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Osteoarthritis, like so many other forms of arthritis, is a
chronic disease that affects the joints of the body. Osteoarthritis
especially affects the weight-bearing joints and develops as the
joint linings degenerate, leading to disability. Many individuals
with advanced states of osteoarthritis end up limping, having
extreme pain in the joints, and have general decreased
mobility.
Osteoarthritis is a common occurrence that comes
with old age in almost all animals with a skeleton. The disease is
primarily associated with aging and injury and consequently has been
called by many the "wear-and-tear" arthritis. Like other forms of
arthritis, its exact cause is not fully
understood.
Osteoarthritis
Symptoms
Osteoarthritis develops gradually over many
months or years. It usually affects the major joints including those
found in the knees, fingers, hips, and spinal column. The primary
symptom of the disease is pain that is most intense during times of
exercise and movement. Morning stiffness is probably the most
notable characteristic of osteoarthritis, but appears to lessen as
daily movement is resumed. As osteoarthritis progresses, total
mobility may be lost and sharp shooting pains may
start.
Natural supplements for
osteoarthritis
- Chondroitin
sulfate - reported to reduce joint cartilage affected by
osteoarthritis
- Glucosamine
sulfate - is an important building block needed for the
synthesis and repair of joint cartilage
- SAMe - possesses
anti-inflammatory, pain-relieving, and tissue-healing properties
that may possibly help protect the health of joints
- Vitamin B3
(niacinamide) - may joint mobility, improve muscle strength, and
decrease fatigue in people suffering from
osteoarthritis
Herbal supplements for
osteoarthritis
- Boswellia -
(also in combination with ashwagandha, turmeric, and zinc) -
appears to have anti-inflammatory properties that have been
compared to those of the NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs). Starts slower but lasts. Long-term use of boswellia does
not lead to irritation or ulceration of the stomach as NSAIDS
do.
- Cayenne
(topical, for pain only) - (topical, for pain only) - extract
creams containing 0.025 to 0.075% capsaicin may reduce pain and
tenderness caused by osteoarthritis.
- Ginger - has been
reported to relieve pain and swelling caused by arthritis.
- Willow Bark
- similar affects as aspirin. Works slower but lasts longer and
appear to be safe.
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