MARCH-APRIL 2001

Arthritis DESCRIPTION Arthritis is a general term used to describe chronic joint, muscle and bone diseases. The word arthritis comes from the Greek ôarthö for joint, and ôitisö for inflammation. There are over 100 different forms of arthritis and arthritic conditions. Arthritis causes pain, rigidity and swelling of the joints as well as their interiors. The most common form of arthritis is the one associated to ageing. It is called arthrosis or osteoathritis, and is due to the wearing of the cartilage (smooth liquid which absorbs joint shocks and allows the joints to bend without rubbing). When the cartilage wears down, bones rub against each other, which causes pain that increases in severity as well as stiffness. It affects the fingers, knees, feet, hips and back. The shooting nocturnal pains are common and may be accompanied by muscular degeneration or weakness. Chronic poly-arthritis is also called rheumatoid poly-arthritis and is the most severe form of the disease. It occurs when the immune system, instead of protecting the body, turns against it. These attacks provoke swelling of the membrane surrounding the joints, and destroy the protective cartilage. This inflammation attacks the small, often symmetrical body joints such as the indexes. This condition is often accompanied by weight loss, fatigue and acute morning stiffness. It can affect many organs or systems such as the eyes, the lungs, the heart and the nervous system. It is a very debilitating disease. Women are three to four times more often affected by this disease than men. Causes: Even though arthritis is due to the wearing of the bones, accidents (trauma) or extreme physical activities may also precipitate the apparition of joint problems. Genetic inheritance Viral infection (virus causing inflammation of the joints) Arthritis may jointly develop with an intestinal problem such as colitis or ileitis. Arthritic symptoms appear with the control of those conditions. Prescribed medication or illegal drugs. Arthritis may be a congenital auto-immune syndrome. Food allergies and even a high stress level are considered risk factors. Symptoms: The main symptoms are redness, pain, stiffness and swelling of the joints of the knees, hips, ankles, fingers, etc... Fatigue, stiffness and general body aching , as well as appetite and weight loss during periods of acute pain. Joint cracking (when moving) as well as skin ailments such as skin eruptions and growths are all signs of arthritis. Treatment and prevention: Even though the official medical talk denies that it is possible to prevent arthrosis, maintaining a normal body weight, exercising frequently (choosing a type of exercise that does not put any impact on the joints such as walking, swimming...) help to relieve the pain and to preserve muscle and tendon (attached to the joint) strength and suppleness. It would seem that the application of heat or cold would temporarily relieve the pain (popular empiric solution). Recommended plants: Arthrex #2400 Arnica #25 Herbal Adjustment (set) #700 and A-W #705 Devil's claw #216 Formula 11 #770 Irish moss #318 Formula M #773 or All cells salts #860 It would be preferable to begin an intestinal cleansing program at the same time. Nutrition: Foods to focus on: A diet rich in vegetables, nuts, fruits and whole grains reduces the risk of arthritis. Certain studies have demonstrated that essential fatty acids from fish oils help to reduce rheumatoid arthritis inflammation. Furthermore, the ingestion of cherries and green tea would also help in reducing the pain. Finally, drink distilled water. Vitamins: B-complex vitamins (help to reduce the symptoms of arthritis). Calcium (to reinforce the bones and joints). Vitamin D (this vitamin works conjointly with calcium to protect the bones and joints). Vitamin E (reduces the pain related to osteoarthritis as well as nocturnal cramps). Foods to avoid: Eliminate or reduce the consumption of animal protein and saturated fats. A vegetarian diet is often beneficial to subjects suffering from arthritis since it is proven that is allows the control of the disease. Avoid excess sugar and sodium intakes. Consume alcohol in moderation. Numerous studies have demonstrated that a few days of fasting allows the relief of rheumatoid arthritis pain. Read in What's new" the Why fast article? Prescribed medication: There are four categories of medication for arthritis: 1) AINS (anti-inflammatory non-steroid): These anti-inflammatories do not contain cortisone. They include Aspirin, Entrophen, Novasen, Motrin, Celebrex. 2) Corticosteroids: Are hormones which reduce inflammation. However, their long term use may cause severe side effects. Cortisone, Prednisone, Methylprednisone are corticosteroids. 3) Cytotoxic medication: These powerful medications are used to treat cancer. They affect cell growth and action causing the pain. They are prescribed at low doses for arthritis and are available in tablets or injections. Azathioprine, Cyclophosphamide Cytoxan and Methotrexate Rheumatrex are cytotoxic medication. 4) Gold treatment: Gold salts are used to treat arthritis. Bibliography: Encyclopédie médicale de la famille, Pure Herbs products guide, Les aliments remèdes des médecins, Compendium des produits et spécialités pharmaceutiques.