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Osteoarthritis affects around 4 million people in the UK every year.

When a joint develops osteoarthritis, some of the cartilage covering the ends of the bones gradually roughens and becomes thin, and the bone underneath thickens.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a serious and disabling autoimmune disease in which the immune system mistakenly attacks and destroys healthy body tissue.

It affects more than 690,000 people in the UK, of which over 500,000 are women and around three-quarters are of working age.

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However there is one form of arthritis - which occurs most commonly in the knees and hips.

Septic arthritis is the inflammation of a joint which is caused by a bacterial infection.

It is also known as bacterial arthritis, or even infections arthritis.

Any joint can be affected by the condition but it occurs most frequently in the knees and hips. However there is one form of arthritis - which occurs most commonly in the knees and hips.

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Septic arthritis is the inflammation of a joint which is caused by a bacterial infection.

It is also known as bacterial arthritis, or even infections arthritis.

Any joint can be affected by the condition but it occurs most frequently in the knees and hips. There are number of factors which can increase the risk of developing the condition, including having joint surgery, such as a knee replacement or hip replacement, having a bacterial infection somewhere else in your body and having a long term condition.

Having rheumatoid arthritis can increase the risk of developing the condition.

Experts also warn that using injected drugs, or medication which suppresses the immune system can also be a factor.

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Septic arthritis typically causes severe pain

Invasive bacterial infections caused by Staphylococcus aureus and Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria can be life-threatening and fatal, causing sepsis - blood poisoning, pneumonia and Toxic Shock Syndrome.

The bacteria, which normally lives harmlessly on the skin, nose or mouth but can invade the bodys bloodstream and release poisonous toxins.

Toxins can damage tissue skin and organs and can disturb vital organ functions.

If doctors suspect pain could be a symptom of septic arthritis, GPs are likely to refer patients to A&E, where they will give patients a blood test.

The condition is usually treated with antibiotics and often fluid will have to be drained from one of the affected joints.

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Arthritis symptoms - painful joints could be a sign of THIS life-threatening condition - Express.co.uk

By Cottage Health | June 7, 2017 | 9:30 a.m.

Few of us need to be given more reasons to drop those extra pounds. We could do it for our hearts or our chins, for lower medical bills or freer spirits.

But did you know you should also do it for your joints?

Being overweight increases your risk of degenerative arthritis in the weight-bearing joints, especially the knees, said Dr. Victor Tacconelli, an orthopedic surgeon affiliated with Cottage Health.

According to the U.S. Surgeon Generals Office, your odds of developing osteoarthritis (OA) the most common type of the disease increase by 9 percent to 13 percent for every two-pound increase in weight.

In other words, being 20 pounds overweight doubles your chances of getting arthritis.

Conversely, losing just 12 pounds halves the risk of osteoarthritis for overweight women, according to Dr. David Felson, the former director of the Boston University Arthritis Center and currently a professor at Boston University School of Medicine.

There is no doubt that being overweight contributes to getting osteoarthritis and to making it worse, he told Arthritis Today magazine.

The extra weight is especially hard on the knees, since every extra pound you carry adds a three- or four-pound load to each knee, Felson says.

Study after study has established the link between being overweight or obese and having arthritis in the hips or knees. According to one study, obese women were nearly four times as likely as nonobese women to develop osteoarthritis of the knee, and the risk for obese men was nearly five times greater.

In fact, the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 66 percent of people with arthritis are overweight or obese.

If you already have osteoarthritis, doctors say that losing just a few pounds can significantly decrease your pain, not to mention lower your chances of developing OA in other weight-bearing joints.

Remember, for every pound you lose, its like taking four pounds of load off each knee every time you take a step.

One problem is that osteoarthritis often makes it painful to exercise, leading many sufferers to avoid physical activity and put on even more weight. But low-impact exercises, like water aerobics and bicycling, can help your sore joints and relieve stiffness and swelling.

Read the rest here:
Arthritis and Your Weight Have More of a Connection Than You Think - Noozhawk

With each jump on the trampoline, Katie Chipman soared a little higher.

The creaks of springs and the thunk of her feet hitting the trampoline echoed through the quiet gym. After half a dozen jumps, the 12-year-old threw out the tricks.

Flips, spirals, twists.

When her turn was done, she sat on the sideline, applauding and cheering on her teammates.

But seven years ago, that scene was unthinkable. Diagnosed with juvenile arthritis, Katie couldnt stand or walk, let alone compete in gymnastics.

One in every 250 children in the United States is affected by variations of the disease, according to the Arthritis Foundation.

Katies parents noticed the problem when she was 5. It started with fevers, muscle aches and a rash on her legs. The symptoms would come and go during the day and leave her exhausted. All she did was sleep.

Within a week, Katies mom took her to the familys pediatrician at Offutt Air Force Base. Katies father, Todd Chipman, was stationed there while in the Navy.

The pediatrician diagnosed Katie with a virus.

While a normal virus will run its course, this one only got worse.

I knew something wasnt right with my kid. It wasnt just a cold, her mom, Kim Chipman, said.

The Papillion family went to urgent care. Doctors there gave Katie a steroid shot that alleviated symptoms for a few days before they returned.

Almost a month after her first visit, Katie and her mom returned to the doctors office on base. After a barrage of tests, they had an answer: systemic juvenile idiopathic arthritis. That type of the disease is characterized by a spiking fever and rash.

No one in the family, including Katies twin sister, had arthritis.

I remember I looked at the doctor and said, Can we go back to mystery virus instead of this? This diagnosis is her whole life, Chipman said. It was certainly something we had to wrap our heads around.

Katie had to give up gymnastics, and she couldnt sit on the floor with kindergarten classmates, because it would be too hard to get back up.

Katies pediatric rheumatologist put her on steroids to curb inflammation. The drugs doubled the girls weight. Doctors struggled to find a medication to keep arthritis symptoms at bay without introducing a different problem.

Katie tried at-home injections, but that didnt sufficiently calm the arthritis. About a year and a half into her diagnosis, Katie started twice-a-month infusion treatments at Childrens Hospital & Medical Center.

Administered through an IV, the treatments ease Katies symptoms without introducing new side effects. Each appointment takes about four hours.

That medication is like gold for her, Kim Chipman said. It gave her her life back.

There is a risk that shell stop responding to the treatment. But theres also a slight chance that her symptoms may lessen enough to allow her to get off medication altogether.

Katies type of arthritis accounts for 10 percent of the arthritis seen in children nationally, said Dr. Adam Reinhardt, a pediatric rheumatologist at Childrens Hospital & Medical Center.

For many arthritis patients, gymnastics would be out of the question because the sport requires so much joint activity, Reinhardt said. But infusion treatments have significantly limited the symptoms of her disease.

The fact that she has responded this well to therapy and gone on to be a high-level gymnast and tumbler is impressive, Reinhardt said.

Staying active is important for adults and children diagnosed with arthritis.

Katie started gymnastics while the family was living in Hawaii. Chipman home-schooled her four children, and they did gymnastics for physical education. The other children stopped participating in the sport after moving to Papillion eight years ago.

But Katie wanted to continue. She competes on a trampoline and tumbling team through Airborne Academy near 111th and Q Streets.

At a recent regional competition, Katie took first in the trampoline category. She placed third in the double mini category another trampoline exercise and sixth in tumbling. At the end of the month, shell compete with her teammates at nationals in Milwaukee.

I want to do it because its fun, Katie said. I want to put time and effort into it, because I want to compete well.

When patients like Katie have flares of the disease, they need to take it easy and manage the pain. When Katie has a flare-up, the original symptoms fever, rash and joint pain return.

Its kind of like a freight train. It takes awhile to get going, but once it does, its hard to stop, her mom said.

Katie's gymnastics coach, Tex Womack, said its up to Katie to speak up at the gym if shes hurting.

Womack, whos been working with Katie since August, didnt know about her arthritis until she missed a few practices. He said she rarely mentions the topic in the gym.

Shes a real tough athlete, he said. She doesnt make a big deal of it to me.

Katie, who will start eighth grade at Papillion Middle School in the fall, doesnt want the disease to make her different.

I just have to go through it sometimes, because I dont like to sit out, Katie said. I like to be like everyone else and like a normal kid.

At a recent practice, Katie got a running start before launching herself onto a trampoline. She jumped once and did a back flip before gaining momentum and height. After two more back flips, she landed gingerly in a pit of foam squares.

Thats all you ever want for your kids: to be able to do what they love, Chipman said. Were very thankful weve found something that works.

kelsey.stewart@owh.com, 402-444-3100,twitter.com/kels2

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Gymnast, 12, flies high in spite of living with juvenile arthritis | Real ... - Omaha World-Herald

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The degenerative condition - where the joints become inflamed - can cause stiffness and pain.

However, recent research has found that what you eat can make symptoms better or worse.

Eating oily fish, such as salmon, mackerel and sardines, has been found by recent research to help.

This is because omega-3 has an anti-inflammatory effect.

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Some foods can exacerbate symptoms, which, in addition to joint pain, include tiredness, weight loss, night sweats and skin rashes.

However, other foods can exacerbate symptoms, which, in addition to joint pain, include tiredness, weight loss, night sweats and skin rashes.

Cassandra Barns, a nutritionist, reveals which foods to cut or reduce in your diet to prevent aggravating the condition.

Red meat

Red meats contain relatively high levels of an omega-6 fatty acid called arachidonic acid, which can convert to pro-inflammatory substances in the body and may exacerbate pain and inflammation, she said.

A small quantity of good quality red meat can be beneficial, supplying good levels of nutrients such as iron; however, those with arthritis may benefit from sticking to one or two servings per week.

Replace red meat with oily fish for the omega-3 fatty acids, and good quality organic white meats such as chicken. A good quality fish oil is essential - try Super Omega 3-6-9 by Quest Vitamins.

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Foods to avoid if you are suffering with Gout

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Fried foods

Avoid any fried foods, particularly those fried in vegetable oils. Vegetable oils are high in omega-6 fatty acids, which in high levels can convert to pro-inflammatory substances in the body, and also become rancid when heated to high temperatures, she explained.

Olive oil is a slightly better alternative to normal vegetable oils but its fatty acids can still spoil at high temperatures, so avoid heating it to smoking point.

Coconut oil can be a much better alternative: as it is mainly composed of saturated fats, it does not spoil at high temperatures, while still providing a healthier alternative to butter and other animal fats.

If you need favour, use curcumin, which is well known for its anti-inflammatory effects in your diet. Alternatively, try Natures Plus Source Of Life Garden Curcumin.

Coffee

Coffee can contribute to increased acidity of the blood, which can exacerbate any inflammation. Decaffeinated coffee is not a good alternative as it still contains substances that can be detrimental to the body, she warned.

Green tea and herbal teas are a much better option.

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Fizzy drinks and sugary foods

Like coffee, they can increase the acidity of the blood, exacerbating inflammation, she said.

The best drinks to include are pure water and herbal teas; fruit juice diluted half and half with water is OK, but avoid orange juice.

Nightshade family vegetables

These vegetables may exacerbate pain and inflammation for some people with arthritis. The nightshade family are tomatoes, white potatoes, aubergine and peppers, she explained.

Note that black pepper as a spice is not included in this group and is fine to use, as are sweet potatoes. Most other vegetables are beneficial and should be the main part of most meals.

If you are struggling with your five a day, try Natures Plus AgeLoss First Day Healthy Inflammation Response.

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High levels of wheat and dairy foods

Intolerances to wheat in particular may be particularly common, and some individuals find that finding alternatives to wheat and wheat-based foods can have a beneficial effect for how they feel, including any inflammation and pain they may be experiencing, she said.

Intolerances to dairy foods especially that from cows milk can also be common.

Dairy products (especially full-fat) also contain arachidonic acid, which as mentioned above, can convert to pro-inflammatory substances. Many alternatives to dairy milk are now available, including oat milk, coconut-based milk and nut milks such as almond and hazelnut.

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Arthritis symptoms: THESE foods can make the pain worse - Express.co.uk

A recent report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) showed that one-third of adults in rural areas have arthritis, and that more than one-half of that population is limited in their daily activities by the condition.

In Kentucky, more than one million adults have doctor-diagnosed arthritis and more than half (570,000) of those with arthritis live in rural parts of the state. Furthermore, 45 percent of rural working age adults report that arthritis limits their ability to work.

Many senior centers, local health departments, the University of Kentucky Center of Excellence on Rural Health and YMCAs offer proven exercise and self- management programs that help relieve arthritis pain, said Teri Wood, principal investigator on the CDC Arthritis grant for DPH.

Our program is always seeking local organizations already serving rural populations, including churches, county extension agents, veterans service organizations, health care clinics, and community centers that might be able to collaborate to make the small-group versions of these low-cost programs more available, added Wood.

DPH and the Department for Aging and Independent Living (DAIL), within CHFS, collaborate on arthritis prevention and control to increase access to programs for arthritis management.

Programs such as Walk with Ease, Enhance Fitness and the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program as examples of effective arthritis management tools that are available in many communities across the state.

More information can be found here:http://www.chfs.ky.gov/dph/info/dpqi/cd/arthritis.htm

More information on the impact of arthritis nationwide can be found here:http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr

(story provided by Cabinet for Health and Family Services)

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New Report Shows Impact of Arthritis in Rural Areas - WMKY

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Reducing carbohydrates, such as bread and pasta, could better kickstart your immune system to fight disease.

One of its components - glucose - interferes with some of the bodys immune cells.

The simple sugar is generated when we digest carbs, and as well as being vital for energy its also important in cell division and growth.

However, in some cases it can stop the immune system working properly, and therefore help drive disease.

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Research by Trinity College Dublin discovered that when certain cells are starved of glucose, they stimulated the immune system.

Research by Trinity College Dublin discovered that when certain cells are starved of glucose, they stimulated the immune system.

These dendritic cells are the part of the immune system that monitors our body for signs of danger.

When they arent given of glucose, they push the immune systems T lymphocytes into action.

The latter work on the front line against infection and tumours.

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Indeed, they are what directly fight cancer and inflammatory diseases, such as arthritis and heart problems.

There are other immune cells, however, which become dysfunctional if they're starved of glucose.

This is because when responding to infection they have a high demand for it.

The research outlines how various cells may interact with glucose differently.

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The study authors believe the new findings could open up new approaches to treating cancers and immune-related conditions.

David Finlay, lead researcher, said: It is becoming clear that glucose is an important signaller in our immune system, in that cells that have access to glucose behave very differently to those that do not.

We have discovered that dendritic cells are actually better at stimulating immune responses when starved of glucose, which is not the case for any of the other immune cells that have been analysed.

The discovery that T cells and dendritic cells compete with each other for glucose offers a new and exciting insight into how glucose can regulate dendritic cell function.

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Arthritis cure: Ditching THIS from your diet could ease symptoms - Express.co.uk

THUNDER BAY - Even though damp, cold weather can make even standing up difficult for people living with severe arthritis, dozens of people braved a grey morning to walk in support of the Arthritis Society.

On Sunday, more than 70 people participated in the 8th Annual Walk to Fight Arthritis at Prince Arthurs Landing.

Mariann Sawicki, committee member with the Arthritis Society of Thunder Bay, said she is happy with the turn out.

The weather probably deterred some people, she said. There are a lot of people out here. It just goes to show the importance. Everybody wants to do what they can for different diseases. They are very eager to help out and show their support.

This year, the fundraising target was $19,000 and prior to the walk starting the Arthritis Society had already raised $12,000. The money raised will be used to fund research for arthritis treatments and finding a cure.

Arthritis refers to a number of different disorders that target the joints in the body. It can cause stiffness, swelling, and reduced motion of joints. Types of arthritis include osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, gout, and Lyme Disease.

Sawicki said sometimes there are misconceptions that arthritis is a disease that only affects people as they age, but she said it can affect anyone.

I think there may be some misconception, she said. A lot of people may think it is for older people, but thats not the case. Im a registered nurse and Ive seen all kind of different types of arthritis. People need to realize that.

And despite the weather on Sunday, people were out not only in support of stamping out arthritis, but also practicing one of the best treatments for the disease.

Movement with arthritis is one of the best things for you and your joints, Sawicki said. Being active really helps. This weather is kind of damp, so it does trigger some symptoms for people, but people are still out here and ready to go.

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Walkers stepping up to stamp out arthritis - Tbnewswatch.com

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A gentle jog could benefit the knees and hips and reduce the risk of the osteoarthritis, which affects millions of people in the UK.

There is currently no cure for the condition but sufferers can treat the condition with drugs - commonly non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and by changing certain lifestyle factors.

Previously, experts have suggested jogging could damage the major joints and recommend other exercises such as pilates.

A new study looked at more than 110,000 people across the world. It found 3.5 per cent of people who run for fun and to stay fit developed arthritis in the knees or hips.

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This, experts said was compared to 10.2 per cent of those who didn't do any running - and was true for both men and women.

However the researchers said people should be wary of doing too much - as training and running competitively increased the risk to 13.3 per cent.

Dr Eduard Alentorn-Geli, of the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minnesota, and orthopaedic surgeon said: "The principal finding in this study is that, in general, running is not associated with osteoarthritis.

"The novel finding in our investigation is the increased association between running and arthritis in competitive - but not in recreational - runners.

When a joint develops osteoarthritis, some of the cartilage covering the ends of the bones gradually roughens and becomes thin, and the bone underneath thickens.

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Running is not associated with osteoarthritis

According to Arthritis Research UK, over eight million people in the UK suffer from osteoarthritis - a condition perceived as only a disorder that affects the elderly.

Dr Alentorn-Gel and researchers from Spain, Sweden, and Canada pooled data from 17 studies involving a total of 114,829 people to evaluate the association of osteoarthritis with running.

The researchers compared the prevalence of the disease between runners and sedentary individuals who did not run.

Runners were considered 'competitive' if they were identified themselves as professional or elite athletes or participated in international competitions.

The researchers calculated the rate and odds ratio for osteoarthritis between runners at both competitive and recreational levels and people who did no exercise individuals.

They also looked at the location of arthritis in the hip or knee, gender and the years of exposure to running - less or more than 15 years.

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Dr Alentorn-Geli and his colleagues were not able to determine the amount of running that is safe for these joints.

The study was published in the Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy.

Olivia Belle from Arthritis Research UK has previously told Express.co.uk said: If you have joint pain or mild osteoarthritis you might not always feel much like exercising.

But keeping active is one of the best ways to manage the symptoms.

Regular, safe, simple and effective exercise has been proven to greatly reduce pain and stiffness in joints.

Its also important for your joints that you maintain a healthy weight for you, and exercising regularly will help you with that.

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Arthritis symptoms - gentle jogging could benefit knee and hip joints ... - Express.co.uk

2 Jun 2017, 1:19 p.m.

The Cowra Arthritis Support Group recently celebrated Arthritis Awareness Week.

Last week was Arthritis Awareness Week withArthritis andOsteoporosis NSW is urging everyone to become informed about arthritis.

Incidence of arthritis is increasing in Australia, with recent NSW Health statistics indicating that one-in- four people are now affected by arthritis and related conditions.

Arthritis andOsteoporosis NSW CEO,Sandra Vincent, said it was great thatCowra residents can find information and support from their local arthritis support group.

At Arthritis andOsteoporosis NSW, we strive to help people with arthritis to improve their quality oflife by developing their self-management skills, she said.

When it comes to osteoarthritis, the two most important factors in prevention and management are maintenance of a healthy weight and an appropriate exercise regime that strengthens the muscles around the affected joints, she said.

According to findings just released by the Medibank Better Health Foundation, the number of osteoarthritis cases in New South Wales has soared in the past 10 years, from 347,000 in 2007 to 601,000 in 2017.

According toArthritis andOsteoporosisNSW the three most prevalent forms of arthritis are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and, in children, juvenile idiopathic arthritis:

The Cowra Arthritis support group will be holding their next meeting Tuesday, May 6at 2pm.

The meetings guest speaker will be Acupuncturist,Stephen Tamplin, from Central West Naturopathic and Health Foods.

All are welcome to attend the Cowra Arthritis Support groups meeting for more information on the group please contactChristine Murphy on 0427 423 596.

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Arthritis support strong in Cowra - Cowra Guardian

David Bussiere's daughter Ava was just 3-years-old when she first started to show the signs of juvenile arthritis and by 5 she was diagnosed.

The Regina father said he wasn't sure what was wrong with his daughter, and the two-year process to receive a diagnosis was trying.

"Her mood changed when she was young, then eventually we noticed swelling in her joints," said Bussiere. "One morning she woke up and her knee wouldn't bend anymore and that's when we really started to take it seriously."

Initially Bussiere thought his daughter had just grown and was experiencing pain associated with that, which was later reinforced by some doctors.

After being referred to a team of specialists in Saskatoon, Ava was diagnosed with juvenile idiopathic arthritis. The disease affects her knees, ankles, wrists, fingers and her jaw.

On Sunday the Walk to Fight Arthritis took place in 40 communities across Canada.

"We justthought it would be a good way to show her she wasn't alone," Bussiere.

Sunday was the fourth time the Bussiere's made it out to the arthritis walk in Regina.

Ava had to be taken out of sports and could no longer participate in gym classher favourite subject during her leading up to her diagnosis.

"It was scary. It was scary because you learn that its not something they grow out of. It's a disease that they have for life. It's something she'll have to deal with for her whole life," said Bussiere.

After years of treatment and medicine Ava, now 8-years-old, is able to play soccer.

"When we had the whole bout with her knee we had to pull her out, couldn't play sports anymore, but then she started treatment and it take too long after treatment that we could start re-introducing things," said Bussiere.

"It's to the point where she's just a regular kid again."

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'It was scary': father recalls 5-year-old daughter's arthritis diagnosis ... - CBC.ca

Do your knees, hips and other joints snap, crackle and pop when you move?

Whether youre a senior, approaching middle age or a young athlete in your prime, you might have arthritis, also known as degenerative joint disease.

Once considered an age-related condition, its now known that arthritis can afflict anyone at any age. The condition can range from slight joint stiffness in the morning to a chronic, debilitating pain that can limit your mobility and reduce your quality of life.

More than 40 million Americans suffer from arthritis, and more than half of arthritis cases are osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis. Osteoarthritis is a joint disease that affects cartilage, the tissue that covers the ends of the bones in a joint.

The joints most often affected by osteoarthritis are those used for bending and swiveling movements: the knees, hips, shoulders and fingers. Healthy cartilage provides padding between bones that acts as a shock absorber for high-impact activities, and it helps bones glide smoothly together at the joints for bending and rotating motions.

In joints affected by osteoarthritis, the smooth, elastic cartilage that covers the ends of bones breaks down and wears away, leaving a rough surface where bones can rub together. Eventually, the joint can become misshapen; bits of bone and cartilage might break off and float in the joint space; or spiky growths called bone spurs can develop on the surface of the exposed bone, which can cause joint pain and decreased mobility.

Osteoarthritis risk and symptoms

Osteoarthritis can develop over time as age-related wear and tear, or as a result of a joint injury.

Those at risk of developing osteoarthritis include females, those who have a family history of osteoarthritis, those who are overweight or have had prior joint injuries, and those who put continuous, repetitive stress on their joints (i.e., a job that requires excessive lifting, bending or repetitive tasks, or high impact activities, such as running and aerobics).

Symptoms of osteoarthritis include:

>> Joint pain at rest or with activity.

>> Swelling or tenderness.

>> Stiffness, especially after getting out of bed or sitting for a long time.

>> Bony enlargement of the joint area.

>> A crunching noise or feeling when moving the joint.

Although there is no cure for osteoarthritis, early diagnosis and treatment might help slow the development and progression of the disease, further avoiding joint damage; help relieve pain and stiffness; and preserve maximum range of motion. According to the Arthritis Foundation (AF), symptoms of osteoarthritis begin to set in 10 years after a specific cause such as an injury or obesity, so early treatment is important.

Osteoarthritis is diagnosed through a combination of tests, including a medical history, physical exam, x-rays or MRIs and possibly blood tests or examinations of fluid drawn from the joint.

Treatment options include lifestyle modifications, medications, physical therapy or surgery. Your doctor might recommend switching from high-impact to low-impact sports activities. Topical or oral pain medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or corticosteroid injections, administered by your doctor, can help control pain and swelling.

Other nonsurgical remedies might include weight loss. The AF estimates that every pound of excess weight lost reduces four pounds of pressure on the knees and six pounds of pressure on the hips. Additionally, physical therapy can help strengthen the muscles that surround and support the affected joint, and ice or heat also might help reduce swelling and pain. Regular exercise is also important to help the affected joint stay lubricated and strong.

If other treatment methods are not effective, surgery also can help relieve pain and restore mobility. Surgical interventions range from minimally invasive arthroscopy which removes bone spurs or smooths rough bone surfaces to total joint replacement, in which parts of the bones are removed and an artificial joint is implanted.

Dr. Supen Patel specializes in rheumatology. He is associated with Carolinas Rheumatology & Osteoporosis (carolinasrheumatology.com), an affiliate of Carolinas Medical Alliance, and is a member of the medical staff of Carolinas Hospital System. He is accepting new patients. Patients must have a referral to schedule an appointment. To refer a patient, call Patels office at 843-674-6440.

This information is not intended to replace the advice of your doctor but rather to increase awareness and help equip patients with information and facilitate conversations with your physician that will benefit your health.

Sources: The Arthritis Foundation, arthritis.com, American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, aaos.org, National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases, niams.nih.gov

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Arthritis can strike at any age: Early treatment is important in regard to degenerative joint disease - SCNow

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Eating oily fish one to two times a week can prevent or help existing arthritis, according to research.

Examples of oily fish include salmon, herring, sardines and mackerel.

Its because theyre rich in omega-3 fatty acids which protect both the heart and brain.

White fish, such as cod, are less rich in the nutrient, but do contain some.

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Its though that omega-3s anti-inflammatory properties helps combat the joint disorder.

Indeed, a 2013 study published in journal Annals of Rheumatic Diseases found that eating at least one portion of oily fish a week could have halve rheumatoid arthritis risk.

Its though that omega-3s anti-inflammatory properties helps combat the joint disorder.

Paul Chamberlain, Head of Nutrition at Solgar, said: Omega-3 family of fats play an important role in controlling inflammatory processes in the body.

Hence those with any kind of itis will often benefit from eating more omega-3 rich foods.

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Research also suggests that omega-3 fatty acids reduce the expression of cartilage-degrading enzymes, cyclooxygenase-2 and inflammatory cytokines that are involved in the progression of joint disorders.

Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most common types of arthritis, alongside osteoarthritis and psoriatic arthritis.

The researchers from the 2013 study suggest that fish oil supplements may also be beneficial.

Chamberlain said: Many people do not eat the recommended one to two portions of oily fish per week meaning they may lack omega-3 in their diet.

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This means that taking supplements may be an easy way to get the protective joint benefits.

The Arthritis Foundation recommend choosing fish oil capsules with at least 30 per cent EPA and DHA - the active ingredients - for arthritis-related conditions.

If youre vegetarian, there are other dietary sources.

Chamberlain added: As well as oily fish, omega-3s are derived from some nuts and seeds such as walnuts and flax.

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Arthritis symptoms: Eating THIS twice a week could help painful joints - Express.co.uk

Do your hands hurt? Have they become stiff and painful? Do you find yourself asking for help with opening jars? Have you started to notice a decrease in your pinch and grip strength? If so, you may have wearing out of the small joints in your hand a very common condition known as arthritis.

Arthritis literally means inflamed joint. It results when cartilage begins to wear out and the bone ends become irregular. While arthritis can affect any joint in the body, it is often most noticeable in the small joints in the hand given their relatively minimal soft tissue envelope. This condition can be very painful and disabling especially when left untreated.

Osteoathritis (OA) is the most common form of arthritis, resulting from simple wear and tear over time. It is characterized by a degeneration or thinning of smooth cartilage end caps within the hand. This creates direct or bone on bone contact causing in pain and deformity. OA is most commonly seen in women over the age of 40; however, men are unfortunately not immune to it! Pain is typically the first symptom of this potentially disabling condition. This is especially prevalent with opening jars, turning door knobs, and writing. As the arthritis progresses, patients can even develop a bump at the base of the thumb from the deformed joint.

Arthritis is diagnosed from a combination of a clinical exam by your physician as well as X-rays. While X-rays are important in the diagnosis, they only tell part of the story. Some patients may have very bad arthritis on X-rays, but are not very symptomatic. On the other hand, some patients have relatively minimal arthritis on X-rays, but have a tremendous amount of pain.

Treatment of OA of the hand is aimed at minimizing pain and restoring as much function as possible. Your physician may recommend the use of topical medications or anti-inflammatory medicines like Ibuprofen and Naproxen. In addition, the use of braces (both soft and hard) can be helpful in managing OA especially in the base of thumb (CMC) joint. Finally, if symptoms persist despite these nonoperative modalities, your doctor may recommend surgery of which there are often good options available when the time comes.

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Signs You May Have Arthritis - David Katz, MD | Online Athens - Online Athens (blog)

More than 9,000 people are expected to take part in the Walk to Fight Arthritis in 41 communities across Canada this Sunday. ( Rene Johnston/Toronto Star )

More than 9,000 people are expected to take part Sunday in the Walk to Fight Arthritis in 41 communities across Canada.

In Toronto, the walk kicks off at Woodbine Park at 10:30 a.m. and runs through the Beach area with both one and five-kilometre route options.

The Walk to Fight Arthritis is a symbol of how important it is to stay active and healthy, said Janet Yale, president and CEO of the Arthritis Society. Walking is a really important way for people to improve their mobility. Its really core to our mission to get people moving as a way to help them cope with their disease.

The disease affects 4.6 million Canadians 15 and older, or one in six Canadian adults, according to the society. This number is expected to hit 7.5 million by 2036.

Arthritis is not a well-understood disease, Yale said. Many people who have arthritis dont even realize they have it. They may be living in pain, they may have aches and pains in their joints and they may think its a natural part of getting older. It isnt actually. Its a disease.

While arthritis is often perceived as a condition of the elderly, more than half of those who suffer from the disease are under the age of 65.

Now in its eighth year, the walk has raised more than $8 million Canada-wide.

Yale said funds raised from the walk will go towards funding research to find a cure, as well as to support those living with the disease through tools and resources.

There are 15 additional walks taking place across Canada this year. Yale said the goal is to add 10 new communities each year.

Its also really important as a way to bring people together in support of this common cause and to see that there are others like them who are suffering from this disease and how we can improve peoples quality of life through coming together as a community, she said.

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Arthritis walk gets moving Sunday morning - Toronto Star

OSTEOARTHRITIS,a painful condition in which the tissue between bones wears down, frequently affects people in old age and a new study finds that as many as 4 in 10 people may develop the condition in their hands.

Among women, researchers found the lifetime risk was 47 per cent while for men it was about 25 per cent. Obese people also had 11 per cent higher lifetime risk than those who were not obese.

Hand osteoarthritis can cause disability and problems with daily living, but is not often a subject of research, the study team writes in the journal Arthritis and Rheumatology. Past research shows the lifetime risk for arthritis of the knee to be 45 per cent and 25 per cent for the hip, they write.

These findings indicate that symptomatic hand osteoarthritis is very common and affects a substantial proportion of the population in their lifetimes, lead author and epidemiologist at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Jin Qin told Reuters Health.

The researchers analysed data from a study of more than 2,000 people over age 45. The study collected data between 1999 and 2010, using self-reports of arthritis symptoms and X-ray images of the participants hands.

Based on this group, researchers estimated the proportion of people who will develop osteoarthritis in at least one hand by age 85 to be 39.8 per cent.

White people were at greater risk, at 41 per cent, for hand osteoarthritis than black people, with 29 per cent. Obese people had a lifetime risk of 47 per cent, compared to 36 per cent among the non-obese.

Some people with hand osteoarthritis have minimal or no symptoms. But for many, symptomatic hand osteoarthritis greatly affects their everyday lives, with few options for improving their symptoms, Dr. Fiona Watt, a research lecturer and honorary consultant rheumatologist at the University of Oxford told Reuters Health.

The pain can vary and tends to be worse the more people use their hands, flaring up during daily activity like carrying heavy shopping bags or typing on keyboards or phones, said Watt, who was not involved in the study.

Our hands are so important and we need to look after them, Watt said, adding that doing aerobic exercise and watching our weight can help protect against all types of osteoarthritis.

We know that injury can increase the risk of osteoarthritis, Watt said. Although we cant always prevent hand injuries, wearing supporting and protective gloves in occupations with heavy use of the hand is important.

Preventing injuries and maintaining a healthy weight may lower the risk of osteoarthritis, Qin said. Earlier diagnosis allows earlier use of interventions (e.g. physical/occupational therapy), that may help manage symptoms, maintain better function and improve quality of life.

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40 per cent lifetime risk of hand arthritis - RTN Newspaper

There are more than 52 million adults in the United States who suffer from joint inflammation caused by arthritis. Its a disabling condition that is especially prevalent among people over age 50.

Feet are especially susceptible to arthritis; each foot has 33 joints, and there is no way to avoid bearing weight on them.

The Michigan Podiatric Medical Association says symptoms of arthritis in the foot and ankle can include early morning stiffness, limitation in motion of joint, recurring pain or tenderness in any joint, redness or heat in joint, skin changes and swelling in one or more joints.

There is usually no need to endure years of painful ambulation because of arthritic feet, said Dr. Jodie Sengstock, MPMA director of professional relations. Most conditions can be diagnosed and treated either conservatively or surgically by a podiatrist.

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Arthritis of the foot and ankle can be treated in many ways, including physical therapy and exercise, orthotics or specially prescribed shoes, and joint replacement surgery. In addition, anti-inflammatory medication and/or steroid injections into the affected joint may also provide relief.

Obesity is linked to arthritis; when you take a step any step four times your body weight presses on your feet. If you weigh 200 pounds, thats 800 pounds of pressure per inch with every step. The best way to lose weight is to eat smarter.

Although it may seem counterintuitive to move your joints when theyre a source of pain, its still important to keep moving. As you age, you lose 1 percent of muscle mass a year. The more you lose, the more strain you put on your joints because muscles are the joints primary shock absorbers. You can slow that muscle loss with strength exercises. If possible walk 30 minutes a day. If walking is painful, try a stationary bike or water exercise to build strength and endurance.

Debra Kaszubski, Vitality special writer, contributed to this report.

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When it comes to arthritis, feet bear a tremendous weight - The Macomb Daily

WCVB's 5 Investigates Karen Anderson will emcee the Walk to Cure Arthritis this Saturday, June 10 starting at 9am at Canal Park in Cambridge.

Arthritis is the #1 cause of disability in the United States, affecting more than 50 million people. The Arthritis Foundation is committed to finding a cure for the millions of people who suffer from arthritis pain, including 300,000 children and their families.

Join us for the Walk to Cure Arthritis and say Yes to helping create a world where people dont have to struggle to button their shirt, tie their shoe, pick up their child or grandchild or play with their friends. As Champions of Yes, its up to us to make sure that people with arthritis have life changing resources and information to manage their disease, access to the critical medications they need to live full, healthy lives and to accelerate the path to better treatments and a cure through cutting-edge research.

Join the fight and Walk to Cure Arthritis register, fundraise, come together to support each other and walk. Another step, another victory!

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Join 5 Investigates Karen Anderson at the Walk to Cure Arthritis on Saturday, June 10th - WCVB Boston

As part of the 52 Weeks of Public Health campaign, the Kentucky Department of Public Health (DPH), within the Cabinet for Health and Family Services (CHFS), is emphasizing the negative impact of arthritis on people who live in rural areas.

A recent report by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) showed that one-third of adults in rural areas have arthritis and that more than one-half of that population is limited in their daily activities by the condition. In Kentucky, more than one million adults have doctor-diagnosed arthritis and more than half (570,000) of those with arthritis live in rural parts of the state. Furthermore, 45 percent of rural working-age adults report that arthritis limits their ability to work.

Many senior centers, local health departments, the University of Kentucky Center of Excellence for Rural Health and YMCAs offer proven exercise and self- management programs that help relieve arthritis pain, said Teri Wood, principal investigator on the CDC Arthritis grant for DPH. Our program is always seeking local organizations already serving rural populations, including churches, county extension agents, veterans service organizations, health care clinics, and community centers that might be able to collaborate to make the small-group versions of these low-cost programs more available.

DPH and the Department for Aging and Independent Living (DAIL), within CHFS, collaborate on arthritis prevention and control to increase access to programs for arthritis management. Programs such as Walk with Ease, Enhance Fitness and the Chronic Disease Self-Management Program as examples of effective arthritis management tools that are available in many communities across the state. More information can be found here: http://www.chfs.ky.gov/dph/info/dpqi/cd/arthritis.htm.

Throughout the planned 52 Weeks of Public Health promotion, DPH will spotlight a specific public health issue. Additional information about the campaign is available on the DPH website: http://chfs.ky.gov/dph/default.htm and will be posted on the CHFS Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/kychfs where Kentuckians are encouraged to like and share posts among their networks of friends.

More information on the impact of arthritis nationwide can be found here: http://www.cdc.gov/mmwr.

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One in Three Adults in Rural Areas Have Arthritis | BereaOnline - Berea Online

Walk into any gym, step onto any basketball or tennis court, or even take a look at the person jogging or walking down your street, and youll likely to see an assortment of braces or support aids on older (and younger) individuals.

One of the most common areas youll see this equipment is on the knee.

Knee pain is one of the most common conditions I see as a physical therapist. Often I see people after knee replacement. However, I also see people with knee pain due to osteoarthritis before surgery.

Knee osteoarthritis is a common condition and is one of the five most disabling conditions in the U.S., affecting more than a third of people over 65 years of age. Sometimes, knee pain due to arthritis will lead to the use an assistive device, such as a cane or walker, and eventually knee replacement surgery.

Chronic knee pain due to arthritis is characterized by pain, cartilage degeneration and joint space narrowing. When patients are referred to physical therapy for arthritis relief, they often dont understand how physical therapy can help. After all, if there is cartilage degeneration and joint space narrowing, wouldnt more movement just make the arthritis worse?

Fortunately, as Ive discussed at length before, the body is much more complex than that. In fact, the 2008 guidelines from the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons recommend exercise as the core treatment for osteoarthritis.

As the saying goes in physical therapy, "Movement is medicine."

The right type of exercise in the appropriate dosage and intensity can help "lubricate" the joint, improve muscle strength, improve joint motion and decrease joint pain. Osteoarthritis is associated with decreased muscle strength and abnormal joint mechanics.

A 2012 review in the journal Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation reviewed resistance training interventions on knee osteoarthritis and found some studies showing up to a 43 percent reduction in pain with appropriate resistance training.

Physical therapy, and specifically resistance training, works to improve joint mechanics and muscle activation patterns. In the physical therapy clinic, the typical culprits for weakness I see are the muscles of the thigh and the hips. So my treatment usually starts with exercises targeting the thigh muscles, both quads and hamstrings, as well as the muscles that move your leg back (hip extension) and to the side (hip abduction). The hip muscles actually help control the position of the knee during functional activities, so making sure your hips are strong is a good way to help improve knee mechanics.

I also will include some calf (lower leg) strengthening as well.

Next, it's important to help make sure that certain movements, such as squatting and going up and down steps, are performed with good mechanics. This usually means ensuring that when looking at the knee from the front that it stays in line with the second toe when climbing the stairs.

When bending down to sit in a chair or pick something up off the ground, it means that the knees stay outward to remain in line with the toes.

A good test to perform at home to check your mechanics is to stand sideways beside a step and perform a lateral step-up. Keeping the knee in line with toes is often difficult for most people. Often, when people have pain with stairs, fixing the mechanics helps their pain relatively quickly.

Lastly, I like to combine knee/hip strengthening and functional tasks focused on mechanics with a biking activity. It seems the continual motion of the bike helps to lubricate the joint and just helps things move a little better. If you have knee pain due to osteoarthritis, I recommend you get a bike, either recumbent or upright, and ride for 10 to 20 minutes a day to keep the knee joint loose and well-lubricated.

With the right exercises, individuals with mild to moderate osteoarthritis can experience symptom relief, decreased disability, improved function and overall improved health.

These recommendations also apply even if you dont have knee osteoarthritis. As we age, the prevalence of knee osteoarthritis increases, so its likely a good idea to perform biking, leg strengthening and biomechanics training as part of a comprehensive exercise routine.

Show caution when starting new exercises, and if you have any doubt about your mechanics, see your physical therapist for instruction. Dont push through pain with exercises. Start off slow, and progress in weight, reps and biking distance as you are able.

Nick McClary earned his doctor of physical therapy from the University of Tennessee. He is a Georgetown County native and lives and works in Pawleys Island. Send him your health and fitness questions at: nmcclaryDPT@gmail.com.

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Nick McClary column: With arthritis, movement is good medicine - South Strand news

Experimental arthritis FLIPping the switch on macrophages Nature.com Reducing the expression of anti-apoptosis molecule FLICE-like inhibitory protein (FLIP, also known as CASP8 and FADD-like apoptosis regulator) in macrophages could protect against inflammatory arthritis, according to new findings published in Arthritis ...

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Experimental arthritis FLIPping the switch on macrophages - Nature.com