• Buy Osteoarthritis Supplements and Products
• General Osteoarthritis Information
• Possible Causes of Osteoarthritis
• Possible Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
• Possible Lifestyle Changes for Osteoarthritis
• Beneficial Dietary Supplements

General Osteoarthritis Information
Osteoarthritis is a condition that occurs when cartilage (cushions between the bones) begins to break down, causing pain and decreased mobility. The once smooth cartilage becomes thin and rough, resulting in friction and pain. Osteoarthritis can flare up in any joint, but the most common areas of concern are the knees, hips, feet and fingers. Osteoarthritis commonly affects older people over the age of 50 and those who put unusual amounts of stress on their joints, like athletes, dancers and manual laborers. Overweight individuals and those with a family history of osteoporosis are more likely to develop the condition.

Although osteoarthritis is rarely crippling, the pain associated with the condition can significantly affect one’s lifestyle. Many sufferers are forced to miss work and avoid favorite activities when the pain flares up and becomes too much to handle. More than 7 million doctor visits each year are attributed to osteoarthritis, and the condition is the number one cause of joint replacement surgery to date.

Possible Causes of Osteoarthritis
Osteoarthritis is most commonly caused by natural wear and tear on the body that accompanies advancing age, poor diet or an unhealthy lifestyle. The condition can also be traced to injuries or an inherited defect in the protein that forms cartilage. Osteoporosis rarely develops in people under the age of 40, but it is known to affect most everyone over the age of 60. Although the condition is permanent, the pain can lessen over time.

Possible Symptoms of Osteoarthritis
Most people with osteoarthritis experience pain in the joints either during or after use. Some report pain even after resting. The onset of pain is usually gradual. Joint pain and stiffness in the morning is another common symptom; this pain usually abates within 30 minutes after rising. Shooting pains down the arms or legs can occur when osteoarthritis is located in the spine.

Although osteoarthritis is usually accompanied by pain, some of those affected feel no pain at the affected site. These individuals learn they have osteoarthritis only after their condition is seen on x-ray. This scenario usually occurs when the affected joints are located in non-weight bearing joints, like the fingers and wrists. When osteoarthritis affects the knees and hips, however, significant pain is usually present.

Possible Lifestyle Changes for Osteoarthritis
Most people with osteoarthritis find relief with over-the-counter pain medications, but there are other steps arthritis sufferers can take to decrease their symptoms. Exercise is one of best ways to combat osteoarthritis. Stretching, aerobic exercise and weight lifting work together to strengthen joints and increase flexibility. Losing weight decreases the load on those lower body joints, so eating a healthy diet, incorporating exercise and dropping even a few pounds can do wonders. Maintaining good posture takes pressure off of the body, helps align the spine and minimizes pain in the back. Weak bones can also contribute to the development of osteoarthritis, so include calcium rich foods in the diet, as well.

In accordance with FDA regulation, we do not make any therapeutic claims for any Dietary Supplements in accordance with the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act.

Beneficial Dietary Supplements
Condroitin Sulfate is a nutritional support for strengthening joints, ligaments and tendons.

Glucosamine Sulfate important in forming bones, tendons, ligaments and cartilage.

SAMe aids in reducing pain and inflammation.

Bromelain reduces inflammation when taken between meals.

Essential Fatty Acids help control arthritis pain and inflammation.

Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM) is needed for joint and tissue repair.

Superoxide Dismutase (SOD) and Vitamin E protect fluid in the joints from destruction by free radicals.

Cats Claw acts as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.

Cayenne (topical) is a counter-irritant, a property that causes irritation to which it is applied, distracting the sufferer from the original malady.

Ginger is a powerful antioxidant that fights inflammation.

Boswellia reduces inflammation and restores blood vessels around inflamed connective tissue.

Devils Claw reduces pain associated with osteoarthritis.

REFERENCES: Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 3rd Edition, Phyllis Balch, CNC; James F. Balch, M.D.