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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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Anti inflammatory supplements can help to lower inflammation and pain without using drugs that carry serious side effects. Chronic inflammation can lead to health problems such as heart disease, autoimmune disorders, cancer, osteoporosis, and other immune system disorders such as psoriasis. Non-steroidal anti inflammatory drugs are often used to treat these illnesses. Using NSAIDs as a prolonged treatment for pain can result in side effects that include but are not limited to stomach pain, ulcers, and liver or kidney damage. Anti inflammatory creams contain menthol and eucalyptus oil that give temporary relief from pain associated with swelling. Natural solutions contain vitamins, herbs, trace minerals, and enzymes. Conventional compounds contain steroids, analgesics, salicylates, and other pain relieving ingredients.

When the body detects a foreign substance the white blood cells go to work to fight against the invader. The symptoms of this battle results in fever, aches and pains, fatigue, and headaches. Anti inflammatory supplements help to prevent inflammation. Vitamin E helps to boost the immune system by increasing levels of bio-chemicals that are crucial to the immune system in fighting infection. Vitamin C works in the body to help the immune system as an antioxidant. Ascorbic acid is also believed to help cure the common cold, repair damaged tissue, and helps to keep bones healthy. Vitamin B complex helps to keep the immune system strong, provides energy to the cells, and helps with circulation.

There are many diseases that are related to chronic inflammation. Some of them include allergies, anemia, arthritis, cancer, fibromyalgia, kidney failure, lupus, psoriasis, pancreatitis, stroke, osteoporosis, and Alzheimer's. Conventional treatments for pain associated with swelling does not normally include anti inflammatory supplements. Most physicians prescribe NSAIDs and other prescription medications created to treat specific disorders such as immunosupressants for psoriasis and anti-depressants for fibromyalgia. Patients may find that they are discouraged because of the side effects associated with the drugs that give them relief from pain. Prayer and meditation on God's Word can give a person hope and comfort when dealing with pain related conditions. "And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away." (Revelation 21:14)

Essential fatty acids omega 3 and omega 6 are very beneficial in treating inflammation. These substances are found in salmon, halibut, rainbow trout, flaxseed oil, walnuts, dark green vegetables, and canola oil. People with skin inflammation due to eczema or psoriasis will greatly benefit from essential fatty acids and using anti inflammatory creams that contain vitamins, herbs, minerals and enzymes. Minerals that are good for pain and swelling are magnesium and calcium. Enzymes derived from raw foods help to aid digestion and promote healthy immune function. Other benefits from taking enzymes include but are not limited to improved liver function and relief from lactose intolerance.

Glucosamine sulfate, boswellia, ginger root extract and white willow bark extract are some of the alternative ingredients found in anti inflammatory supplements. Glucosamine is found in the skin of shellfish and is used to treat people with swelling and pain associated with the loss of cartilage. Boswellia is gum resin that helps pain in those who suffer with arthritis symptoms. Ginger root extract contains enzymes that are beneficial to swelling and pain associated with muscle inflammation. White willow bard extract is especially helpful with joint and back pain. Alternative therapies can provide some natural ingredients that have few side effects but before using them a doctor should be consulted especially for those who are taking prescription drugs so as to avoid drug and herbal interactions. Other alternative ways to combat pain and swelling are exercise, relaxation techniques, sunshine, massage therapy, and restorative sleep.

Topical solutions contain ingredients that help to soothe inflammation associated with pain and itching. Anti inflammatory creams can be helpful with treating rashes such as eczema and psoriasis. Some of the topical solutions contain ingredients that help to moisturize the skin and soothe the itch such as aloe vera. Other ingredients that can help are vitamin E oil, almond oil, avocado oil, shea butter, and cocoa butter. Conventional topical solutions may contain steroids and should be used with caution. Over-the-counter steroid topicals are mild and can be used without hesitation but prescriptions are much stronger. Using too much can cause the skin to become thin and have the appearance of stretch marks. Excessive steroids absorbed into the bloodstream can lead to serious health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.

Analgesics and salicylates are commonly used in conventional topical solutions to help with pain and swelling. In addition, some anti inflammatory creams contain antibiotics that can be applied where there is irritation and infection present. There are also topical solutions designed to treat other skin problems such as fungus or yeast infections. Fungus infections may also be treated with oral anti fungal medications. Common types of fungus infections include athlete's foot, yeast, ringworm, and dandruff. For serious skin conditions a physician should be consulted before the patient starts self-treatment.

Studies have been conducted to test the idea that inflammation is linked to nerve receptors in the brain. Some chemicals may be able to change the messages the brain sends to the body and affect the response that causes swelling and pain. This research could lead to new medications for diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and other immune system disorders as well as new anti inflammatory supplements that strengthen the central nervous system. Hopefully one day there will be a greater understanding of immune system functions which may lead to a higher quality of life for those who suffer with chronic inflammation.

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Arthritis prevention may seem impossible to individuals, but there can be steps taken to help prevent arthritis from occurring. Many arthritis supplements exist to assist in joint health which may aid in the prevention of arthritic conditions. Glucosamine has been shown to be helpful with joint problems, especially for the individual suffering from osteoarthritis. Also, cetyl myristoleate is another natural substance that is being used in the treatment of osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritic problems. Both of these supplements are useful in increasing the joint health in individuals suffering from arthritic pain. These and other natural supplements can be found in many forms, including the form of a liquid or pill. Prevention can also be done through other measures, including weight loss, exercise, and a balanced diet. Each of these preventive measures can be used together to help control the risks of the potential for arthritis. Maintaining health through these actions along with taking proper supplements can increase the individuals ability to prevent painful joints from becoming a problem.

Suffering from arthritic pain can be difficult and overwhelming for some individuals. There is much pain and discomfort that is often associated with the symptoms of joint problems. Joint pain is a major problem that affects many individuals. For someone suffering from the symptoms, there are solutions that may rid the pain and prevent further discomfort. Many natural supplements exist to help reduce pain and build up joints that may have degenerated over a period of time. Glucosamine is one of the many arthritis supplements that has been successfully used. It has been used to repair the tissue and cartilage in the joints that have been affected. Cetyl myristoleate is another natural substance that is being used for arthritis treatment. Much like glucosamine, cetyl myristoleate has been shown to increase joint health in individuals who are suffering from osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritic pain. While these natural supplements may not be useful in arthritis prevention at the moment, they are promising treatments for individuals that are currently suffering from the pain and discomfort.

While there is no proven way to completely avoid joint pain, there are certain steps that can be taken to help in the prevention and treatment of this arthritic problems. Weight loss can be a very important step to take in preventing arthritic disease from occurring in the future. Many individuals are overweight or obese. This additional weight will cause more pressure on the joints, especially in the individuals legs. For overweight individuals, arthritic pain in the knees can cause serious problems with walking and moving around on a daily basis. Maintaining a healthy weight can be very effective in arthritis prevention. Losing weight or maintaining a healthy weight can be accomplished through exercise and an active lifestyle. Exercise will also allow the joints to be strengthened so arthritic degeneration may not be as much of a risk for individuals. Cardiovascular and strength training can be very effective in weight loss and in increasing joint strength. Along with exercise, eating a balanced diet can be helpful in losing weight. Eating large amounts of vegetables and fruits, along with smaller portions of the other food groups, can be helpful in maintaining a healthy weight. Also, this type of balanced diet will offer more natural vitamins and nutrients that are essential for the individuals health. Using these methods to maintain a healthy body, including healthy joints, can be a good way to successfully combat arthritic conditions. Along with these measures, an individual can use arthritis supplements to further provide relief from the pain and discomfort of the condition.

Prevention of arthritic conditions is not something that many people may feel is possible. The truth, however, is that some particular steps in health and medicine can be taken to provide some preventive measures for this disorder. Arthritis supplements have the ability to provide some relief and assistance for individuals that may be suffering from pain. For osteoarthritis, many doctors may suggest the use of glucosamine. This natural substance can repair joints that are affected by arthritic degneration. Cetyl myristoleate is another natural supplement that is being used for individuals who suffer from osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

There are many measures that may be taken to help aid in arthritis prevention. Eating a balanced diet, exercise, and weight loss can be useful ways to prevent arthritic degeneration from occurring in the future. A balanced diet will offer natural vitamins and nutrients to provide natural health to the body and joints. Exercise is important because it can provide strength to the joints that will be affected by arthritis. Losing weight or maintaining a healthy weight will be necessary to lessen the stress or strain on the joints, especially the knees. For someone with arthritic pain, these measures can be taken, along with arthritis supplements, to aid in the treatment of the many forms of arthritic conditions. Along with these answers, a healthy spiritual life and faith in God can be helpful in healing the body from the pain of arthritis. "But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed." (Isaiah 53:5)

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Alternative therapies for rheumatoid arthritis may exist to help individuals deal with the pain that comes with this condition including dietary changes, exercise, medications for inflammation, and a variety of other treatment options. While these options may help some individuals, arthritis alternative medicine may be useful as a treatment or a supplement to one of these conventional forms of treatment. Acupressure is one of the most unique and sometimes criticized alternative therapies. It uses the pressure points of the body to reduce or relieve pain. Herbal remedies also exist in many forms as an medicine. One of the most interesting and empowering forms of treatment may come through spiritual healing or prayer. Rheumatoid arthritis can be very painful leading many individuals to try various alternatives to alleviate the painful symptoms.

Acupressure is a very unique form of treatment that individuals may seek as an alternative therapies for rheumatoid arthritis traditional treatments. Many individuals often use acupressure paired with an alternative medicine to relieve symptoms. Acupressure by itself can be a successful treatment. Depending on the actual center of the pain, various pressure points on the body can be used to soothe pain. The pressure point that exists between the thumb and forefinger is often a helpful point of relief. Individuals that suffer from rheumatoid or any form of this debilitating disease often have pain in the hands, fingers, elbows, and neck. These areas can be affected by applying pressure to this point between the thumb and forefinger. Other points that are affective in acupressure include the point right below the knee, one between the big and second toes, and another point that can be found between the fourth and last toes. These points are more helpful in alleviating pain in the legs and feet. Alternative therapies like acupressure, help individuals cope with the pain when arthritis alternative medicine or other treatments may not be enough.

Many natural or herbal substances can help soothe pain and some contain properties that may act as an anti-inflammatory remedies. Herbs can be very successful as alternative therapies for rheumatoid arthritis. One such herb that has been used to relieve inflammation from arthritis and other conditions is feverfew. It has been commonly used by arthritis sufferers over the years, along with individuals that suffer from severe headaches or migraines. Blueberries are a fruit that may be helpful as an arthritis alternative medicine to relieve inflammation. They are common antioxidants and have also been shown to be anti-inflammatory. Many other herbs are known for their abilities to relieve pain. St. Johns wort oil is often combined with other natural herbs to create lotions, creams, or ointments to aid in pain relief for arthritis or other conditions.

Spiritual healing may not seem to be as common as other treatments, but it can be a very empowering and rejuvenating experience. Being a Christian, having faith in God, and trusting in his ability to heal can be the best form of arthritis alternative medicine that an individual suffering from this disease or affliction can find. The most important part of spiritual healing lies in praying to God. For a Christian, the individual must pray cleansing prayers for forgiveness followed by thoroughly thanking God for all that has been given and all that is to come. It is very important to understand that God can provide spiritual healing and thank Him for that healing before it is even accomplished. As a non-Christian, the individual seeking spiritual healing must first make peace with God through salvation. When the person truly believes that God is God, Jesus is the Son of God, and that sin brings death, the individual must seek forgiveness for sins. This is the most important step in healing because no matter how physically sick the individual is, the spirit must be healed before physical healing can occur. Prayer and spiritual healing is one of the most important alternative therapies for rheumatoid arthritis that an individual can find.

Seeking therapies can often be helpful in finding relief from pain and suffering. Acupressure is sometimes a source of help or hope for individuals living with this painful condition. As alternative therapies for rheumatoid arthritis go, this treatment can be done anywhere, anytime, and with little effort. When conventional options for treatment fail or are not enough, herbs are often considered to be a good form of medicine. They can provide many options for pain relief and care. Christians can seek help and healing from a much higher power and authority. Belief in God and His ability to heal can be the most affective form of arthritis alternative medicine. "Whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed...and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass: he shall have whatsoever he saith. Therefore I say unto you, what things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them." (Mark 11:24)

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