Osteoarthritis

a naturopathic prescription for the signs and symptoms

• Osteoarthritis - or more commonly "arthritis" - is a common debilitating condition, which does not affect just the elderly. It is a degenerative joint disease where there is loss in the cartilage which articulates (moves) the joint. There can be heat and swelling of the joint, along with pain and stiffness or even immobility. Other forms of arthritis (requiring different treatment) are rheumatoid arthritis, and gout.
• Factors include: age, excessive use, previous trauma, obesity and a genetic predisposition.
• Naturopaths believe that cartilage replenishment is possible if the body is given the chance. This means not aggravating the joint(s) involved and generally taking care of yourself through diet and lifestyle.
• Appropriate exercise is so important. Don't jog - walk fast. Use soft-soled shoes with good support. Swimming is great. Gentle stretches. Frequently!
• Getting outside into the sunlight assists in Vitamin D synthesis, which seems to help.
• Losing weight, even just a little, can have a beneficial effect. See Weight Loss.
• Certain food groups aggravate arthritis. The Solanaceae family is such a group and includes potatoes, tomatoes, eggplant, peppers and tobacco. Paradoxically, the hottest pepper - cayenne - seems to help some.
• There is plenty of evidence that antioxidants (Vitamins A,C,E, selenium, zinc) assist in stopping cartilage degeneration. Most fresh fruit and vegetables are rich in antioxidants. So are flavanoid rich berries.
• Paracetemol is preferable to aspirin which should be avoided.
• Select a supplement from the following recommendations for your country (clicking the hyperlink refers you to a suitable supplier). Look for products with the following ingredients: glucosamine sulfate, chondroitin sulfate (but difficult to absorb), niacinamide, fish oils, Vitamin B12, folate, the antioxidants - vitamins A, C and E, curcuma (tumeric), withania, boswellia, nettle, devil's claw, willow bark, cayenne, capsaicin, ginger, boron, S-adenosylmethionine (SAM).

If the symptoms of osteoarthritis persist, you need to make an appointment to consult a professional health practitioner.

Naturopaths consider WHY a person has the distressing symptoms of osteoarthritis and then treat accordingly.

David Wilson, Naturopath

See also Gout and Osteoporosis

Keep me informed about any news concerning osteoarthritis.