Osteoarthritis is considered the most common form of arthritis and the one most often found in seniors. It is estimated that 20 million Americans have arthritis, and the annual societal cost is close to $95 billion. Osteoarthritis is also more common among women than among men.

Although osteoarthritis can be linked to age, other risk factors may be evident, such as previous injury or trauma. Unfortunately for today’s society, with its ever expanding waistline, obesity can have a detrimental effect on osteoarthritis especially in the load bearing joints. Osteoarthritis symptoms will in most cases attack one’s hands, back, knees and very commonly their hips

OA is however far less common in the shoulder area than in other joints, however it can develop in the shoulder joint (the glenohumeral joint). In such cases, it is most often associated with a previous injury, and patients gradually develop pain and stiffness in the back of the shoulder. Some of the factors contributing to disease susceptibility include genetics, body mass, previous history of trauma to a major limb, occupational influences, and immobilization.

It is unclear whether excess weight influences OA or whether OA contributes to obesity, either way it is clear that losing excess weight can only help one’s osteoarthritis.

Osteoarthritis is unfortunately an on going condition

OA is not normally thought of as being an inflammatory arthritis condition, having said that, recent studies have indicated that arthritics who suffer with osteoarthritis do carry a greater level of cells which cause the inflammation of the joint area.

OA as we know is a very common and unfortunately an on going condition, which does tend to kick in as our body’s get older, however more recently reported cases of OA indicate the conditions apparent rise amongst a younger population, which is set to become a significant health issue in the near future. So, while it is still true to say that OA is more prevalent with age, it is not true to describe osteoarthritis as an inevitable part of growing older.

Osteoarthritis is a variable disease, as there are many different types, affecting different joints, and is considered a progressive disease that worsens over time. Patients can develop other symptoms such as loss of movement, stiffness and swelling in the hip and snapping of the hip.

Joint Deterioration

The breaking up of the cartilage can cause Inflammation of the surrounding joint capsule, though often mild, compared to that which occurs in rheumatoid arthritis.

The cartilage fragments are released into the synovial space, and the cells lining the joint. Inflammation can prevent the normal use of the joint and cause it to lose the ability to function properly.

The pain, the swelling, and stiffness is normally at it’s worst last thing at night. In many cases of OA especially in older patients, the outcome of OA is more often than not surgery, such as joint replacement, this is not always the case for younger sufferers however. A younger person with OA will normally only require surgery in a very advanced or aggressive case.

At the hip and knee, an uncomplicated joint replacement has only around an 85% chance of still being intact and functioning after 15 years, however replacement joint surgery may be necessary in severe cases.

Exercise can Help

Low impact exercising is not thought to be damaging to those suffering with OA, In most cases simple exercising is encouraged as a way of re-gaining some mobility in an effected joint, an ongoing exercise program can also help to strengthen the area around the joint, which aids support. Exercising on a regular basis is known to be beneficial for numerous reasons, apart from OA.

Always consult with your physician or health care professional before embarking on any kind of exercise regime, as in most cases they will be able to advise you ow which exercise would be suitable for your condition.

Not All Arthritis Supplements are Regulated by the FDA

Don’t be tempted in to taking supplements that promise the earth, yes they just might work for you, however unless they are governed by the FDA (Food and Drug administration) who knows what your taking, you may end up with a container full of capsules containing nothing more than, ground rock and chalk. Only use FDA approved products.

Treat Arthritis The Natural Way

One can in many cases successfully treat one’s own arthritis, using the right alternative approach, even if they suffer with osteoarthritis. This may sound a bit new age, however modern medicine took its roots from nature, Devils claw (herb) is known to reduce swelling and pain. many sufferers have been shown to greatly improve when they cut out certain foods or restrict their diet.

Flush the Body of All it’s Poisonous Debris – And Watch Your Health Improve!

Drinking water has proven to be beneficial in the control of one’s arthritic condition, drinking at least 2 litres a day (filtered if possible), helps to flush the body of toxins. Only use filtered or bottled water, due to the metal content of unfiltered.

People suffering with osteoarthritis may like to experiment with their diet, foods which are known to be good for OA and indeed most types of arthritis are fresh fruit due to the fantastic natural antioxidant properties they contain,(not the citrus variety), Oily fish is especially good for those suffering with arthritis due to it’s high content of fatty acids and vitamin E.

Natural alternatives to treating one’s arthritis, whichever type you have, do exist and may be far more effective than the aggressive prescribed drugs used to treat the condition. Alternative treatments or approaches tackle the underlying problems associated with arthritis, not just the symptoms. Why not try a natural approach to your condition, most only involve simple life changes, it has to be better than the harsh drugs your doctor’s prescribed.