Managing Arthritis Naturally

 Many people with arthritic conditions rely on non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (Aspirin, Advil) which can produce intestinal ulcers and bleeding or Acetaminophen based drugs which can produce liver damage in long term users, and hence should be used sparingly.  Clinical studies have shown that degenerative arthritis and joint inflammation can be treated effectively with specific dietary changes and supplementation. 

Inflammation occurs when the body makes a hormone like substance, prostaglandin-2 (PG2), whereas PG1 and PG3 make non inflammatory products.  In our body, prostaglandins are made from the polyunsaturated fats that we eat.  Diets from high fat meat and dairy products make PG2 whereas diets with omega 3s from fish oil and flaxseed oil make PG3 and fats from evening primrose oil, borage oil and black current make PG1.  Vitamin B6, vitamin E, vitamin C, niacin, zinc, selenium and magnesium are also required to convert these essential fats into PG1 and PG3. 

Research reveals that certain herbals provide effective anti-inflammatory relief by blocking the synthesis of PG2 and other inflammatory chemicals without causing side effects of damage to the intestinal tract, liver or kidneys.  Curcumin, Boswellia, White Willow Bark Extract, Ginger Root Extract, Bromelain and Quercetin are herbal agents that have shown to provide relief for arthritic patients and also for other muscle, tendon or joint inflammatory conditions.

After controlling the pain and inflammation of arthritis, the next step is to provide the building blocks for repair of joint cartilage.  After age 40, the body loses the ability to manufacture optimal levels of glucosamine, the raw material for proteoglycans, and a major component of cartilage.  Hence supplementation with glucosamine sulfate can provide the body with the material to help repair and regenerate cartilage and halt further destruction of the joint.  Sulfur also plays a role in maintaining cartilage and reducing inflammation, hence the addition of MSM (methylsufonylmenthane) is often used in combination with glucosamine sulfate. 

The final step in managing arthritic conditions is to encourage movement of the joints.  This can involve both an exercise program to stabilize the joints, as well specific biomechanical manipulation to the joint to improve joint function and increase nutrition to the cartilage, thereby slowing the effects of degeneration.