Natural cure for arthritis

As you age, arthritis dogs your footsteps and if you are not careful it could cripple you mentally and physically. The joints are usually affected especially the knees and elbows.

Synovial fluid is the name given to the lubricant present in the joints and the cartilage is the special tissue, which absorbs shocks and ensures that the ends of the bones are protected. When this is damaged, then the ends of the bones rub against each other and cause pain. This is known as osteo-arthritis.

Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder which means the immune system which is supposed to defend the body starts attacking the body’s tissues and causes abnormal growth of tissue.. This could be because of infection or injury to the tissue.

So, if you want to ward off the ill effects of osteo arthritis, anti oxidants is the key - the natural cure for arthritis. They ensure that the cartilage remains fairly intact. It is apparent then that the treatment of arthritis can be accomplished by eating fruits and vegetables as they are very good sources of antioxidants.

Consumed in adequate amounts, they can minimize the effects of joint damage. Processed foods, carbohydrates and sugar are taboo. High fiber foods, minimum fat and flavonoid rich foods like cherries help to minimize destruction to the joints.

Vegetable juices especially a mixture of carrot, beet and cucumber is very beneficial. Green salad with lemon juice, cooked vegetables like pumpkin, spices like ginger, coriander, asafetida, and turmeric all contribute to the well being of the joints.

Fruits like apples, oranges, grapes, papaya should be taken liberally. In this context it is seen that Vitamin E is helpful not only in preventing breakdown of cartilage but also in generating the components necessary for the manufacture of cartilage. Collagen, which is an important constituent of cartilage, requires the presence of vitamin C. In some individuals, tomatoes, potatoes and peppers can prevent collagen repair, so the diet needs to be suitably altered to exclude these. It has been found that allergic foods can trigger joint pain, so the first step is to identify these foods and eliminate them from your diet. Be sure to go low on tea, sugar, yogurt, chocolate and tempting spicy and fried foods. A radical change in your lifestyle can do wonders for arthritis.

Ultrasound heat therapy is also known to benefit individuals suffering from arthritis. Ultrasound energy uses a gel or mineral oil as a conducting agent. What ultrasound actually does is to first warm the areas and then invade the body and reach the inner tissue. Muscle tissue and ligaments are very receptive to this form of energy while fat tissue is sluggish in acceptance. The relief this form of treatment provides is long lasting.

Diathermy has always been a popular mode of deep heat treatment. An insulated wire coil is used to transfer heat to the affected part. As it uses a magnetic field on the connective tissues ,even fat tissues are receptive to this form of energy. Diathermy on a regular basis provides relief. In addition to diet and physical therapy, exercise is a must. Of course, confine yourself to those activities, which cause least strain.

One very effective cure for osteo-athritis is the naturally occurring glucosamine sulfate, because it helps connective tissue to be formed. As it consists of hydrogen, glucose and nitrogen amine, it is often referred to as an amino sugar. Rather than providing energy as sugars usually do, it helps in construction of body tissue of bones, ligaments, digestive system and several other areas. Unfortunately as you age, the ability to manufacture this wonder substance also decreases. The cartilage is hence destroyed and the ends of the bones rub against each other causing pain. However, external supplements of glucosamine sulfate in combination with Chondrotin sulfate has been known to work wonders when combined with exercise and proper nutrition.

In India, Ayurveda focuses on “doshas” and in the case of Rheumatic joint pains it believes that “vata” dosha has in some way been aggravated. In addition, the toxins of improper indigestion deposit itself in areas, which are weak. Ayurvedic treatment strongly advocates massage with mustard or sesame oil on the areas of concern. Light exercise is also advised. Vitamin C and the herb Guggul taken twice a day is said to produce beneficial effects. Turmeric, which is used freely in Indian cooking is also said to have anti-inflammatory properties and ginger either in the form of oil or extract is used for treating rheumatoid arthritis.

Here again diet plays an important part in controlling arthritis. A low protein diet, no milk or milk products, no polyunsaturated oils, an increase in omega3
fatty acids, walnuts and flaxseeds should go a long way in affording relief.
Yoga, relaxation techniques, and meditation have also known to be effective natural remedies for arthritis. author ~ M. Hemdev.