Escape From Arthritis

Many of us would have seen old people struggling to walk, stand, sit or even walk two steps. And sometimes even young kids are victims to these miseries in everyday life. The sole cause for all these problems is arthritis. A collective term which describes nearly a 100 diseases and disorders, arthritis is one of the oldest and most common disorders known to man. Its origin dates way back to the prehistoric times and the number of people afflicted by arthritis continues to be on the upward trend.

In spite of the exponential advancements in medical science, the exact cause for the occurrence of arthritis remains unclear. Nor is a standing solution available to completely eradicate the symptoms and woes of the disorder. The manifestation of arthritis can be categorized into different types depending on the causes for arthritic conditions namely autoimmune disorders (wherein the immune system attacks its own body parts), genetically inherited disorders, microbial or viral infections, due to certain types of medication and drugs, due to general wear and tear (old age) and due to improper diet. While the first two causes remain unavoidable and incurable, the occurrence of arthritis due to the latter two factors can be controlled to a certain extent thereby preventing the chances of being affected by arthritis.

Arthritis as a consequence of genetic defects resulting in autoimmune disorders can have lifelong effects. Diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus etc. fall under the category of autoimmune disorders and can be treated only by constant medical supervision. Steps can also be taken to ameliorate the symptoms and the disabilities caused by autoimmune arthritis. One can resort to natural methods of cure such as consuming medicinal herbs, undergoing physical therapy, regulating one's lifestyle and eating habits and exercising rightly and regularly.

In the case of degenerative forms of arthritis like osteoarthritis, septic arthritis, gout arthritis etc. the onus lies on the susceptible individuals to take necessary precautions and keep arthritis at bay right from early age. It is observed that some people are more predisposed towards arthritis due to factors like obesity, sedentary lifestyle, stressful jobs like construction workers, IT professionals, sportspersons, dancers and the like and improper nutrition. In such cases, adequate preventive measures must be followed to avoid the agonies of arthritis. It is vital for overweight and obese people to bring down and manage their weight. This in itself cuts the risk of osteoarthritis by half. Gout arthritis can be prevented by abstaining from excessive consumption of alcohol and food rich in purines like red meat. Regular exercising is the key to ensure the health of bone and joint since it improves its strength and flexibility.

The more health-conscious population can also keep faith in dietary supplements since it enhances the resilience and endurance of the body. The recommended supplements for preventing arthritis are vitamin C, calcium and phosphorous, omega 3 fatty acids from fish oil, glucosamine and chondroitin. Medicinal plants with active arthritis fighting ingredients like Boswellia serrata, Sassafras, capsaicin in Cayenne pepper can do wonders to the health of the joints.