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Shark Cartilage for Regenerating Joints

admin — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 21:18:07 +0000

Shark Cartilage is a great way to reduce arthritic problems

Ever since the phrase “sharks don’t get cancer” came out; there have been many tests done on shark cartilage and the benefits contained within it. After finding out that shark cartilage can inhibit the growth of blood vessels that feed tumors and that it can prevent damage being done to the genetic material in healthy cells, scientists asked themselves what else shark cartilage could do. It turns out that shark cartilage can offer great benefits to arthritis and joint sufferers as well.

Shark cartilage contains very complex compounds for joint health called Chondroitin sulphate and glycoaminoglycans. These compounds are both natural anti- inflammatory agents and are believed to reduce cartilage wear and tear by improving lubrication to the joints. Chondroitin is actually found naturally in our joint cartilage and connective tissues but it gets less as we age. Joint flexibility is important as we get older and these compounds keep the elasticity, resilience and shock-absorbing properties of the cartilage.

Here are some additional benefits of shark cartilage:

Chondroitin is also a major source of the protein building-blocks used in our joints, which means it assists in the production and regeneration of joint cartilage and keeps them healthy
Chondroitin is known to inhibit enzymes that break down cartilage and cause inflammation and stiffness.
Aids immune system regulation and the prevention of new blood vessel growth into the cartilage of the joints.

Shark cartilage can provide tremendous relief to painful, swollen, and stiff joints Many have reported using fewer pain relievers and noticed an overall improvement to their condition

Shark cartilage can be taken in various forms. Supplements come in pill form, powders, liquid extracts and other forms. Some may choose taking it via enemas, injections or infusions.

It’s also a good idea to take note of the reported side effects associated with taking shark cartilage. Some have reported experiencing abdominal cramps and bloating, nausea, vomiting, constipation, fatigue and fever. In some cases, it can lower blood sugar levels. Pregnant women and children should not take it because it may effect the normal growth of children and fetuses. Also, if you have recently had surgery, taking shark cartilage can slow down the healing process. Shark cartilage is also a rich source of calcium and while it can be beneficial for patients with osteoporosis who require calcium supplementation, it can also lead to an overload of calcium in the blood, especially if you use calcium supplements.

With all the benefits of shark cartilage it makes sense to treat arthritis and joint related conditions. It is always best to speak to your medical practitioner for the best treatment for your condition in order to get the best results.

Steve’s Health Answers provides the latest natural health, news, research and tips about Joint Care. For more details and our free newsletter, please visit http://www.steveshealthanswers.com

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Carpal Tunnel Syndrome – Symptoms And Treatments

admin — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 20:09:06 +0000

Carpal tunnel syndrome causes tingling sensation and pain in the hand due to compression of the nerves running through the hand. The carpal tunnel is a narrow space in the wrist which is enclosed by the bones of the wrist (the carpal bones) and the fibrous band that overlie them. The tissues that travel through this space include the median nerve and the tendons that extend from the forearm to the fingers. The whole system is delicate and prone to injury resulting from repeated stress on the area.

The median nerve is responsible for controlling the movements of the specific muscles in the hand. It carries sensory information between the palm, the thumb, forefinger, middle finger, part of the ring finger and the brain. Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when this median nerve is compressed within the space of the wrist enclosed by carpal bones, disrupting its functions and causing weakness of the hand muscles that are controlled by the median nerve. The pressure causes pain and loss of some use of the hand. This disorder is often seen in people between the ages of forty and sixty and it is found that women are more affected than men.

Causes

Carpal tunnel syndrome is often associated with diabetes mellitus, an underactive thyroid gland, pregnancy, obesity; rheumatoid arthritis and other diseases. During pregnancy, fluid retention in the body causes pressure on the carpal nerve. The disorder mainly affects middle aged and elderly women, especially those who use their fingers a lot. This disorder is associated with typing and other daily activities that require repeated movements of the hands causing inflammation of the tendons at the wrist. It is essential to learn the correct typing technique and a keyboard with soft touch keys will minimize the risk of injury to the carpal tunnel and the wrist.

Symptoms

Pain and tingling in the palms are observed in patients with carpal tunnel syndrome
The thumb, the second and third fingers and the side of the fourth finger may be affected
The base of the thumb may produce a cracking sound while you are using the hand without any specific pressure on the area

This sensation sometimes extends up into the forearm and tends to be worse at night or when very warm. It can be relieved for a short time by shaking the arm. Over a period of time, the muscles in the thumb and the other muscles in the hand may become weak, making it difficult for the sufferer to grip things firmly. Numbness may also be felt in the hand. A diagnosis is made from a description of the symptoms. Tapping the wrist may cause the tingling and pain to begin.

The symptoms may get progressively worse over a period of weeks and during this time the patient may experience limitations in the motor functions of the wrist. The space in the tunnel may be reduced as a result of other conditions like osteoarthritis of the wrist. Severe cases can lead to weakness of the small muscles at the base of the thumb.

As soon as the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome are developed, it is better to seek immediate medical attention as the disorder may cause severe disability if its progress is left unchecked. It is well worth investigating treatments from Chinese medicine as these seem to have a remarkable effect for many sufferers.

Steve’s Health Answers provides the latest natural health, news, research and tips about Joint Care. For more details and our free newsletter, please visit http://www.steveshealthanswers.com

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A Cure All For Arthritis – Is It Really This Simple?

admin — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 21:24:00 +0000

The connection between fat intake and arthritis may be much closer than we think. Arthritis is attributed to many causes and even genetics. But recent studies are showing the link between saturated fats in our diets with the onset and even the aggravation of arthritis. It is therefore important for arthritis sufferers to take a closer look at their diet when considering solutions to relieving their symptoms such as inflammation and pain.

When we eat saturated fats and accumulate it in our bodies, the body tries to process these fats in various ways. Some of these chemical processes can also be harmful to our bodies. Some responses trigger the body’s defense systems which attack the body in vital locations such as the joints. So instead of getting rid of the fats, they create a pro-inflammatory response which worsens the arthritis. These can be seen through our common white blood cells which are found in very large numbers right at the inflammation sites in rheumatoid arthritis. They produce positive or negative chemical responses based on the kind of fats the individual is consuming. It is therefore essential to consume the ‘right’ fatty acids and cut out the ‘bad ‘fats to keep the balance right and reduce inflammation of joints.

A study done on rheumatoid arthritis patients in 1981 showed that completely removing fats from their diets resulted in a complete remission of the arthritis. The arthritis came back when the fatty diet was introduced again. This change in inflammation levels as a direct consequence of changing fat content is a significant step in understanding the relation between a diet rich in saturated fats and the body’s response to them. (Clin Res 29:754, 1981).

Foods to avoid are:

Greasy and fried foods.
It is also best to stay clear of fast foods (and often fried) which are very high in saturated fats
Keep starchy foods such as potatoes to a minimum along with red meat
Highly sweetened drinks such as sodas an unnatural drinks

One of the best ways to achieve the balance is to consume essential fatty acids. Because they are naturally anti-inflammatory they can counteract the effects done by saturated fats and begin the natural healing process. Eating alkaline food reduces the fat in the body and inflammation of joints thus neutralizing an acidic body. Eating the right foods is not enough; exercise in conjunction with a healthy diet plays an important part in healing arthritis effectively.

Steve’s Health Answers provides the latest natural health, news, research and tips about Joint Care. For more details and our free newsletter, please visit http://www.steveshealthanswers.com

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New Research Links Arthritis to Household Insecticides

admin — Fri, 27 Nov 2009 20:41:51 +0000

I think firstly it is important to understand that as humans we are more vulnerable than we think when it comes to our immediate environment. We are constantly interacting with our environment on a microscopic level and many of the things we subject ourselves to can be harmful to our health.

Insecticides have always been a controversial subject to speak about. But it is important to be aware of the dangerous substances inside your home that have the potential to harm us just by using them. You must remember that we are part of an ecosystem within our homes and the very substances used to kill smaller life forms can affect us as well.

If you are suffering from a certain illness, your immune system is already compromised and can find it hard to fight off harmful substances entering the body. Often, creating a healing environment when recovering from an illness is the last thing on our minds. However we’ll be aiding the healing process if we start eliminating all potential hazardous activities done inside the house.

Arthritis can be aggravated with constant use of pesticides in the garden and indoors. A lot of the residues of these substances give off chemical reactions long after they have been used. A chemically clean environment is not necessary the safest environment.

Maybe start investigating ways of substituting the chemicals and pesticides you are using for less toxic and natural alternatives. They have a feel good factor which works with the natural systems and will not harm your body.

For the full article, please see

http://health.usnews.com/articles/health/healthday/2009/10/19/household-insecticides-may-be-linked-to.html

Steve’s Health Answers provides the latest natural health, news, research and tips about Joint Care. For more details and our free newsletter, please visit http://www.steveshealthanswers.com

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How to Identify the Symptoms Associated with Fibromyalgia

admin — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 19:59:06 +0000

The muscle mass in your body tends to decline with age and the muscles supporting the bones also become weak. People suffering from fibromyalgia experience pain in the muscles all over the body and the sufferer is bound to experience a loss of concentration. This in turn affects the productivity of the sufferer and has an impact on their social and work life. Older women are more vulnerable to this debilitating disorder. The pain in the muscles disturbs their sleep and as a result they feel tired soon, in the early stages of the disorder.

This fatigue causes the sufferer to be distressed most of the time. In case, you are experiencing some of the symptoms as described above, it would be better to consult your medical practitioner who can confirm the onset of fibromyalgia and prescribe a course of medication to counter pain and fatigue in the body.

One of the causes of fibromyalgia may be disturbances in sleep. The sufferer usually does not get deep sleep and periods of deep sleep tend to be disrupted by light sleep. This causes pain in the muscles of the body and makes the problem concerning the lack of sleep even worse.

Another major factor which causes fibromyalgia is high levels of occupational stress. If you experience stressful events continually as a part of your work, it is likely to lead to the risk of developing this disorder. The sufferer finds it difficult to concentrate on anything and has always a feeling of tension and anxiety.

The symptoms of fibromyalgia may settle down after a few weeks of treatment. But sometimes prolonged treatment may be needed as the condition can last for a longer period in some patients.

One issue with this disorder is that it is somewhat difficult to understand the distress caused to sufferers as there is no outward sign of the ailment. So, the persons associated with providing care to the patient have to be sensitized and given proper information on the effects of fibromyalgia so that they can empathize with the sufferer and provide the best possible care and attention.

To relive the muscle pain related to fibromyalgia, your medical practitioner may put you on a course of non steroidal anti inflammatory drugs and supplements. You may also be asked to make certain changes in your lifestyle combined with a low intensity exercise routine in order to relieve stress, get adequate relaxation and a good night’s sleep.

Steve’s Health Answers provides the latest natural health, news, research and tips about Joint Care. For more details and our free newsletter, please visit http://www.steveshealthanswers.com

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Pycnogenol – Nature’s Secret Arthritis Treatment

admin — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 19:45:23 +0000

It is always refreshing to find a highly effective supplement that delivers on all its promises. It’s even more encouraging to find a naturally sourced supplement which contains all the right compounds. Pycnogenol is that supplement.

Sourced from the coastal regions of South West France, Pycnogenol is extracted from the bark of the Pinus maritima, a pine tree growing exclusively in that region. The bark has high concentrations of very active bio-flavonoids, which incidentally can also be found in fresh fruits and vegetables. For over 35 years scientists have been testing the bio-flavonoids from maritime pine tree bark said to contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. These flavonoids have been discovered to reduce symptoms from many illnesses ranging from bronchial inflammation to swelling and pain in the legs.

Even more remarkable is that Pycnogenol is said to

fight the biological effects of free radicals which are responsible for the degradation of vital organs and internal systems in turn making you feel and look younger
It is a free radical scavenger which is easily absorbed and dispersed within minutes of being in the body’s system.
Is a powerful anti- oxidant which is 50 times more powerful than Vitamin E!
Is one of the few anti-oxidant to cross the blood barrier to protect the brain and nervous system
Restores elasticity and flexibility to connective tissue and makes them more youthful
Acts as a muscle relaxant in blood vessels resulting in lower blood pressure
Reduces inflammation, improves blood circulation and strengthens capillary pathways
Boosts the immune system

Pycnogenol seems to be of assistance in a variety of problems in both women and men. For some it’s an anti aging supplement and skin enhancer. Many use it for stress related conditions in relation to high blood pressure and clotting caused by stressful habits such as smoking. Pycnogenol restores a good blood circulation in the capillaries aiding in the rejuvenation process.

Pycnogenol is grown under very strict agricultural standards which prohibit the use of pesticides in any of its growing process. The manufacturing process and purity of Pycnogenol is constantly being tested for quality control. That means the final product is toxin free making it highly bio-available to the body and safe to use over long periods of time. What also makes Pycnogenol unique is its double effect in the body which enables it to catch free radicals in the blood stream at the same time stimulating the cells in the body to increase its anti-oxidative fighting power. The added bonus with Pycnogenol is that it is a completely natural supplement.

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New – Types of Arthritis Overview

admin — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 20:53:15 +0000

This month, we are starting a new feature which is an overview of all of the main types of arthritis along with a description and typical treatments for each. Over time we will expand this to include other alternative treatments that can help to improve or remove the symptoms.

Most types of arthritis can be grouped into a very few categories which have the same potential treatments which are rarely mentioned yet alone detailed. For instance, there tends to be a common treatment for all of the inflammatory types of arthritis and another set of treatments that apply for wear and tear.

Please let us know what sort of information would be useful and we will do our best to provide this.

Regards

Steve

Steve’s Health Answers provides the latest natural health, news, research and tips about Joint Care. For more details and our free newsletter, please visit http://www.steveshealthanswers.com

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Aquatics and Arthritis

admin — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 20:50:12 +0000

Normal exercises can cause a lot of stress to joints especially in people who have recently gone through knee replacements, are overweight or have arthritis. Any movement can be painful. That is why aquatics are highly recommended for arthritis and joint sufferers. It should also come as no surprise that arthritis sufferers respond well to aquatics, after all, our bodies are made of almost 80% water. But it is the combination of water and movement that makes aquatics the ideal exercise regime for arthritis sufferers.

The benefits of aquatic therapy far outweigh the benefits of exercising on land. Here’s why:

Water cushions the body in water so that the weight or strain put onto the joints is immediately relieved. In other words you become lighter.
The extent of exercises which a person with arthritis can do in water is far greater than land because your joints feel less pain in water and can do more movements without feeling a lot of pain.
All exercises are low impact and very effective
Aquatics keep joints flexible, maintain muscle strength and build overall stamina
There is a notable decrease in pain and stiffness in all the affected areas which results in improved mobility
Aquatics have the ability to promote quicker healing of injuries because of increased blood flow to the damaged tissue

The objective of aquatic therapy is to counterbalance the arthritis symptoms by aiding to increase the mobility and specifically the range if motion of the individual. Time and again arthritis patients will resort to joint replacement options as a last resort to their suffering. With aquatics, this doesn’t have to happen. Joints and muscles become stronger and more flexible decreasing the need of walking aids, assistance from carers and hospital stays.

Psychological benefits are often overlooked and can play an important part in restoring one’s overall health.

Social interaction while sharing similar experiences can be highly uplifting when you’ve been bed ridden at home unable to perform any movement or go out

An increase in ones self esteem to the point of self motivation to do more activities
A renewed sense of independence. You’ll need less help and can perform more daily tasks by yourself and making you feel more in control of your body’s actions. Feeling helpless especially when feeling pain can hinder a lot of development.

Water has always been known as a healing agent in its own right. Combining water, heat and movement creates a more potent healing force for the whole body. It is a safe, ideal environment arthritis sufferer to regain their mobility.

Steve’s Health Answers provides the latest natural health, news, research and tips about Joint Care. For more details and our free newsletter, please visit http://www.steveshealthanswers.com

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Qigong and Arthritis – Discover This Ancient Chinese Secret For Treating Arthritis

admin — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 20:18:41 +0000

Qigong & Arthritis

Ancient Chinese Qigong consists of various exercises which seek to increase energy within the body through mind exercises and moving mediation techniques. The role that Qigong plays in overall health of arthritis patients is a very important step towards discovering the healing powers within us all. By harnessing the mind and body, Qigong can effectively increase blood circulation throughout the body resulting in stronger joints. It can reduce stress and relax the nervous system. When you are suffering from severe arthritis pain, achieving a certain degree of calm can be a pleasant starting point to improved health.

In Qigong the ‘Qi’ plays a very important role in the crucial processes within the human body. Therefore it only makes sense to concentrate on restoring the circulation of ‘Qi’ in order to treat illnesses and preserve health. That is why Qigong focuses on the mind and breathing exercises to promote the flow of the ‘Qi’ and restore the balance. Unlike popular physical exercises which are muscle based and burn energy through active motion and heart beat acceleration, Qigong internalizes the work to be done through breathing regulation so as to create and store energy within the body. The body then uses this energy where it is needed.

The advantage of Qigong for patients experiencing lots of pain from arthritis is that it can be practised while sitting quietly, standing or lying on your back or side. The main objective is for the individual to be calm and comfortable. The general techniques used in Qigong include:

Meditation which can be both still or with movement
Gentle movement which puts little or no stress to the joints
Self massage which has very easy techniques to do to relieve tension and pain
Acupressure point stimulation
Energy healing exercises for the internal organs to improve general metabolism and the immune system.
Much attention is paid to posture correction
Stretching exercises which are done according to the individuals pace

The techniques are easy enough for everyone to do them regardless of age, agility or pain. Qigong aids in stimulating the mind to create balance within the different functions of the body so they may work together in the healing process. This multi faceted approach ensures a stronger and harmonious internal system which produces enough energy, has flexible joints and a healthy mindset. Without a doubt, Qigong is one of the best treatments for arthritis.

The very best Qigong course that we have come across is called Spring Forest published by Learning Strategies. There are literally hundreds of people who have recovered from all manner of ailments from using this form of Qigong. This course makes it easy to study from home and is beautifully presented. I learnt this myself a number of years ago and have been very impressed with its results. For more details, please see the Spring Forest Site.

Steve’s Health Answers provides the latest natural health, news, research and tips about Joint Care. For more details and our free newsletter, please visit http://www.steveshealthanswers.com

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Find Out How Smoking Makes Arthritis Worse

admin — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 19:59:56 +0000

New research has confirmed that Arthritis gets worse if you smoke. We all know that smoking is bad for us and causes life threatening diseases. Now there is even more concrete evidence that smoking affects the way the body receives medication or treatment especially in arthritis patients. As if we didn’t know this as well.

When treating any form of disease in the body it is essential to evaluate present and past lifestyle habits that may be the cause of your present suffering. This study shows even if you are no longer a smoker the precursors of arthritis are already in the body and can present themselves later on as we get older.

In short, smoking makes your body weaker in dealing with disease and in fact aggravates certain diseases which take advantage of an already weak immune system. When undergoing arthritis treatment of any kind, the mindset should be to bring together all the vital systems of the body for healing to occur. If arthritis sufferers are serious about getting well, they will make the necessary changes to their lifestyle instead of engaging in activities which impede progressive healing.

Much can also be said for second hand smoke which may be as dangerous as smoking and emphasizes the importance of creating an environment of healing around you. This is the only way that the body can receive the treatment it deserves.

See the original article at http://www.arthritistoday.org/news/clone-of/site/news/smoking-rheumatoid-arthritis-risk012.php

Steve’s Health Answers provides the latest natural health, news, research and tips about Joint Care. For more details and our free newsletter, please visit http://www.steveshealthanswers.com

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