Where to begin ? Well, there happen to be more than one hundred different types of Arthritis but to simplify things it can be divided into 2 categories ,inflammatory and degenerative. Knowing which one you have is very important and your health provider can guide you.
-Inflammatory Arthritis
The most common form is called Rheumatoid Arthritis or RA and usually affects the small joints of your hands and feet. It is an autoimmune disease, which means the body’s immune system attacks healthy tissue. The main characteristic is the feeling of stiffness and aching pain in the joints after rest , such as first thing in the morning. This is a chronic condition that will increase in time.
-Degenerative Arthritis
Even though it is called non-inflammatory, Osteoarthritis or OA still results in inflammation of the joints . The difference is this inflammation is the result of wear and tear. Commonly found in the knees , hips and spine. When the joint degenerates , the cartilage gradually becomes rough, and begin to wear the cartilage away and the feeling of bone on bone pain /swelling occur.
You may have found the symptoms of RA and OA are similar in that they both involve the stiffness and sometimes pain in the joints. The stiffness associated with RA tends to last longer than it does during flare ups of OA. The discomfort with OA is usually concentrated in the affected joints . RA being a systemic disease can include weakness and fatigue.
Tips on Living with and Fighting Arthritis
-Stay Healthy , eat a balanced healthy diets including plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. Regular exercise can improve weight loss and help reduce the burden on the joints. Anything to strengthen the surrounding muscles will also increase joint support.
-Keep educated on the type of arthritis you have and the treatments available. Know your meds. It is a constant balancing act between taking as much medication to alleviate the pain and as little medication to as possible to prevent side effects.
– Alternative Therapy
This can be used to compliment your doctor’s treatment. Inform your practitioner of any decisions you make. Studies have found that Organic Sulfur has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. The Sulfur plays an important role in the making of collagen and glucosamine , both vital for healthy bones and joints and immunoglobulins , which help your immune system.
