Arthritis

Arthritis is a term used to describe a number of painful conditions affecting the joints and bones. There are over 200 forms of arthritis affecting young and old alike. Two of the main types of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. Cartilage (connective tissue) between the bones gradually wastes away (degenerates), and this can lead to painful rubbing of bone on bone in the joints. The most frequently affected joints are in the hands, spine, knees and hips. The cause of osteoarthritis is not fully known.
Factors that may contribute to the development of osteoarthritis include: obesity- which puts added strain on joints, jobs, or activities that involve repetitive movements of a particular joint or previous damage to the joint, such as from a sports injury.

Also known as inflammatory arthritis, rheumatoid arthritis is a more severe, but less common condition. The body's immune system attacks and destroys the joint, causing pain and swelling. It can lead to reduction of movement, and the breakdown of bone and cartilage.

The symptoms often experienced with arthritis are: joint pain and swelling, stiffness, warmth around the joint, redness to the skin surrounding the joint and reduced mobility.

As everyone experiences arthritis in a different way, individual treatment and management are really important to get the best results. It is beneficial to start treatment as early as possible after symptoms appear in order to reduce further damage to joints and improve quality of life.

Avoiding chemicals in your food by switching to an organic diet and managing the symptoms with a programme of moderate exercise, anti-inflammatory herbs and foods, and collagen-building supplements is a good general approach and may help to prevent further damage to the joints.

Alpha Lipid Lifeline may be beneficial as they can lubricate the joints and reduce inflammation.

The Joint+ tincture contains a range of herbs designed to reduce the inflammation and increase mobility within the joint. It contains herbs that may help to relieve pain.

Weight-bearing exercises, such as walking, will help to prevent osteoarthritis by increasing the strength of the muscles that support your joints. Good posture can assist the strengthening of healthy joint structures.

Include turmeric, cardamon, cinnamon, garlic, ginger, coriander, and cumin, in your diet, all of which have an anti-inflammatory effect in the body. Chillies are another fiery food that can help.

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