Arthritis is not inevitable as we age, and through this four (4) part series, you will find out WHY!
Arthritis, it’s one of those words we so commonly use but most don’t really know all that much about. When most people think of arthritis, they think of pain, stiffness and inevitable aging. Our bodies are designed to heal, but as we age our bodies need a little help to keep our joints healthy.
Common does not mean it’s normal!
What is arthritis?
Arthritis isn’t a single disease, rather it’s a general name for of over 100 types! More than 50 million adults and 300,000 children are affected. More likely than not you know someone with arthritis, or you may even have it yourself. If so, keep on reading because YOU NEED TO KNOW HOW TO TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR HEALTH!
There are four (4) main categories of arthritis:
- Degenerative Arthritis, aka Osteoarthritis, the most common type where we see symptoms isolated to joints.
- Inflammatory Arthritis, for example Rheumatoid Arthritis. These are due to the immune system attacking joints and other organs with uncontrolled inflammation.
- Infectious Arthritis, cause be infectious organisms that get into our joints, creating massive fluid build up, pain and swelling.
- Metabolic Arthritis, Uric acid crystals form in joints with sudden pain called Gout.
What are the symptoms of arthritis and how do I know if I have it?
Since osteoarthritis is by far the most common, we’ll focus on that one here. Symptoms typically involve joint inflammation of one or more joints, causing pain that tends to worsen with age. Cartilage, the cushion surface on the end of bones, wears away, bone rubs against bone causing joint swelling, stiffness and decreased range of motion. The symptoms come and go and can range from mild to severe. Over time joints lose strength and pain may become more chronic, ie long lasting.
Arthritis can cause joint damage visible on x-ray, but most of the time it is diagnosed by a Doctor via symptoms alone.
Remember THIS IS NOT NORMAL AGING!!!
What are the risk factors for Osteoarthritis? Stay tuned for Part 2…
At Regenerate Health Medical Center, we’re here to HELP YOU REGAIN CONTROL OF YOUR LIFE! We don’t let pain get in your way.
Dr. ACE, Naturopathic Medical Doctor
Regenerate Health Medical Center
1933 Cliff Dr. #27B, Santa Barbara, CA 93109
805-620-7122
