Osteoarthritis (generally known as ‘arthritis’) is very common among the elderly and those with many old injuries. Arthritis supports help them cope with day to day activities.
Osteoarthritis literally means bone joint inflammation and is characterized by loss of cartilage material found in the joints. Cartilage is made of protein substances which cushion the two adjacent bones of the joints. In middle aged and older individuals, cartilage tends to be overwhelmed with fluid from swelling and the protein content of cartilage tends to degenerate with time (often rooted in abuse, poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, decreased muscle mass). When cartilage degenerates, the cushions are diminished and friction between the two adjoining bones increases, causing them to rub against each other. Bones are lined with nerves, which when stimulated, register pain as one moves about. Additionally, the inflammatory process causes the body to lay calcium in the area to ‘strengthen’ the area.Unfortunately, these calcium forms bone spurs and ultimately stiffens the joint.
Natural help for osteoarthritis involves dietary and lifestyle changes (e.g. excessive weight). Lifestyle change includes exercise, which helps with increased circulation, bringing more nutrients and oxygen to the area.Also, it helps increase muscle mass around the joint, hence decreasing stress on it.A more active lifestyle is crucial for decreasing arthritis symptoms even if it’s the minimum such as a walk in the park.
Dietary supplementation for osteoarthritis such as Traumeel have been very effective clinically as both have natural anti-inflammatory effects.MSM (MethylSulfonyl Methane) are found in wide array of fresh foods like vegetables and meats. It enables flexibility of joint tissues. There is also is glucosamine sulfate.It supplies the necessary materials needed for cartilage development and maintenance hence improving lubrication and the cushion material lacking in individuals with osteoarthritis. Sulfur rich foods like broccoli, cauliflower and brussel sprouts are actually good sources for natural joint health.This food group contains raw materials for synthesizing collagen which keeps tissues elastic, aside from their antioxidant effects. There are many joint health natural dietary supplements that contain MSM and glucosamine sulfate.
There are two natural, non-prescription ointments which can support arthritic joints: Equalizer Plus and Traumeel.
Equalizer Plus can remove pain, relieve stiffness and moisturize at the same time. It contains pregnenolone, ginger extract, emu oil, glucosamine sulfate and MSM, which counteract the harmful effects of osteoarthritis in the body. Glucosamine sulfate not only helps decrease pain, it also rebuilds damaged cartilage and enables joints to move smoothly, preventing osteoarthritis to develop. Furthermore, this has no stinging side effect that goes after application and is odorless.
Traumeel is another cream which is used as an effective natural support for arthritis. It contains 12 botanical and 2 mineral compounds which momentarily relieves minor pain. With almost no side effects, this is not a typical non-steroidal anti inflammatory disease (NSAID) aid. It is the number one, non-prescription, over the counter cream used to help with joint and muscle pain.
Olivia Chang, D.C., CCSP (sports medicine) practices at dr Chang Health in La Jolla, CA with her team of therapists. She is also a professional Hollywood Stunt Performer and martial artist. Her comprehensive, cutting-edge whole person approach includes helping patients connect brain to body dysfunctions, clinical nutrition & cognitive-based rehabilitative exercise re-training. Chronic pains and conditions disappear when the brain starts being engaged in the healing process. She travels the world to discover treatment methods immersed in different cultures & find quality health products for her patients and clients. Visit her @ www.drChangHealth.com or email drchang@drchanghealth.com
