ARTHRITIS ADVICE FROM LOCAL HEALTHCARE PRACTITIONERS
By Debbie Markel, CH, CNHP
Are you confused by the recent warnings about and withdrawals of certain arthritis drugs? If so, you’re not alone. Local healthcare practitioners are reporting an increase in the number of inquiries they’re receiving about how to safely treat the pain, inflammation and stiffness of arthritis without using those products. These practitioners have some good tips that may help.
Arthritis is the name given to more than 100 different diseases that cause pain, swelling, and limited movement in joints and connective tissue. According to the Annals of Internal Medicine, one out of every six Americans suffers from some form of arthritis and the condition can last a lifetime. It’s very important to have the type of arthritis diagnosed by a physician. The most common are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. According to an article on www.nursingcenter.com, osteoarthritis is a degenerative disease of the joints where cartilage breaks down quicker than it can be replaced, resulting in bone against bone friction, pain and inflammation. Rheumatoid arthritis is less common and is an autoimmune disorder. The body attacks the joint lining and damages bone and cartilage. Both types cause pain and inflammation. The pain of rheumatoid arthritis usually affects both sides of the body and multiple joints; the stiffness of osteoarthritis typically eases with activity; that of rheumatoid arthritis doesn't. Rheumatoid arthritis can also cause additional, more general, signs of ill health, such as a persistent low fever, loss of appetite, lethargy, and anemia.
David Duncan, MD, FAAP, of Powhatan Family
Physicians, advises that for most people with arthritis, 30 minutes of daily
exercise (yoga, walking, swimming, low-impact aerobics), stretching and getting
body weight under control (ideally with a body mass index of around 25) can
greatly reduce pain and stiffness. He
may recommend Tylenol or Aspercreme (an analgesic skin cream) for pain, but
cautions that each patient’s needs must be evaluated individually before using
anything.
Theresa Grafton, CMT, owner of Powhatan Massage and Bodyworks suggests massage therapy for arthritis pain. Massage releases endorphins, the “feel good” hormones produced in our brains, which can reduce pain. Massage stimulates blood circulation which can treat inflammation and speed healing. Aromatherapy oils may also lessen pain. Essential oil of ginger mixed with carrier oils can be massaged into sore areas and has an analgesic effect.
Chiropractic
adjustments to align the spine are often used to help arthritis.
Dr. Jamie Higley, DC, owner of Higley Family Chiropractic, says that by
keeping the spine in alignment, you will not only help to soothe the
inflammation or tenderness in the joints currently affected by disease, but also
protect all of your joints from further injury.
By keeping the nervous system in good working order, you'll be allowing
your body to function well as a whole and help itself heal.
In my practice as an herbalist, I may recommend one or more of the following (or other) natural remedies, many of which have been extensively studied:
1. Glucosamine and Chondroitin are frequently sold as one formula and they specifically support joint health. The Journal of Family Practice (December, 2003) reported that these supplements should be considered as a first line of treatment for osteoarthritis. An analysis of 1775 patients in 15 clinical trials verified that at 4 weeks, patients taking either glucosamine (1500 mg daily) or chondroitin (from 200–2000 mg daily) experienced less pain and greater mobility than those taking a placebo. People allergic to shellfish, diabetics & pregnant or lactating women should NOT take glucosamine.
2. SAMe is a natural compound formed in our bodies that plays a critical role in cartilage formation. Dozens clinical studies have shown that SAMe supports joint comfort as well as function and mobility in the spine, hips and knees. SAMe also acts as an antidepressant, so should not be taken by those already on antidepressant medications.
3. Cayenne pepper (capsicum) is a warming herb that triggers the body to release its own pain relievers called endorphins. It contains aspirin-like compounds called salicylates. Studies have shown that when applied to the skin in creams or salves 4 times daily, capsaicin reduced the pain of osteoarthritis by 1/3 and rheumatoid arthritis pain by more than half.
4. Turmeric: Curcumin is what makes turmeric yellow. It has been shown to have significant anti-inflammatory action and is almost as effective as cortisone.
Finally, a survey of more than 1400 people over a 20 year period published in the Journal of Neurological and Orthopedic Medical Surgery (1993) links the consumption of plants in the nightshade family (potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, eggplant and tobacco) with increased inflammation, muscle spasms, pain, and stiffness. It may be best to avoid those foods if you suffer from arthritis symptoms. And as always, consult with a trained healthcare professional before beginning any treatments for your condition.
Debbie
Markel, Certified Herbalist and Certified Natural Health Professional, is the
proprietor of Apothecarian Herbals, LLC in Powhatan.