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.
Anti inflammatory and analgesic drugs have been in use for the treatment of this problem for many years and remain an important part of any treatment plan today. Observations show that drug requirements tend to increase as the disease progresses. This does not only apply to the dose required but also to the number of drugs that may be required at a given point in time. This fact as well as the presence of unwanted side effects has driven many patients to seek 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.
Engaging in regular physical exercise is without a doubt one of the strategies that work quite well when it comes to weight loss methods. However, exercise has a lot more benefits with regard to the well being of joints. Among these benefits is an improvement in flexibility. This is quite important considering that stiffness is one of the most bothersome symptoms of the condition. The general recommendation is that one should avoid weight bearing exercises such as jogging, walking and running and instead opt for less stressful exercises such as swimming and aerobics.
Hot and cold therapies 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.
Another group of treatments that has attracted a lot of interest is that of traditional Chinese medicine. There are many that have been tried here with acupuncture emerging as one of the most popular techniques. Acupuncture is based on the belief that well being is dependent on the flow of energy through certain areas of the body. By inserting special needles in predetermined locations on the body, good health can be restored.
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 composition of the diet does affect the disease as it does influence many other conditions. While some foods are known to worsen the symptoms, others are quite beneficial. For instance, foods with high levels of omega 3 fats are associated with a reduction of both pain and stiffness. Before trying out any new treatment modality, you will be well advised to do so in consultation with your doctor.
Anti inflammatory and analgesic drugs have been in use for the treatment of this problem for many years and remain an important part of any treatment plan today. Observations show that drug requirements tend to increase as the disease progresses. This does not only apply to the dose required but also to the number of drugs that may be required at a given point in time. This fact as well as the presence of unwanted side effects has driven many patients to seek 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.
Engaging in regular physical exercise is without a doubt one of the strategies that work quite well when it comes to weight loss methods. However, exercise has a lot more benefits with regard to the well being of joints. Among these benefits is an improvement in flexibility. This is quite important considering that stiffness is one of the most bothersome symptoms of the condition. The general recommendation is that one should avoid weight bearing exercises such as jogging, walking and running and instead opt for less stressful exercises such as swimming and aerobics.
Hot and cold therapies 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.
Another group of treatments that has attracted a lot of interest is that of traditional Chinese medicine. There are many that have been tried here with acupuncture emerging as one of the most popular techniques. Acupuncture is based on the belief that well being is dependent on the flow of energy through certain areas of the body. By inserting special needles in predetermined locations on the body, good health can be restored.
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 composition of the diet does affect the disease as it does influence many other conditions. While some foods are known to worsen the symptoms, others are quite beneficial. For instance, foods with high levels of omega 3 fats are associated with a reduction of both pain and stiffness. Before trying out any new treatment modality, you will be well advised to do so in consultation with your doctor.
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