When the body gets infected with toxins, these toxins can accumulate and lead to inflammations that develop into arthritis, gout, bursitis, fibromyalgia, joint and muscle inflammation, and a countless number of other diseases and conditions.
There is strong prove that some forms of arthritis may occur because of toxic substances in the intestines that may be absorbed by the human organism.
Approximately one-sixth of the total American population, nearly 40 million Americans, suffer from arthritis. About eighty percent of people over the age of fifty will experience arthritis in one of its many forms. Arthritis, however, is not entirely a problem of the aged. It can occur at any time and at any age. Under the age of forty-five, osteoarthritis is much more common in men. At age fifty-five, it makes a dramatic shift, becoming much more typical of women.
"Arthritis" has become the catchall term for over one hundred various diseases generally referred to as "rheumatic diseases". The American College of Rheumatologists list ten categories of rheumatic disease, including osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, ankylosing spondylitis, Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), tendinitis, bursitis, fibromyalgia and a number of bone and cartilage disorders. "Arthritis" is, in fact, a major symptoms of this larger group.
The term arthritis is said to be derived from Greek and means "inflammation of a joint." Symptoms include swelling, stiffness, tenderness, redness, loss of joint function, degradation, deformity and pain that have become the symbol of the "rheumatic family of diseases." While not all forms of arthritic diseases are referred to as "inflammatory", each, in its own way, involves inflammation to some extent and affects not only the joints and secondary tissues, but the body as a whole. Movement can be severely impaired and the associated pain can be episodic, unpredictable in duration and can even fade away for an undetermined period of time, only to "flare-up" when least expected.
Over time these long-lasting "flare-ups" can leave a myriad of problems. The affected joints may become deformed or bent into unnatural positions. Loss of mobility can range from limited to severe, with some joints literally frozen in place. Fleshy nodules can appear under the skin and calcification is common. The whole body can experience fatigue. Eyes may become dry and inflamed, lymph nodes swell, the appetite is reduced, and sores refuse to heal. Compression of nerves and blood vessels can cause pain and vascular insufficiency. Cartilage loses its integrity, causing uneven joints and bone rubbing.
In short, the cumulative effects of arthritis wear on us to the point that we reach for a "quick fix' readily offered by hundreds of commercials and advertisements that claim symptoms and pain can be eliminated by reaching for an ever stronger dose of the most recent arthritis medication.
The primary medications used in the treatment of arthritis, particularly rheumatoid and osteoarthritis are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory (NSAIDS) which include aspirin. Commonly, these medications have proven to be of only limited value. They often ease the symptoms, but speed up factors that promote the disease itself NSAIDS have been shown to greatly speed up the already hyperpermeable gastrointestinal tract of those who suffer from rheumatoid arthritis. Best selling author, Dr. Michael Murray, in his book Arthritis, says, "The use of NSAIDS are a significant cause of serious gastrointestinal tract reactions, including ulcer hemorrhage and perforation, and lead to as many as 20,000 hospitalizations and 2,600 deaths each year"
Aspirin is often useful in alleviating both the pain and inflammation of arthritis, how ever, since the therapeutic dose required is relatively high (two to four grams a day), toxicity is quite common. Tinnitis (ringing in the ears) and gastric irritation are early manifestations of toxicity
Among other NSAIDS are: Fenoprofen (Nalfon), Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil, Nuprin), Indomethacin (Indocin, Indometh), Meclofenamate (Meclofen, Meclomen), Naproxen (Naprosyn), Piroxicam (Feldene), Sulindac (Clinoril) and Tolmetin (Tolectin).
Although these medications have not been proven to be more efficient than aspirin, they appear, in some cases, to be better endured. Usually, they are recommended for only short periods of time since prolonged use carries the risk of significant by-effects.
Most by-effects are the result of high doses that must be given in order to restrain the symptoms. The most typical by-effects of NSAIDS is damage to the intestinal tract and NSAID-induced peptic ulcer.' NSAIDS often cause allergic reactions, easy bleeding and bruising, ringing in the ears, fluid retention, heartburn, indigestion, abdominal cramps, gas, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, urinary tract infection, rashes, headaches, anxiety, depression, dizziness or fatigue, weight gain or loss.
In casae of taking high doses over long periods of time, NSAIDS may lead to kidney or liver damage
One serious by-effect of aspirin and other NSAIDS that is often overlooked is the inhibition of cartilage repair and acceleration of cartilage destruction. A number of clinical studies have shown that NSAIDS are associated with aggravation of osteoarthritis and raised joint destruction. The higher the dose and the longer the use of NSAIDS, the greater the joint destruction.
There is some prove that aspirin and other NSAIDS appear to ease the symptoms, but speed up the progression of osteoarthritis. Whenever possible, the use of these medications should be avoided or considerably reduced.
Discontinuing any medication should be done step by step over a period of time and under the direction of your health care provider.
A second class of commonly used medications for arthritis are the corticosteroids. These include cortisone hormones and synthetic corticosteroids like prednisone and methylprednisone. While the synthetics have less extreme by-effects, the long term use of synthetic corticosteroids, even at low doses, can cause serious, sometimes life- threatening problems. The least dangerous of these by-effects are: the growth of facial hair, acne, fluid retention, weight gain, easy bruising, insomnia, muscle wasting and headaches. More dangerous side effects are stomach ulcers, inflammation of the pancreas, and the leaching of calcium from the bones (osteoporosis), which makes fracturing easier. These drugs suppress the immune response and, as a result, increase the risk of bacterial infections. They can boost narrowing of the blood vessels by fatty deposits and calcification (atherosclerosis). They can cause cataracts and glaucoma. Some investigations show that they can oppress the normal functioning of the adrenal glands, suppressing the production of their natural hormones.
High doses of corticosteroids can spread previously limited infections to all parts of the body and can actually kill the living parts of bone, ultimately leding to bone collapse.
A third class of medications are known by two names: Slow Acting Anti-Rheumatic Drugs or SAARDS, and Disease Modifying Anti-Rheumatic drugs or DMARDS. As the first name implies, these medications take a long time to begin working, but eventually have some effect. They are used chiefly in the treatment of inflammatory forms of arthritis, especially rheumatoid arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis and arthritis associated with systemic lupus erythematosus.
The first group are antimalarials such as chloroquine (Aralen) and hydroxy-chloroquine (Plaquenil). Nausea, vomiting, headaches, nervousness, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, psoriasis, ringing in the ear and blurred vision can be the by-effects. As the risk of eye damage is great, most health care providers recommend an eye examination every six months.
D-penicillamine
More than twenty-five percent of people taking D-penicillamine (Cuprimine) quit within the first year due to its unwanted side effects. These include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, rashes, kidney damage, blood abnormalities, drug-induced lupus and myasthenia gravis (where muscles gradually be come weaker and weaker). Anyone taking this drug is advised to have regular blood and urine tests to determine whether they should continue its use.
To sum it up, the prognosis is not bright for the long term use of most of these drugs. In most cases, their benefit is greatly outweighed by significant toxicity. Their use often produces significant side effects that can only be suppressed with additional drugs. Dr. Michael Murray…states that "It is not uncommon for individuals with rheumatoid arthritis to be on 12 or more prescription drugs at one time."
Anyone who is considering using these or other arthritic medications should ask their health care professional about their side effects. Your physician can also provide assistance in exploring natural alternatives without the side effects.
Standard therapy recommended for those who suffer from arthritis is estimated to be a $10 billion-a-year industry in the U.S.A.. "How successful have these traditional treatments been?" A group of English Rheumatologists conducted a study from 1964 to 1986 (22 years) of 112 rheumatoid arthritis patients who had received aggressive treatment at a center for rheumatoid diseases in Great Britain. At the end of the study, "over one-third of the patients were dead and more than half were either dead or severely disabled" At the ten year mark, participating physicians had been optimistic The patient's condition and function seemed to improve initially. After ten years of treatment, however, their condition declined considerably and joint destruction progressed. At the twenty year mark, nineteen percent of the patients were severely disabled. (Apparently none of the remaining patients showed any improvement.) The authors concluded that the concept that drugs induce a remission in patients is fallacious.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Go to Water Pool and Say Good Bye to Fibromyalgia
Regular exercise in a heated swimming pool can benefit people with the common, painful condition fibromyalgia, a new study suggests.
Symptoms of fibromyalgia include chronic and severe pain and tenderness in muscles, ligaments and tendons; neck and shoulder pain; sleep problems; anxiety and depression. Women account for more than 90 percent of people with fibromyalgia, which has no known cause or cure.
Current treatments include painkillers, exercise, relaxation therapy, and low-dose antidepressants, according to background information in a news release about the study, which was published Feb. 21 in the journalArthritis Research & Therapy.
The study from the University of Extremadura in Spain and the University of Evora, Portugal, included 33 women with fibromyalgia -- 17 did supervised one-hour exercise sessions in a heated pool three times a week for eight months, while the other 16 did no aquatic training.
The researchers found that the long-term aquatic exercise helped reduce fibromyalgia symptoms and improved the women's health-related quality of life. In an earlier study, the same researchers found that a short-term exercise program helped ease symptoms, but pain returned when patients completed the exercise regimen.
"The addition of an aquatic exercise program to the usual care for fibromyalgia in women is cost-effective in terms of both health care costs and societal costs," and "appropriate aquatic exercise is a good health investment," the researchers wrote.
They have yet to compare aquatic training with other forms of gentle exercise such as walking, tai-chi and low-impact aerobics.
Taken from: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/02/22/AR2008022201922.html
Symptoms of fibromyalgia include chronic and severe pain and tenderness in muscles, ligaments and tendons; neck and shoulder pain; sleep problems; anxiety and depression. Women account for more than 90 percent of people with fibromyalgia, which has no known cause or cure.
Current treatments include painkillers, exercise, relaxation therapy, and low-dose antidepressants, according to background information in a news release about the study, which was published Feb. 21 in the journalArthritis Research & Therapy.
The study from the University of Extremadura in Spain and the University of Evora, Portugal, included 33 women with fibromyalgia -- 17 did supervised one-hour exercise sessions in a heated pool three times a week for eight months, while the other 16 did no aquatic training.
The researchers found that the long-term aquatic exercise helped reduce fibromyalgia symptoms and improved the women's health-related quality of life. In an earlier study, the same researchers found that a short-term exercise program helped ease symptoms, but pain returned when patients completed the exercise regimen.
"The addition of an aquatic exercise program to the usual care for fibromyalgia in women is cost-effective in terms of both health care costs and societal costs," and "appropriate aquatic exercise is a good health investment," the researchers wrote.
They have yet to compare aquatic training with other forms of gentle exercise such as walking, tai-chi and low-impact aerobics.
Taken from: http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/02/22/AR2008022201922.html
Fast Facts about Fibromyalgia
Pain and tenderness in the so-called "tender points" are the defining characteristics of fibromyalgia, so medical care providers focus on the features of the pain to distinguish it from other rheumatic disorders.
Fibromyalgia is a clinical syndrome defined by chronic widespread muscular pain, fatigue and tenderness. Many people with fibromyalgia also experience additional symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, irritable bladder, cognitive and memory problems (often called “fibro fog”), temporomandibular joint disorder, pelvic pain, restless leg syndrome, sensitivity to noise and temperature, and anxiety and depression. These symptoms can vary in intensity and, like the pain of fibromyalgia, wax and wane over time.
Fibromyalgia affects 2 to 4 percent of the population, predominantly women.
No one knows what causes fibromyalgia. However, we do know that people with fibromyalgia can have abnormal levels of Substance P in their spinal fluid, a chemical that helps transmit and amplify pain signals to and from the brain. For the person with fibromyalgia, it is as though the “volume control” is turned up too high in the brain's pain processing areas. Current studies are underway to examine how the brain and spinal cord (the central nervous system) process pain and the role Substance P and other nerve transmitters play.
Genetics also appear to play a role leading to a familial tendency to develop fibromyalgia. So does everyday life exposure to physical, emotional or environmental stressors that may trigger the initiation of fibromyalgia symptoms.
While men and adolescents can develop fibromyalgia, this condition is more common in women. The disorder tends to develop during early and middle adulthood or during a woman's childbearing years. Those who have a rheumatic disease such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or ankylosing spondylitis also are at risk for developing fibromyalgia.
How fibromyalgia is diagnosed
Unfortunately, there are no what are called “objective markers”—evidence on X-rays, blood tests or muscle biopsies—for this condition, so patients have to be diagnosed based on the symptoms they are experiencing.
Because pain and tenderness are the defining characteristics of fibromyalgia, medical care providers focus on the features of the pain to distinguish it from other rheumatic disorders. For instance, hypothyroidism and polymyalgia rheumatica often mimic fibromyalgia. However, blood tests for TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) and ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) values can differentiate these diagnoses from fibromyalgia. Occasionally, fibromyalgia can be confused with other rheumatic disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, but again there is a difference as these conditions cause inflammation in the joints and tissues.
How fibromyalgia is treated
Fibromyalgia must be managed as a chronic condition, and should include both medication and non-medication treatments for symptoms.
Medications: Drug therapy for fibromyalgia is largely symptomatic (it primarily treats the symptoms). Current studies indicate the best pharmacologic treatment for treating pain (and improving disrupted sleep patterns) is low doses of tricyclic compounds including cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril, Cycloflex, Flexiban) and amitriptyline (Elavil, Endep). Positive results also have been shown with dual reuptake inhibitors (venlafaxine [Effexor], duloxetine [Cymbalta], tramadol [Ultram]) that work similarly.
Conversely, long-acting opioids are typically not recommended for the treatment of fibromyalgia unless patients are refractory (or resistant) to other therapies. This is not due to issues with dependence but rather because anecdotal evidence suggests these drugs are not of great benefit to most people with fibromyalgia. Likewise, although benzodiazepines such as clonazepam (Klonopin) and diazepam (Valium) may be useful for individuals with restless leg syndrome and severe sleep disturbances who do not tolerate tricyclic drugs, they are usually reserved for those who have not responded to other therapies.
In a few cases, fibromyalgia pain may be managed with analgesics such as over-the-counter acetaminophen (Tylenol) or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve, Anaprox). However, this is atypical. It is particularly important to use these drugs if individuals have a "peripheral" (e.g., arthritis) pain syndrome in addition to fibromyalgia.
Your physician may prescribe SSRIs/antidepressants (possibly along with a tricyclic antidepressant) such as fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine (Paxil) and sertraline (Zoloft), but sometimes these need to be used at doses higher than typically used for depression. Other antidepressants prescribed are trazodone (Desyrel, Trazon, Trialodine), bupropion (Wellbutrin, Zyban) and mirtazapine (Remeron).
Recently, researchers studying antiepileptics such as gabapentin (Neurontin) and pregabalin (Lyrica) have found that these drugs may prove promising for fibromyalgia.
Other Therapies: Complementary and alternative therapies can be useful in pain management for people with fibromyalgia, although these treatments have generally not been well tested.
Living with fibromyalgia
Even with these therapeutic options, however, patient self-management is integral to a meaningful improvement in symptoms and daily function.
Schedule time to relax each day. Deep-breathing exercises and meditation will help reduce the stress that can bring on symptoms.
Establish a regular pattern for going to bed and waking up. Getting enough sleep allows the body to repair itself, physically and psychologically. Also, avoid daytime napping and limit caffeine intake that can disrupt sleep.
Exercise regularly. While difficult at first, regular exercise often reduces pain symptoms and fatigue—but “Start Low, Go Slow.” Begin with physical activity that fits into your lifestyle. For instance, take the stairs instead of the elevator, or park further away from the store, slowly adding daily fitness into your routine. Then push harder. Add in some walking, swimming, water aerobics and/or stretching exercises. Remember, it takes time to establish a comfortable routine so just get moving, stay active and don't give up!
Educate yourself. Nationally recognized organizations like the Arthritis Foundation and the National Fibromyalgia Association are excellent resources for information you can share with family, friends and co-workers.
Join a support group. These peers can offer coping strategies as well as reassurance that you are not alone.
Need some additional help with self-management? Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help redefine your illness beliefs and, through symptom reduction skills, change your behavioral response to pain.
Keep in mind, establishing healthy lifestyle behaviors in concert with medical treatment can reduce pain, increase sleep quality, lessen fatigue and help you cope effectively with fibromyalgia.
Points to Remember
Therapeutic massage to manipulate the muscles and soft tissues of the body may alleviate pain, discomfort, muscle spasms and stress.
Look forward, not backward. Focus on what you need to do to get better, not what caused your illness.
As your symptoms decrease with medical treatment, begin increasing your activity and functions, by beginning to do things that you had originally stopped doing because of your pain and other symptoms. You can get better and live a normal life.
The role of the rheumatologist
Fibromyalgia is not a form of arthritis (joint disease) and does not cause inflammation or damage to joints, muscles or other tissues. However, because fibromyalgia can cause chronic pain and fatigue similar to arthritis, it may be thought of as a rheumatic condition. As a result, it is often the rheumatologist who makes the diagnosis (and rules out other rheumatic diseases), but your primary care physician can provide care and treatment for fibromyalgia.
Partially reprinted from: http://www.rheumatology.org/public/factsheets/fibromya_new.asp?
Fibromyalgia is a clinical syndrome defined by chronic widespread muscular pain, fatigue and tenderness. Many people with fibromyalgia also experience additional symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, irritable bowel syndrome, irritable bladder, cognitive and memory problems (often called “fibro fog”), temporomandibular joint disorder, pelvic pain, restless leg syndrome, sensitivity to noise and temperature, and anxiety and depression. These symptoms can vary in intensity and, like the pain of fibromyalgia, wax and wane over time.
Fibromyalgia affects 2 to 4 percent of the population, predominantly women.
No one knows what causes fibromyalgia. However, we do know that people with fibromyalgia can have abnormal levels of Substance P in their spinal fluid, a chemical that helps transmit and amplify pain signals to and from the brain. For the person with fibromyalgia, it is as though the “volume control” is turned up too high in the brain's pain processing areas. Current studies are underway to examine how the brain and spinal cord (the central nervous system) process pain and the role Substance P and other nerve transmitters play.
Genetics also appear to play a role leading to a familial tendency to develop fibromyalgia. So does everyday life exposure to physical, emotional or environmental stressors that may trigger the initiation of fibromyalgia symptoms.
While men and adolescents can develop fibromyalgia, this condition is more common in women. The disorder tends to develop during early and middle adulthood or during a woman's childbearing years. Those who have a rheumatic disease such as lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or ankylosing spondylitis also are at risk for developing fibromyalgia.
How fibromyalgia is diagnosed
Unfortunately, there are no what are called “objective markers”—evidence on X-rays, blood tests or muscle biopsies—for this condition, so patients have to be diagnosed based on the symptoms they are experiencing.
Because pain and tenderness are the defining characteristics of fibromyalgia, medical care providers focus on the features of the pain to distinguish it from other rheumatic disorders. For instance, hypothyroidism and polymyalgia rheumatica often mimic fibromyalgia. However, blood tests for TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) and ESR (erythrocyte sedimentation rate) values can differentiate these diagnoses from fibromyalgia. Occasionally, fibromyalgia can be confused with other rheumatic disorders such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, but again there is a difference as these conditions cause inflammation in the joints and tissues.
How fibromyalgia is treated
Fibromyalgia must be managed as a chronic condition, and should include both medication and non-medication treatments for symptoms.
Medications: Drug therapy for fibromyalgia is largely symptomatic (it primarily treats the symptoms). Current studies indicate the best pharmacologic treatment for treating pain (and improving disrupted sleep patterns) is low doses of tricyclic compounds including cyclobenzaprine (Flexeril, Cycloflex, Flexiban) and amitriptyline (Elavil, Endep). Positive results also have been shown with dual reuptake inhibitors (venlafaxine [Effexor], duloxetine [Cymbalta], tramadol [Ultram]) that work similarly.
Conversely, long-acting opioids are typically not recommended for the treatment of fibromyalgia unless patients are refractory (or resistant) to other therapies. This is not due to issues with dependence but rather because anecdotal evidence suggests these drugs are not of great benefit to most people with fibromyalgia. Likewise, although benzodiazepines such as clonazepam (Klonopin) and diazepam (Valium) may be useful for individuals with restless leg syndrome and severe sleep disturbances who do not tolerate tricyclic drugs, they are usually reserved for those who have not responded to other therapies.
In a few cases, fibromyalgia pain may be managed with analgesics such as over-the-counter acetaminophen (Tylenol) or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) like ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) or naproxen (Aleve, Anaprox). However, this is atypical. It is particularly important to use these drugs if individuals have a "peripheral" (e.g., arthritis) pain syndrome in addition to fibromyalgia.
Your physician may prescribe SSRIs/antidepressants (possibly along with a tricyclic antidepressant) such as fluoxetine (Prozac), paroxetine (Paxil) and sertraline (Zoloft), but sometimes these need to be used at doses higher than typically used for depression. Other antidepressants prescribed are trazodone (Desyrel, Trazon, Trialodine), bupropion (Wellbutrin, Zyban) and mirtazapine (Remeron).
Recently, researchers studying antiepileptics such as gabapentin (Neurontin) and pregabalin (Lyrica) have found that these drugs may prove promising for fibromyalgia.
Other Therapies: Complementary and alternative therapies can be useful in pain management for people with fibromyalgia, although these treatments have generally not been well tested.
Living with fibromyalgia
Even with these therapeutic options, however, patient self-management is integral to a meaningful improvement in symptoms and daily function.
Schedule time to relax each day. Deep-breathing exercises and meditation will help reduce the stress that can bring on symptoms.
Establish a regular pattern for going to bed and waking up. Getting enough sleep allows the body to repair itself, physically and psychologically. Also, avoid daytime napping and limit caffeine intake that can disrupt sleep.
Exercise regularly. While difficult at first, regular exercise often reduces pain symptoms and fatigue—but “Start Low, Go Slow.” Begin with physical activity that fits into your lifestyle. For instance, take the stairs instead of the elevator, or park further away from the store, slowly adding daily fitness into your routine. Then push harder. Add in some walking, swimming, water aerobics and/or stretching exercises. Remember, it takes time to establish a comfortable routine so just get moving, stay active and don't give up!
Educate yourself. Nationally recognized organizations like the Arthritis Foundation and the National Fibromyalgia Association are excellent resources for information you can share with family, friends and co-workers.
Join a support group. These peers can offer coping strategies as well as reassurance that you are not alone.
Need some additional help with self-management? Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can help redefine your illness beliefs and, through symptom reduction skills, change your behavioral response to pain.
Keep in mind, establishing healthy lifestyle behaviors in concert with medical treatment can reduce pain, increase sleep quality, lessen fatigue and help you cope effectively with fibromyalgia.
Points to Remember
Therapeutic massage to manipulate the muscles and soft tissues of the body may alleviate pain, discomfort, muscle spasms and stress.
Look forward, not backward. Focus on what you need to do to get better, not what caused your illness.
As your symptoms decrease with medical treatment, begin increasing your activity and functions, by beginning to do things that you had originally stopped doing because of your pain and other symptoms. You can get better and live a normal life.
The role of the rheumatologist
Fibromyalgia is not a form of arthritis (joint disease) and does not cause inflammation or damage to joints, muscles or other tissues. However, because fibromyalgia can cause chronic pain and fatigue similar to arthritis, it may be thought of as a rheumatic condition. As a result, it is often the rheumatologist who makes the diagnosis (and rules out other rheumatic diseases), but your primary care physician can provide care and treatment for fibromyalgia.
Partially reprinted from: http://www.rheumatology.org/public/factsheets/fibromya_new.asp?
Monday, February 18, 2008
Shoulder Tendonitis and its Treatment
Shoulder tendonitis is the inflammation of the tendons around the shoulder’s rotator cuff and upper bicep area. Shoulder tendonitis is usually developed by sports and activities that require you to lift your hands above your head repeatedly. Common activities that often lead to shoulder tendonitis are strength training (bodybuilding), some certain swimming strokes, racket sports like squash and tennis, cricket and any manual job that requires lifting of items over the shoulders.
The early symptoms of shoulder tendonitis include some light pain in the area where the upper bicep meets the shoulder and possibly some light swelling and tenderness. Usually the pain only occurs when the shoulder is under pressure. As the tendonitis develops the pain will occur at any time of the day or night, even when you are sleeping. The area where the pain occurs will get larger often encompassing the entire rotator cuff area and in some cases the upper bicep. Movement of the shoulder will be very restricted often painful.
So how do you know if you are developing shoulder tendonitis? As mentioned above, the first sign of tendonitis developing is the pain in the shoulder when it’s under pressure. If you feel a pain in your shoulder when you are lifting heavy weights and playing sport this is usually a sign that tendonitis is developing.
The first (and most obvious) step to take is stop doing whatever activity is causing the pain in your shoulder. We recommend that you stop this activity for at least one week. After that week, you should attempt lifting some very light weights to see if the pain is still occurring. If the pain does not occur, then it is likely that you simply strained your shoulder muscle or in more serious cases damaged the tendon temporarily. In this case you should ease back into the activity. If the pain does occur, it is likely that you have developed mild shoulder tendonitis.
Now that you have identified that you have tendonitis in your shoulder you must rest it once again. This time rest it for about three weeks. During this three week period you should not partake in any activity that may strain your shoulder. This includes light lifting and sports.
After that three weeks is up it is time to start to strengthen the shoulder to prevent the tendonitis. There are several light exercises that you can do strengthen your shoulder muscles and tendons. You should start with very light weights, 1kg should be about right for males and .5kg for females.
Start by holding the weight in your right hand with your palm facing your body. Keeping your arm straight raise the weight straight out in front of you until it is at shoulder height. Repeat this exercise for twenty repetitions. Repeat for your left hand. Now get the same weight and instead of moving it out to your front move it out to your side. Keep your arm straight and do this exercise for twenty repetitions. Repeat for your left arm.
If you feel any pain during these exercises it is time to go and see your doctor or physician. It is possible that your shoulder tendonitis may require further treatment. See links at the bottom of this page for details.
If these exercises do not bring back the pain in your shoulder you are on the road to recovery. You should do these exercises every day for one to two weeks. You may increase the weight slightly if the exercises are feeling too easy for you. But remember now to overdo it.
So in about four to five weeks you should be able to get back into the sport, exercise or activity that caused your shoulder pain. You should always ease back into exercise. Make sure you warm up and stretch your shoulder for about ten minutes before and after the activity.
Remember, shoulder tendonitis can be permanent, but it also can be treated relatively easily without medication. Many people get inpatient and do not give the shoulder sufficient rest time or recovery time before attempting a possibly straining activity. If you do not rest and strengthen your shoulder correctly there is a large possibility that shoulder tendonitis will develop again. If you shoulder pain does reoccur you should see professional advice from your doctor physician.
Article Source: http://www.articlejoe.com/Article/Treat-Shoulder-Tendonitis-Before-Its-Too-Late/21557
The early symptoms of shoulder tendonitis include some light pain in the area where the upper bicep meets the shoulder and possibly some light swelling and tenderness. Usually the pain only occurs when the shoulder is under pressure. As the tendonitis develops the pain will occur at any time of the day or night, even when you are sleeping. The area where the pain occurs will get larger often encompassing the entire rotator cuff area and in some cases the upper bicep. Movement of the shoulder will be very restricted often painful.
So how do you know if you are developing shoulder tendonitis? As mentioned above, the first sign of tendonitis developing is the pain in the shoulder when it’s under pressure. If you feel a pain in your shoulder when you are lifting heavy weights and playing sport this is usually a sign that tendonitis is developing.
The first (and most obvious) step to take is stop doing whatever activity is causing the pain in your shoulder. We recommend that you stop this activity for at least one week. After that week, you should attempt lifting some very light weights to see if the pain is still occurring. If the pain does not occur, then it is likely that you simply strained your shoulder muscle or in more serious cases damaged the tendon temporarily. In this case you should ease back into the activity. If the pain does occur, it is likely that you have developed mild shoulder tendonitis.
Now that you have identified that you have tendonitis in your shoulder you must rest it once again. This time rest it for about three weeks. During this three week period you should not partake in any activity that may strain your shoulder. This includes light lifting and sports.
After that three weeks is up it is time to start to strengthen the shoulder to prevent the tendonitis. There are several light exercises that you can do strengthen your shoulder muscles and tendons. You should start with very light weights, 1kg should be about right for males and .5kg for females.
Start by holding the weight in your right hand with your palm facing your body. Keeping your arm straight raise the weight straight out in front of you until it is at shoulder height. Repeat this exercise for twenty repetitions. Repeat for your left hand. Now get the same weight and instead of moving it out to your front move it out to your side. Keep your arm straight and do this exercise for twenty repetitions. Repeat for your left arm.
If you feel any pain during these exercises it is time to go and see your doctor or physician. It is possible that your shoulder tendonitis may require further treatment. See links at the bottom of this page for details.
If these exercises do not bring back the pain in your shoulder you are on the road to recovery. You should do these exercises every day for one to two weeks. You may increase the weight slightly if the exercises are feeling too easy for you. But remember now to overdo it.
So in about four to five weeks you should be able to get back into the sport, exercise or activity that caused your shoulder pain. You should always ease back into exercise. Make sure you warm up and stretch your shoulder for about ten minutes before and after the activity.
Remember, shoulder tendonitis can be permanent, but it also can be treated relatively easily without medication. Many people get inpatient and do not give the shoulder sufficient rest time or recovery time before attempting a possibly straining activity. If you do not rest and strengthen your shoulder correctly there is a large possibility that shoulder tendonitis will develop again. If you shoulder pain does reoccur you should see professional advice from your doctor physician.
Article Source: http://www.articlejoe.com/Article/Treat-Shoulder-Tendonitis-Before-Its-Too-Late/21557
Sunday, February 17, 2008
Alternative Ways of Rheumatism Treatment
Rheumatism or rheumatic arthritis is one of the commonest complaints of old age. As the age advances, there is wear and tear in the joints of the body. This causes the rheumatic pains. Ayurveda calls this condition as Ama Vata. It considers rheumatism to be caused due to the build up of ama in the body, which is caused due to a low digestive fire.
This digestive fire, or agni, is controlled by the pitta dosha. It is believed that rheumatism begins due to vata dosha, establishes itself due to the pitta dosha and then spreads throughout the body due to kapha dosha. Hence, rheumatism is caused due to vitiation of all the three doshas in the body.
(1) Useful Herbs in the Treatment of Rheumatism
1. Alfalfa (Medicago satina)
People with rheumatic problems are prescribed tea made from the alfalfa leaves. This tea can be safely taken even up to six times a day. It helps to dissolve the food residues left in the body.
2. Castor (Ricinus communis)
The roots and seeds of the castor are effective in reducing joint pains. They are effective both as an external application as well as an oral medicine. For external application, a decoction of its roots is prepared and applied to the rheumatic swelling with potash mixed in it. A poultice of its seeds can also be applied on the swellings with the same effect. For oral administration, a paste of the kernel of castor is boiled in milk and given to the patient.
3. Celery (Apium graveolens)
Celery has a high content of sodium and other alkaline metals; hence it helps in the revival of worn out joints. Salads with celery in them do provide benefits, but for better benefits, the fluid extracted from its seeds is more powerful.
4. Ephedra (Ephedra gerardiana)
Both an infusion of the ephedra or its powder is useful in rheumatism. The treatment should be continued up to a fortnight. Ephedra will help to cur e rheumatic pains that are just beginning; but in case of chronic pains, ephedra is not much useful.
5. Garlic (Allium sativum)
Garlic is a world-renowned remedy for rheumatic pains. Besides rheumatism, it can also be used as a good treatment for sciatica, lumbago and arthritis. The best part about garlic is that it can be taken raw or in the normal cuisine. Its excess does not have any side effects on the body.
6. Indian Aloe (Aloe barbadensis)
The Indian aloe is traditionally taken for the treatment of rheumatism. The pulp of one leaf of the aloe taken once a day is enough to bring about good results.
7. Indian Gooseberry (Emblica officinalis)
A daily consumption of the Indian gooseberry, or the amalaki, helps in speedy recovery from rheumatism. It is generally taken in powder form, in a dosage of one teaspoon mixed with two teaspoons of jaggery.
8. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
The rosemary herb is used in a slightly unconventional manner in the Ayurvedic treatment of rheumatism. The leaves and inflorescence of the rosemary have a strong odor like that of camphor. These parts of the plant are used to produce large amounts of perspiration in the regions where the rheumatic pain exists. These vapor baths are beneficial in reducing, and even eliminating, the pain.
9. Winter Cherry (Withania somniferum)
The winter cherry is none other than the famous ashwagandha. Among its myriad other uses, the ashwagandha is also useful in the treatment of rheumatism. Its roots are taken for this purpose.
(2) Dietary Treatments for Rheumatism
Since rheumatism is caused in a major way due to the buildup of ama in the body, it is necessary to remove this toxin first. Hence, fasting is necessary for a day or two. During this period of fasting, the patient is allowed to have only hot and clear vegetable soups with minimum spices. Warm water should be drunk several times a day as it helps to flush out the toxins.
During the treatment, all sour foods must be avoided. This includes curds and cheese. Fruits that are cold such as bananas and guavas must be strictly avoided.
(3) Ayurvedic Treatments for Rheumatism
Ayurvedic treatment of rheumatism begins with fasting to cleanse the body. Once this is done, castor oil application is done with garlic tea for internal administration. Herbs like guggulu, punarnava and garlic are commonly prescribed. Dashamoolarishta is also given.
(4) Home Remedies for Rheumatism
1. Mix some dry ginger, black pepper and rock salt in the juice of a fresh ginger stem. Make a powder of this. Take this in quantity of three grams with honey.
2. Massaging with the oil extracted from Bishop’s Weed seeds directly on the painful joints helps to relieve the pain. Another way to use Bishop’s Weed is to boil some seeds in water and allow the vapors to pass over the affected joints.
3. The juice of tomatoes is very effective in rheumatic pains that arise in the joints of the hands and legs. Tomatoes can be had either in the form of a juice or raw. About four to five tomatoes must be eaten in a day.
4. A paste of garlic should be made and applied directly on the affected parts. This will reduce the pain day by day till it completely disappears. A similar effect is found by the application of mustard seed paste.
Republished from: http://ezinearticles.com/?Ayurvedic-And-Dietary-Treatments-In-Rheumatism&id=486708
This digestive fire, or agni, is controlled by the pitta dosha. It is believed that rheumatism begins due to vata dosha, establishes itself due to the pitta dosha and then spreads throughout the body due to kapha dosha. Hence, rheumatism is caused due to vitiation of all the three doshas in the body.
(1) Useful Herbs in the Treatment of Rheumatism
1. Alfalfa (Medicago satina)
People with rheumatic problems are prescribed tea made from the alfalfa leaves. This tea can be safely taken even up to six times a day. It helps to dissolve the food residues left in the body.
2. Castor (Ricinus communis)
The roots and seeds of the castor are effective in reducing joint pains. They are effective both as an external application as well as an oral medicine. For external application, a decoction of its roots is prepared and applied to the rheumatic swelling with potash mixed in it. A poultice of its seeds can also be applied on the swellings with the same effect. For oral administration, a paste of the kernel of castor is boiled in milk and given to the patient.
3. Celery (Apium graveolens)
Celery has a high content of sodium and other alkaline metals; hence it helps in the revival of worn out joints. Salads with celery in them do provide benefits, but for better benefits, the fluid extracted from its seeds is more powerful.
4. Ephedra (Ephedra gerardiana)
Both an infusion of the ephedra or its powder is useful in rheumatism. The treatment should be continued up to a fortnight. Ephedra will help to cur e rheumatic pains that are just beginning; but in case of chronic pains, ephedra is not much useful.
5. Garlic (Allium sativum)
Garlic is a world-renowned remedy for rheumatic pains. Besides rheumatism, it can also be used as a good treatment for sciatica, lumbago and arthritis. The best part about garlic is that it can be taken raw or in the normal cuisine. Its excess does not have any side effects on the body.
6. Indian Aloe (Aloe barbadensis)
The Indian aloe is traditionally taken for the treatment of rheumatism. The pulp of one leaf of the aloe taken once a day is enough to bring about good results.
7. Indian Gooseberry (Emblica officinalis)
A daily consumption of the Indian gooseberry, or the amalaki, helps in speedy recovery from rheumatism. It is generally taken in powder form, in a dosage of one teaspoon mixed with two teaspoons of jaggery.
8. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis)
The rosemary herb is used in a slightly unconventional manner in the Ayurvedic treatment of rheumatism. The leaves and inflorescence of the rosemary have a strong odor like that of camphor. These parts of the plant are used to produce large amounts of perspiration in the regions where the rheumatic pain exists. These vapor baths are beneficial in reducing, and even eliminating, the pain.
9. Winter Cherry (Withania somniferum)
The winter cherry is none other than the famous ashwagandha. Among its myriad other uses, the ashwagandha is also useful in the treatment of rheumatism. Its roots are taken for this purpose.
(2) Dietary Treatments for Rheumatism
Since rheumatism is caused in a major way due to the buildup of ama in the body, it is necessary to remove this toxin first. Hence, fasting is necessary for a day or two. During this period of fasting, the patient is allowed to have only hot and clear vegetable soups with minimum spices. Warm water should be drunk several times a day as it helps to flush out the toxins.
During the treatment, all sour foods must be avoided. This includes curds and cheese. Fruits that are cold such as bananas and guavas must be strictly avoided.
(3) Ayurvedic Treatments for Rheumatism
Ayurvedic treatment of rheumatism begins with fasting to cleanse the body. Once this is done, castor oil application is done with garlic tea for internal administration. Herbs like guggulu, punarnava and garlic are commonly prescribed. Dashamoolarishta is also given.
(4) Home Remedies for Rheumatism
1. Mix some dry ginger, black pepper and rock salt in the juice of a fresh ginger stem. Make a powder of this. Take this in quantity of three grams with honey.
2. Massaging with the oil extracted from Bishop’s Weed seeds directly on the painful joints helps to relieve the pain. Another way to use Bishop’s Weed is to boil some seeds in water and allow the vapors to pass over the affected joints.
3. The juice of tomatoes is very effective in rheumatic pains that arise in the joints of the hands and legs. Tomatoes can be had either in the form of a juice or raw. About four to five tomatoes must be eaten in a day.
4. A paste of garlic should be made and applied directly on the affected parts. This will reduce the pain day by day till it completely disappears. A similar effect is found by the application of mustard seed paste.
Republished from: http://ezinearticles.com/?Ayurvedic-And-Dietary-Treatments-In-Rheumatism&id=486708
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Pain Definition
Welcome to the Counter Pain, a collection of articles for those who suffer from any kind of joint pain! For the sake of the begining I'd like to give a comprehensive definition of pain taken from Wikipedia:
Pain is defined by the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) as “an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage, or described in terms of such damage”.
Pain in animals, including humans, is frequently the result of nociception; activity in the nervous system that results from the stimulation of nociceptors. This activity is carried to the brain, usually via the spinal cord, and conveys information, without conscious awareness, about damage or near-damage in body tissues. Pain is the conscious experience of sensorial information and a feeling of unpleasantness that can manifest as a result of nociception. Neuropathic pain differs from nociceptive pain in that it involves damage to the nerve resulting in the sensation of pain. There is also central pain in which the pain is generated in the brain from some form of lesion, and which is the most difficult for medical professionals to treat. Occasionally pain may be psychogenic, meaning caused by mental illness; however this is exceedingly rare.
As a part of the body's defense system, pain triggers mental and physical behavior that seek to end the painful experience. It is also a feedback system that promotes learning, making repetition of the painful situation less likely. The nociceptive system may transmit signals that trigger the sensation of pain, it is a critical component of the body's ability to react to damaging stimuli and it is part of a rapid-warning relay instructing diverse organs and principally the central nervous system to initiate reactions for minimizing injury.
Pain is defined by the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) as “an unpleasant sensory and emotional experience associated with actual or potential tissue damage, or described in terms of such damage”.
Pain in animals, including humans, is frequently the result of nociception; activity in the nervous system that results from the stimulation of nociceptors. This activity is carried to the brain, usually via the spinal cord, and conveys information, without conscious awareness, about damage or near-damage in body tissues. Pain is the conscious experience of sensorial information and a feeling of unpleasantness that can manifest as a result of nociception. Neuropathic pain differs from nociceptive pain in that it involves damage to the nerve resulting in the sensation of pain. There is also central pain in which the pain is generated in the brain from some form of lesion, and which is the most difficult for medical professionals to treat. Occasionally pain may be psychogenic, meaning caused by mental illness; however this is exceedingly rare.
As a part of the body's defense system, pain triggers mental and physical behavior that seek to end the painful experience. It is also a feedback system that promotes learning, making repetition of the painful situation less likely. The nociceptive system may transmit signals that trigger the sensation of pain, it is a critical component of the body's ability to react to damaging stimuli and it is part of a rapid-warning relay instructing diverse organs and principally the central nervous system to initiate reactions for minimizing injury.
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