Arthritis is a disease that covers a host of medical conditions. The most common is osteoarthritis or OA. It usually affects the elderly but there are some cases of OA being present at a very early age. There are various causes of arthritis. It could be that the cartilage is wearing away, a lack of fluid, autoimmunity, infection or a combination of these and other factors. The common result is joint pain.
Joint pain relief is the objective of medications given to arthritic patients. A variety of prescription medications have proven to be effective in joint pain relief associated with arthritis. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are the most popular. These medicines are taken in conjunction with exercise. Patients are also advised to watch the food that they eat.
When thinking about eating for joint health, instead of eating two or three big meals a day, try spreading your intake out over a number of smaller meals throughout the day, eating 5 or 6 times . Keep your stomach feeling satisfied with small snacks or meals throughout the day which boosts your metabolism.
Dark red grapes are a great source of nutrition and vitamins. How about an orange instead of a sweet – or a tall glass of orange juice. Recent studies point to the importance of vitamin C and other antioxidants in reducing your risk of arthritis. Eating vegetables are one of the best sources of vitamins and fiber – particularly romaine lettuce, broccoli, spinach, kale and parsley.
Firm muscles contribute to strong joints. When your muscles are firm and solid they help hold your inner core stable and align your joints. Exercise everyday for 5 or 10 minutes if you can. Do push ups, purchase various dumbbells and do seated or standing bicep curls, lateral shoulder raises, deep knee bends, calf raises (on the stairs). The ultimate for keeping bone density high is a mini trampoline.