Q.Can arthritis be cured?

A.There is no cure for arthritis but there are available treatments that can ease pain and stiffness. The treatments available address the symptoms. Proper treatment can really help the patients with arthritis.

Q.What are the side effects of the most common arthritis medications?

A.NSAID or the Non-steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs are the most popular and the most commonly prescribed drugs for arthritis. Several types of NSAID are on the market. The most famous are the acetylated, COX, Selective Inhibitors.

NSAID works harshly on some of the enzymes and in blocking the activity of the cells. In some cases the risk of developing other health problems is increased with continuous taking of NSAID. According to some patients, they experience dizziness, insomnia and headache after taking these drugs.

Q. Can acupuncture help arthritis?

A.The National Arthritis, Musculoskeletal, and Skin Diseases Information Clearinghouse says that acupuncture can help minimize the pain of arthritis. Some researchers believe that the needles used in acupuncture help regulate the flow of natural painkillers.

Some hospitals in the United States offer acupuncture therapy, and there are several cases that prove how acupuncture has helped in surgery for rheumatic conditions.

Q. Can a chiropractor help arthritis?

A.There is evidence that chiropractic can help people suffering from arthritis. It also allows the spinal manipulation that helps regulate different joints as well as the spinal column. A good chiropractor can adjust all the joints of the body, allowing them to work normally.

There are several methods of chiropractic therapy that combine proper nutrition with overall massage to produce better health.

Q. Should I exercise or NOT exercise arthritic joints?

A.Many arthritis sufferers think it is harmful for them to exercise the affected area. This is a mistaken idea that has persisted for many years.

If arthritis attacks, the patient should exercise in order to increase blood flow to the affected area. Many researchers have discussed how important it is to exercise during an attack of arthritis. In fact, exercise is essential in managing your arthritis.

Q.What food choices can I make to improve my diet?

• Choose foods that are high in fiber. They are not only good for you, but they'll also make you feel full.


• Use all oils sparingly and use olive, canola, flaxseed, soybean and walnut oils more frequently than other vegetable oils.


• Trim the fat off meat and limit portion sizes.


• Enjoy fruits and vegetables. They're high in important phytochemicals.


• Read food labels: cholesterol-free does not mean fat-free


• Try to eat fish at least twice a week (those that are rich in important Omega-3 fatty acids and low in fat). Substitute fish, poultry (without the skin) and lean meats for higher-fat meats.

Q.Can acupuncture really help arthritis?

A.The National Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases Information Clearinghouse acknowledges acupuncture as an established method for stopping arthritis pain for short periods of time. Researchers believe that the needles stimulate deep sensory nerves that tell the brain to release natural painkillers (endorphins). Note that acupressure is similar to acupuncture, but pressure is applied to the acupuncture sites instead of needles.

Q.How Much Exercise Is Too Much?

A.Most experts agree that if exercise causes pain that lasts for more than 1 hour, it is too much. People with arthritis should work with their physical therapist or doctor to adjust their exercise program when they notice any of the following signs of too much exercise:

• Unusual or persistent fatigue


• Increased weakness


• Decreased range of motion


• Increased joint swelling


• Continuing pain (pain that lasts more than 1 hour after exercising)

Q.What Type of Strengthening Program Is Best?

A.This varies depending on personal preference, the type of arthritis involved, and how active the inflammation is. Strengthening one’s muscles can help take the burden off painful joints. Strength training can be done with small free weights, exercise machines, isometrics, elastic bands, and resistive water exercises. Correct positioning is critical, because if done incorrectly, strengthening exercises can cause muscle tears, more pain, and more joint swelling.

Q.What else, besides medication, helps to alleviate arthritis?

A.In the past, doctors often advised arthritis patients to rest and avoid exercise. Rest remains important, especially during flares. But doing nothing results in weak muscles, stiff joints, reduced mobility, and lost vitality. Now, rheumatologists routinely advise a balance of physical activity and rest. Exercise offers physical and psychological benefits that include improved overall fitness and well-being, increased mobility, and better sleep.

Joints require motion to stay healthy. That's why doctors advise arthritis patients to do range-of-motion, or flexibility, exercises every day--even during flares. Painful or swollen joints should be moved gently, however.
Strengthening and endurance activities are also recommended, but should be limited or avoided during flares. Arthritis patients should consult their doctors before starting an exercise program, and begin gradually.

A claim describing the relationship between a nutrient or dietary ingredient and a disease, such as arthritis, cannot be made on the label or in labeling of a food or dietary supplement unless the claim is authorized by FDA. In order for FDA to consider authorizing the use of a health claim, there must be significant agreement among qualified experts that the health claim is scientifically valid. As of December 1996, FDA had not authorized any health claims for a relationship between any food or dietary supplement ingredient and arthritis. Sometimes, however, food or dietary supplement products are found on the market with unauthorized claims.