Arthritis is a collective term used to describe the serious condition where a person’s joints become painful, swollen and stiff. Arthritis is usually associated as part of the aging process, however there are some forms of arthritis which are more common to a particular age group or sector of the community. It is surprising to realise that there are 12,000 children in the UK under the age of 16 who have some form of arthritis. There are many forms of arthritis but the most common are rheumatoid, osteo-arthritis and gout.
Gout – Considered one of the most painful arthritic conditions, it affects an estimated 840 out of 100,000 people. Gout is caused by the build up of deposits of uric acid crystals in the body and usually affects the joints in the big toe, but can spread to the instep, ankles, heels, wrists, fingers or elbows. Has been associated with a diet rich in purines, which are a natural substance in foods such as alcohol, oily fish (sardines, anchovies), yeast, liver, kidney, mushroom, spinach, asparagus and cauliflower.
Osteo-Arthritis – The most common form of arthritis, a degenerative disease, which dries out the protective lubricant properties of cartilage as a result there is abnormal hardening of the bone and as the cartilage wears away , the bones rub together causing pain, stiffness and inflammation.
Rheumatoid Arthritis – It is a progressive auto-immune disorder where the body starts to attack it’s own tissue mainly affecting the joints of the knees, fingers, wrists, feet, ankles, shoulders, neck and hips.
The causes of arthritis are complex and varied depending on their particular condition, but most people with arthritis experience discomfort, pain, lack of mobility, frustration and fatigue. Although the condition has no known cure there are medications and treatments which can help control the swelling and reduce the inflammation and pain.
Apart from medications which your GP or hospital would prescribe, there are other areas where you can take a positive, pro-active approach to alleviate the symptoms. By incorporating various different changes you can be in control of arthritis instead of it controlling you.
In your home – it is frustrating and exhausting when simple, everyday tasks are difficult to complete. There a wide range of appliances and equipment available which if you can be patient and persevere with learning new ways to cope, they can help make your life a little easier. Visit www.arthritiscare.org.uk for more information on how to improve your home.
Your general health – this covers the usual suspects unfortunately – DIET AND EXERCISE. People who are 20% over their recommended body weight have more problems with arthritis. As arthritis affects the joints it is sensible to ensure that you eat a healthy well balanced diet and exercise to ensure that you are a sensible weight for your build and to tone up your muscles to support the joints. It is important to ensure that with any exercise that it is something you enjoy as well as benefits your health. Seek the advice of a nutritionalist who can discuss the food groups that may be beneficial to include in your diet.
Relaxation - it is difficult to relax when your body is aching and tired as any tension in the body exacerbates the pain. It is important to learn to relax your mind and body, which will in turn help relax your muscles and reduce tension caused by aches and pains. There are a wide range of relaxation or meditation CD’s available or look for a local relaxation/meditation class to join.
Complementary therapies not only relax your mind and body, but the movements stimulate the circulation system thereby increasing the flow of nutrients and oxygen to the organs and the removal of waste products such as uric acid from your body.
Massage warms and soothes your body, releasing and relaxing tension which elongates the muscles and increases joint mobility and flexibility
Aromatherapy massage has additional benefits included with the essential oils which are known for their healing properties. The following oils are said to be beneficial for:-
Arthritis - Bay, Chamomile, Eucalyptus, Lavender, Marjoram, Pine, Rose and Sage
Muscular Aches – Cinnamon, Comfrey, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Lavender, Marjoram, Pine, Rosemary and Sage
Rheumatism - Bay, Chamomile, Cypress, Eucalyptus, Juniper, Lavender, Lemon, Marjoram, Neroli, Pine, Rosemary and Thyme
Reflexology works on the entire body system increasing circulation, releasing tension and relaxing your body without touching any painful joints, just by working on your hands or feet.
For more information please visit www.phtherapies.org
