Arthritis is a Pain--Do Something About It!

Who of us a certain age has not felt that unfamiliar crack, shooting pain or stiffness in our bodies? Depending on the source you consult, up to 55 million Americans experience this kind of pain on a regular basis. Whether at a single site due to a previous injury or several different places in your body, arthritis can be debilitating, painful, or at the very least, annoying. If you enjoy being active and feeling unlimited in the activities you can pursue, minimizing pain is a must!

Remedies for the arthritis generally target one of two things: inflammation or joint repair. One goes hand-in-hand with the other in terms of healing joints. Certain supplements promote building of the physical joint material, while others reduce the inflammation, allowing the joint to heal itself. A two-pronged approach can be important to real healing.

There are many ways to support healthy joints, including using certain nutrients to support joint rebuilding, herbs and nutrients to control inflammation, topical medicines for temporary pain relief, homeopathic remedies to heal joints, and adjusting the diet to promote joint health. Some simple rules apply for finding the solution that will work best for you:

Always take into consideration prescription drugs you are on for any reason. Certain nutrients and herbs are contraindicated with prescription drugs.
If you are on multiple prescription drugs, consider using homeopathic medicines as these do not interact with drugs.
Since herbs can have multiple actions in the body due to their many constituents, choose an herb that will do more for you than just help your joints. By way of example, sour cherry juice is excellent for removing uric acid from the joints (commonly known as gout). It is also very high in melatonin, so it can aid in healthier sleep. If you have pain in the joints caused by uric acid and do not sleep well, this could be a good solution for you.
Combination formulas that contain 4 or more nutrients and herbs are best avoided by those on multiple prescription drugs.

Joint Repair

Certain nutrients are essential to the maintenance of joints because they promote the formation of joint material (cartilage, tendons, muscle and joint fluid), they protect against oxidative stress in the joints, or they relax muscles that can put pressure on joints. Although there are many nutrients involved, we will concentrate on those most directly related to the joints.

Glucosamine is an amino sugar that the body uses to make compounds found in tendons, cartilage, ligaments and synovial (joint) fluid. Many studies have linked the use of glucosamine to the resolution of pain related to mild to moderate arthritis. It is often found in combination with chondroitin, which is also a natural component of joint material. Typically 1000 to 1500 mg per day is recommended, along with about 500 to 750 mg of chondroitin. Those with asthma should consult their practitioners, as the use of these supplements has been linked to a worsening of asthma symptoms. Also avoid the glucosamine sulfate form of this nutrient (use glucosamine HCl) if you have a shellfish allergy.

Hyaluronic acid is a compound found in the joints that acts as a water magnet, lubricating the joint when it is present. It's absence is indicated by a crunching and grinding sound in the joint. This nutrient is also excellent for skin maintenance due to its hydrating abilities.

MSM (or methylsulfonylmethane) is a naturally occurring compound found in green plants such as horsetail, algae, fruits, vegetables and grains and is also a part of many joint supplements. MSM is a natural source of sulfur, and an integral component of cartilage. It is known to promote joint repair, prevent joint deterioration, and reduce inflammation. MSM can be taken by itself or in combination with glucosamine/chondroitin. The recommended dose is 800-3000 mg per day.

Eggshell membrane naturally contains chondroitin, hyaluronic acid, and collagen, all important joint building material. Limited clinical studies have been done showing that pain was reduced and flexibility was increased in just 10 days with a 500 mg dose. It is available by itself or in a formula with anti-inflammatory herbs including turmeric, boswellia, grape seed extract and pycnogenol. We have samples if you would like to try the 10-day trial.

SAMe (S-adenosylmethionine) is found in every tissue in the body, SAMe is crucial to many functions in the body. A deficiency has been linked to an inability to maintain cartilage. In many clinical trials, it has been found superior to NSAIDS in reducing pain and improving function, with fewer side effects. It may take 30 days for results, compared to 15 days for NSAIDs. SAMe is contraindicated if you have been diagnosed with bipolar disease or if you are on antidepressant medication. The recommended dose is 600 to 1200 mg for two months, decreasing to 400 to 800 as a maintenance dose.

Magnesium is responsible for all of the relaxing functions of the body and can benefit arthritis sufferers by preventing muscular excitability, tremors and spasms that may cause stress on the joints. Magnesium is one of the most common mineral deficiencies in the United States. A safe dose for most people is 400 to 800 mg. Magnesium may cause diarrhea in large doses, but forms like magnesium glycinate can lessen this effect. Magnesium must also be balanced with calcium in the body, so adding large amounts of magnesium without taking in calcium through the diet or supplements could be detrimental.

Vitamin E, selenium and S.O.D (super oxide dismutase) protect the joints from oxidative stress and destruction by free radicals. Vitamin E also protects against muscle wasting (800-1200 I.U.'s, consult doctor if on blood-thinning medication). Recommended dose for selenium is 200 mcg per day, and avoid the form sodium selenite as it is poorly absorbed. Take S.O.D. as directed on the label.

Vitamin C is very important to the formation of connective tissue in the body. Taking 1000-2000 mg 2-3 times daily can help rebuild joint tissue.

Manganese is a trace mineral that is needed in small amounts, but is often found to be deficient in people who suffer from arthritis. It is found in many formulas for joint health. Taking 5 mg 2 times per day can be beneficial.

Flexcin is a joint formula combining a patented fatty acid molecule called CM8, glucosamine, MSM, manganese, collagen, vitamin C, and an enzyme blend to help you digest the formula. This formulas addresses both inflammation and joint repair.

Inflammation

Herbs, fatty acids and a few other nutrients are the primary means for reducing inflammation with natural medicine. Since inflammation is the hallmark of rheumatoid arthritis, anti-inflammatory substances are used for the pain it causes, particularly at the earlier onset. If the disease has progressed significantly, then one must look at the remedies for joint rebuilding (above) as well. As always, herbs must be checked for interactions with any prescription drugs you are taking. We have a database that we can check, but you may also want to consult your doctor or pharmacist.

Devil's Claw is an herb that is anti-inflammatory and a pain killer. It stimulates circulation and carries inflammatory chemicals away from infected tissues. It is good for use in acute situations. It may also have antiplatelet activity, so should not be used with anti-platelet drugs.

Boswellia is an ayurvedic herb that deactivates hormonal triggers for inflammation. It shrinks inflamed tissue by stimulating the growth of cartilage. The active ingredient in boswellia is the boswellic acids, so it should be standardized to contain 60-65% boswellic acids.

Turmeric is an herb that is anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving. Its active ingredient curcumin is now a much-studied compound and has been found to have wide-ranging beneficial effects on the body. It is an antioxidant, especially for the small joints in the body. It is thought to switch off the protein that triggers joint swelling and destruction. It has been found to have beneficial effects for inflammatory bowel disease, heart health and even cancer. Turmeric is difficult to absorb, but a patented form of the herb called BCM-95 has been developed to improve absorption.

Ginger can be found either as an herb or food. It inhibits the production of cytokines, which promote a tendency toward inflammation. Recommended doses for joint pain are 1-2 grams 2-3 times daily or 1-2 ml of tincture. It is a warming herb and stimulates circulation. It improves sluggish digestion and is anti-cough and anti-viral. It may have anti-platelet effects, so should not be taken along with anti-platelet drugs and should not be used before surgery.

Curamin is an herbal combination formula containing both boswellia and BCM-95, a patented form of turmeric. Customers have found that it provides quick pain relief when they are inflamed.

Zyflamend is an herbal combination that is helpful for developing a healthy inflammation response in the body and therefore is useful in combating arthritis, among other things. If you are prone to inflammatory conditions in general, this would be an excellent formula for you. Studies have been done using this product for osteoarthritis, showing significant reduction in symptoms.

Proteolytic enzymes are proteins that perform thousands of different functions in the body, including the regulation of a normal inflammation response. Certain enzymes in the body promote inflammation and others repress it. Proteolytic enzyme formulas assist in balancing this process and in doing so can help control unhealthy inflammation. One such formula is enteric-coated Wobenzym N. This particular combination of proteases has been studied for its beneficial effects in 6 human clinical studies with 2489 patients.

Bromelain--A single enzyme from pineapple that has anti-inflammatory properties. Also excellent for inflammation in the sinuses and digestive tract. Take 500 mg 3 times daily.

Montmorency cherries in concentrated juice, capsule or whole cherry form, are a great healer for joints. They are especially known for clearing uric acid, the prime cause of gout. These are a hit with our customers and staff alike. Cherries have the added benefit of promoting sleep due to the concentration of melatonin in them and also are helpful for high blood pressure because they are high in potassium!

Pycnogenol, a pine bark extract, inhibits COX-2 and LOX-5, two pro-inflammatory pathways in the body. It also counteracts the degradation of the protein matrix of the bones. Additional benefits of this herb are that it is an antioxidant and lowers C-reactive protein, making it important to heart health. It is not recommended to take pycnogenol if you have rheumatoid arthritis as it may also have immune-stimulating effects.

Fatty acids, particularly those with GLA, will be very helpful in curbing inflammation. GLA can be found in black currant seed oil, borage oil and evening primrose oil. These oils are often recommended for menopausal and premenstrual symptoms also, and thus will provide additional benefit for women. Fish oils and flax oil, which break down to the useful components EPA and DHA, have also been well-studied as fighters of inflammation.

Homeopathic Aids

Individual homeopathic remedies such as Rhus Tox or Bryonia are commonly used for arthritic complaints. With homeopathic medicines, it is best to consult a qualified homeopath who can assist you in choosing the appropriate remedy. You will be asked questions such as whether your pain is better with movement or rest, if a change in weather affects your pain, if the pain is worse at night or upon waking, and if it is better with cold or warmth. To get the right remedy, you must pay close attention to your symptoms and be able to communicate them to your practitioner.

Certain homeopathic combination formulas are available that are effective for a variety of people. Zeel or Traumeel are two such formulas, the former being indicated more for osteoarthritis and the latter being indicated in cases of over-use or injury. Both of these combination formulas can also be found in topical form as an ointment or gel.

Topical Medicines

There are several different topical creams and gels that you can use for joint relief. Two homeopathic topicals were mentioned in the section just above this one. Other great topical relief can be provided by arnica ointment, gel or cream, and a number of herbal combinations like Arnica Plus, Joint Rescue, Tendon Rescue, Back & Neck Rescue, Topricin, Tiger Balm or Cayenne ointment. These gels and ointments can provide quick topical relief for those times when you are symptomatic.

Dietary Suggestions

Although a change in diet may not be enough to completely relieve pain and rebuild joints, it can definitely lessen pain. Eat lots of fiber in the form of vegetables and low-acid fruit, which will help sweep away mineral and acid build-up and keep the digestive system free of harmful bacteria. Cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and cauliflower also have anti-inflammatory properties. Other vegetables like asparagus, cabbage, garlic and onion are rich in sulfur, an important component of connective tissue, so eat up on those!! Fresh pineapple contains bromelain, an enzyme helpful in fighting inflammation. Tart red cherries, as mentioned above, have pain-reducing effects.

Joint pain can sometimes be a reflection of too much acid in the diet, so eat foods that are alkalinizing like most fruits and vegetables. Foods or beverages that are very alkaline and are considered "rescue" foods include any kind of melon, a good quality mineral water like Pellegrino, most greens, chestnuts and pumpkin seeds, seaweeds, lemon or lime juice, and onions. Foods and beverages that you will want to lessen or avoid include red meat, saturated fats, hydrogenated oils, sugar, foods high in gluten (pasta, breads and pastries), refined carbohydrates, dairy, caffeine, soda pop, and alcohol. All of these foods are known to increase inflammation in the body if used frequently, or if you have a particular sensitivity to them.

Unfortunately the nightshade vegetables (tomatoes, peppers, white potatoes and eggplant) can aggravate arthritis symptoms. They have a substance called solanine in them that can interfere with the enzymes in the muscles, causing discomfort.

Fish (especially cold water fish) and flax seeds provide healthy oils that are useful in reducing inflammation. Water is also very important in flushing toxins and pain can be related to dehydration. Keep well hydrated at all times.

And finally, as always, exercise!! You have heard about the benefits enough that I don't need to repeat them here. They are in every health article known to man!! Exercising in water is helpful if your joints are extremely painful. The key for me is in variety. Find a number of activities that you enjoy doing and rotate them so you don't get bored. Make sure you pick at least one that is convenient enough to do just about anywhere. I'm sure you can think of something!

Flexcin with CM8®