Arthritis is a condition that may be transient or chronic. It is the chronic form that tends to be more bothersome. The major causes of chronic arthritis are autoimmune conditions and degenerative changes in bones. In spite of the differences in causes, the signs and symptoms are largely similar. When looking for arthritis relief Santa Cruz patients need a number of options to choose from.
Drugs continue to play a vital role in the management of arthritis symptoms. The main classes of drugs used are analgesic and anti-inflammatory agents. It has been observed that the dosage and number of drugs needed to control the symptoms increase as the condition progresses. This makes it more difficult for some patients to remain compliant to what has been described and also increases the risk of experiencing serious side effects. These, as well as other reasons, have created the need to have alternative therapies.
Weight loss has been shown to be hugely beneficial in the management of this problem. Since excessive weight exerts undue stress on major joints and hastens degenerative changes, it has been argued that reducing this stress through weight reduction may slow down progression of the condition or reverse some of the changes. Indeed, some patients have reported a dramatic improvement of their symptoms by losing weight.
Physical exercise is one of the most popular ways of losing weight. Persons with arthritis will realize that it has several other benefits other than those related to weight loss. Among these benefits is the fact that flexibility is greatly improved. This is particularly important when stiffness has already set in. Less strenuous exercises such as swimming and taking part in aerobics sessions tend to offer more benefits than intense activities such as walking and running.
Hot and cold therapies also have an important role to play. They are likely to have more benefits if considered as a long term measure. Making them part of the daily routine will achieve this objective. For instance, one can schedule warm showers every morning which will help relieve pain that is most marked at this time. They may also start using an electric blanket at night. Ice packs can be applied to painful joints at scheduled times.
As with many other chronic conditions, oriental medicine has found its space in the treatment of arthritis. Acupuncture, in particular, has gained huge popularity. This ancient form of Chinese medicine, is carried out by inserting fine needles in predetermined parts of the body with the aim of influencing what is referred to as life energy. The aim is to restore the flow of this energy which in turn restores the wellness of the body.
There is evidence to suggest that psychological stress is a contributing factor in the development of arthritis symptoms. As such managing this aspect of health will help minimize the symptoms of this condition. In the event that psychological stress is identified, there are a number of interventions that can be undertaken. They include taking part in relaxation activities such as meditation and yoga among others.
The impact of diet cannot be ignored. A number of foods and supplements have been found to worsen the condition while others are associated with relief. In general, diets that have high levels of omega 3 fats are beneficial in the reduction of stiffness and pain. Others include those with gamma linolelic or GLA. Always remember to consult your doctor before trying out any new form of treatment.
Drugs continue to play a vital role in the management of arthritis symptoms. The main classes of drugs used are analgesic and anti-inflammatory agents. It has been observed that the dosage and number of drugs needed to control the symptoms increase as the condition progresses. This makes it more difficult for some patients to remain compliant to what has been described and also increases the risk of experiencing serious side effects. These, as well as other reasons, have created the need to have alternative therapies.
Weight loss has been shown to be hugely beneficial in the management of this problem. Since excessive weight exerts undue stress on major joints and hastens degenerative changes, it has been argued that reducing this stress through weight reduction may slow down progression of the condition or reverse some of the changes. Indeed, some patients have reported a dramatic improvement of their symptoms by losing weight.
Physical exercise is one of the most popular ways of losing weight. Persons with arthritis will realize that it has several other benefits other than those related to weight loss. Among these benefits is the fact that flexibility is greatly improved. This is particularly important when stiffness has already set in. Less strenuous exercises such as swimming and taking part in aerobics sessions tend to offer more benefits than intense activities such as walking and running.
Hot and cold therapies also have an important role to play. They are likely to have more benefits if considered as a long term measure. Making them part of the daily routine will achieve this objective. For instance, one can schedule warm showers every morning which will help relieve pain that is most marked at this time. They may also start using an electric blanket at night. Ice packs can be applied to painful joints at scheduled times.
As with many other chronic conditions, oriental medicine has found its space in the treatment of arthritis. Acupuncture, in particular, has gained huge popularity. This ancient form of Chinese medicine, is carried out by inserting fine needles in predetermined parts of the body with the aim of influencing what is referred to as life energy. The aim is to restore the flow of this energy which in turn restores the wellness of the body.
There is evidence to suggest that psychological stress is a contributing factor in the development of arthritis symptoms. As such managing this aspect of health will help minimize the symptoms of this condition. In the event that psychological stress is identified, there are a number of interventions that can be undertaken. They include taking part in relaxation activities such as meditation and yoga among others.
The impact of diet cannot be ignored. A number of foods and supplements have been found to worsen the condition while others are associated with relief. In general, diets that have high levels of omega 3 fats are beneficial in the reduction of stiffness and pain. Others include those with gamma linolelic or GLA. Always remember to consult your doctor before trying out any new form of treatment.
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