Natural Osteoarthritis Pain Relief

Is natural osteoarthritis pain relief possible? You bet it is!

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis. It's a degenerative joint disease that affects over 20 million Americans. OA causes inflammation, pain, lack of mobility and reduced motion, mainly in the joints of the hands, knees, hips and spine.

Before the age of 50, men are the most likely to be affected. But once the onset of menopause begins, the number of cases among women increases rapidly.

What is Osteoarthritis?

Healthy cartilage is smooth and slippery. It normally cushions the end of bone joints and serves the purpose of absorbing the pounding and shock of our movements.

But, over time, as a result of growing older and physical abuse, the natural cartilage can become thinner and thinner, causing the smooth cartilage surface to become rough, irritated and swollen. OA starts when this cartilage begins to deteriorate.

If the cartilage eventually wears down completely, bones start rubbing together causing even worse painful joint swelling and stiffness. This is generally most noticeable upon first waking in the morning, in damp or cold weather and after strenuous physical activity.

While the specific cause of osteoarthritis isn't clear, contributing factors can include:

o Being overweight,

o The aging of joints,

o Sports or accidents,

o Joint injury or stress,

o Hereditary tendencies,

o And muscle weakness.

If lifestyle changes aren't made the constant rubbing together of bone on bone can eventually cause permanent joint damage.

Symptoms of Osteoarthritis

The most common osteoarthritis symptoms are joint pain, stiffness and swelling. But other common symptoms are bony growths and limited mobility of the afflicted joints.

Look for the following warning signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis:

o Inflammation, tenderness or pain in one or more joints.

o A crunchy feeling in a joint or the sound of bones rubbing together.

o Joint stiffness after sitting for a period of time or when first getting out of bed.

No single test can diagnose the existence of osteoarthritis.

And although the neck, lower back, hands, knees and spine can be affected, OA is most prominent in the weight bearing joints - the hips and knees - especially in older women.

Osteoarthritis is a progressive condition that tends to get worse over time. But some people can go for years without experiencing any pain at all. Symptoms also vary greatly from person to person. While some are incapacitated, others hardly suffer at all.

Osteoarthritis Pain Relief - Naturally

There's no known cure for osteoarthritis, so sufferers are generally prescribed risky, controversial painkillers that can have serious side effects.

But, more and more evidence shows that making healthy lifestyle and dietary changes can both help to prevent the onset of the disease and provide long term pain relief from the symptoms of osteoarthritis. So a more holistic approach is being taken.

The key is to get healthy and fit through exercise and optimum diet and to avoid injuries and reduce stress, fatigue and depression. The main recommendations are:

o Moderate exercise strengthens bones and muscles, improves flexibility, reduces pain and fatigue and relieves stress and depression. Walking, swimming and yoga are good ways to stay active with a minimum of stress. But don't push too hard.

o Healthy weight maintenance keeps joints from having to support excess weight.

o Rest and relaxation relieves stress on joints and improves health.

o An optimum diet provides the nutrients necessary to prevent degenerative diseases and is essential for OA relief. Red meat, for example, can increase the risk of inflammation and arthritis. Eliminate non-nutritious foods, such as high glycemic carbohydrates, and eat a moderately low fat diet (20% to 30% of calories) rich in cold water fish, whole grains, fresh fruits and vegetables, lean poultry and low fat dairy.

o Omega 3 fish oil is nature's most potent anti-inflammatory. So increase the omega 3 fish in your diet, such as fresh salmon, and include fish oil supplements.