-inflammatory activity). Valerian, Passion Flower, Skullcap and Kava Kava are known muscle relaxants. White Willow Bark is the forerunner to aspirin. Boswellia Serrata has a strong analgesic, anti-inflammatory and anti-arthritic activity. Taking these 2 herbs can be just as effective as taking Motrin. (take 240mg of willow bark and 1,000mg of boswellia per day.

Proteolytic Enzymes, taken without food, reduces pain and inflammation. Antioxidants may include: Grape Seed Extract, Vitamins C and E, Zinc, Glutathione, Selenium and N-acetyl cysteine. Vitamin C and bioflavenoids help in reducing the progression of osteoarthritis

Fish oil, Cod Liver oil and Black Currant Seed oil help to decrease inflammation.

Glucosamine Sulfate, Chondroitin Sulfate plus Sulfur and N-Acetyl-Glucosamine are building blocks for cartilage repair. Green Lipped Mussel Extract may be beneficial for severe osteoarthritis per a New England study.

Boron decreases urinary excretion of Calcium and magnesium. Adrenal support is needed which may include Pantothenic Acid. Calcium and Magnesium are essential for bone/ligament and muscle health.

Vitamin D supplement or a high Vitamin D diet may help to reduce ones risk for worsening their arthritis by 75%, per a recent high-profile study.

NEW PRODUCT:

A growing body of scientific research shows that the naturally occurring disease fighting antioxidant compounds contained in Balaton Tart Cherry Juice Concentrate have these health benefits: Anti-inflammation, Joint Function, Cardiovascular Function, Mobility and Flexibility, Anti-Aging, Cell Integrity, Healthy Immune System and Natural Sleep Cycle.

A Detoxification Program may be beneficial.

Stress reduction is essential. Some effective therapies include Cognitive Behavior Therapy, Hypnotherapy, Prayer and Spirituality. The emotional release of journaling about your feelings may assist in the decreased sensation of pain. Laughing, can relax muscles, reduce stress, relieve pain and boost your immune system. Decrease dwelling on the negative thoughts especially when coping with your pain as it can increase your risk of disability. Instead, focus on calming statements, etc.

Other Lifestyle Modifications May Include:

Regular chiropractic care is beneficial to address structural/postural problems.

Therapeutic Taping including Kinesiotape, wrapped around a joint to realign, support, and take pressure off it can have great benefits for arthritis sufferers.

Set a goal to maintain normal weight to avoid added weight bearing stress on the joints.

Massage Therapy may aid in increasing circulation, energy, flexibility and the body's production of natural pain-killing endorphins as well as improve sleep and immune function.

Acupuncture and Acupressure are ancient Chinese pain relief treatments. In acupuncture, needles are used to stimulate specific points in the body, and in acupressure, fingers are used instead of needles.

The interactions of the mind, body and spirit can have powerful effects on our health. Our office staff and expert Doctors and Practitioners are available to answer your questions specifically to your condition and make recommendations as needed. Additionally, we have available more specifics on the above topics discussed.

Achieve Natural Pain Relief From Cancer For Dogs - Include These Ingredients

Kirby was red, furry, part Australian Shepherd and Golden Retriever, 75 pounds of trouble from day one to eleven years old. If you wanted to study characteristics of a breed you got two for one with her; she was both pure Aussie and Golden. Present water fowl in the water and she was in, two short minutes later of splashing and effort and they were in a tight, very tight circle. What a herder she was!

We never hunted her because we lived in the coastal region of Los Angeles County near the harbor. Yes she owned a boat and yes she lived to go there. The ducks, coots, and other fowl kept their eyes upon her. Am I exaggerating? No, Kirby could clear the last 2 feet of the boat and the dock if a victim came too close!

At about seven her athleticism became slightly hampered by arthritis. It was not to be outdone by her strong will that never left her. At this time a limp developed as well as some slight swelling in her right forearm. We were told this was a bone bruise of sorts. After treatment it went away. At ten the lump came back and she was diagnosed with bone cancer. Our Doctor feels the earlier bout was the beginning. We were told she would last about two months without treatment, with, a year and one half.

Devastated, we began seeking solutions. Treatment likely included amputation of the right leg, chemo therapy and recovery of at least one year. This would cost us at least fifteen thousand dollars and buy her eighteen months. We felt the time she had left should not be spent in agony, limited in movement, doped on drugs and not able to chase her subjects! She would hate that because Kirby was one very bad patient. When you cut her toe nails she was mad at you for a week!

Three things bought her another year in relative comfort and normal behavior. By this I mean chasing and herding water fowl as well as total domination of all cats and dogs in the immediate vicinity. An herbal anti inflammatory, home made dog food and cordyceps medicinal mushrooms.

The herbal anti inflammatory contained Glucosamine Hcl, Manganese, Pennywort or Gotu Cola, Celery, and Ginger. We presented it to our Vet and he saw no problems with this supplement. Besides the Glucosamine and Manganese, the other three ingredients reduce inflammation by removing fluid and ultimately, poisons. Cancer stricken throughout, we gave Kirby two pills a day for her 75 pound body. We did not expect anything because she was well beyond her expiration date but we were astounded. A day after we began feeding her the pills she once again ran out to meet anyone walking up to our property and she herded our other animals again. This activity had long since stopped. This was the first treatment of the three.

The natural home made dog food per our own research, contained natural cancer fighters; purreed coconut oil, asparagus, and other green vegetables, blueberries and carrots. We added ground chicken and yogurt for protein and palatability for Kirby because she loved that stuff! Many other veggies found their way into the mix but this was the main ingredient list. By the way, do look into asparagus because it is supposed to contain powerful anti cancer qualities.

Medicinal mushrooms are a mystery to me. They are supposed to help and apparently do. We saw the mass on Kirby's shoulder diminish in size significantly after feeding them to her. This brought comfort because the mass hampered her movement.

Kirby frolicks now in doggy heaven and I'm sure the water fowl there are looking over their shoulders. Notable to all is that Kirby achieved at least sixty seven percent of the time that conventional cancer treatment would have netted her. It should also be noted that these treatments improved her life instead of a mass assault on her quality of life!

What Every Dog Owner Should Know About Canine Hip Dysplasia

Ask any veterinarian what is the hardest and most frustrating dog disease there is and most of them are certain to answer, "canine hip dysplasia." Canine hip dysplasia or CHD is a condition wherein the dog's thigh bone does not properly fit into the hip socket. In this scenario, the cartilage becomes damaged, the joint slowly gets destroyed, and the dog experiences pain and swelling in the affected area. Hip dysplasia in dogs is not the same as hip arthritis. However, dog hip dysplasia is one cause of hip arthritis in dogs.

* Canine Hip Dysplasia Can Be Inherited

Some experts believe that canine hip dysplasia is a genetic disease. If an adult dog has dog hip dysplasia, it will pass the disease on to its offspring. To prevent hip dysplasia in dogs from spreading, the only solution is to not breed dogs that have the disease. The solution sounds very simple and straightforwards, but it can be a challenge to actually do it because the symptoms of canine hip dysplasia are not easy to identify in dogs. In fact, there are dogs that do have canine hip dysplasia but the symptoms are not visible until it is too late or the dogs have already been bred. In addition, dogs that are perfectly normal can have the gene for canine hip dysplasia, and they are bred, which causes the disease to be passed on.

* Symptoms of Canine Hip Dysplasia

Usually, dogs with CHD appears lethargic and do not move around much. They often have a hard time getting up when they are sitting, have lameness in the back of their legs, and dislike going up the stairs. Dogs with CHD also tend to hop like a rabbit when they are running. The symptoms of canine hip dysplasia generally don't show themselves until dogs are in their middle age. However, there have been cases when dogs as young as five or six months exhibited the symptoms of canine hip dysplasia.

* Diagnosing Hip Dysplasia in Dogs

Currently, it is still not possible to determine if a dog is carrying the dog hip dysplasia gene or not. Canine hip dysplasia cannot be determined by a blood test or genetic test. Instead, veterinarians are able to diagnose the condition by physically examining the dog and taking x-rays routinely. X-rays help veterinarians assess how far along the disease is and how effective the treatment is helping.

Dogs with hip dysplasia can be x-rayed using two techniques: the hip-extended ventrodorsal view x-ray, and the PennHIP radiography technique. The hip-extended ventrodorsal view x-ray gives the veterinarian a frontal view of the hip-joints and pelvis, providing the veterinarian the best view as to how severe the condition is. PennHIP radiography is an x-ray technique that is often used to see if there are any hip looseness in dogs.

* Treatment Options for Hip Dysplasia in Dogs

Unfortunately, canine hip dysplasia is not yet a curable disease. However, dogs diagnosed with hip dysplasia have non-surgical treatment options available to them in order to relieve them of the symptoms of canine hip dysplasia. One non-surgical treatment option is the use of pain and anti-inflammation medications. Some of the CHD drugs include Deramaxx, Ectogesic and Rimadyl. These drugs have been found to be effective at relieving dogs of pain and inflammation, enabling them to live normal lives. Other non-surgical treatment options include physical therapy, controlled exercise and weight loss programs.

If the non-surgical treatment options are not adequate, surgery is the only other treatment option. With surgery, the malformed joint can be corrected, thus eliminating the cause of the hip pain. When dealing with hip dysplasia in dogs, there are two ways to approach surgery: prophylactic surgery and therapeutic surgery. Prophylactic surgery is undertaken in order to stop the arthritis and joint problems from progressing. Therapeutic surgery, on the other hand, is undertaken to treat hips that already has arthritis.

Currently, the primary preventive surgical procedure for dogs with hip dysplasia is the triple pelvic osteotomy. In this procedure, the pelvis is cut in three different places and the hip sockets are rotated. This type of surgery is recommended for dogs whose arthritis has not yet set in or joint is not yet damaged.

Pubic symphysiodesis is another preventive surgery that can be done, but only on very young dogs. This type of surgery involves manipulating the pelvis so that it grows in such a way that the hip is connected tighter. The effectiveness of this procedure is still under study.

Total hip replacement and femoral head ostectomy are two types of therapeutic surgeries available for dogs with hip dysplasia. Larger dogs with canine hip dysplasia are often the recipient of total hip replacement. In this procedure, the socket is replaced with a high density medical plastic and a non-corrosive alloy is used as a ball joint. This type of surgery enjoys a high rate of success. Dogs who undergo total hip replacement are able to resume activity and live a normal life that is free of pain.

The femoral head ostectomy, on the other hand, is a type of therapeutic surgery wherein the top of the femur is removed. As a result, the painful grinding that the dog with hip dysplasia experiences at the hip joint is eliminated. The femur is made to freely float, which causes scar tissue to form. This scar tissue then acts as a false joint. Femoral head ostectomy is not advised for dogs with mild cases of arthritis. It is most effective when done on dogs that are smaller and well-muscled.

* Prevention of Canine Hip Dysplasia

Careful breeding is one of the best way to prevent the spread of hip dysplasia in dogs. Dogs who are predisposed to CHP can be helped by controlling their weight while they are still young and making sure the hips do not take on any undue stress. If the onset of canine hip dysplasia cannot be delayed any longer, dog owners can look into dog insurance packages to help cover costs of CHD surgery. In addition, potential dog owners should look for information on breed risk before acquiring puppies. It is best to make sure that puppies being sold have an OFA, PennHip of GDC certification.

Alternative Arthritis Pain Relief Methods

Arthritis is one of the most common conditions that causes chronic pain, and unfortunately usually requires long term pain relief and/or medication to make living with the situation bearable. There are over 100 different types of arthritis, caused by a variety of factors including age, infection or trauma to the joint and autoimmune diseases, to name a few.

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. Classed as degenerative joint disease, this condition can affect not only the elderly, but children and adults as well. It is very debilitating to suffer from arthritis in any form, as often limbs such as the hands will become deformed and cause extreme pain if not treated.

Osteoarthritis has been discovered in the remains of dinosaurs, primarily affecting their ankles. Human arthritis can be traced back as early as 4500 BC, and in prehistoric people was classed as the most common ailment of the time. Historically, treatment for arthitis pain relief has included physical therapy, lifestyle changes, changes to diets and/or dietary supplements and orthopaedic braces, changes to diets and/or dietary supplements and orthopaedic braces. Additionally, drugs has long been considered a 'traditional' option when it comes to treating the pain symptoms - drugs such as NSAIDs (non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs) and DMARDs (disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs) are prescribed by doctors for arthritis pain relief.

However, some people have found that turning to natural arthritis pain relief methods, as well as modifying their lifestyle and making allowances for their condition has helped to ease their pain. It is believed that herbs such as ginger and cayenne contain properties that are beneficial to the body and help boost the immune system and circulation. Other natural methods of arthitis pain relief that people are coming to use include stinging nettles and bio electromagnetic wave therapy. Stinging nettles contain chemicals including histamine, which triggers anti inflammatory actions of the body, so if stung by a nettle, this in theory will help to relieve the pain. If this isn't quite your cup of tea, stinging nettles can also be stewed or eaten to gain the same benefits - the stinging effect is killed when the nettles are cooked.

Bio electromagnetic wave therapy is a more revolutionary method and is quite the newcomer to the arthitis pain relief. Hailed by some as the ultimate method in pain relief for a variety of conditions, including headache, period pain and lumbago, it works by using PEMF (pulsed electromagnetic field therapy) to deliver energy fields into the body that work with the body's natural electrical current. The energy agitates the injured or inflamed cells that are causing the pain and improves circulation, lymphatic movements and cell activity. Products that deliver such treatment include the PainWave X4000; a small and simple device that can be used to treat pain through medical dressings, clothing and/or plaster casts. This method is completely drug free and does not use magnets. This means, therefore, that there are no side effects with trying this form of pain relief.

It is well worth researching all the options available to you if diagnosed with arthritis, or indeed any condition that causes pain. It may be that what works for one person does not suit another, and with the nasty side effects causes by so many prescription and over the counter drugs, looking into natural pain relief could be extremely beneficial.

Arthritis in Dogs - How to Care For Canine Arthritis

Arthritis in dogs is a painful, progressive and degenerative disease causing inflammation of a joint which can inhibit movement. More properly called osteoarthritis, although there are other types of arthritis, this is the most common, the most easily treated and is the focus of this article.

The cause of canine arthritis in most cases is the simple wear and tear to bones and joints over time. Arthritis often occurs at a point of pervious injury or when there is a history of infection such as lyme disease.

Osteoarthritis mainly occurs in older dogs over the age of 7 years and is more widely seen in larger breeds, such a German Shepherds, Labradors and Golden Retrievers. Overweight dogs are also more likely to suffer from arthritis. In young dogs it may be caused by failure of proper bone development.

Arthritis in dogs is frequently accompanied by hip dysplasia. Together these two ailments can seriously impair your dog's mobility and quality of life.

Symptoms are subtle to start with such as decreased interest in activity or lagging behind on walks and progress to more obvious ones:

• difficulty getting up and down


• reluctance to run, jump, or climb stairs


• stiff, sore or swollen joints


• limping


• sensitivity to cold


• behavioral changes such as aggression, withdrawal or irritability

Treatment - while there is no way to reverse the problem at present, arthritis can be treated with medications or less often, hip-replacement and other types of joint surgery. Most dogs will improve with anti-inflammatory medications which can reduce the pain and swelling of damaged joints caused by osteoarthritis and increase mobility. Be aware; however, of possible side effects involving the digestive system, kidneys, or liver.

When it comes to treatment of arthritis in dogs, many pet owners and veterinarians take an integrative approach, combining prescription medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs with supplements and alternative treatments such as acupuncture. Some of the more popular and sometimes effective supplements are glucosamine, chondroitin, msm, ester-c, and hyaluronic acid. Many dog owners have reported positive outcomes using these natural supplements.

Weight loss can help relieve stress on joints. Older large-breed dogs tend to be overweight. This discourages them from getting the exercise they need and may aggravate their arthritis. The more weight on those poor old joints, the harder it is to move around.

Prevention is one of the kindest and most effective measures you can take. Keeping your dog in shape through regular exercise and proper nutrition for optimal health is your best line of defense against this painful disease, as well as your best approach after your dog has been diagnosed. Another key is to maintain proper weight and limit snacks and foods that can aggravate inflammation.

Much can be done to make arthritic dogs more comfortable and improve their lives.

• prevent stressing weak painful joints or falling down - place gates across stairs


• elevate food and water dishes


• portable ramps or steps - for home and vehicle


• rubber place mat to stabilize food and water dishes that slip on bare floors while your dog is eating


• cushion joints - orthopedic dog beds at least four inches thick

The bottom line is arthritis in dogs needs veterinary care. If you suspect your best buddy has arthritis, follow the advice of your veterinarian.