StemCell Therapy

A newreportfrom the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that the number of Americans living with arthritis is at an all-time high. According to the report, 1 in 4 Americans now live with arthritis, and approximately 79 million will have arthritis by the year 2040.

The CDC data is alarmingbecause while the demand for arthritis care is growing, the pool of U.S. rheumatologists providing specialized arthritis care is shrinking. The American College of Rheumatologys most recent workforce study shows the demand for rheumatology care exceeded the supply by36 percent for adult rheumatologists and33 percent forpediatric rheumatologistsin 2015 and predicts that these gaps will widen to138 percent and 61 percent respectivelyby 2030.

Arthritis an umbrella term used to describe more than 100 rheumatologic diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis and juvenile idiopathic arthritis is the nations leading cause of disability and generates at least $81 billion in direct medical costs each year. If left untreated, arthritic diseases can cause debilitating pain, joint damage and disability. Unfortunately, the CDC report shows that 24 million Americans are already limited in their daily activities because of having arthritis. They find it difficult to stoop, bend, kneel, lift a cup to their mouths, or walk without help or support. The inflammatory rheumatologic diseases tend to be systemic and, at times, can be life-threatening; in addition to joints, they can affect the brain, nerves, eyes, heart, lungs, liver, kidneys and other vital organs. Lack of adequate treatment of these conditions can shorten life span and lead to early death. With early intervention and ongoing care by a rheumatologist, the symptoms of arthritis can be controlled and disability prevented; in fact, many rheumatologic diseases can go into remission with appropriate treatment.

Now more than ever, it is imperative that congressional leaders and the Trump administration support policies that will ensure these patients can access the specialized care they need while stabilizing and growing the rheumatology workforce they depend on.

Access to vital rheumatology care begins with insurance coverage. If health reform legislation is taken up by congressional leaders again this year, it should prioritize affordable coverage for chronically ill patients, including coverage of essential health benefits and limits on out-of-pocket expenses.

Access to rheumatology care must also include affordable treatments. Drug costs remain a formidable barrier for many of our patients who rely on biologic therapies to manage their rheumatologic diseases. While rheumatologists and patients are hopeful that biosimilars will lower the prices of specialty drugs by creating more competition in the marketplace, we also want to ensure these highly complex therapies are safe for our patients. Additional FDA funding for the review of new biosimilars would help speed the introduction of safe and affordable therapies to the marketplace and improve patient access to life-changing medications.

Ensuring continued access to care also requires proactive measures to help grow the rheumatology workforce. We need to make it easier, not harder, for rheumatologists to practice medicine. This starts with repealing the Independent Payment Advisory Board, an ACA-created agency that has the power to impose arbitrary and draconian payment cuts on rheumatology providers. These cuts would disproportionately impact small and rural rheumatology practices already struggling to stay financially viable.

The Medicare Access and CHIP Reauthorization Act must also be implemented in a way that does not put smaller providers out of business. Allowing rheumatologists to use Qualified Clinical Data Registries to report on quality measures and creating Alternative Payment Models that recognize the value of care provided by rheumatologists and rheumatology health professionals will be critical to ensure a smooth transition to the new Medicare payment system for rheumatology providers.

Alongside more immediate solutions, meeting the growing demand for arthritis care will require planning for the future. The government should look to augment our human capital and caretaking capacity by providing Medicare funding for graduate medical education, funding more rheumatology fellowship positions, and supporting the Subspecialty Loan Repayment Program to ensure there are enough rheumatologists to care for people living with arthritis.

In the end, effective policymaking is about doing what is best for the most people. At a time when the prevalence and impact of arthritis is reaching epidemic levels in the U.S., we cannot afford to turn back the clock on rheumatologic disease care. With sound policy and support from government leaders, we can stem rising healthcare costs and better meet the care needs of the millions of Americans living with arthritis.

Sharad Lakhanpal is president of the American College of Rheumatology.

Morning Consult welcomes op-ed submissions on policy, politics and business strategy in our coverage areas. Updated submission guidelines can be foundhere.

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Health Care Policy Must Meet Growing Demand for Arthritis Care - Morning Consult

If you have recently been diagnosed withpsoriatic arthritis,your doctor may have told you about a type of medicine that can reverse disease progression, stop damage to your joints and might even put your disease into remission.

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These medicines are called DMARDs, which stands for disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs. The drugs work by curbing the bodys out-of-control immune system response that causes psoriatic arthritis.

DMARDs work by curbing your immune system, and, as a result, reduce inflammation, says rheumatologist Howard R. Smith, MD.

Doctors often prescribe DMARDs when non-steroidal anti-inflammatories such as ibuprofen or other medications arent effective or for patients who have disease that is eroding their joints, Dr. Smith says.

DMARDs fall into two categories, biologic and non-biologic:

Non-biologic DMARDs These medicines slow the disease process by modifying the immune system. Methotrexate is the most commonly prescribed non-biologic DMARD for psoriatic arthritis treatment. Methotrexate is an effective immune system suppressor and can treat the accompanying psoriasis as well as arthritis.

Biologic DMARDs Introduced in the late 1990s for treating moderate to severe autoimmune diseases, biologic DMARDS target cells at a molecular level to prevent inflammation at a very early stage. They work by blocking a protein made by the immune system that contributes to psoriasis and arthritis. Biologic DMARDs are given by an injection or infusion into a blood vessel.

Both of these drugs reduce the signs and symptoms of psoriatic arthritis and most exciting they also can slow down damage to your joints, Dr. Smith says

DMARDs slow down psoriatic arthritis and improve quality of life for most people, Dr. Smith says. Some patients will even achieve a remission while taking them. But more typically, disease activity continues, but at a slower, less intense rate.

If your doctor prescribes DMARDs, here, according to Dr. Smith, are three things you should know about these powerful medicines.

Because DMARDs are a systemic treatment, they mayhave side effects, such as stomach upset, liver problems or blood issues, Dr. Smith says. It may take some tinkering for your physician to find the right regimen for you.

Possible long-term complications include liver damage with methotrexate and leflunomide. Some dormant long-term infections such as tuberculosis, can be re-activated by DMARDs.

DMARDs change your immune system, so you may get more intense viral or bacterial infections. Make sure to let your doctor know about any serious infections, Dr. Smith says.

You also should check with your doctor before getting any vaccines, Dr. Smith says. Live vaccines, like the shingles vaccine, may be dangerous with certain of medications, he says.

Some biologics also have been linked to a very small increased risk of cancer. You should ask your doctor about it, Dr. Smith says.

Though DMARDs mayhave side effects, there still is good reason to take them theyre proven to be effective against psoriatic arthritis, Dr. Smith says.

It takes time for a DMARD to change your immune system. It may take months for some of the non-biologics to work. Biologic DMARDs may take a fewweeks.

DMARDs are used alone and in combination with other drugs. Its also common for a physician to prescribe more than one DMARD. For example, studies show that methotrexate and a biologic may work better together than alone.

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3 Things You Should Know About Treatment for Psoriatic Arthritis - Health Essentials from Cleveland Clinic (blog)

Arthritis can manifest as heart disorders if it is suppressed by painkillers according to renowned homeopath Dr Shreepad Khedekar. So try homeopathy for arthritis instead.

Among the many diseases afflicting the elderly today, one of the most painful is arthritis. Everyday activities become increasingly difficult; mobility limitations can put people off work, robbing them off their ability to earn a livelihood.

Who is at risk?

Conventional treatment for arthritis in allopathy comprises painkillers, steroids to suppress the inflammation, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to control the pain or in some cases, surgery. But once the patient is off these drugs, there is a good chance that arthritic pain can return because the root of the problem is not addressed.

In the light of such problems, would a holistic approach be best to treat arthritis? Yes says Usha Prabhakar Sawant, a 59-year old who had tried every option before being referred to Dr Shreepad Khedekar, MD, Imperial Clinics, a well-known homeopath. I was told to go for a surgery when none of the drugs worked and the pain kept returning. But somehow, better sense prevailed and I refused to get operated. Around that time, my daughter-in-laws father suggested that I meet Dr Khedekar once, says Sawant. Today, I am doing much better and I feel no pain or discomfort. In fact, I can perform all the tasks I did before I had arthritis.

What is the homeopathic perspective on arthritis?

Dr Khedekar offers a very interesting perspective on how arthritis is manifested in the body. In my experience treating arthritis, I have observed that many a times, it steps from suppressed colds or allergies in the childhood, he states. When these problems are suppressed using antihistamines etc., the problem goes on the settle in the bones, eventually manifesting as arthritis. The same arthritis if suppressed using steroids and painkillers, it can turn into something more serious, like heart disorders.

With homeopathic treatment, the disorder is reversed and the arthritis retrogresses into its previous form, a common cold or an allergy. This will be a transient phase, lasting for a month or two, after which the arthritis can be completely cured, he says.

How does homeopathy treat arthritis?

According to Dr Khedekar, homeopathy treats person as a whole with holistic approach, understanding physical and mental dimensions of the person. Arthritis can be treated with wide array of drugs along with regular exercises. Some of the remedies are as follows:

Dr Khedekar suggests that opting for homeopathy in the case of arthritis can be a good decision. Many Patients have benefitted from homeopathic medicines; their use of steroids and pain killers had significantly reduced after taking homeopathy. It has also helped many in slowing down the pace of disease and arresting it to control further damage. In hundreds of patients a knee replacement could be completely avoided, he reveals.

Read:

Can homeopathy treat autism, Alzheimers, Parkinsons and depression?

ShreepadKhedekarhas treated world famous tennis starNovak Djokovicfor Asthma. Has also cured many European football stars playing the European premiere league and the English premier league. He has his own practice in Europe and believes in research, has submitted hundreds of case studies to medical journals internationally. He is a physician, teacher, researcher and author who has written four books on homeopathy. He specialises in handling severe and complex pathologies by using a simple yet effective holistic approach. He operates through his clinics in Dadar and Belgrade and is also a consultant at Shushrusha Hospital, Mumbai.

Visit his site: http://www.imperialclinics.com

Published: April 13, 2017 5:45 pm

Disclaimer: TheHealthSite.com does not guarantee any specific results as a result of the procedures mentioned here and the results may vary from person to person. The topics in these pages including text, graphics, videos and other material contained on this website are for informational purposes only and not to be substituted for professional medical advice.

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World Homeopathy Awareness Week: Can homeopathy treat arthritis? - TheHealthSite

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.

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.

However, experts have revealed one of the best way to manage the symptoms of the condition.

Olivia Belle from Arthritis Research 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.

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

Ruby James, 55, has osteoarthritis - but she visits the gym three times a week and runs her own business.

The most common reaction I get when I tell people about my condition is youre too young to have that and when I was first diagnosed, I thought the same, she said.

Most of my friends dont even know I have the condition.

Its not the kind of thing that really comes up in conversation, and I dont want them to treat or see me differently.

Ruby said she was overwhelmed by her diagnosis - but is now determined not to let the condition dictate how she lives.

For me, osteoarthritis is mind over matter, she explained.

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If you have joint pain or mild osteoarthritis you might not always feel much like exercising.

Arthritis Research UK

Im a very positive person and Ive come to realise that I dont have anything to feel gloomy about. You have to get to know your pain and find out what works for you.

Ruby said exercise and movement are a key part of her pain management routine and help ease the symptoms of osteoarthritis.

She realised staying active and learning to manage her flare ups has improved her quality of life.

Ruby explained: I make sure I keep moving and exercising, as I always have, as I really feel that this makes my osteoarthritis more manageable.

If I didnt keep active I think my condition would become more of a problem.

My health means a lot to me and being active is so important not just for my body but for my wellbeing too.

I go the gym at least three times a week, and there I mostly do cardio stuff on the cross trainer, rower and bikes.

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I also do resistance weights to maintain and improve my strength.

From my routine, I dont think people would be able to tell I have the condition that I have, but if you watched me closely over time youd see that I do have little routines that Ive developed to work around the pain I feel.

On the outside, it doesnt look like theres anything wrong with me and Im keen to keep it that way. Although sometimes it would be nice to be offered a seat on the tube.

As well as exercise, I use meditation, and eat good foods like oily fish, spinach, vegetables, ginger, turmeric and cinnamon, which I think makes me fitter and more alive. I also treat flare ups with painkillers and topical pain relief gels like Voltarol when I need to.

Experts at Arthritis Research UK have created a video series of exercises which are specially designed to deliver real results.

The charity is working with Voltarol Emulgel, a pain relief gel which is proven to relieve pain and inflammation in osteoarthritis.

Arthritis Research UK exercises are available here.

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Arthritis symptoms: Sufferer swears by THIS to ease painful flare ups - Express.co.uk

Q: I am stiff when I wake up, and the stiffness continues throughout the day. Could I have arthritis?

A: Joint stiffness and pain are common symptoms of arthritis. You should see a rheumatologist to diagnose the type of arthritis, whether it is inflammatory or noninflammatory. The most common type of noninflammatory arthritis is osteoarthritis, which is a degenerative joint disease that results from wear and tear as we get older. The most common type of inflammatory arthritis is rheumatoid arthritis, which is an autoimmune disease.

Early diagnosis of arthritis is important for effective, long-term management of the disease. Symptoms of both types of arthritis can be treated with pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications. Every person responds differently to medications and treatment, so it's important to work closely with your rheumatologist to develop an individualized treatment plan that manages your symptoms and helps you live your best life.

Dr. Melinda Garcia-Rosell, CHI Memorial Arthritis and Rheumatology Associates; member, Chattanooga-Hamilton County Medical Society.

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Ask a Doctor: Could joint stiffness be arthritis? - Chattanooga Times Free Press

Rheumatoid arthritis market in Southeast Asia to reach $1.44 billion by 2022, says GBI Research.

The rheumatoid arthritis market in Southeast Asia, which covers South Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia, is set to grow from $1.04 billion in 2015 to $1.44 billion by 2022, representing a compound annual growth rate of 4.7%, according to business intelligence provider GBI Research.

The companyslatest reportstates that the entry of new therapies over the forecast period will stimulate market growth. Promising pipeline candidates include Eli Lilly and Incytes baricitinib, Regenerons sarilumab, GlaxoSmithKline and Johnson & Johnsons sirukumab, Astellas peficitinib, and AbbVies upadacitinib. Galapagos filgotinib is in late-stage development, but will not be launched during the forecast period, as its phase III trial completion date is in Q3 2020.

Aswini Nath, analyst for GBI Research, explains: The therapeutic market for rheumatoid arthritis has become extremely competitive owing to the number of new drug approvals. Competition for tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-) inhibitors such as Humira and Remicade is particularly fierce and now dominates the treatment market for rheumatoid arthritis patients who are refractory to first-line, disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs.

Although the current RA therapeutic landscape is crowded, with several biologics including anti-TNFs and newly approved Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, the launch of cheaper biosimilars and existing unmet need creates room for novel therapies.

Over the forecast period, novel oral JAK inhibitors in the form of Eli Lilly/Incytes baricitinib and Astellas peficitinib are expected to be launched in South Korea and Taiwan; AbbVies upadacitinib (another JAK inhibitor) is expected to be launched in Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea and Taiwan; Regenerons IL-6 inhibitor sarilumab is expected to launch in South Korea and Taiwan; and Johnson & Johnson/GSKs sirukumab (another IL-6 inhibitor) is expected to launch in Malaysia, South Korea, and Taiwan.

Although the market is crowded with multiple effective biologic therapies, it lacks curative treatments. Instead, treatments aim to alleviate symptoms and reduce disease progression. This major unmet need is not expected to be addressed directly by any of the pipeline agents, and any that are successfully approved and launched will compete for the same patient populations.

Aswini concludes: Although drugs with novel mechanisms of action are welcome additions to the market, the challenge will be to determine where they will fit into the treatment paradigm.

(Source: GBI Research)

Excerpt from:
Rheumatoid Arthritis Market in Southeast Asia to Reach $1.44B by 2022 - Pharmaceutical Processing

Kevin Cazes from team Cash Me Outside finishes throwing the bowling ball. He was one of 250 participants to take part in Strike Out Arthritis. The event looked to spread awareness about juvenile arthritis. Nikisun Shrestha/The Lions Roar

Alpha Omicron Pi brought together juvenile arthritis awareness and bowling to host Strike Out Arthritis at Tangi Lanes this past weekend.

On Saturday Apr. 8 the fundraiser took place starting at 8 a.m. The participants came in numbers for the cause.

I think its going pretty well, said Ali LeBourgeois, coordinator of the event. We have over 70 sponsors. We had over 300 people register. We had about 250 show up. So, this is one of the biggest events weve had. We also incorporated things such as our raffle baskets and Camp MASH drive.

Each of the 80 members of AOPi formed their own team for the event. Registration was made public to boost the number of participants.

Lou Hutchinson, who is 75 years old and a member of The Strikers enjoyed the event.

Its really good, said Hutchinson. Its good lanes here and the ladies behind the counter are really nice. Its been just a blast. Its a great cause. Childrens arthritis needs all the help they can get.

Hutchinson described her past experience with bowling as well.

I used to bowl on a bowling lane about 30 years ago, said Hutchinson. Our team made it to regionals and we didnt finish after that, but thats okay. I have managed to bowl a 500 game.

However, her participation in the event was a complete coincidence.

My granddaughter, Fallon, is in AOPi, said Hutchinson. She has invited me not knowing I knew how to bowl, but she invited me to come play with her today and I love it. Its so much fun.

LeBourgeois explained what inspired her to organize the event and how the event took shape.

This past summer, I had the opportunity to go to a summer camp for kids with arthritis, said LeBourgeois. Thats what inspired me to run for this office and do this. Actually, one of my campers is here today. So, its kind of cool I get to share this experience with her. Its basically like a chapter. I was the head of it. I have some advisors to help me. So between us three, we put it together. I also do owe credit to five of my friends, who have been there the whole time.

According to The Arthritis Foundation, juvenile arthritis consists of autoimmune and inflammatory conditions or pediatric rheumatic diseases that can develop in children under the age of 16. This condition affects nearly 300,000 children in the United States. Some of the common symptoms of this condition include pain, joint swelling, redness and warmth. However, each type of juvenile arthritis has its distinct and special concerns and symptoms.

LeBourgeois wants the awareness of this condition to grow on campus. She is graduating next year and hopes the event grows in the future.

Im hoping the person that takes the office after makes it grow, said LeBourgeois. Our main goal is to branch out to Southeastern community. We tried it this year, but we had only a few students sign up. But we really want a community involvement.

Nikisun Shrestha/The Lion's Roar

Originally posted here:
AOPi fundraiser at Tangi Lanes works to strike out juvenile arthritis - The Lion's Roar Newspaper

By Robert Preidt

HealthDay Reporter

MONDAY, April 10, 2017 (HealthDay News) -- Blood tests to diagnose and monitor rheumatoid arthritis may be thrown off by obesity in women, a new study suggests.

"Physicians might assume that high levels of inflammation mean that a patient has rheumatoid arthritis or that their rheumatoid arthritis requires more treatment, when in fact a mild increase in levels of inflammation could be due to obesity instead," explained study author Dr. Michael George, who's with the University of Pennsylvania Health System in Philadelphia.

Blood tests for C-reactive protein (CRP) and erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR) can help physicians check the severity of inflammation in rheumatoid arthritis patients, the researchers said.

Previous studies have suggested that obese women may normally have higher CRP and ESR levels. So, the authors of this study decided to take a closer look at the issue.

The study included information from more than 2,100 people with rheumatoid arthritis. The researchers then compared that information to data from the general population.

A higher body mass index (BMI -- an estimate of body fat based on weight and height) was associated with greater CRP in women with rheumatoid arthritis and women in the general population, especially in severely obese women. There was also a modest association between obesity and ESR.

Conversely, in men with rheumatoid arthritis, a lower BMI was associated with greater CRP and ESR.

The findings may help improve understanding of the link between weight and inflammation. It may also help doctors learn more about how this relationship differs between women and men, the study authors added.

The findings were published April 10 in the journal Arthritis Care & Research.

"Our results suggest that obesity may lead to increased levels of CRP and ESR in women with rheumatoid arthritis," George said in a journal news release.

"The increase in these levels of inflammation was not because rheumatoid arthritis was worse in these women," he said.

"In fact, we found that obesity leads to very similar increases in these lab tests even in women without rheumatoid arthritis," he added.

Doctors should be careful when interpreting the results of these lab tests since both rheumatoid arthritis and obesity can contribute to inflammation levels, George said.

WebMD News from HealthDay

SOURCE: Arthritis Care & Research, news release, April 10, 2017

Continued here:
Obesity May Make Rheumatoid Arthritis Tough to Spot - WebMD

Dive Brief:

Many of the world's top drugs are targeted immune modulators (TIMs) indicated for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

This broad class of newer drugs substantially improved upon older disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs (DMARDs)such as methotrexate, helping many patients better control disease symptoms and extending survival. Even so, the broad market opportunity rheumatoid arthritis is estimated to affect between 1.3 and 1.8 million Americans continues to draw drugmaker interest, with potential new entrants from Regeneron(sarilumab) and Eli Lilly (baricitinib) currently undergoing regulatory review.

In its report, ICERconsidered 11 TIMs, including those two experimental agents from Regeneron and Eli Lilly.

"Our analyses indicate that all the TIMsof interest in this evaluation substantially improved health outcomes compared to conventional DMARDs alone," ICER concluded in its report.

"However, their additional cost led to cost-effectiveness estimates that were well above commonly cited thresholds for cost effectiveness, and the discounts required to achieve these thresholds are greater than estimated current discounts from WAC."

In its conclusion,ICER suggested policy makers "may need to consider regulatory intervention" in order to ensure drug prices for TIMs don't continue to increase as they have in recent years.

Drugmakersfrom across the industry have sparred with ICER over its evaluations, frequently accusing the organization of failing to incorporate patient perspectives and attacking its use of benchmarks like quality-adjusted life years (QALY).

Amgen, for example,has criticized ICER'smethodology, arguing its model "relies too heavily" on short-term trial data, thereby overestimating the effect of conventional DMARDtherapy.

"The ICERrheumatoid arthritis report fails to fully capture the value of targeted immune modulators by using an outdated, one-size-fits-all economic model," the company said in an emailed statement.

ICERhas responded forcefully in the past, publishing a point-by-point rebuttalof often-used criticisms last August. Additionally, the group recently revised its value-assessment framework, drawing on feedback and comments from payers, patient groups and the industry. This most recent report largely relied on the older framework while reviews that begin in 2017 will use the newer one.

Previous reports from ICERon treatments for hepatitis C,high cholesterol and multiple myelomahave found many top-selling brands to be overpriced compared to cost-effectiveness benchmarks.

Analyses such as these provide evidence-based fodder that payers and other stakeholders have seized upon to push back against the industry on pricing. Given the well-entrenched position of many TIMs in the market, the direct impact of ICER's report in the existing rheumatoid arthritis market may be more limited.

But its conclusions regarding Actemra and sarilumab could impact payer consideration of those drugs, or guide Regeneronand Eli Lilly's pricing calculus for their respective experimental drugs, if approved by the FDA.

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In familiar routine, ICER finds rheumatoid arthritis drugs overpriced ... - BioPharma Dive

A TWO-day self-management event is being held in Coventry city centre for people with arthritis by UK charity Arthritis Action.

The event will explore approaches to better manage the symptoms of arthritis through healthy eating, physical therapy, mindfulness, exercise and pain management.

Attendees will be able to share their stories, questions and tips and learn from one another.

Taking place on Wednesday, April 26, and Thursday, April 27, the event is welcoming all interested and is free of charge though booking is essential.

Debbie Rose, an accredited self-management trainer who lives with arthritis, will present the event while director of development and membership Heather Baumohl, and group and event officer Leah Boylan will also be present.

The charity runs self-management events across the UK to offer people with arthritis the opportunity to share their experiences, ideas and feelings with others in a safe and friendly environment.

Shantel Irwin, chief executive of Arthritis Action, said: Around 10 million people in the UK live with arthritis.

It is the leading cause of pain and disability nationwide.

We run self-management events to not only raise awareness of the condition but ultimately to help people with arthritis take a more active role in managing their condition and be in control of their lives.

To register, email info@arthritisaction.org.uk or call 020 3781 7120.

Visit http://www.arthritisaction.org.uk for further information about the charity.

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Two-day self management course announced to help Coventry residents living with arthritis - Coventry Observer

People who see dermatologists for the skin condition psoriasis should not take the presence of joint aches and pains lightly, as the two things might be connected. The National Psoriasis Foundation notes that psoriasis is a precursor to psoriatic arthritis in 30 percent of patients.

What is psoriatic arthritis?

Psoriasis is an autoimmune condition that affects the rate of skin cell reproduction. People with psoriasis may experience redness, itchiness and raised bumps (plaques) of skin on various areas of their bodies. Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic form of arthritis that typically occurs in people with skin psoriasis, but also can be present in those without the skin condition, but particularly among those who have relatives with psoriasis.

The American College of Rheumatology says that psoriatic arthritis typically affects the large joints, especially the lower extremities, distal joints of the fingers and toes and the back and sacroiliac joints of the pelvis. Early recognition, diagnosis and treatment of psoriatic arthritis are crucial to relieving inflammation and preventing permanent joint damage.

Symptoms

Symptoms of psoriatic arthritis can develop gradually or quickly, and some symptoms can be severe. NPF indicates that common symptoms of psoriatic arthritis include

Symptoms of psoriatic arthritis are similar to rheumatoid arthritis, gout and reactive arthritis. Doctors will rule out other symptoms that may be indicative of those conditions. The American College of Rheumatology also indicates that psoriatic arthritis is typically blood test negative. The diagnosis is typically made by a rheumatologist after reviewing a clinical history and performing a physical exam.

Treatment

Doctors will need to assess symptoms before deciding on a course of treatment. Mild cases may respond to over-the-counter, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen. However, antirheumatic drugs and newer biologic drugs may be prescribed to treat more aggressive cases of psoriatic arthritis.

Corticosteroid injections can be useful for swollen joints, and surgery may be necessary to repair badly damaged joints.

Individuals who suspect their arthritis may be linked to psoriasis can first speak with a dermatologist or primary care physician. The NPF also offers a screening tool at http://www.psoriasis.org/psa-screening.

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Arthritis linked to another condition - White Mountain Independent

Innovator David Ku Age 61 Professor of mechanical engineering and engineering entrepreneurship at Georgia Tech; surgeon

Form and functionCartiva implants are made of polyvinyl alcohol, the main ingredient of contact lenses, and mimic natural cartilage to treat arthritis. Unlike the current standard of caremetal plates fused with jointsthey allow for a full range of motion.

A diagram of a metal plate.

OriginResearch on blood flow required Ku and his students to create material for artificial blood vessels. The company they formed to further develop the material was acquired by Carticept MedicalInc. in 2008 and spun off as Cartiva Inc. in 2011.

FundingCartiva has raised $35million from New Enterprise Associates, Windham Venture Partners, and private investors.

OpenAfter opening a patients joint to be treated, an orthopedic surgeon bores a hole in one of the bones of the joint.

PlantThe surgeon inserts a compressed Cartiva implant into the hole, where it expands to remain firmly in place without fasteners.

Source: Cartiva

MarketU.S.-based orthopedic surgeons can use a $4,500 kit from Cartiva to treat arthritis in the big toe. The kit includes a -inch implant, a drill, and tools for compressing and inserting the implant.

Next StepsIts certainly transformative, says Judy Baumhauer, an orthopedics professor at the University of Rochester Medical Center. With this advance, we have an implant that doesnt wear out or cause more troubles. Cartiva Chief Executive Officer Tim Patrick says the company is seeking Food and Drug Administration approval to implant the cartilage in thumbs, and Ku is working on other applications for his implants, including as replacement blood vessel valves.

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This Synthetic Cartilage Can Give Arthritis Sufferers a Full Range of Motion - Bloomberg

Experts in the field of psoriatic arthritis have long faced a chicken-and-egg question: Can you have psoriatic arthritis without havingpsoriasisfirst?Some say yes. Some say no. Others say yes and no.

"There is a lot of debate going on," says Ted Mikuls, MD, professor of internal medicine in the division of rheumatology at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha.

Like psoriatic arthritis, psoriasis is an autoimmune disease, meaning the immune systemattacks a part of the body. With psoriasis, the immune system attacks the skin (leading to telltaleraised red or silvery patches), while psoriatic arthritis attacks the joints (causing stiffness, pain, and swelling).About 80-85% of people who develop psoriatic arthritis have psoriasis first, according to the National Psoriasis Foundation. For the remaining 15-20%,arthritis precedes the skin condition.

"It is much, much more common to have the psoriasis first," says Marcy OKoon Moss, senior director for consumer health at the Arthritis Foundation in Atlanta.

But the question remains: If a patient first experiencesjoint symptoms of psoriatic arthritis, does that mean they don'thave psoriasisor just that their psoriasishasnt been detected yet?

RELATED: The 5 Types of Psoriatic Arthritis You Need to Know About

Certainly it is at least partly a detection issue, says Dr.Mikuls. Existing psoriasis might be largely invisible, such as hiding in your belly buttonor behind your ears. "Skin psoriasis can be very, very subtle and appear in places we dont look at closely," hesays.

But you alsocant rule out the possibility that psoriatic arthritis can occur without psoriasis, he adds. You dont need to have been diagnosed with skin psoriasis to receive a diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis. Doctors can make a diagnosis based on a family history or personal history (such as if you had psoriasis but its cleared up), says OKoon Moss.It can also go the other way: A 2015 study found that 10-15% of people with psoriasis had psoriatic arthritis that simply had not been detected.

Another thing to consider is that people who have both psoriasis and psoriatic arthritis dont necessarily have the same degree of symptoms; their psoriasis can be mild while their arthritis is bad, or vice versa. "There can be a real disconnect between the severity of your skin involvement and your arthritis," says Dr. Mikuls.

Clearly, more research is needed on this topic to be able to fully understand whether or not you can have psoriatic arthritis without any psoriasis. But Dr. Mikuls stresses the importance of speaking to your doctor if you're experiencing symptoms of either condition, since getting a correct diagnosis is critical for your treatment.A few years ago, he explains, a 100%-accurate diagnosis of psoriatic arthritis may not have mattered quite so much. Today, though, it's very important."In the past, we would have said treatments [for different types of arthritis] overlap," he explains. "But more and more were learning that [treatments] really are uniquely different in many ways."

Take DMARDs (disease modifying antirheumatic drugs), for example. Dr. Mikuls explains that they were an earlier psoriatic arthritis treatment that might also work for other forms of arthritis. But newer psoriatic arthritis treatments, like biologics, may work for psoriatic arthritis but not other forms of arthritis, such as rheumatoid arthritis.

And not all cases of psoriatic arthritis are the same, nor do all treatments work the same way for everyone. "The lesson learned in rheumatology is that patients dont always present the same way," says Dr. Mikuls.

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Is It Possible to Have Psoriatic Arthritis Without Psoriasis? - Health.com - Health.com

Courtesy photo A Racing 4 Taylor banner sits outside the Richmond County Tourism Authority building in Rockingham.

ELLERBE This weekends lawnmower race in Ellerbe is one close to Rex Crouch Jr.s heart.

He started the Racing for Taylor event in the Outlaw Triple Crown series in 2011 after his daughter was diagnosed with juvenile rheumatoid arthritis at the age of 2.

Coming from a fathers standpoint, Im a mechanic, and being a mechanic,you kinda want to fix things, he said. But being a racer, and the operations manager for the Ellerbe Lions Club lawnmower track, Crouch said he couldnt think of anything else to do to help.

Taylor, now 8, had to make multiple trips every two to three months to hospitals at the University of North Carolina in Chapel Hill and Duke University in Durham where she would receive injections in her joints.

Crouch said as time has passed and his daughter has gotten older, she has gotten better and is in remission.

But you can see the damage its done to her joints when she plays, he added.

The event is now in its fifth year, having skipped 2012 and 2013.

Crouch said it draws lawnmower racers from all over the country, including New Hampshire, Georgia, Massachusetts and Tennessee.

They come from everywhere, he said, adding that the event averages from 75 to 135 participants.

Gates open at 8 a.m. and the racing eight categories ranging from stock lawnmowers to faster classes running 6o miles per hour begins at 5 p.m. with the feature races scheduled to begin at 7 p.m.

Crouch said shirts, hats and armbands will be sold, with proceeds going to fund research into juvenile arthritis.

Reach William R. Toler at 910-817-2675 and follow him on Twitter @William_r_toler.

Courtesy photo A Racing 4 Taylor banner sits outside the Richmond County Tourism Authority building in Rockingham.

http://yourdailyjournal.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/04/web1_racing4taylor.jpegCourtesy photo A Racing 4 Taylor banner sits outside the Richmond County Tourism Authority building in Rockingham.

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Race to benefit juvenile arthritis research - Richmond County Daily Journal

Psoriatic arthritis is an autoimmune diseasethat can lead toswelling, pain, and stiffness in the joints. This painful condition can affect any joint in the body, but most often it impacts the fingers and toes, as well as the ankles, knees, wrists, and lower back or spine. Because many symptoms of psoriatic arthritis aren't so easy to spot (joint pain, fatigue), it is often referred to as an "invisible" disease. However, other psoriatic arthritissymptoms are more identifiable.

RELATED: 9 Things People With Psoriatic Arthritis Want You to Know

The symptoms of psoriatic arthritis can differ greatly from person to person. The number of joints affected by the diseasecan vary, and at times a patient may only exhibit symptoms on one or two of their joints, while at other times the disease can impact several joints at once.Oftenalthough not alwayspsoriatic arthritis is asymmetrical, meaning a joint on one side of the body isaffected (your knee, for example), while the mirror-image joint feels normal.

Joints that are close to each other on the body can also be impactedvery differently. "You can have severely involved joints [with] nearby joints showing almost complete preservation," says Ted Mikuls, MD, professor of internal medicine in the division of rheumatology at the University of Nebraska Medical Center in Omaha. "It can be very spotty."

Psoriatic arthritis symptoms inthe fingers can be very distinctive. One possible symptom is the last knuckles of the finger (near the nails) swelling and becoming inflamed, while other joints in the finger remain unaffected.Other telltale signs of psoriatic arthritis can be seen on the nails themselves: pitting, grooving, or other textural changes on the nail bed; changes in color; or thickening of the nails. Sometimes the nails can separate entirely on the nail bed. Some of these changes may cause patients to think that they have a fungal infection.

Another possible symptom of psoriatic arthritis is dactylitis, when the entire finger or toe swells up to look like a sausage."That is really characteristic for psoriatic arthritis," says Dr.Mikuls.

Psoriatic arthritis can also result in deformities in the joints. In fact, deformities may happen even before you experience some of the other hallmark symptoms of psoriatic arthritis like joint pain and stiffness. In the feet, deformities can occur in the form of clawed toes (they bend up or down) or ankles that roll inward. Some people also develop calluses or corns on the bottoms of their feet.

Psoriatic arthritis can also affect parts of your body in addition to thejoints. Redness, irritation, and pain in the eyes, including conjunctivitis, can also be a signof psoriatic arthritis, as can fatigue.

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These Psoriatic Arthritis Pictures Show What the Autoimmune Disease Is Really Like - Health.com

Experimental arthritis IL-38 promotes anti-inflammatory effects Nature.com A new study shows that IL-38 a member of the IL-1 cytokine family reduces inflammation in two experimental models of inflammatory arthritis and promotes an anti-inflammatory effect in macrophages and fibroblasts. IL-38 seems to be a broad ...

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Experimental arthritis IL-38 promotes anti-inflammatory effects - Nature.com

Home Anti-Aging Arthritis Use of pedometers found to decrease fatigue in rheumatoid arthritis patients

Feeling tired and fatigued is something we can all relate to. However, some individuals have preexisting conditions that predispose them to feelings of excessive tirednessmore so than the average person. Rheumatoid arthritis is one of these conditions, as due to damage to the joints, RA sufferers become very tired after short bursts of activity. However, according to a new study, keeping rheumatoid arthritis patients preoccupied with the number of steps they take through the use of a pedometer has allowed researchers to see increases in activity and decreases in overall fatigue.

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a chronic inflammatory disorder that can affect the joints as well as a wide variety of body systems, including the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, and blood vessels. It is an autoimmune disorder where the bodys own immune system begins to attack itself. This often leads to inflammation, causing painful swelling that can eventually result in bone loss and joint deformity. Factors that may increase your risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis include:

Your sex: Women are more likely than men to develop the condition

Age: RA can occur at any age, but commonly begins between the ages of 40 and 60 years old

Family history: Having someone in your family who has had the condition before may increase the chances of development

Smoking: Cigarette smoking has been seen to increase the risk of RA, particularly if there is a genetic predisposition for developing the disease. Smoking appears to also be associated with greater disease severity

Obesity: Overweight or obese individuals appear to have a marginally higher risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis. This was seen to hold especially true in women diagnosed with the disease when they are 55 years old or younger.

Treatment for Rheumatoid arthritis typically leans towards symptom relief, as there is no cure for the disorder. Physical therapy and even surgery can be options that patients may choose if pharmaceutical treatment doesnt suffice. Of the symptoms that RA medication aims to alleviate, fatigue is not one of them, making this study a positive form of alternative treatment.

Because rheumatoid arthritis medications have only small effects on fatigue, its important for patients to have other ways to manage their fatigue, said Dr. Patricia Katz, lead author of theArthritis Care & Research study. These results suggest that something as simple as increasing physical activity by walking can help.

The study in question had a control group that did not receive pedometers, and researchers saw an average daily step decline with no significant change in fatigue levels. Dr. Katz and her colleagues consider these findings in her study significant, as fatigue can have an impact on the quality of life for patients with RA.

Related: Arthritis in shoulder blades, joints, and arms: Causes, symptoms, and treatment

Related Reading:

Osteoarthritis (degenerative arthritis): Causes, symptoms, and treatment

11 best essential oils for arthritis: Control arthritis and inflammation

http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1002/acr.23230/abstract;jsessionid=0082E1F51E642003976B1CC4FF888694.f04t01 http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/rheumatoid-arthritis/home/ovc-20197388

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Use of pedometers found to decrease fatigue in rheumatoid arthritis patients - Bel Marra Health

Home Anti-Aging Arthritis Arthritis pain? Try this

Arthritis is the bane of old age. Inflamed joints, swelling, pain Even if you dont have arthritis, you surely know a few people suffering from this chronic disorder. An umbrella term referring to over 100 types of joint disease, arthritis affects about 53 million adults in the U.S. alone. Medications are often prescribed to ease the symptoms and improve patients quality of life, while surgery is an option in more severe cases.

Yet, if youre looking for a natural way to alleviate your arthritisor if youre being proactive and want to take some preventive measureslook no further than your diet. As mentioned, arthritis is an inflammatory condition, meaning that you can reduce your pain and other symptoms by consuming a diet rich in anti-inflammatory foods. Take note of the following kitchen staples as they can make your life easier and less painful.

Fish. Yet another reason to eat more seafoodnamely salmon, sardines, and mackerel. They can reduce inflammation thanks to their abundant supply of omega-3 fatty acids. Start with two servings a week and see what happens. (Dont let pain control your life, fight back today!)

Olive oil. What is olive oil not good for? Because of its high content of essential fatty acids and anti-inflammatory properties, olive oil should be your oil of choice. If you dont like cooking with olive oil, opt for canola instead.

Nuts. Red meat may promote inflammation, so try replacing your serving of meat with a quarter-cup of nuts. You will meet your protein needs without worrying about saturated fats and cholesterol. Just make sure you buy the unsalted variety.

Whole grains. If youve already made a switch from white bread to whole grain, lets take it one step further and diversify your diet with additional whole grains like quinoa, bulgur, or barley. They make a perfect side and are a great source of fiber and nutrients.

Ginger. Well-known for its medicinal and anti-inflammatory properties, ginger adds a zesty touch to any dish or drink. Even if youre not a fan of this flavorful root, give it a try. Add some minced ginger to a stir fry or put a slice into your tea. You will gradually get used to the taste and will feel more comfortable using it to cook.

Berries. Get your antioxidant fix with blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, and black currants. Add them to your breakfast cereal or salad, or eat them as a healthy snack. And if youre taking prescription meds and suffer from constipation as a side effect, the fiber in berries will get things moving. (The superhero antioxidant your body cant do without.)

Apples. Another awesome snack option rich in fiber and antioxidants. An apple a day keeps the doctor away is a saying for a reason.

Dark chocolate. Yes, you can have chocolate too. Just make sure its at least 60 percent cocoa. Antioxidants in dark chocolate will take care of inflammation, while the high cocoa content prevents you from overindulging in sugar. A half an ounce is a good daily dose.

As you can see, an anti-inflammatory diet is not as boring as it sounds. Adding these foods to your daily menu will please your palate and your aching joints too. Whether you are suffering from arthritis or are simply looking for a way to improve your health, these foods will only benefit you in the long run.

Related: 11 best essential oils for arthritis: Control arthritis and inflammation

Related Reading:

Living with arthritis? Simple lifestyle and exercise tips to improve your joint health

Preventing arthritis in hand with exercise and natural remedies

http://www.arthritis.org/about-arthritis/understanding-arthritis/ https://health.clevelandclinic.org/2015/11/top-10-foods-power-ease-arthritis-pain/

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Arthritis pain? Try this - Bel Marra Health - Bel Marra Health

Contrary to popular belief, arthritis isnt a single disease. Its a term used to refer to joint pain or joint disease. According to the National Arthritis Foundation, there are more than 100 different types of arthritis and related conditions. People of all ages, sexes and races have arthritis, and its the leading cause of disability in America.

April is Arthritis Awareness Month. Bayhealth Primary Care Sports Medicine Physician Melissa Mackel, DO, CAQSM, said weight loss and muscle strengthening can decrease the risk of developing arthritis. When the joint symptoms of arthritis are mild or moderate, they can be managed with regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight and strengthening the muscles around the joint for added support.

A recent study showed a 40 percent improvement in both pain and physical abilities of those with arthritis who exercise, she said. The more staggering statistic is that only about 10 percent of those with arthritis choose this option and one-third of those with arthritis don't report any physical activity at all in their spare time.

Dr. Mackel recommends going for daily walks and using strengthening equipment like rubber resistance bands to build lean muscle mass. When it comes to arthritis the 'move it or lose it' motto holds true in regards to range of motion and function, she said. Exercise is the first thing we recommend to help decrease the symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.

While there are other unalterable factors that contribute to arthritis such as gender, age, genetics, and injury, Bayhealth Orthopaedics offers a myriad of treatment options that are both non-operative and operative. For those with mild pain, Dr. Mackel suggests different types of in-office consultations for strengthening exercises and nutrition counseling. For patients with more severe pain, she offers injections such as a corticosteroid or Viscosupplementation, custom bracing to help offload the affected joint, or meeting with an experienced joint replacement specialist.

For more information on treatment options, visit bayhealth.org/orthopaedics. To find a Bayhealth physician to fit your needs, call 1-866-Bay-Docs to learn about providers in your area.

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Strengthening Muscle to Reduce Arthritic Pain - CapeGazette.com

April 05, 2017 16:00 ET | Source: Galapagos NV

multilang-release

First dosing triggers $10 million milestone payment from Gilead Mechelen, Belgium; 5 April 2017, regulated information - Galapagos NV (Euronext & NASDAQ: GLPG) announces dosing of the first patient with psoriatic arthritis in the EQUATOR Phase 2 study. This achievement triggers a $10 million milestone payment from Gilead to Galapagos.

The EQUATOR Phase 2 study will be a multi-center, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study to assess the safety and efficacy of the selective JAK1 inhibitor filgotinib in adult patients with moderately to severely active psoriatic arthritis.

Galapagos and Gilead entered into a global collaboration for the development and commercialization of filgotinib in inflammatory indications. In addition to the EQUATOR Phase 2 study in psoriatic arthritis and the TORTUGA Phase 2 study in ankylosing spondylitis led by Galapagos, Gilead initiated the FINCH Phase 3 program in rheumatoid arthritis, the DIVERSITY Phase 3 study in Crohn's disease, the SELECTION Phase 2b/3 study in ulcerative colitis in 2016 and leads the Phase 2 study in Sjgren's syndrome.

Filgotinib is an investigational drug and its efficacy and safety have not been established. For information about the studies with filgotinib: http://www.clinicaltrials.gov For more information about filgotinib: http://www.glpg.com/filgotinib

About Galapagos Galapagos (Euronext & NASDAQ: GLPG) is a clinical-stage biotechnology company specialized in the discovery and development of small molecule medicines with novel modes of action. Our pipeline comprises Phase 3, Phase 2, Phase 1, pre-clinical, and discovery programs in cystic fibrosis, inflammation, fibrosis, osteoarthritis and other indications. We have discovered and developed filgotinib: in collaboration with Gilead we aim to bring this JAK1-selective inhibitor for inflammatory indications to patients all over the world. Galapagos is focused on the development and commercialization of novel medicines that will improve people's lives. The Galapagos group, including fee-for-service subsidiary Fidelta, has approximately 510 employees, operating from its Mechelen, Belgium headquarters and facilities in The Netherlands, France, and Croatia. More information at http://www.glpg.com.

Contacts

+31 6 53 591 999

communications@glpg.com

Paul van der Horst Director IR & Business Development +31 6 53 725 199

This press release contains inside information within the meaning of Regulation (EU) No 596/2014 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 16 April 2014 on market abuse (market abuse regulation).

Forward-looking statements This release may contain forward-looking statements, including statements regarding Galapagos' strategic ambitions, the anticipated timing of clinical studies with filgotinib, and the progression and results of such studies. Galapagos cautions the reader that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance. Forward-looking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which might cause the actual results, financial condition and liquidity, performance or achievements of Galapagos, or industry results, to be materially different from any historic or future results, financial conditions and liquidity, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. In addition, even if Galapagos' results, performance, financial condition and liquidity, and the development of the industry in which it operates are consistent with such forward-looking statements, they may not be predictive of results or developments in future periods. Among the factors that may result in differences are the inherent uncertainties associated with competitive developments, clinical trial and product development activities and regulatory approval requirements (including that data from the ongoing and planned clinical research programs may not support registration or further development of Galapagos' product candidates due to safety, efficacy or other reasons), Galapagos' reliance on collaborations with third parties (including its collaboration partner for filgotinib, Gilead), and estimating the commercial potential of Galapagos' product candidates. A further list and description of these risks, uncertainties and other risks can be found in Galapagos' Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) filings and reports, including in Galapagos' most recent annual report on form 20-F filed with the SEC and subsequent filings and reports filed by Galapagos with the SEC. Given these uncertainties, the reader is advised not to place any undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of publication of this document. Galapagos expressly disclaims any obligation to update any such forward-looking statements in this document to reflect any change in its expectations with regard thereto or any change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statement is based or that may affect the likelihood that actual results will differ from those set forth in the forward-looking statements, unless specifically required by law or regulation.

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Galapagos doses first psoriatic arthritis patient with filgotinib - GlobeNewswire (press release)