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Treating osteoarthritis in the knee is more complicated than in other parts of the body such as the hand, big toe, back or hip because the knee joint has many more essential functions that cause a wider array of problems. The knee joint is the largest of all the body's joints. A knee is hinged to a shin bone and to a thigh bone for a rather complicated ball-in-socket action. It bears the body's weight during movement and withstands twisting or turning motions as a result of daily activities. In order for a person to stand still, knee joints must lock in position, but when walking, joints act as a hinge that allows free movement of the legs. The knees are generally the most commonly affected by arthritis which accounts for the various treatments available to patients. A glucosamine treatment of osteoarthritis is among the many dietary-based protocols for the management of the condition.

Self-help treatments, non-prescription and prescription medications, and surgery are used to manage the different degrees of deterioration in patients. While most people generally deal with the annoyances of arthritis, joint degeneration does not typically debilitate most patients. Treating osteoarthritis in the knee usually begins on a self-help level that may be managed by a nutritionist, doctor, holistic professional or the patient himself. These methods include dietary changes, exercise, physical therapies, and non-prescription pain relief. Diet can affect the condition in several significant ways. Doctors stress the importance of weight loss for those who carry excess pounds. Reaching the appropriate body weight can relieve arthritis symptoms by lessening stress on the joints.

Another benefit of dietary management is through the addition of important nutrients such as calcium, vitamin D, C, E and magnesium. Adding glucosamine and chondroitin to a daily supplement plan is very common. Since cartilage contains these compounds, many people have found joint relief by taking a glucosamine treatment of osteoarthritis along with other supplements. Some of the wear and tear on cartilage can be repaired, slowing further degeneration. Those who choose to take these supplements should patiently take the daily recommended dosage for several weeks before seeing any significant signs of improvement. It takes time for the nutrients to be absorbed into the joints and to begin repairing any problems.

These supplements are generally safe and present no side effects to most people. Only if a person has a shellfish allergy, should he or she refrain from taking the supplements. Another way of treating osteoarthritis in the knee that works well in conjunction with a natural approach is through exercise or therapy. Strengthening the quadriceps is very important in practically relieving some joint pain. People who suffer with arthritis in the knees tend to have weakened, front thigh muscles. Therapy or exercise to strengthen the quadriceps is very important in helping relieve continued pain and pressure on the joints. Hydrotherapy or water exercises are a good way to develop the front thigh muscles without causing further damage to the joints. Pool or swimming therapy has long been used for those who should not put undue stress on joints and bones but still need an efficient workout.

Exercises that isolate the quadriceps can be used to strengthen these very important muscles. Joining a gym and using the services of a professional trainer can be helpful. There are also some home exercises that can be recommended by a health professional to strengthen muscles. If a patient begins an appropriate exercise/therapy regimen along with the use of nutrients such as a glucosamine treatment of osteoarthritis, it is very possible to control further damage. Sometimes pain can be alleviated as well, without having to use heavy drugs and medications.

There are times, however, when major deterioration has occurred. A patient's movements may be restricted and he is in constant pain. In these instances, the heaviest prescription drugs and injections are usually administered to lessen inflammation, swelling, stiffness and discomfort. Sometimes, surgery is recommended for treating osteoarthritis in the knee in those who are becoming increasingly immobile. There are no blood tests that can detect osteoarthritis as of yet, but X-Rays continue to be a reliable way to determine if there is any degeneration in joints. Many people are not aware that they are experiencing degenerative arthritis until much later in life when they develop pain and swelling. "As for God, his way is perfect: the word of the Lord is tried: he is a buckler to all those that trust in him." (Psalm 18:30)

The condition is apparent in almost 70% of all people over 70, but can begin its onset much earlier. While the disease is generally linked to typical wear and tear to joints over time, some people are predisposed by genetics. Also, those who are overweight are at a much higher risk of developing the problem. Women are more likely than men to suffer with cartilage degeneration in the knees, especially later in life. Those who are particularly at risk should adhere to a preventive lifestyle that includes appropriate exercise, the addition of supplements to the diet such as glucosamine treatment of osteoarthritis, effective weight management and periodic checkups to determine an early onset of the disease.

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For most people spinal stenosis surgery is the final step in a pain control program. Lumbar stenosis treatment doesn't necessarily have to include surgery, but, if pain can't be controlled with non-surgical methods, an operation is an option. The good news for people suffering with a lumbar affliction is that non-surgical methods are can relieve the pain and suffering for a period of time. In fact, the symptoms could be controlled indefinitely. But non-surgical methods are not curative. Spinal stenosis surgery is about the only way remedy of the ailment. Lumbar stenosis is caused by the narrowing of the spinal canal. This can occur suddenly, but the condition usually develops over a long period of time. As the canal narrows, nerve roots that branch out from the spinal cord become irritated or squeezed, and treatment in some form becomes necessary to relieve the pain. Occasionally, the spinal cord itself can be irritated or pinched. Squeezed or irritated nerves cause pain or numbness that radiates from the lower back and down the legs. Tingling and weakness in the legs are also symptoms. Activity can increase the severity of symptoms.

If none non-surgical techniques don't relieve the symptoms or the pain becomes too much to handle, surgery is an option. Pain and disability are usually factors in determining when to have an operation. When a person's quality of life is impacted to the point that they have a difficult time caring for themselves, spinal stenosis surgery is the only remaining option. There are two common types of lumbar surgical procedures. Both have the same goal, which is to make room for the affected nerve to heal. The two types of lumbar surgery are called microdiscectomy and decompressive laminectomy. According to a medical website, microdiscectomy is more useful in treating leg pain than it is for back pain. Basically, a surgeon removes a portion of bone that is over the nerve root, or a portion of the disc located under the nerve root. This spinal stenosis surgery usually takes pressure off the nerve and provides ample space for healing. Lumbar laminectomy surgery is also called open decompression surgery. In this procedure a surgeon removes a portion of the bone over the nerve root and provides space for healing. There are other medical options available, such as spinal fusion. Individual characteristics and degree of disability are key factors in determining a course of treatment.

During spinal stenosis surgery, the patient is asleep under general anesthesia. After surgery, the patient is monitored for awhile in a recovery room and will usually leave the hospital within two to five days. Following surgery, patients may experience pain for a few weeks. But over-the-counter and prescription medications help relieve the discomfort. Depending on the extent of the surgery and the patient's overall health, recovery time may last from just a few weeks to half a year. Always keep faith in God and continue to pray for quick healing. In Psalm 38 David makes an appeal for relief of an unknown yet severe and painful illness. Severe pain and suffering can be debilitating both psychologically and physically as David's plea can attest. "I am troubled; I am bowed down greatly; I go mourning all the day long. For my loins are filled with a loathsome disease: and there is no soundness in my flesh. I am feeble and sore broken: I have roared by reason of the disquietness of my heart. Lord all my desire is before thee; and my groaning is not hid from thee." (Psalms 38: 6-9) Pain is a difficult burden to handle alone, so seek the mercy of God through prayer.

If after the initial assessment the doctor determines that spinal stenosis surgery isn't needed immediately, an effective treatment program will be developed. If lumbar spinal stenosis is suspected, there are at least two ways to confirm the existence of a problem: an MRI scan or a CT scan. The CT scan is sometimes done using an X-ray dye that has been injected into the spinal fluid. Both an MRI and CT scan procedures are too in-depth to explain in such a short article. But there are some websites with detailed descriptions of both procedures. If diagnosed, people can successfully manage their pain and symptoms through non-surgical means. Generally, non-surgical treatments are preferable to spinal stenosis surgery. Treatment may include an exercise program supervised by a physical therapist, activity modification, and epidural injections. Keep in mind, none of these methods will produce a cure. They are merely a means of controlling pain. According to online sources, inactivity can be detrimental or even debilitating to lumbar spinal stenosis patients. Therefore, the physical therapist will design an exercise program that will keep the patient active but will not add to the problem.

Physical therapists sometimes use heat or cold therapy as well as water therapy to treat lumbar conditions. Acupuncture is an alternative treatment often used to relieve pain. After assessing musculoskeletal imbalances, a physical therapist can more easily determine a course of action, which may include electrical stimulation, stretching exercises, and posture training. Obviously, patients should avoid activity that causes any increase in pain and suffering, which could ultimately lead to spinal stenosis surgery. Again, the primary goal of the treatment program is to relieve a person's pain and suffering. And it may be necessary to modify activities to accomplish the goal. For example, people adjust the way they walk, or they use assistance while walking. Leaning forward while walking is more comfortable and helps to alleviate the pain. Canes, walkers, and shopping carts are useful supports for people who finding leaning forward a comfortable position but are concerned with losing their balance and falling. Finally, an epidural injection of cortisone usually relieves pain symptoms and is a valuable part of the spinal stenosis treatment. Injections are given several times over the course of a few months. For some people, over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications can be helpful.

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Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis is a disease not so commonly discussed, leaving most of us little knowledge about its effects, treatments, or severity. Although we generally think of arthritis as a disease of the aging, juvenile arthritis is a reality that causes joint inflammation and stiffness for more than six weeks in a child of sixteen years of age or less. The inflammation causes redness, swelling, warmth, and soreness in the joints. Some may even experience affects on their internal organs such as the heart, spleen, liver, and lymph nodes.

Although most people don't realize it, juvenile rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disorder. The immune system, which normally helps to fight off harmful foreign substances such as bacteria or viruses, begins to attack healthy cells and tissues. Scientists aren't sure of the cause, but they suspect it is something in the child's genetic makeup that develops problems with his joints and bones. Sometimes the trigger may be an environmental factor such as a virus that triggers development of pain. Persistent joint swelling, pain, and stiffness are typical, and commonly affects the joints in the hands and feet. It seems to be worse after sleeping, so one of the earliest signs of juvenile arthritis is often limping in the morning because of an affected knee. Often the symptoms flare up and down, called remissions flare-ups. Some children experience one or two flare-ups and are never bothered again, while some have many flare-ups or have symptoms that never go away. The symptoms usually present when a doctor sees a child are: persistent pain or swelling of joints, an unexplained rash and fever, or an unexplained limp. Joint swelling or pain must exist for at least six weeks for juvenile arthritis to be considered as the cause. For this reason, it is helpful for the parents to keep a record of when the symptoms first appeared. Blood tests and x-rays are useful diagnostic tools when trying to decide if a child is afflicted with this disease.

When a child has juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, treatment by a rheumatologist is necessary. A team approach, with a pediatrician, rheumatologist, and physical therapist, provide optimal treatment. Non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are often prescribed to reduce the swelling, and in severe cases, additional disease-modifying medicines are given. Physical therapy is an important part of the child's recovery plan. Exercise keeps the muscles in tone and can preserve the range and motion of the joints. Some people seek alternative ways of treating arthritis, such as special diets or supplements. These methods have not been found particularly helpful, but they aren't harmful either. A child may be helped by some of the alternative approaches by relieving the stress of living with a chronic illness. Doctors stress it is important not to neglect the regular health care treatment.

The entire family is affected when a child has juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, and there are things the family can do to help the child to cope. First, treat the child as normally as possible by keeping him involved in family activities. The parents must keep close communication with the child's physician so that medicines can be balanced to treat the symptoms. Parents should encourage exercise and physical therapy, and during remissions, let the child be involved in team sports to help keep the joints strong and flexible and provide playtime with other children. The family can also work closely with the school so that school officials understand that the child may be absent for long periods of time and will need at-home lesson plans to keep up while he is ill. Allowing the child to leave class just a little earlier to give him more time to get to the next class is another important modification.

The disease should be explained to the child's classmates, so everyone understands what's happening to their friend. Children can be very supportive of one another when they understand what's going on. Children should understand that getting a disease is no one's fault. Sometimes children get the notion that a child is being punished for something he did when he gets sick. There are also support groups to help a child cope with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis by talking to others who share his experience. There are groups for the entire family as well, which helps them cope with the special stresses that occur. Whether it is a short-lived problem, or a lifelong one, children can be helped when they are stricken with the strange and painful disease called juvenile arthritis. Psalm 127:3 tells us, "Children are a heritage of the Lord." We as believers all have a responsibility to care for those little ones who touch our lives. Helping them struggle those discouraging times with their disease is important for each of us.

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Arthritis of the spine and arthritis of the neck can be very painful and debilitating problems that often affect individuals who are 40 or older. Both diseases have similar symptoms, including pain and numbness in the back, neck, head, and shoulders. The causes of these diseases may vary from one person to the next, but usually degeneration in the bones along with calcium build up may be significant causes of this problem. There are many forms of treatment that are commonly used for individuals suffering from these painful diseases. One of the most common treatments is restricted movement for the neck and back with a cervical collar, much like those used for individuals suffering from whiplash. Surgery is another treatment option that may be necessary if pain or complications continue after the use of the cervical collar has not shown any improvement.

The symptoms may be different for different people and the ups and downs of these symptoms will also vary. The back, neck, head and shoulders may ache from time to time and then be all right other times. Sometimes, bending and other common movements may cause pressure and pain to occur with arthritis of the spine. Often, the area that is affected will become numb for no reason. Numbness is very common, especially in arthritis of the neck. Other areas, including the arms and legs may also experience some numbness at times. In some cases, problems or changes with urination may arise. Frequent urination or the urgent need to urinate may affect the individual suffering from these diseases.

Sometimes past injuries are the culprit. An individual who has fallen or put extreme strain on the back or neck may be vulnerable to these forms of arthritis. The pain and strain from a fall or other injury can cause severe problems to occur, especially if medical help or advice is not sought in a timely manner. Degeneration of the spine can be to blame in some cases of arthritis of the spine. This has sometimes been attributed to genetic reasons and often blamed on the lack of calcium, much like with osteoporosis. The build-up of calcium in the bones can also be the cause. When these issues occur, nerves may become pinched or compacted, causing severe pain or numbness in the affected areas. Many individuals that suffer from arthritis of the neck will also be affected by herniated discs.

There are many treatment options that can be sought. One of the first methods of treatment will be medication to relieve the pain. This will only be helpful and will not alleviate the problem for arthritis of the neck. The most common treatment used in treating individuals is the use of a cervical collar. This type of collar will help to hold the neck straight and help to relieve some back pain. Sometimes, a stronger collar or brace can be used. This allows little room for movement, but can often be successful in the relief of the symptoms of pain and numbness in the affected areas. If a collar is not helpful, there is only one more option for most individuals. This option includes surgery for arthritis of the spine, which is often used in cases of severe pain. Also, if there are compressed nerves in the spine, surgery will be used to decompress the nerves in an attempt to relieve the pain and pressure. In severe cases where the individual has difficulty in several areas, including urination, severe pain, and weakness, surgery is the only option. While surgery can be successful, there are risks, as with any form of surgery.

The pain from these diseases can be very severe and debilitating for the individual. This can result in a loss of employment and reduction in the ability to live on one's own and do simple everyday tasks. Sometimes, a person with arthritis of the spine can suddenly suffer excruciating pain that will keep him bedridden and unable to do any of the normal housekeeping and hygienic tasks that he normally takes for granted. Patients who endure arthritis of the neck can have similar symptoms. This can bring on added problems, such as depression, loneliness, and financial difficulties. For a Christian, a deep faith and belief in God can be the most helpful form of treatment and relief. Trusting God, having faith in His word, and asking for healing can be more effective than any medicine, brace, or surgery can offer. God encourages us to turn to Him in times of crisis. Jesus gave this advice: "Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible" (Mark 10:27). God knows more about our problems, our pain, and our despair than anyone else. He is the creator of our bodies. We can go to Him with our illnesses and pain, and He will give us peace.

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Chronic lower back pain may be an indication of a serious problem especially if the discomfort has lasted for several months. Causes may include a herniated or ruptured disc, a tumor, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis or another serious disease. Other possible causes are strained muscles or ligaments, spinal degeneration, sciatica, skeletal problems, and fibromyalgia. A diagnosis is often made through a physical examination, x-ray imaging, discography, computerized tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, ultrasound imaging or an electro diagnostic procedure. Lower back pain remedies may include but are not limited to applying ice and heat, bed rest, exercise, medications, spinal manipulation, biofeedback, interventional therapy, and surgery.

Pain that is persistent and prolonged should be checked out by a physician. A person who has suffered several months with chronic lower back pain may need to undergo some diagnostic tests to determine the cause. A conventional x-ray is usually the first test that is recommended by a doctor. The results may show fractures, broken bones, or injuries to vertebrae. Suffering with pain can be exhausting and debilitating. A person who finds that he or she is in this sort of predicament should put their faith and trust in God. "But unto you that fear My name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in His wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall." (Malachi 4:2)

Muscle and ligament strain will usually respond to therapy that includes bed rest and medication such as ibuprofen or other analgesics. Sometimes muscle relaxers are prescribed along with applying hot and cold packs. Discomfort caused by tension may respond to massage therapy and relaxation techniques. Persistent lower back pain remedies for tension often responds to spinal manipulation through a licensed specialist.

Spinal degeneration happens when the discs begin to wear down leading to narrowing of the spinal column. One of the symptoms of this type of chronic lower back pain is discomfort first thing in the morning and after walking or standing for long periods of time. The best thing for spinal degeneration is to stretch before getting out of bed in the morning and to limit periods of walking and standing. Exercise will provide some benefits but activity should be accomplished by doing a little at a time.

Sciatica is a condition involving a herniated or ruptured disc that is pressing on the sciatic nerve. The sciatic is a large nerve that extends down the spine into the pelvis and down the leg. Sciatica can lead to numbness and loss of motor control if the nerve becomes pinched. One way to diagnose the condition is by using ultrasound imaging. Ultrasound imaging uses infrared technology to measure temperature changes to find nerve root compression. Lower back pain remedies for nerve discomfort include taking anticonvulsants to relax the nerve, and interventional therapy can be used to block nerve pain by injecting steroids or local anesthetics into the area that is inflamed. Surgery is another way to treat the discomfort.

Skeletal problems can put strain on vertebrae, muscles, ligaments, and tendons in the spine causing chronic lower back pain. One of the conditions associated with skeletal problems is scoliosis or curvature of the spine. Curvature of the spine often occurs in children while they are still growing. If caught in time a brace can help correct the curvature but in most cases surgery is necessary. Children that are school age should get checked at least once during the school year for curvature of the spine during their physical exam needed for school.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain condition that may include widespread musculoskeletal pain. A person who is suffering with discomfort from fibromyalgia will have tender points in the spine, shoulders, hips, and neck. Treatment may include anti-inflammatories, relaxation techniques, sleep aids, and anti-depressants. Stress and noise can aggravate the symptoms of fibromyalgia so the patient needs to learn positive coping strategies for dealing with stress. The condition usually includes chronic fatigue and brain fog. Sleep remedies are the most important treatment for this syndrome so doing a sleep study may prove beneficial. Restorative sleep often helps with the discomfort of fibromyalgia.

There are many diagnostic methods available today for trying to determine lower back pain remedies for ailing patients. A herniated or ruptured disc can be discovered through a procedure called a discography. Dye is injected into the problematic area to provide a picture of the damaged disc. Another way to discover disc problems is through a procedure called a myelogram. Dye is used in a myelogram but it is injected through the entire spinal column in order to find all of the problematic areas.

Computerized tomography or a CT scan is an x-ray that is performed by a computer to show two dimensions of the structures in the back to find the cause of chronic lower back pain. Another way to diagnose discomfort is through a magnetic resonance imaging procedure, better known as an MRI. An MRI can help a doctor discover degeneration of the bone and disease in the tissues, nerves, muscles, and blood vessels. This type of procedure is done with the help of radio waves within a magnetic field. A signal is processed by the computer and projects an image that differentiates between tissue and bone.

Another way to diagnose back discomfort is through an electro diagnostic procedure known as a nerve conduction study that measures the electrical activity in the nerves. A fine needle is inserted into the muscles and a mild shock is administered to stimulate the nerve. This type of diagnostic test shows if the nerve is damaged. Nerve conduction studies are helpful in finding spinal cord injury, nerve root compression, neuromuscular conditions, and will show trauma to nerves within the body. Lower back pain remedies for spinal cord injury will greatly depend upon the extent of the injury but oftentimes surgery is necessary. For a better outcome an individual with back discomfort that lasts for more than a couple of weeks should make an appointment with a doctor to find the cause and get treatment. Waiting too long to seek help could make a difference with the end result.

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Arthritis relief can be found from a variety of remedies and products to help those suffering manage their pain and mobility while continuing to enjoy a life that is full and exciting. Research in the fields of arthritis products is changing and improving, and today there are new products and suggestions that bring pain relief for thousands. This degenerative disease can effect anyone at any age, and depending on the class or type of disease, the degree of pain or the restriction of movement can vary widely. Anyone suffering from joint pain, swelling, or limited movement should seek a doctor for a complete examination before starting a program or medications for relief of these symptoms.

There are actually over one hundred different types and classes of arthritis, but the symptoms of most classes include swelling of various joints, stiffness and decreased mobility. All forms of this disease are painful and can be characterized by joint deformity, fatigue, weight loss, or unexplainable fever. Family history contributes to a person's risk. Doctors diagnosing a patient looking for arthritis relief will conduct an examination, analyze family traits, and take x-rays to determine an exact diagnosis. Different forms or types of the disease may be treated with different arthritis products and exercises.

The main classes of this disease fall under osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. With osteoarthritis, the patient suffers a loss of cartilage or deterioration within the bone structures. This type is generally seen in the elderly as the body begins to age and deteriorate after years of wear and tear on different joints. Rheumatoid is the result of joint inflammation and is caused by problems with a person's natural immune system. This disease can be the cause of tremendous chronic pain and lead to the deformation of joints, crippling its victims. It can spread to internal organs as well. There is currently no cure for the different forms of Rheumatoid arthritis, but there medications that can help with pain management and mobility, staving off the process of the disease. The current most prescribed drugs on the market today are Enbrel, a powerful drug that neutralizes the inflammation causing protein found in the blood, or the older, but proven, Methotrexate, a prescription drug that modifies the disease. Some doctors are just beginning to experiment with a combination of these drugs and are finding positive results in some patients.

Outside of prescription medications, arthritis relief can come from remedies and programs instituted right at home. Aspirin may be taken to reduce swelling and help with pain. Eating healthy and developing a regular routine of exercise can help manage pain and keep bones healthy, as well. The types of food a person eats has a direct result on how well his body performs. Calcium and vitamin D are needed to maintain healthy bones, so the healthy diet will see that these components are balanced. Through the Internet, a computer user can find many diet plans and exercise programs that may be researched when looking for natural arthritis products. But the patient should check with his doctor before launching a new dietary program that may include extreme doses of certain vitamins or minerals. Only a medical professional can advice about the calculated risks of certain treatments. Finding a good balanced diet that includes the natural resources the body needs to function properly can do no harm. Many different products claim to help the sufferer, so the wise person will carefully research any before making major life changes.

The Bible can also be a source of comfort for those suffering with any type of chronic pain. When dealing with a debilitating disease and looking for arthritis relief, it is good to know that the pain and trials we suffer now are here for only a little while. The apostle Peter gives us this encouragement for dealing with issues that affect our well being: "Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: that the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ" (1 Peter 1:6-7). God's promises are fulfilled in eternity, but He also promises us peace and contentment here when we turn our problems over the Him. We can't let our chronic pain stop us from serving Him.

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