Arthritis

Question: What are the signs of arthritis and is it preventable? I had a serious wreck 10yrs ago and fractured my hip in several places and had to have major surgery. The doctor told me that I would be more suceptable to arthritis. I am now 32 and have been having for the last few yrs or so pain in my arms and legs but only at night when I am trying to sleep. Could this be the onset of arthritis? What are the signs? Thanks!

Answer: One of the signs of arthritis is when one has pain when they know the weather is going to change such as when it rains. Stiffness such as during cold weather can also be a symptom of arthritis. Some people notice their pain worse during the day and others at night too. This can often tie in to the weather as well. Sometimes swelling and redness can be symptoms of arthritis. As to how to prevent it once it starts the only thing that can be done is to minimize the amount of pain thru medication and other forms of treatment and sometimes exercise. Sometimes pain in the muscles can be a sign of arthritis too. When I first started out I didn't have the classic symptoms of arthritis. My problem was muscle pain in my thigh area. Whenever my arthritis acts up and I know it's going to be a bad flare I will often feel it in my thigh first and one way I'll know it is when I start to feel a burning sensation in that area and then the pain comes next. To learn even more about arthritis please check out: http://www.arthritis.about.com and http://www.osteoarthritis.about.com

Question: What is the difference between arthritis medicines Mobic and Celebrex? I take 200 mg Celebrex every day for arthritis. My RN friend says she takes Mobic 15 mg and it is the only arthritis medicine her hospital prescribes since it is safer and works better than Celebrex. I want to know why it is safer and what, if any, are the side effects?

Answer: About celebrex: It is true that it is slightly better for the stomach (GI tract in general) and it does not have the detrimental side effects (increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality) that vioxx and bextra had. Mobic is a less specific COX-2 inhibitor and has never been shown to be any better than celebrex. As mobic is not generic it is as expensive as celebrex. If you are looking for a cheaper alternative to celebrex, I would recommend Etodolac as it is generic and overall better tolerated than ibuprofen or naprosyn. From a personal standpoint: my mother tolerated celebrex ok but had severe stomach problems with mobic. As always YMMV. Disclaimer: I am not a paid consultant for any of these companies and have no direct financial interest in them.

Question: How can I help with my dogs arthritis? I have a Yorkie/mix terrier who is 10 years old. He has started to suffer arthritis in one back leg. Is their anything in herbs,food, doggy vits to help him? and do you have any advice on how to deal with arthritis Thanks everyone!! :) Thanks everyone for all your advice, all great answers!

Answer: you can get something called cosequin from your vet, it is a supplement with glucosamine chondroition. it might take a few weeks of use to see a good effect but it seems to help. you might also ask your vet about using anti-inflammatories occasionally for bad flare ups. the other thing you can try is water therapy... this is time consuming, but gives some relieve and some people say it helps a lot..... fill your tub with warm water, just enough so that your dogs feet can NOT touch the bottom of the tub- only when supervised put him in the tub to swim, swimming doesn't put any pressure on the joints, but gets them moving and in theory helps keep them from feeling as stiff. if you have to you can hold your dog around the rib cage, and hold him so that his feet don't touch the bottom of the tub and let him swim. you can do that for 5 to 10 minutes (or more if he enjoys it). this can be done twice daily or once daily.... or even just as needed whatever will work with your schedule. ***do not use any people medications on your dog, some of the medications like aspirin, tylenol and ibuprofen can cause liver damage and clotting problems. discuss with your vet safer options***

Question: How bad does my arthritis have to get before I can claim disability? I have osteoarthritis in my neck, lower back, wrists and ankles. I take prescription anti inflamitories and muscle relaxers in order to go to work. I work 10 hrs a day on my feet constantly moving, stretching and bending. While this movement is good for my arthritis, it can get really painful by the end of the day. I feel like I am up a creek without a paddle most of the time, especially after a 3 day workout. Then I just totally crash. I am tired of waking up with swollen hands, having a crick in my back and limping for a while after sitting down for 30 minutes.

Answer: yes speak with ur doctor,,,or a good doctor.Every state has different laws in regards to disability..Every lawyer wants u on disability,,thats how the disability lawyers get paid,,and they can streach it out 4 years,,,the longer they streach it the more of the back pay they owe u,,they get...plus the system is sooo screwed,,people get on it that dont need it and then they get jobs under the table,,proving that they can work.. If u need on disability,,find out what doctors works with what lawyers....The two have to have a Very good realationship...request for specialist and leave a good paper trail in regards of ur problem,,,ur state will be looking at the trail more than what u say...u need a good family doctor and several specialist that are willing to work together,,,good luck.

Question: I have psoriatic arthritis and take prednisolone. What are the long term effects of taking prednisolone? I am slightly concerned about long term use of the drug prednisolone, prescribed for arthritis. Also how my condition may develop in future. I have psoriatic arthritis.

Answer: The longer you take it and the higher the dose generally the more side effects. Fluid weight gain can be a problem around the stomach, back of neck and rounding of the face. It can make your skin thinner - hence bruise easier. Also can deplete bone density - more of a concern for women. Can also make you very awake, kind of hyper feeling. It is a widely used drug, and not much negative feedback.

Question: What natural remedies are good for arthritis? I have inflamatory oesteo arthritis and it is very painful. Any suggestions for some natural remedies?

Answer: I'm not sure where you are from, but here in Canada they have an all natural medicine called "Lakota." It has been a best-seller for years and years here. I tried Glucosamine but it did nothing for myself, personally. Within 2 days of going on Lakota "Rheumatoid Formula" I was virtually pain-free, it was unbelievable. I stopped taking it the past few weeks to see if it really was the Lakota that was making a difference, and the pain has returned so I am going back out to purchase some more at the local drugstore. If you are a non-Canadian resident, I would still ask your local Pharmacist and check out their website. I know how terrible it is to have an auto-immune disease, especially on a bad flare-up day, and I wish you nothing but the best of luck and best of health.

Question: What is the cure for psoriatic arthritis? I know someone with psoriatic arthritis. What is the cure? Please don't waste my time with anecdotal evidence from anonymous people who drink expensive imported juice and claim to be healed. What treatments and cures are available? What science is behind the remedies?

Answer: I do not believe there is a cure because it is caused by immune system problems. However, an arthritis specialist can prescribe medication that will help a lot. See a specialist in immune system and arthritis.

Question: What is the best non prescription arthritis medication for dogs? My 10 year old Rottweiler, Belle has arthritis that is getting pretty bad. I don't want her on Rx medication because I've heard it can damage her liver, and other internal organs. What are some of the best non prescription medications I can give try for her? I already give her asprin, but it doesn't help her anymore.

Answer: She sounds pretty far advanced. I'm so sorry. This is a hard journey for you as it is for her. I had a Rottie who died of complications from arthritis and I have it pretty bad myself. Exercise is the BEST medicine. Swimming has no impact and is kind to arthritic joints. If Belle likes water, get her swimming. Taking off excess weight is essential to aiding in the comfort level. If Belle happens to have some excess weight on her, make motions to reduce the poundage. Substituting with canned pumpkin (not mix!) will help her to feel full while NOT adding unnecessary calories. There comes a time when drugs DO help a LOT. Adequan shots will help to promote fluid production in cushioning joints, which will reduce Belle's pain a LOT..... if her vet feels it's worth trying at her stage and age. I'm sorry for what you are facing. Best of luck to you both.

Question: What is the medical term for arthritis causing pain in the head, similar to hypertension symptoms? I usually have pain in my nape up to the head but my blood pressure is just above normal. The doctor ruled out hypertension. Arthritis is suspected somewhere in the spine. Is this possible? Any cure suggestions?

Answer: Information on arthritis,home remedies and treatment is available at http://tinyurl.com/z5vx5

Question: What do I give my dog for arthritis pain? My dog is twelve years old and about sixty-five pounds. He has arthritis pain in his legs. My family is wondering what to give him and how much. We're looking for an over the counter remedies though. Thanks everyone.

Answer: I just dealt with this problem in my Golden Retrieve a few weeks ago. My mom and I went to Petco and found some pain medication meant for dogs. I just ran downstairs and found out it is called Nutri-Vet K9 Asprin. It worked really well with my Golden. She was unable to get up due to her hips but we gave it to her before bed and by the next morning she was fine. I highly recommend getting medication meant for dogs, not humas.

Question: Arthritis!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!... my mom is in her late 40's and has had arthritis for like ever in her hands, back, and neck and i want to help her. she has tried Advil, Tylenol and other pain relief stuff and now i need some remedies i know that it can't be taken away but it can't helped and that's all i want. Thanks. (and it can't be expensive.)

Answer: I can only guess she has rheumatoid arthritis which is an auto immune disease. There are things you can do to help ease the symptoms of RA. * Find a balance between exercise and rest. You need to keep active to prevent your joints from becoming weak and stiff but don't try to do too much. Swimming is an excellent activity because it strengthens your muscles and joints without putting any strain on them. A physiotherapist can give you information and advice. * Try to lose excess weight as this will reduce the pressure on your joints. * Try and find ways of making everyday tasks easier and there may be specialist equipment that can help * Try to eat a healthy, balanced diet and cut down on saturated fats. * A hot water bottle may help if your joints feel stiff and painful; try an ice pack if they are hot and irritated. There are some suggested home remedies (which your mother may or may not like!)... http://www.organicnutrition.co.uk/articl… My mother swore by a fresh garlic and honey mixture which tasted dreadful, her arthritis did improve, but was it coincidence? Your mom will be pleased you are trying to help her. Good luck.

Question: what are some good remedies for severe arthritis? My mom has really bad arthritis in her legs and is making her life miserable. Does anyone know of any kind of medication, natural remedies or exercises that could help?

Answer: Arthritis: How to Stay Active and Independent What is arthritis? Arthritis means inflammation of the joints. It causes pain and usually also limits movement of the joints that are affected. There are many kinds of arthritis. A type called osteoarthritis (also called degenerative joint disease) is the most common. What causes osteoarthritis? The exact cause isn't known. A person may be at increased risk of osteoarthritis because it runs in the family. Osteoarthritis seems to be related to the wear and tear put on joints over the years in most people. But wear and tear alone don't cause osteoarthritis. What happens when a joint is affected? Normally, a smooth layer of cartilage acts as a pad between the bones of a joint. Cartilage helps the joint move easily and comfortably. In some people, the cartilage thins as the joints are used. This is the start of osteoarthritis. Over time, the cartilage wears away and the bones may rub against one another. Bones may even start to grow too thick on the ends where they meet to make a joint, and bits of cartilage and bone may loosen and get in the way of movement. This can cause pain, joint swelling and stiffness. Who gets osteoarthritis? Osteoarthritis is more common in older people because they have been using their joints longer. Using the joints to do the same task over and over or simply using them over time can make osteoarthritis worse. Younger people can also get osteoarthritis. Athletes are at risk because they use their joints so much. People who have jobs that require the same movement over and over are also at risk. Injuries to a joint can increase the risk of arthritis in the joint later on. Excess weight also can accelerate arthritis in the knees, hips and spine. Is there a treatment? No cure for osteoarthritis has been found. But the right plan can help you stay active, protect your joints from damage, limit injury and control pain. Your doctor will help you create the right plan for you. Tips on staying active Lose weight if you're overweight. Exercise regularly for short periods. Go to a physical therapist if you can. Use canes and other special devices to protect your joints. Avoid lifting heavy things. Avoid overusing your joints. Don't pull on objects to move them--push them instead. Take your medicine the way your doctor suggests. Use heat and/or cold to reduce pain or stiffness. Will my arthritis get worse? Osteoarthritis does tend to get worse over time. But you can do many things to help yourself. It's important to stay as active as possible. When joints hurt, people tend not to use them and the muscles get weak. This can cause contractures (stiff muscles), and it can make it harder to get around. This causes more pain and the cycle begins again. Ask your doctor to discuss pain control with you so that you can stay active and avoid this problem. Will medicine help? Medicines you can buy without a prescription that reduce inflammation, such as aspirin, ibuprofen (one brand name: Motrin), ketoprofen (brand name: Orudis) or naproxen (brand name: Aleve), or pain relievers, such as acetaminophen (one brand name: Tylenol), can help you feel better. Your doctor can also prescribe medicine for you, such as prescription pain relievers or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) used to treat certain types of arthritis. NSAIDs can help by reducing inflammation, swelling and pain in the joints, but not everyone can take them. Medicine should be used wisely. You only need the amount that makes you feel good enough to keep moving. Using too much medicine may increase the risk of side effects. Can special devices really help? Yes. Special devices (see box below) and different ways of doing things can help people with arthritis stay independent for as long as possible. These devices help protect your joints and keep you moving. For example, if you learn to use a cane the right way, you can help reduce the amount of pressure your weight puts on your hip joint when you walk by up to 60%. Talk to your doctor if you think a special device may help your arthritis. Special devices for people with arthritis Canes, walkers and splints Shoe inserts, wedges or pads Special fasteners (such as Velcro) on clothing Large grips for tools and utensils (wrap foam or fabric around items with narrow handles, like pens) Wall-mounted jar openers Electric appliances, such as can openers and knives Mobile shower heads Bath seats and grab bars for the bathtub Will special exercises really help? Yes. Exercise keeps your muscles strong and helps you stay flexible. Exercises that don't strain your joints are best. To avoid pain and injury, choose exercises that can be done in small amounts with rest time in between. Dancing, weight lifting and bike riding are good exercises for people with arthritis. Try tightening your muscles and then relaxing them a number of times. You can do this with all of your major muscle groups. You could also try an "aquacise" program available through your local swimming pool or community center. These programs involve special movements in the pool, with much of your body's weight held up by water. Talk to your doctor before starting a new exercise program. Should I use heat to ease pain? Using heat may reduce your pain and stiffness. Heat can be applied through warm baths, hot towels, hot water bottles or heating pads. Try alternating heat with ice packs. Written by familydoctor.org editorial staff. Source American Academy of Family Physicians

Question: What's the best way to alleviate arthritis symptoms in dogs? My 10 yr old yellow lab was just diagnosed with arthritis. She's absolutely fine, most of the time, runs, swims, etc. But, she has days, when she can not put any weight on her right front paw. The Vet gave me medacam, and that works very well. But is there anything else I can do for her? She is at her normal weight, about 62 pounds, she is definitely not over-weight. She swims in the pool daily (usually several times, even when the leg acts up). I do give her glucosamine supplements (in honey). I'm interested in the magnetic therapy, do they make small mattress pads for dog beds? She;s definitely not overweight, and I dont think she did anything to the paw, because it hurt initially, but then was absolutely fine for about a month, and then back to holding it in the air. I was really beginning to think the arthritis diagnosis was not right, until she started limping on it again...I'm not that familiar with arthritis, is that how it is, comes and goes?

Answer: I used magnetic therapy on my dog that extended her years beyond what doctors said. The magnets were from Nikken.

Question: What natural product is good for rheumatoid arthritis? My dad has this type of arthritis and his legs always hurt really bad. He is only 54 years old and he can barely walk around. What are some things that he can try to ease the pain so that he can get around better. He is still kind of young.

Answer: HOMEOPATHIC TREATMENT FOR RHEUMATISM / ARTHRITIS without any side effects or complications of any sort, (Arthritis including Gout, Arthritis Deformans/Osteoarthritis and Rheumatism) :- Pain knee joints, worse by movements; better initial movements, continuous pain in joints, worse while rising from seat; pain in heels, worse by movements. Cassia Sophera 30X, 4 hourly Acute attack of gout of joints of the feet.Pain with bright red swelling Aconite Nap 200, 2 hourly Pain with inflammation, worse by movements. Bryonia Alba 200 or 1M, 6 hourly Complaints worse after rest and exposure to cold Rhus tox 200 or 1M, 4 hourly Complaints worse during menstruation; beginning at the time of menopause; more in hands and feet Caulophyllum 30X, 4 hourly When the origin of complaints is gonorrhoeal; worse during day time. Medorrhinum 1M. fortnightly (3 Doses) When the origin of complaints is tubercular Tuberculinum k, 1M fortnightly (3 Doses) Complaints of small joints with red or pale swelling; tenderness and shifting pains; worse by motion. Main remedy for gout during cold weather Colchicum 30X, 4 hourly When Rhus Tox cease to work; pain is worse in cold damp weather and better by movements Calcarea Carb 200 or 1M, 6 hourly (6 Doses) Nodosities in the joints with gastric complaints. At last nodules become painless (Rheumatoid Arthritis). Tongue whitish thickly coated Antim Crud 30X or 200, 6 hourly Complaints of feets and ankles; stiffness Drosera 200 fortnightly (3 Doses) Complaints of long bones; contraction of ligaments Causticum 30X or 200, 4 hourly Pain worse at night; in wet weather; Rheumatism of large muscles Cimicifuga 30X, 4 hourly Rheumatism; worse in damp cold weather. Gout.Pain in limbs and hip joints Natrum Sulph 30X or 200, 4 hourly Pain travels downwards affecting the large part of a limb and passes through quickly along course of nerve Kalmia Lat 30X or 200, 6 hourly Pains worse during rest, night and warmth, better by cold, open air and movements Pulsatilla 30X or 200, 4 hourly Pain :- violent; bruised or as if sprained ; cannot bear touch, feels somebody coming near him may touch him and hit the affected part Arnica Montana 200, 4 hourly Gout of great toe and joints with swelling; soreness and drawing pain on stepping; worse in warmth, pressure and motion. Pain travels upwards; better cold compresses Ledum Pal 200, 4 hourly Gouty nodosities of joints; tearing pain and extremities and contraction of the muscles Guaiacum 30 4 hourly Chronic nodosities of joints; hands twisted, out of shape due to deposits of water of soda Ammonium Phos 6X or 30, 4 hourly Gouty complaints with offensive urine Acid Benzoic 6X or 30, 4 hourly When there is red sand in urine in gouty patients Lycopodium 30, 4 hourly Severe pain with enlargement of the joints; worse during rest and when storm approaches Rhododendron 200 or 1M, 10 min (3 Doses) Almost a specific for gout (to drain out uric acid and urates) Urtica Urens Q(Mother Tincture) 4 hourly, 8 -10 drops in hot water Arthritic deformans (chronic rheumatoid, particularly of fingers) Picric Acid 30X, 4 hourly Rheumatic pains or arthritis after checked diarrhoea Abrotanum 30 or 200 4 hourly (6 Doses) Specific for pain with numbness; Pain so severe patient says that he would prefer death than the pain Chamomilla 200 or 1M, 1/2 hourly (3 Doses) Pain appear diagonally as right arm and left leg with sensation of cold, numbness and tingling Agaricus Mus 30X or 200, 4 hourly In weak persons; burning pain with chilliness, feels better by heat, while eating, and worse in cold open air Capsicum 30X or 200, 4 hourly Unbearable pain; rigidity and stiffness. Superiority / inferiority complex Platina 1M, weekly (3 Doses) Pain flies like electric shock; due to exposurse of damp cold weather. Better by warmth and rest Phytolacca 30X or 200, 4 hourly Rheumatic pain, worse after washing clothes, doing laundry work Sepia 30X or 200, 4 hourly Pain in long bones; may be due to injury or rheumatism Ruta Grav 200, 6 hourly Pain worse on slightest touch specially after loss of vital fluids like excessive bleeding, diarrhoea, vomiting China Off 6X or 30, 3 hourly Pain in the small joints of extremities with swelling. Backache, worse in the morning before rising Staphysagria 30X or 200, 4 hourly Pain heels; better by putting most of the weight on them Berberis Vulgaris Q (Mother Tincture) 4 hourly, 8 - 10 drops Stiffing pain in all parts of the body; worse by movement Stellaria Q(Mother Tincture) 4 hourly, 8-10 drops in warm water Rheumatic pain without swelling; pain joints; worse at night Iodium 30X, 4 hourly Osteo-arthritis of large joints with degeneration. Pain, swelling, stiffness and tenderness of joints; worse by motion (cracking joints) and cold ; better by warmth O.A.Nosode 1M, weekly (6 Doses) Chronic muscular rheumatism of back and neck. Intense pain along with sciatic nerve. Numbness alternates with pain Gnaphalium 30X or 200, 4 hourly Muscular atrophy; rigidity and stiffness Strychninum 3X or 6X, 4 hourly Rheumatism accompained with skin ailments and itiching; cannot walk erect Sulphur 200, 10 min (3 Doses) Rheumatism of knee joint; with round worms Natrum Phos 6X or 30, 4 hourly For defective bony growth; better by warmth and worse by cold Calcarea Flour 12X or 30, 4 hourly Take the remedy which is similar to your symptoms. No side effects or complications if taken as directed, please do not exceed the given dosage and under any circumstances do not try to mix any remedies and avoid Chocolates, Mints, Coffee, Red Meat, Alcoholic and Carbonated drinks, Spicy Rich Food while taking any Homeopathic remedies, and keep the medicines away from direct sunlight, heat strong smells and perfumes and do not store them in the fridge. Curing without any side effects or Complications Thats the Beauty of Homeopathic Medicine (Cures Par Excellence) Best of health to you my friend get well real soon. Take Care and God Bless you.

Question: How long can my dog live with arthritis? My 3 1/2 year old chow x bulldog has very painful arthritis. He is currently taking metacam and that helps but he is becoming more aggresive to my 1 year old daughter. Is their any hope? I can't afford expensive treatments like water therapy, I would love to but his medication is already $150 a month. Is their anything I can do to get him to stop growling when my daughter touches him and will it escalate to a bite?

Answer: Hydrotherapy is a great alternative! Props to the person above who suggested that. I worked at a vet clinic that offered hydro, and there have been some fantastic successes. Changes in diet and exercise can help. J/D is another good suggestion, but it's incredibly expensive. You need to address the aggression on its own. Do you think it's just pain, or has something else changed? Are you giving much more attention to her now? You can always get another vet's opinion. Maybe he's got hip dysplasia? Were X-rays taken?

Question: how do I make my dog with arthritis feel more comfortable? I adopted a 13 year old dog from the pound (they were about to put her to sleep) and she has mild arthritis. I give her soft pillows to lie on and let her be on the couch but she still seems to move stiffly and lies around a lot. Is there any special food I can give her or anything? I have never had an old dog before.

Answer: There is a food with Glucosime (sorry about spelling) it really helped my old rotty!! And you can give her Bayer aspirin (1 pill 2 times a day) please check with the vet first. this will also help. The food that I know of that have it are Avodreme Active care and Nutro Senior formula. You can only use Bayer or non-buffered aspirin like baby aspirin though!! Not regular ever!!!! Hope this helps