Arthritis is a medical condition which causes inflammation of one or more joints which leads to stiffness and pain. There are various types of arthritis which have diverse side effects, including infections and underlying diseases. Apart from rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis is one of the most common types of arthritis. This condition of arthritis affects the synovial membrane causing inflammation leading to wearing of the cartilage.
Dietary Change
Research has shown that a change of diet has significantly aided in curbing the progression of osteoarthritis. Nutritionists and meal professionals have come up with a list of foods which are recommended for those with arthritis. These foods aid with arthritis pain as they have anti-inflammatory properties. Turmeric is one of the foods highly ranked as an anti-inflammatory due to containing the compound curcumin. This cooking spice can be used in both drinks and foods. Turmeric can be cooked with foods or used as a flavor in beverages. Other foods recommended for those with arthritis include omega 3 fats, olive oil, nuts, legumes, green tea, leeks, garlic, onions, fruits, vegetables, and high fiber foods.
Medicines
Although the effects of osteoarthritis are far-reaching, there are several treatments which have been developed to help manage it. Cordycepin treatment has been proven to suppress inflammation and pain, reducing the progress of osteoarthritis. This treatment has been said to reduce the activity of polyadenylation, which fosters macrophages (inflammatory cells). Other medications, such as acetaminophen and duloxetine, have been approved to treat osteoarthritis-related pain effectively. Alternative medicines such as acupuncture, as well as consumption of avocado, soybean and omega 3 supplements, complement treatment for osteoarthritis too.
Therapeutic Intervention
Therapeutic growth factors have also been discovered as a way to treat osteoarthritis. This method has been developed to regenerate damaged cartilage tissue. These growth factors have a special type of protein which repairs the tissue. However, they also have some side effects that may worsen the arthritis condition.
Regular exercise has also been recommended for those with osteoarthritis. Physical activity includes muscle strengthening exercises such as aerobics, walking, jogging, yoga, and swimming. Exercise aids weight loss, which reduces pain and pressure on the affected areas. People with osteoarthritis are urged to see a therapist too, to cope with challenges they have in dealing with their daily tasks.
Other Treatments
Where other treatments have failed, reconstructive surgery and procedures may be considered. These techniques include realigning bones, joint replacements, lubrication injections, and cortisone injections.
Assistive devices are recommended to help support those who are mainly suffering from pain in the hips and knees. Supportive devices include walking sticks, gripping items, shoe inserts, knee braces, and ankle braces.
Doctors are now focusing on preventive measures, such as early diagnosis. Genetic tests reveal whether one is predisposed to acquiring arthritis at an early stage. With an early diagnosis, one can develop a healthy lifestyle curbing the occurrence of osteoarthritis.