JOINT PROBLEMS

Arthritis
Arthritis causes cartilage to degenerate and the bones to become overgrown or waste away. It attacks the linings of the joints, which become stiff, swollen and painful. Muscles that move the joints are unable to work correctly and they waste away, while tissues around the joints become inflammed, filled with fluid - not to mention painful. The two common forms of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease in which the protective, shock-absorbing cartilage between the bones of the joint wears away.

It is aggravated by impaired blood supply, previous injury, or by being overweight.

Rheumatoid arthritis, a progressive, destructive swelling o the joints, is usually of unknown origins, though it may be a virus infection. Often affecting the elderly, this incapacitating condition is more common among women. It may be triggered by emotional stress.

People suffering from this auto-immune disorder are more susceptible than others to infection. It can be debilitating, but regular exercise can help build muscle tone. Though exercise a hot, inflammed joint is not advisable, try to move the hand through its full range of movement at least once a day to maintain mobility. Applying heat can ease pain and reduce muscle spasms.

The essential fatty acid omega-3 helps reduce inflammation, so make omega-3-rich fish (mackerel, freshwater trout, tuna, salmon and herring) a regular part of your diet.


Gout
This metabolic disease is associated with excess uric acid in the blood and the deposit of uric acid salts around the joints. It is characterized by painful inflammation and swelling of the small joints, but tends to favour the big toe. It usually affects men, and is perhaps triggered by emotional stress.


Avoid or cut down on red meats, offal, shellfish (mussels and oysters), peas, beans and alcohol, especially beer and wine.

For immediate relief, anti-inflammatory medication can be effective, but seek medical advice in the early stages.