How does Hydrotherapy works on Arthritis?

Hydrotherapy is also known as hydropathy, it involves the use of water to reduce pain and treat some diseases. Hydrotherapy has been used during the ancient times in Egypt, Greece and Rome. It has been accepted that taking a bath in hot springs improve circulation. Water immersion and doing exercise in water has been a popular choice of therapy. One study reported that hydrotherapy is beneficial for persons suffering from arthritis. 199 patients suffering from chronic rheumatoid arthritis were assigned randomly to receive hydrotherapy treatment ,seated immersion, land exercise or relaxation. The patients spend 30 minute sessions twice weekly for 4 weeks and were monitored before and after the treatment. Results showed that all of the patients receiving the therapy improved physically and emotionally based on the Arthritis Impact Measurement Scales 2 questionnaire. However, those patients receiving hydrotherapy showed greater improvement when it comes to joint tenderness and the range of knee movement compared to other patients.

References about Hydrotherapy and Arthritis:

Hall J; Skevington SM; Maddison PJ; Chapman K A randomized and controlled trial of hydrotherapy in rheumatoid arthritis.Arthritis Care Res (UNITED STATES) Jun 1996, 9 (3) p206-15

PHYSIOTHERAPIEMITTEL. KONTROLLIERTE KLINISCHE STUDIE. Wiss. orschungsinstitut fur Rheumatologie, Na Slupi c. 4, 128 50 Praha Czecho-slovakia Z. PHYSIOTHER. (Germany, Democratic Republic), 1990, 42/2 (109-112)

O’Hare SP. Water immersion in rheumatoid arthritis. Br J Rheumatol1984;23:117–8.

Page last updated: May 02, 2009

Food and Diet Therapy:

Nutrition is very important in the prevention of arthritis. The first step taken to combat the symptoms of arthritis is the maintennance of a healthy weight. Overweight persons should lose weight by doing exercise and shifting into a healhty diet. A healthy diet should consists of fresh fruits and vegetables free from chemical preservatives and if possible free from chemical fertilizers. Avoidance of food sources high in saturated fats, hydrogenated and partially hydrogenated oils is necessary.  At least 1/3 of people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis have some sensitivty or allergy of the nightshade family of plants.  The nightshade family of plants include tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, eggplant and tobacco. Any sensitivity or allergy to the nighshade family of plants can make the symptoms of arhritis worts.  Maintain at least 6 to 8 glasses of purified water daily because this will help flush out the toxic substances inside your body.

Recommended Foods to eat:

Green vegetables, such as watercress, parsley, celery, kale, and okra, Seaweeds, Carrots, Spirulina, Barley and wheat grass food products, Avocados, Pecans, Potassium broth, Soy products, Whole grains like brown rice, millet, oats, wheat, and barley, Cold-water fish like salmon, sardines, or herring.

Foods that you should avoid:

Foods that inhibit calcium: red meat, dairy, eggs, and chicken, Alcohol, Coffee, Refined sugar, Excess salt.

Foods with high oxalic acid content: Rhubarb, Cranberries, Plums, Chard, Spinach.

Nightshade Plant Family: Tomatoes, Eggplant, Potatoes, Peppers, Tobacco.

Buckwheat, Dairy foods, All animal fat, Nuts, oil-rich nuts and seeds, and peanut butters.

References:

Lithell H, Bruce A, Gustafsson IB, et al. A fasting and vegetarian diet treatment trial on chronic inflammatory disorders. Acta Derm Venereol 1983;63:397-403.

Sobel D. Arthritis: What Works. New York, St. Martin’s Press, 1989.

Skoldstam L, Larsson L, Lindstrom FD. Effects of fasting and lactovegetarian diet on rheumatoid arthritis. Scand J Rheumatol 1979;8:249-55.

Skoldstam L. Fasting and vegan diet in rheumatoid arthritis. Scand J Rheumatol 1986;15:219-23.

McDougall J, Bruce B, Spiller G, Westerdahl J, McDougall M. Effects of a very low-fat, vegan diet in subjects with rheumatoid arthritis. J Altern Complement Med. 2002 Feb;8(1):71-5.

Hafstrom I, Ringertz B, Spangberg A, von Zweigbergk L, Brannemark S, Nylander I, Ronnelid J, Laasonen L, Klareskog L. A vegan diet free of gluten improves the signs and symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis: the effects on arthritis correlate with a reduction in antibodies to food antigens. Rheumatology (Oxford). 2001 Oct;40(10):1175-9.

Page last updated: May 02, 2009

How Vitamin-C works on Arthritis:

Vitamin-C is widely known for its ability to boost the immune system and fight free radicals. Vitamin-C is also a key component in collagen production. Collagen is the base material for connective tissues and it is very important for the maintennance of healthy bones and cartilage. Joint cartilage is made up of the so called Type-2 collagen which degenerates in Osteoarthritis.  Supplementation of Vitamin-C helps  in the maintennance and repair of damaged cartilage tissues. Another study in vitamin-C and arthritis suggest that Vitamin-C may reduce the loss of cartilage and  reduce the rate of disease progression.

Side Effects and Precautions of Vitamin-C:

High dosage intake may cause hyperacidity.

Forms, Dosage and Brand Names:

Adults: Norman Shealy of “The Complete Family Guide to Alternative Medicine” suggests consuming 2 g/day of Ascorbic Acid. It is available as Ascorbic Acid, Calcium Ascorbate, Sodium Ascorbate and Magnesium Ascorbate in capsule or tablet form.

Pregnant Women: Safe and Well tolerated.

Children: Safe and Well tolerated.

References about Vitamin-C and Arthritis:

McAlindon” T.E., et al. “Do antioxidant micronutrients protect against the development and progression of knee arthritis?,” Arthritis and Rheumatism 39(4):648-656. 1996.

Heliovaara, M. et al. “Serum antioxidants and risk of rheumatoid arthritis,” Annals of Rheumatic Disease 53(1):51-53, 1994.

Shealy, Norman, M.D., Ph.D. (editor). The Complete Family Guide to Alternative Medicine. Rockport, Mass.: Element Books Inc., 1996.

Murray, C. “Rheumatoid Arthritis,” Journal of the Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATOMS newsletter) Winter 1994, pp. 27-29.

Page last updated: May 02, 2009

How Capsaicin works on Arthritis:

Capsaicin is a naturally occuring compound which can be found in chili peppers. This is the actual substance which makes chili peppers hot. To make commercial capsaicin, Chili peppers are grounded and then purified to extract the capsaicin.  Capsaicin reduces pain by reducing the compound known as Substance P;  the chemical compound necessary for the tansmission of pain signals. Capsaicin cream is usually given to Arthritic patient and is applied topically to affected areas. Study on the capsaicin cream shows that there is a 33% reduction in Knee Osteoarthritis pain and 57% reduction in Rheumatoid Arthritis pain. Capsaicin cream is very effective in temporarily relieving the pain of joints that are near the skin surface. Ex. Joints of the fingers, knees and elbows.

Side Effects and Precautions of Capsaicin:

Do not apply capsaicin cream on open wounds, burned skin and irritated skin. Do not apply capsaicin near the eyes, nose and mouth. Capsaicin has very little side effect except for burning and stinging sensation of the skin. Wash your hands after application and if possible use disposable gloves during the topical application of this medicine.

Forms, Dosage and Brand Names of Capsaicin:

0.025-0.075% capsaicin cream in 45 gram tubes applied 3 to 4 times daily on affected areas. Capzasin-P, Dolorac, Zostrix are some of the common brand names of capsaicin cream.

Adults: 0.025% Capsaicin cream applied four times daily. If it is not effective stup up to 0.075% capsaicin cream applied four times daily.

Pregnant Women: the safety of capsaicin cream on pregnant women has not been studied. Consult your doctor if you plan to use capsaicin cream.

Children: generally well tolerated.

References about Capsaicin:

Deal CL, “The use of topical capsaicin in managing arthritis pain: a clinician’s perspective,” Seminars in Arthritis and Rheumatism, June 1994;23:Suppl 3:48-52.

Mathias BJ, et al., “Topical Capsaicin for chronic neck pain,” American Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Jan./Feb. 1995;74:39-44.

Kang JY, et al., “Effect of capsaicin and chilli on ethanol induced gastric mucosal injury in the rat,” Gut, May 1995;36:664-9.

Kang JY, et al., “Chili-protective factor against peptic ulcer?” Digestive Diseases and Sciences,” March 1995;40:576-9.

D’Alonzo AJ, et al., “In vitro effects of capsaicin: antiarrhythmic and antiischemic activity,” European Journal of Pharmacology, January 16, 1995;272:269-78.

Fusco BM, et al., “Preventive effect of repeated nasal applications of capsaicin in cluster headache,” Pain, December 1994;59:321-5.

Page last updated: May 02, 2009

How Ginger extract works on Arthritis:

Ginger extract when taken orally is absorbed by the digestive tract and is said to inhibit the production of prostaglandin and leukotriene. These two compounds are linked with pain and inflammation. In a study of 261 people with osteoarthritis, subjects who take ginger extract twice daily felt lesser pain and swelling compared to those subjects who are receiving placebo. Another study suggest that ginger can lower cholesterol levels and thus it may also protect the blood vessels from being clogged.

Side Effects and Precautions of Ginger extract:

Ginger is very safe and side effects are very rare. Overdose of ginger may cause mild heartburn, belching or upset stomach. If you have gallstone, bleeding disorder or if you are taking blood thinning medication, seek first the advice of your doctor before taking ginger.

Forms, Dosage and Brand Names of Ginger extract products:

Adults: Ginger products are available from fresh or dried ginger root, oil from steam distillation of the root, tinctures and capsules. Fresh ginger can be used also as a tea. The general dosage is 75 - 2,000 mg per day in divided dose. Do not exceed more than 4 grams a day.

Pregnant Women: Generally safe and well tolerated.

Children: Generally safe and well tolerated.

References about Ginger extract:

Altman RD, Marcussen KC. Effects of a ginger extract on knee pain in patients with osteoarthritis. Arthritis Rheum . 2001;44(11):2531-2538.

Bliddal H, Rosetzsky A, Schlichting P, et al. A randomized, placebo-controlled, cross-over study of ginger extracts and ibuprofen in osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis Cartilage . 2000;8:9-12.

Bone ME, Wilkinson DJ, Young JR, McNeil J, Charlton S. Ginger root–a new antiemetic. The effect of ginger root on postoperative nausea and vomiting after major gynaecological surgery. Anaesthesia . 1990;45(8):669-71.

Fuhrman B, Rosenblat M, Hayek T, Coleman R, Aviram M. Ginger extract consumption reduces plasma cholesterol, inhibits LDL oxidation, and attenuates development of atherosclerosis in atherosclerotic, apolipoprotein E-deficient mice. J Nutr . 2000;130(5):1124-1131.

Thomson M, Al Qattan KK, Al Sawan SM, et al. The use of ginger (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) as a potential anti-inflammatory and antithrombotic agent. Prostaglandins Leukot Essent Fatty Acids . 2002;67(6):475-478.

Page last updated: May 02, 2009

How Turmeric works on Arthritis:

Turmeric has been used widely throughout history specially in Indian ayurvedic medicine. The active ingredient in Turmeric is the naturally occuring chemical known as curcumin. The powdered  turmeric  bulb is essentially 0.3 to 5.4 % curcumin by mass. Research on turmeric suggests that Curcumin prevents the action of a protein called Nuclear Factor kappa-B ( NF-KB). This protein  would bind itself to the genes of a cell triggering the production of massive amounts of inflammatory chemicals.  Joint tissue degradation and destruction results  as a consequence of the high levels of inflammatory chemicals.  Other studies suggests that curcumin may prevent the bone resorption and osteoporosis.

Side Effects and Precautions:

No bad side effects have been reported. No associated toxicity.

Forms, Dosage and Brandnames:

Adults: Recommended dosage is 400-600mg, three times a day

Pregnant Women: It is unknown if turmeric ingestion is safe during pregnancy.

Children: There is no proven or safe medical dose of turmeric in children

References about Turmeric and Arthritis:

Turmeric for Arthritis? By Christine Gorman http://time.blogs.com/daily_rx/2006/10/turmeric.html

“Efficacy and Mechanism of Action of Turmeric Supplements in the Treatment of Experimental Arthritis,” Janet L. Funk, Jennifer B. Frye, Janice N. Oyarzo, Nesrin Kuscuoglu, Jonathan Wilson, Gwen McCaffrey, Gregory Stafford, Guanjie Chen, R. Clark Lantz, Shivanand D. Jolad, Aniko M. Sólyom, Pawel R. Kiela, Barbara N. Timmermann,

Arthritis & Rheumatism, November 2006; 54:11; pp. 3452-3464; (DOI: 10.1002/art.22180).

Page last updated: May 02, 2009

How Niacinamide works on Arthritis:

Niacinamide belongs to the Vitamin B family. It is noted for its anti-inflammatory  properties and its topical version have been widely used  for fighting inflammation due to acne. Niacinamide is very useful in arthritic person because it can help reduce the pain and swelling  plus it has been found out that it can prevent the degeneration of joint tissues.  This Vitamin can also inhibit  Nitric Oxide which is known as a cell-killing free radical. Nitric Oxide have been linked with the breakdown and destruction of joint cartilage.  Long term use of niacinamide is safe and helps  in improving joint flexibility. Improvement in arthritis pain and swelling can be observed within 12 to 16 weeks  of continous Niacinamide supplementation.

Side Effects and Precautions of Niacinamide:

There has been no reported adverse side effects associated with niacinamide use.

Forms, Dosage and Brandnames:

Adults: It is recommended to take from 500 to 1000 milligrams of Niacinamide two to three times a day with Vitamin-C. There are lots of store brand niacinamide and generic brands on the market, look for niacinamide packed on thin gel capsules for better digestive track absorption. Dr. William Kaufman recommends as high as 4,000 mg per day (divided into three doses per day for 1 to 3 months) for patients who are severely crippled with arthritis.

Pregnant Women: Safe and well tolerated.

Children: Safe and well tolerated.

References about Niacinamide and Arthritis:

Niacinamide Silencing the Aging Gene: Another Look at Clinical Uses for the, By Daniel J. Bourassa, D.C.

Niacinamide therapy for joint mobility. Conn. State Med. J. 17:584-589, 1953

Niacinamide, a most neglected vitamin. 1978 Tom Spies Memorial Lecture. J. Int. Acad. of Preventive Med. 8:5-25,1983

Niacinamide improves mobility in degenerative joint disease. Abstract published in Program of the American Association for the Advancement of Science for its meeting in Philadelphia, May 24-30, 1986

Page last updated: May 02, 2009

How Manganese works on Arthritis:

Manganese is an element which aids in the formation of connetive tissues and bone. People with rheumatoid arthritis have lower levels of Manganese Super Oxide Dismutase (MnSOD) that keeps the joints from being damaged.  Manganese is available as a food supplement and supplementaion of manganese may increase the levels of MnSOD in the body. Food supplementation of manganese combined with other joint support supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin can decrease the pain from osteoarthritis.  In a double-blind placebo controlled study about knee osteoarthritis, manganese ascorbate combined with glucosamine hydrochloride and chondroitin sulfate helps alleviate the symptoms of this condition.

Side Effects and Precautions of Manganese:

Manganese is toxic when taken at high doses. Symptoms of manganese toxicity include loss of appetite, nerve damage, memory loss, hallucinations, elevation of blood pressure and liver damage. Manganese supplementation is contraindicated in persons with liver failure. Persons taking contraceptives or antacids may need higher intake of manganese.

Forms, Dosage and Brand Names:

Available as manganese gluconate, manganese sulfate, manganese ascorbate, manganese amino acid chelates. It works best when combined with chondroitin sulfate, glucosamine hydrochloride and ascorbic acid.

Adults: The typical dose of manganese supplementation ranges from 2 to 5 milligrams per day.

Pregnant Women: The maximum safe dosage is 2 milligrams per day.

Children: The dosage is determined by your doctor.

References about Manganese and Arthritis:

McAlindon” T.E., et al. “Do antioxidant micronutrients protect against the development and progression of knee arthritis?,” Arthritis and Rheumatism 39(4):648-656. 1996.

Heliovaara, M. et al. “Serum antioxidants and risk of rheumatoid arthritis,” Annals of Rheumatic Disease 53(1):51-53, 1994.

Shealy, Norman, M.D., Ph.D. (editor). The Complete Family Guide to Alternative Medicine. Rockport, Mass.: Element Books Inc., 1996.

Murray, C. “Rheumatoid Arthritis,” Journal of the Australian Traditional Medicine Society (ATOMS newsletter) Winter 1994, pp. 27-29.

Page last updated: May 02, 2009

How MSM works on Arthritis:

MSM is another nutrient that helps in the formation of health connective tissues. MSM also gives the chemicals necessary for the proper build up of collagen which mainly composed the connective tissues like skin, hair and nails.  MSM may not be able to treat arthritis but it can help you relieve joint pain and inflammation because of MSM’s anti-inflammatory properties.  Other studies suggests that MSM helps in the regeneration of damaged or degraded connective tissues.  This food supplement should be taken regulary because when you stop taking it, the swelling and inflammation from arthritis will return in just a few days. MSM works best if it is taken with other joint supplements like glucosamine, chondroitin, omega-3 and niacinamide.

Side Effects and Precautions of MSM:

Little to no side effects with MSM supplementation. Some may experience mild gastrointestinal disorder.

Forms, Dosage and Brand Names of MSM:

Adults: The suggested dose for MSM is from 1,000 mg to 7,000 mg per day.

Pregnant Women: Pregnant and nursing mothers should avoid MSM.

Childrens: Generally safe and well tolerated.

References about MSM and Arthritis:

MSM and Arthritis: The truth about methyl-sulfonyl-methane in the treatment of Arthritis by J.R. Rogers

Jacob, S.W. and Lawrence R.M., The Miracle of MSM (G.B. Putnam?s Sons) 1999.

Lovelock, J.E. et al., Atmospheric dimethyl sulphide and the natural sulphur cycle, Nature, Vol. 237, 452-3 (1972).

Ruzicka, L. et al., Isolation of dimethyl sulfone from cow s blood, Helvetica Chimica Acta, Vol. 23, 559-61, (1940).

Pfiffner, J.J. and North, H.B., Dimethyl sulfone: A constituent of the adrenal gland, Journal of Biological Chemistry, Vol. 131: 731, (1940).

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How SAM-e works on Arthritis:

S-adenosyl-methionine exists naturally in almost all the fluids and tissues of the human body. Sam-E participates in different biochemical reactions inside the human body by donating methyl moleculs. In some biochemical process, methyl molecules are needed to produce the chemical compounds that are necessary for controlling pain, inflammation and cartillage repair. Studies done by Mayo Clinic in 2002 ( “Alternative Arthritis Treatments” ) shows that Sam-E provides the same pain relieving action as Ibuprofen but with fewer side effects. Another benifit from SAM-e supplementation is its ability to fight depression by increasing the levesl of serotonin inside the brain.’

Side Effects and Precautions of SAM-e:

There are no reported interactions with other supplements or medications. Higher intake levels of SAM-e may lead to an increase in homocysteine which contributes to heart disease. To avoid conversion of SAM-e into homocysteine, take Vitamin B6@50mg, B12@1000mcg and Folic Acid@800mcg.

Forms, Dosage and Brand Names of SAM-e:

Adults: For joint health take 2 tablets a day (400mg) preferably on empty stomach 1 hour away from food. Increase the dosage up to 800mg as needed. Since SAM-e is unstable at high temperatures, it is best to keep this food supplement refrigerated.

Pregnant Women: Not recommended.

Children: Not recommended.

References about SAM-e and Arthritis:

Gutierrez S, et al. SAMe restores the changes in the proliferation and in the synthesis of fibronectin and proteoglycans induced by tumor necrosis factor alpha on cultured rabbit synovial cells. Brit Rheumatol 37: 27-31, 1997

Mansell JP, et al. Biochemical eveidence for altered subchondral bone collagen metabolism in osteoarthritis of the hip. Brit J Rheumatol 36:16-19, 1197

Osteoarthritis: the clinical picture, pathogenesis and management with studies on a new therapeutic agent, S-adenosylmethionine. Am J Med 83 (Suppl 5A) 1987 (Includes Numerous Studies).

Marcolongo R, et al. Double-blind multicentre study of activity of S-adenosylmethionine in hip and knee osteoarthritis. Curr Ther Res 37: 82-94

Tavoni A. et al Evaluation of S-adenosylmethionine in primary fibromyaglia: a double blind crossover study. Am J Med 83 (Suppl 5A): 107-110, 1987

Jacobsen S, et al Oral S-adenosylmethionine in primary fibroyaglia. Double-blind clinical evaluation. Scand J Rheumatol 20: 294-302, 1991

Fassbender HG, Role of chondrocytes in the development of osteoarthritis. Am J Med 83 (Suppl 5A):17-24, 1987

Page last updated: May 02, 2009