Inflammatory Arthritis Info

The word arthritis is derived from 'arth' meaning joint and 'itis' meaning inflammation.

While there are over 100 different types of arthritis, they all have one thing in common -- inflammation of the joints or tissue around the joints. In other words, all types of arthritis can be considered inflammatory arthritis. Inflammation is the body's natural response to injury. Whenever something within or outside the body is injured, it responds with an inflammatory response such as redness, swelling, heat and pain.

When a joint becomes inflamed, it may present with all of the above, or it may be a minor nuisance. Our body consists of 206 bones, connected by more than 100 joints. Most of the major bone connections (shoulders, elbows, hips, wrists and knees) are joints designed to provide us with a broad range of motion. Hips and shoulders are connected with a ball-and-socket joint. The thumbs are connected with a saddle joint. Fingers and knees are connected with hinge joints; and our wrists are connected with pivot joints. As you can see, arthritis has many opportunities to set-up its home.

The bones of joints are capped with a smooth substance called cartilage. This elastic material is similar to the shock absorbers on your automobile. Its purpose is to provide your body with a smoother ride. This cartilage also acts as a protective sheath and allows the bone ends to glide

The Pain of Rheumatoid Arthritis May Be Eased with A Healthy Lifestyle

If you have recently been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, maybe you think you're doomed to a lifetime of pain and discomfort. The truth is that many people live long and full lives, even while living with rheumatoid arthritis. But if you truly want to thrive despite your diagnosis, chances are you'll have to reconsider your lifestyle choices. Living a healthy lifestyle is of course recommended for all. But it becomes even more important if you are a rheumatoid arthritis sufferer.

One important thing you should do is to learn to respond to your body. You should become aware of when you feel joint stiffness the most. Make a note of when you feel joint discomfort. You will have to learn to test and set your limits. By paying attention to how your body reacts to certain physical activities, you will learn to avoid overexertion.

Another important thing to keep your body healthy and pain-free is to do some kind of regular physical activity. Think of exercise as an important part of your treatment. Many research studies have shown that some form of regular physical activity can help reduce the pain and discomfort associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Regular exercise can also help increase your flexibility, strengthen your muscles, reduce your fatigue, and provide you with an overall feeling of well being. Don't be afraid of exercise or trying new physical activities because of your rheumatoid arthritis. For the most part, you'll be fine as long as you learn to read your body's signs and avoid overexertion. There are three general types of exercises that are well suited to those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis. They are: flexibility exercises, cardio or aerobic exercises, and strengthening exercises. Yoga and Pilates are good examples of exercises that can substantially gently increase your range of motion. Running, walking, and bicycling are excellent aerobic exercises that are good for your heart and overall joint health. Water exercises in particular are good for rheumatoid arthritis sufferers because it increases your flexibility while increasing your strength.

Before you begin an exercise program, make certain to speak with your health care provider. As a rheumatoid arthritis patient, your doctor may be able to prescribe specific exercises that can help alleviate your symptoms. Your doctor may also be able to refer you to a physical therapist that you can work with.

Another very important facet of taking care of your self has to do with eating well. Eating well not only helps you get the right nutrients, but also to maintain a healthy weight. This is particularly important for good joint health. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Low fat dairy products and lean proteins are also important for preserving bone integrity. Make certain that you are getting enough of the right nutrients, including vitamin c and calcium. If you suspect you may not be getting enough of these nutrients, pay a visit to your doctor. He or she may be able to prescribe specific supplements that will help combat the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.

smoothly across each other. If the cartilage is destroyed; the bones of the joint grind against each other and cause pain and inflammation. Between the bones is a joint cavity or space. This cavity provides space for bones to move as you perform daily activities. The space is enclosed by a flexible, yet strong, capsule that is designed to protect the joint against dislocation.

The capsule has an inner lining call the synovium. The synovium produces a thick fluid used to lubricate and provide nourishment to the joint. In inflammatory arthritis, the synovium becomes inflamed and thickened, causing it to produce extra fluid which contains inflammatory cells. If inflammatory cells are continually produced, the cartilage and underlying bone can be permanently damaged.

Certain foods are known to cause an over-production of cytokines (communication cells within the brain). An excess amount of cytokines can lead to inflammation and cause arthritis symptoms to worsen. Eliminating these cytokine-producing foods can help inflammatory arthritis sufferers better manage their symptoms by reducing inflammation within the body. Foods known to increase cytokine production and increase inflammation include: v Most meat, except oily fish v Dairy products (milk, ice cream, cheese) v Egg yolks v Gluten (found in wheat, oats, barley and rye) v Corn, corn oil, and corn syrup v Sugar, flour and processed foods v Nightshade vegetables (white potatoes, tomatoes, all peppers, cherries, tobacco, and eggplants) v Coffee and Alcohol

Changing your diet to include fresh, whole fruits and vegetables, grains, and essential fatty acids can significantly improve inflammatory arthritis symptoms. Additionally, adding dietary supplements (vitamins and minerals); can further assist in reducing inflammation and pain.

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Arthritis Tips Site Map

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