Glucosamine for Arthritis in Dogs - What You Need to Know to Help Your Dog With Arthritis Pain

When my Shar Pei, Dozer, began to act like an old dog, my vet suggested I look into glucosamine.

I've heard of glucosamine, but that was in regard to people, not dogs. Can it really help dogs that are suffering from arthritis and joint pain?

Symptoms of Arthritis in Dogs

Dozer was 8 years old when he started to act like an old dog. He has always been somewhat reserved, dignified, but he started to walk very slowly, gingerly, as though he was having a tough time taking each step.

Climbing stairs seemed to be hard for him, too. He normally followed me down into the basement, but lately he started to sit at the top of the stairs and wait for me to come back up. Instead of exploring the yard while I hung my laundry on the clothesline, he would lay down in the cool grass and watch me.

Then he began to lay down in the bathroom. This was odd because he doesn't like baths, and normally he stays far away from the bathtub!

Plus, there are no windows in the bathroom - it's dark in there. He always liked to stay close to the french doors in the dining area, because he could watch out the windows for errant squirrels and other intruders who don't belong in his yard.

When I told the vet about this, he asked what kind of floor was in the bathroom. I told him it was ceramic tile - and he said that was the answer. Dozer's joints were aching, and the cool tile floor soothed the pain.

For Dog Arthritis, Glucosamine Has Been the Answer for Many

Arthritis is caused by a number of factors. The term "arthritis" actually covers more than 100 different joint pain conditions. It can be that the joint is inflamed, or infection, or the cartilage between bones wearing away and more.

Where the problem is cartilage wear, glucosamine for dogs may be the answer.

Where bones meet, say in a hip socket or knee socket, there is a layer of cartilage that acts like a shock absorber between the bones.

However, as we and our dogs age, that cartilage can wear away, leaving the bones rubbing against each other without any padding. That pain can be intense, as anyone who is a candidate for a knee or hip replacement can tell you.

Humans and canines produce glucosamine in the body naturally, but the aging process also causes glucosamine production to drop off.

The good news is that glucosamine is cheap and easy to obtain. It's made from crustacean shells, and since the crustaceans are normally the valued part of the crop, the shells are typically thrown away, meaning that glucosamine supplements for your pet can be relatively inexpensive.

Types of Glucosamine for Arthritis in Dogs

There are 4 types of glucosamine, but the two most effective are Glucosamine Sulfate and Glucosamine Hydrochloride or HCL.

If your dog's arthritis pain is caused by wearing of the cartilage between bones, then you'll want to start supplementing with glucosamine as soon as possible. You'll need to give this supplement for the rest of your dog's life since your pet's body is no longer providing the needed levels of glucosamine.

Glucosamine supplements can encourage the cartilage to regenerate, but it won't completely solve his joint pain problem. If you stop supplementing, you'll see a return of arthritis symptoms.

How Do You Give Your Dog Glucosamine?

Glucosamine for dogs comes in pills that are swallowed, chewable tablets and liquids.

Of course, if your pet takes pills well, then that may be the best solution for you.

Dozer, however, does not like pills, so we decided to try liquid and chewables.

Some dogs are happy with chewable tablets, thinking they are treats, but Dozer would have none of that. The other alternative is the pour-on liquid, which we poured over his dinner at night. That worked well for us. He cleaned it up right away!

We started to notice an improvement about 5 days after his first supplement. Two weeks later, he was back to his old self, jumping into the truck to check out the cows and running up and down the basement stairs after me. What a joy it was to see him feeling good again!

The good news is that glucosamine supplements for dogs typically work that quickly, with most dog owners noticing results within 10 days to 2 weeks.

What Dosage of Glucosamine is Best for Dogs With Arthritis?

Watch the product bottles carefully, since they may list dosages that are hard to compare. For example, one bottle may list 100 pills while another may list 16 ounces.

One website suggested that you think about the dosage in terms of one day. How much will your dog need for one day's treatment?

A good rule of thumb to start is 750 mg of either Glucosamine Sulfate or Glucosamine Hydrochloride per 50 pounds of your dog's weight.

Many veterinarians report that doubling the glucosamine supplement to start for 1-2 weeks is beneficial, and can "jump start" your pet's recovery. And of course, make sure to discuss any medication or supplement with your vet before starting any new regimen for your dog.

Are There Any Side Effects to Glucosamine for Dogs?

A few side effects have been noted by some pet owners, including vomiting and diarrhea. Some dogs will seem drowsy or experience a lack of appetite, but these symptoms appear to be rare. Reducing the dosage for a short while seems to alleviate these side effects.

Many dog owners reported that their dogs seemed to experience these side effects for just a short time as their bodies adjusted to the supplement. You may want to try a different form of glucosamine if one form seems to present side effects.

If you've "jump started" your pet's dosage to 2x, as recommended earlier, and you notice vomiting or diarrhea, back off to the normal dosage.

It is highly unlikely to overdose your pet on glucosamine.

The good news is that once we started Dozer on his glucosamine supplement, almost immediately we noticed our pet feeling and acting more like his old active self. He's more than 9 years old now, but you wouldn't know it!

We're so glad that we discovered glucosamine for the treatment of arthritis in dogs.

Golf and Arthritis

Good news! If you're an arthritis sufferer, you don't have to give up your golf game! In fact, playing golf can add strength and mobility to your body overall and improve your range of motion.

Research shows that one of the best treatments for osteoarthritis is exercise. It can improve mood and outlook, decrease pain, increase flexibility, improve the heart and blood flow, maintain weight, and promote general physical fitness.

Usually, osteoarthritis (the most common form of arthritis) comes on slowly. Early in the disease, joints may ache after physical work or exercise. Osteoarthritis can occur in any joint. Most often it occurs at the hands, hips, knees, or spine, all those areas used in playing the game of golf.

No worries, though. Golf actually helps increase your range of motion and your balance as well. And the walking, if you can do it, will benefit your health in numerous ways. In short, golf is one of the perfect exercises for someone with osteoarthritis!

Now here's the key - you are probably going to need some special products to make golf a little easier on your joints.

At arthritis.org, the Arthritis Foundation shares some tips for golfers to help you keep enjoying this wonderful sport and suggests some products that might help you.

For instance, it's a good idea to wear wrist braces and gloves when you play. This will help stabilize the joints in your wrists and hands. Both these items are inexpensive.

Try using a lower compression ball.

Golf shoes without spikes will likely be more comfortable for you.

Ask your local golf store specialist about the latest helps for making golfing easier on your joints. New products are coming out all the time.

Always warm up before you play. Do some basic stretches, take some practice swings. Start out swinging about half strength. Never try to hit the ball too hard. This one goes for everyone - not just folks with arthritis. It's accuracy that counts!

Using tees will help.

Drink water while you're playing. (again, a tip for everyone)

If you feel tired, listen to your body and rest a bit. It's not a mortal sin to play less than 18 holes. The key is to enjoy the game.

Now, if you're feeling sore after play, here are some things to try.

· Take a warm shower.

· Do some gentle stretching exercises.

· Use an ice pack on the sore area.

· Rest the sore joint.

· Try magnetic therapy.

· Try to keep your weight down. Too much weight can make your knees and hips hurt

If playing golf causes pain that lasts for more than 1 hour, it's too much. Work with your physical therapist or doctor to adjust your game when you 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)

Really, when it comes right down to it, playing golf (along with warming up for your game with range of motion exercises) may be just what the doctor orders for arthritis help!

Copyright 2006 Tyler Powers

How Much Time Will I Have to Be Off Work For Knee Replacement Surgery?

Many patients are eager to know when they can return to work and resume their normal activities after knee replacement surgery.  While the desire for a speedy recovery is nearly universal among patients, less understood and appreciated is the value of recovery time itself. Provided a patient's recovery is uncomplicated, patients can return to office or similar light work at six weeks.  Return to work should be phased, however, with three half-days in the first week, two full days in the second week, five half-days in the third week, and full-time by week four. 

Recovery from knee replacement surgery takes a minimum of three months, but most likely six.  A full recovery can take around eight to ten months.  The degree of improvement during rehabilitation often depends on the strength of your body before surgery, your body weight, and your ability to manage pain. Other variables that factor into recovery time include the type of surgery and the age of the patient.

If you want to return to work as soon as possible, recognize physical therapy as your number one aim. The exercises that are given to you by a post-op specialist will help lay the foundation for a successful and speedy recovery. You will still find yourself with lots of downtime, but it is important to give your body the rest it needs. Within a few weeks, most patients can resume their normal daily activities.

Driving is often a question among patients who undergo knee replacement surgery. Because every individual will recover at a different rate, it is hard to pinpoint the exact time before you will be able to use a vehicle. To drive again, you must have regained your normal strength and reflexes and you can no longer be on narcotics or other pain medications. A good rule of thumb is to ask your doctor when you should be able to drive. Most doctors recommend about six weeks.

Your ability to return to work depends on your job requirements. Patients with physically demanding jobs are often out of work for three to six months. Patients who hold desk jobs or administrative positions may return to work within six weeks, but this is the minimum. Going back to work too soon hinders long term recovery.  Your pain needs to be at a manageable level and you should be able to get around independently. Under these criteria, most patients are able to return to work within the one to two month period.

Here is what some of the patients at the BoneSmart.org knee replacement forum are saying about their recoveries:

"5 weeks post TKR today and things going very well. Walking without crutches or cane, driving again (although 30 mins is about as much as I can do at the moment). ROM Aproaching 120 degrees. The exercise bike is fantastic . . . I would have been lost without it. Doing 2 X 30 mins sessions a day on it and lowering the saddle height about every 4 -5 days. Really feel much stronger so back to work on the 23rd . . Thank God!"

"With having both knees replaced at the same time, the legs recovered equally and in a reasonable amount of time. I was back 9 weeks post op from BTKR, working full time on my own (without the help of another person) caring for 6 preschool children. I operate a licensed family child-care in my home. I did have 9 children (6 preschool age children and 3 school age children) enrolled 12 days post op with the help of one of the parents who is a teacher and was off for the summer months. She stayed with me for 7 weeks during the summer running my business as I rested and did PT and rode my stationary bike."

In cases of extreme pain or stiffness, patients may want to delay return to full time work.  Rehabilitation, recovery, and return to work should not be rushed, but instead done in accordance with a doctor's or post-op specialist's instructions.

The Different Types of Surgery for Cartilage Regeneration in the Knee

If you are in your 20's, 30's, or 40s and have a knee cartilage defect the pain can be debilitating on a daily basis. The injury that resulted in the pain may have been a car accident, sports injury, really anything that could've led to a cartilage defect in your knee that is now causing pain.

Just let's say that you are a competitive basketball player. You play at a very high level, and in one particular game you twist your knee and tear your ACL. You fall over after the incident and while you are falling, you end up with a medial meniscal tear and a cartilage defect. What would be the end result of all of the injury?

Well for starters in this day and age ACL reconstruction technologically has gotten very sophisticated and effective. So you could end up with an extremely functional ACL reconstruction from your own tissue or harvested from a cadaver. Also, if the medial meniscal tear is not extremely large it can be shaved down and the pain would no longer be there while enough meniscus would remain for appropriate shock absorption. The result though would be that you have a good amount of pain deep in the knee from the cartilage defect which could shorten your career and lead to a life of chronic pain.

The first treatment that works fairly well for a cartilage defect is called a microfracture treatment. It is performed as an outpatient arthroscopic knee surgery where the area of the cartilage defect is drilled multiple times through the bone slightly to generate some bleeding. With the bleeding present, there's able to then be some more cartilage production from the healing process being started. The cartilage that is produced unfortunately is not Type one native cartilage. It is call fibrocartilage and is not a great permanent fix for the defect. It will function well for a period of time, but the cartilage produces is not what you were born with.

The next treatment that works pretty well for a cartilage defect is called articular chondrocyte implantation (ACI). ACI is a procedure that involves harvesting some of your native cartilage cells and sending them to a laboratory for culture. After a few weeks when a sufficient amount of cartilage cells have been cultures they are then sent to the surgeon for implantation in the defect and overlying that a patch is placed to keep them situated while they grow in properly. This procedure works well but the problem is it involves downtime for the patient and another surgery.

The third procedure that works really well for a cartilage defect is called an OATS procedure which is an Osteochondral Autograft Transfer Surgery. Essentially what this involves is taking cartilage away from the part of the knee that is not a weight-bearing area and shifting over to the area where the defect is that is painful. It is done in multiple punctures that are circular and then essentially placed in mosaic type pattern in the hope that they will grow together with subsequent pain relief.

These three procedures are all performed as an outpatient knee arthroscopy and may work well for alleviating pain from a cartilage defect.

Ski Boots -- Testing 1,2,3

Since the initiation of the turn starts with the foot, and the foot rests inside the boot, it seems logical to begin this ski equipment series of articles with the ski boot. If your boots are uncomfortable, don't flex adequately, or your feet are out of alignment, your performance and technique will be adversely affected. In addition, foot comfort and alignment are critical for expert skiers, since they affect the ability to maintain a balanced stance.

Softer Ski Boots for Shaped Skis

With the advent of shaped skis, subtle foot-and-ankle steering has almost replaced the need to apply strong forward pressure to the tips of the skis. To compensate, boot manufacturers began to make ski boots with more natural flex built right into the design. The result is a softer more comfortable ski boot, with better handling characteristics.

With regards to the aspiring all-terrain skier who has recently purchased shaped skis or is contemplating a new pair of super side-cuts, we'll take a look at a number of different manufacturers and models in a future article. The ski boots we examine will be geared to the expert skier. First, we'll cover the following topics:

• Stance Test


• Knee Tracking Test


• Ankle Flexion Test


• To get a Good Fit find a Good Fitter

In this way, you'll be knowledgeable about your own feet and stance, as well as about boot mechanics and terminology when you approach your local boot fitter.

For those who are happy with their straight-sided or subtle side-cut skis, and conventional ski boots, please stay with us especially if you are having trouble with your boots in terms of fit, comfort, or stiffness. You may just need an external flex adjustment, an internal modification to eliminate a pressure point, or a foot bed to replace the original insole that came with your ski boots.

Stance Test

To ski like an expert, you need a stable platform for your feet, and your body must be in alignment. How important is it for you to ride a flat ski? If you are a beginner, maybe it's not that important. If you are an aspiring expert, proper alignment is essential. Put another way, a strong stable foot that's properly balanced makes for a strong skier.

In this section, and the next two, we'll examine whether or not you have stance issues and alignment problems. To test if you have a problem with your stance, stand in front of a mirror and slowly bring your legs together.

• If your knees touch before your ankles, you're knock-kneed.


• If your ankles touch before your knees, you're bow-legged.


• If they both meet at the same time, you're from another planet.

What's best? A slightly knock-kneed stance is considered to be best for downhill skiing. However, too much knock is not good. In addition, all bow-legged stances make it difficult to accurately pressure the edges of your skis. Make a note of your stance, so you can discuss with your boot fitter.

Knee Tracking Test

Knee Tracking tests to see whether or not your knees track straight when you flex forward.

1. Find a partner to help you measure.


2. Stand with your feet six to eight inches apart.


3. Measure the distance between your knees with a tape measure.


4. Flex forward and ensure that your heels remain on the floor.


5. Now, measure the distance between your knees again.

If the distance between your knees increases or decreases, your foot is rolling inward or outward, respectively. Ideally, you want your knees to track straight when you flex forward. If they don't, it's a sign that your foot is collapsing. You may need the support offered by a foot bed, which is a custom insole molded for your particular foot. Make a note of your test result, so you can discuss with your boot fitter.

Ankle Flexion Test

It is critical for the expert skier to find out whether or not he/she is transferring energy efficiently to the front of the boot. The following test can be used to determine your flexion range.

1. Find a partner to help you with this test.


2. Stand with your feet six to eight inches apart.


3. Flex forward and ensure that your heels remain on the floor.

If you can flex the front of your knees forward to a point between the base of your big toe and approximately one inch beyond it, you have a good range of flexion. However, if your knees stop at your instep or go way past the big toe, you need to have your boots flex-tuned for your particular lower body. Make a note of this test result, so you can discuss with your boot fitter.

To get a Good Fit find a Good Fitter

Armed with your stance, knee tracking, and ankle flexion test results and a pair of ski socks that you will be wearing during the ski season, it's time to visit a reputable ski shop in your area. What do you mean by a reputable ski shop?

A sporting goods store sells all types of equipment, whereas a ski shop specializes in ski equipment and clothes in the fall and winter months. A good ski shop will have trained and experienced ski boot fitters on staff. If you can't find such a store locally, drive to the nearest town or city which has a shop suited to your needs.

Comfort and Performance

Once inside the ski shop, prepare to spend three to four hours for a proper fit. Yes, three to four hours! You'll be wearing the boots for the next five to ten years, so it's imperative that you spend the time initially to get the best fit. As an aspiring expert, you want the best fit possible, so you can reap the best of both worlds. You need to strike a balance between comfort and performance.

In terms of comfort, the expert skier needs a boot that he or she buckles up in the morning, and rarely needs to adjust throughout the day. There should be no pain, pinching, or pressure points, and your feet should never get numb or cold. The fit should be so good that you don't mind leaving them tightened up during your lunch break.

In terms of performance, aspiring experts need boots that they hardly know they are wearing. The boot should feel like an extension of the foot. When you roll your ankle and foot, even slightly, you should get a lightning fast response from the inside of the boot to the edge of the ski. The time lag should be minimal.

Fallen Arches - Are You at Risk For Developing Arthritis?

It may sound like a cliché but our feet, and in particular the arches of our feet, really are the structural foundations of our body. Fallen arches is a term used to describe complete flattening out of the arch. When the arch flattens out the foot loses much of its biomechanical functioning. In addition the biomechanics of the knee, hip and low back are adversely affected when the arch of the foot loses its structural integrity.

The arch of the foot maintains it structural integrity with the help of the muscles, tendon and ligaments. The proper functioning of the arch depends on the proper functioning of all three of these elements. You actually want the arch to flatten out during walking or running so that the foot can act as a shock absorber. However at the end of the step you need the arch to re-lock and turn the foot back into a firm lever arm for push-off. Excess body weight, excessive running, walking or even standing can lead to stretching of the ligaments, tendons and muscles that keep the arch locked. This can eventually lead to complete flattening of the arch.

When the arch collapses the foot is unable to act as a firm lever arm to push-off and propel you forward during walking or running. As a result the muscles of the lower leg have to work much harder in order to propel you forward. This causes pain and fatigue of the lower leg, pain in the foot and pain on the front of the leg. In addition the plantar fascia on the bottom of the foot gets overly stretched and strained leading to the painful condition know as plantar fasciitis.

The foot and lower leg are not the only areas where fallen arches can cause problems. When the arch collapses the rest of the body has to compensate. As a result the other joints become unbalanced and do not function properly. For example, the proper functioning of the knee depends upon the body weight being evenly distributed over the entire joint. When the knee has to compensate for a flattened arch, the outside of the knee is forced to take more of the load than the inside. This overloads the cartilage on that side of the knee, causes pain on that side of the knee and increases the risk for developing arthritis. In addition the muscles, ligaments and tendons on the other side of the knee are stretched and strained which can cause pain and knee instability (for more information see knee pain). We could make similar analysis for the joints of the hip and low back but the point I am trying to make is that the biomechanics of the foot is important for the proper functioning of the rest of the body. Although the explanation of the problem can be somewhat complicated the solution to this problem is relatively simple. A properly designed arch support or custom foot orthotic will hold the correct shape of the arch. This in turn allows the foot to work as a firm lever arm. An arch support will align the joints of the ankle, which in turn balances out the knee, hip and low back. A simple arch support can solve a lot of problems without medications, surgery. Yet it is amazing how many people walk around everyday in pain when the solution is so simple. This simple solution is an arch support.

A Walking Knee Brace - Get the Support You Need When You Walk

Knee Braces For Walking

How are your knees when you go out for a walk? - Do they ever bother you before, during, or after walking?

Introduction: Many people have avoided more fast paced forms of exercise because of the pounding that their knees take. You may really enjoy going on walks with your friends, by yourself, or with your spouse or loved ones, but unfortunately the knee pain you are having may be really bothering you. - Can you relate? - This free article will discuss the benefits of knee braces for walking, and it will also discuss what many people have said the first time they put on their new support. Lastly we will discuss how to find the best knee brace for your particular needs.

1.) The Benefits of A Walking Knee Brace

Knee pain or instability problems when you walk are the worst. One of the first things that you should do if you have knee problems is to come to a conclusion of where you think you are at with your stability and pain levels. An easy way to do this is by rating your knee pain and instability on a scale of 1-10. (On this scale 10 would be the worst pain you could have.) - As you will see many knee brace websites base the kind of supports they offer, based on a mild, moderate or severe knee issue.

Many times, as a result of wearing a low profile, lightweight knee brace, people have told us almost immediately that their knee discomfort decreased, and their stability increased. One woman recently said that it felt like the brace gave her leg a hug and that little extra support made all the difference for her!

2.) Your Knees Needs

Once you have come to the conclusion about where your knees are at on a pain and stability level you are ready to take another step toward getting the best knee brace for your needs.

Mild knee problems will usually use an elastic knee sleeve for a little added support. They will act as a reminder to you not to make certain movements that will hurt you as well.

Moderate to Severe Knee Problems

When you have more of a moderate or severe knee issue, then you will need to think about getting a knee brace with hinges on it. Usually the hinge is on both sides of your knee and they will help to stop excessive side to side and front to back movements as well. Not all of them are made equally, but we can tell you that the more serious the issue, usually the more pronounce the knee hinge and uprights are on your brace.

(Medical advice can only be given to you by your doctor. This is only health information about knee braces and their beneficial use.)

Cortisone Shots and the Side Effects You Should Be Aware Of

What is a cortisone shot?

A cortisone shot or a cortisone injection is given to patients to relieve pain mainly caused by joint inflammation. The ankle, hip, shoulder, elbow, knee, wrist and spine joints are the most common areas in the body where patients receive cortisone injections. Outside of the common joints, cortisone shots may rarely be given to the smaller joints in your feet and hands.

An injection of anti-inflammatory medicine into the joint is commonly referred to as a cortisone shot, usually consisting of a mixture of corticosteroid and a local anesthetic. In some more rare circumstances different types of medications may be added to the mixture. The local anesthetic works to relieve pain in the short term, while the corticosteroid reduces the inflammation providing the longer term pain relief. Frequently it is your doctor who will give you the cortisone shot in his office.

Listed below are some side effects and rare complications that may arise from cortisone shots

• Osteonecrosis - occurs when a bone dies near the cortisone injection point


• Joint infection


• Damage to nerves around the injection site


• Skin may thin near the injection site


• Pain may become worse due to a temporary inflammation which could last for as long as 48 hours


• May affect tendons near the injection site by weakening or even rupturing them


• May lead to osteoporosis in bones near the injection site


• Skin pigmentation may become lighter close to the point of injection

One of the more frequently asked questions are how often can you receive a cortisone injection? One of the biggest questions debated is what limitations should be placed on cortisone injections. The concerns are raised from repeated cortisone injection exposure that is suspected to further damage and deteriorate joint cartilage. This is the main concern of many doctors and for this reason cortisone injections are usually only given to a patient once every three months per joint. In rare situations more severe forms of arthritis may bend this general rule and these patients receive a cortisone shot once a month.

Another common question often asked is, how painful are cortisone injections? The pain associated with a cortisone injection is dependent on what the mixture of medicinal ingredients is. If you are having the more rare injections to the small joints in your hands or feet, then you are likely going to feel considerably more pain. Larger joints in your body such as the knee or shoulder will only trigger mild amounts of pain, while injections in other joints through your body will cause moderate amounts of pain.

How to Recover From a Cortisone Injection

It is common to feel a little pain and stiffness around the injection site after a cortisone shot. It is best that you continue with your daily routine as this is normal and it will just take a little time for you to start feeling better.

Here are a few activities your doctor may ask you to do in the first few days following your cortisone injection:

• Apply ice packs to the injection site as required to reduce the amount of superficial pain you are feeling


• Monitor the injection site for signs of infection. Symptoms of infection may include an increase in your pain level and redness or swelling lasting longer then forty eight hours


• Be mindful not to over exert the joint that was given the injection. Examples being, if you had a cortisone injection in your shoulder, then you should avoid any heavy lifting. If you had the injection in your knee you should do you best to stay off of your feet for the first couple of days. You can still use these joints, just be mindful not to strain them with too much activity.

Earlier we touched on possibilities of an increase in pain and inflammation. This is commonly referred to cortisone shot flare. The flare in pain will usually lasts for up to forty eight hours, but when it subsides you should start to feel relief from your pain. As in all health concerns, if you have any questions do not hesitate to contact your doctor. Even if there is nothing wrong, confirmation from a professional often puts the mind at ease.

Stop Suffering From Knee Joint Pain

Have you ever spent a couple of hours in rush hour traffic and when you finally reach your destination, you can't get out of the car because of knee joint pain? This can be a humiliating experience if you have an audience when you finally do get out of the car and try to walk. Typically, within a little while you can walk it off, but wouldn't it be nice if this didn't happen at all?

As we age our bodies don't produce enough of the substances we need to keep our bones and joints functioning as they did when we were younger. This gives us knee joint pain as well as other types of pain. Our joints become stiff and don't work well. There are things we can do to fix this problem. First of all you should start taking a supplement that helps replace the things your body now lacks. There are a number of joint supplements that contain glucosamine compounds, chondroitin sulfate and MSM. These are the primary things that your joints are lacking and by replacing these you will stop experiencing the pain you have become accustomed to recently.

After you have allowed the supplement to work(it may take a few weeks to get the full effect) you need to increase your activity. Regular exercise of some kind will help you keep knee joint pain and many other types of pain away. Start out by taking a 45 minute walk 4 times a week. You will likely find that you enjoy it so much you will want to start doing it every day. Regular exercise will help keep your joints more flexible and will prevent the Knee joint pain and other joint pain from returning. Exercise will also make you feel better just in general.

Knee Pain and Arthritis - Taking Control

The number of patients with knee arthritis is increasing dramatically as baby-boomers hit retirement age. This is due to the combined effects of active lifestyles, prior surgeries and people living longer.

The great news is this: if you are among those with chronic, increasing pain in the knee, there are a number of things you can do to take control of this frequently debilitating condition.

First, recognize that knee pain does not always mean arthritis. There are a variety of conditions that can lead to knee pain, and if pain is your problem, it's critical to get a competent appraisal of the condition. Many conditions exist that can affect knee function and they should be considered. Oftentimes, those conditions can and should be treated without surgery.

Secondly, the term arthritis includes a large number of conditions, and many of them are suited for medical (non-operative) treatment. Let's look at the three basic types of arthritis. Osteoarthritis is the most common. It's a slowly progressive degenerative disease in which the joint cartilage gradually wears away. Osteoarthritis most often affects middle-aged and older people. Rheumatoid arthritis, which can occur at any age, is an inflammatory type of arthritis that can destroy joint cartilage. The third type of arthritis is post-traumatic arthritis, which can develop after a knee injury and is similar to osteoarthritis. It may develop years after a fracture, ligament injury, or meniscus tear.

In treating these conditions, surgery is only indicated after conservative measures have been attempted. Non-operative treatments include activity modification (avoiding activities that aggravate the condition), physical therapy, injections, analgesics, braces, and other devices. The purpose of treatment is to reduce pain, increase function and generally reduce symptoms. Patient satisfaction is a fundamental goal in treating osteoarthritis of the knee. Depending on the severity of the condition and individual needs and goals, non-operative treatment may help for years.

Alternatively, in patients who develop inflammatory arthritis, medical management may be successful. Since inflammatory arthritis can involve multiple joints, systemic treatment is often appropriate.

For those who do require surgery, there are several surgical options to consider including arthroscopic surgery using fiber optic technology, osteotomy, total or partial knee replacement and cartilage grafting. Talk with your surgeon about which option is best for you.

The good news is new surgical techniques and improvements in prosthetic design and manufacturing indicate that recovery times are getting shorter and knee replacements are lasting longer.

Preventing Knee Pain

• Maintain a healthy body mass index (BMI)


• Exercise in moderation


• Change exercise patterns gradually but do enough to maintain healthy muscles and cardiovascular function


• Have acute injuries evaluated and treated by a trusted physician.

Knee Pain Relief - 4 Ways To Cure Knee Pain

Wouldn't it be great if you can wake up the next day without any knee pain? It would be awesome if you no longer had to put up with knee pain right? Well guys, it's like the saying goes, "there are no overnight fixes" and this is true with almost everything. But fear not, there are ways, moreless uncommon, to relieve knee pain. Just listen in and follow these steps to relieve your pain. Write these down for future reference.

Strengthen The Knee

It's simple logic, to make anything in your body pain free, make it stronger. To relieve your leg pain you make it stronger, to relieve tension you stretch etc. A good way to strengthen your knee is to strengthen your quadriceps. The strength of your quadriceps directly relates to how stable your knees are, the more strength in the quads the better your knee will feel. To safely and painlessly strengthen your quads, do cycling, preferably in a stationary bike with resistance. Cycling has zero impact on your knees, which makes it the best way to make your knees stronger. Try cycling for about 15 minutes per day. You'll find it quite helpful.

Keep The Knee Relaxed

To keep your knee relaxed make sure it's fully extended but not forcefully extended, that would cause more knee pain. To reduce any swelling elevate and ice it for about 15 minutes. This helps relieve pain by restricting blood flow. When you sleep, be sure to place a pillow or two under the knee with pain.

Massage Your Knee

A very effective way to massage your knee is to slowly move your patella in a circular motion. Try to do it rather slowly, gently, but firm, this loosens unstable tissue within the knee and helps get rid of it. Sometimes pain is caused by scar tissue in the knee. This procedure helps with healing the scar tissue.

Wear A Knee Brace

For those who have knee pain during the day, and most people do, try wearing a brace. It helps with keeping your knee stabilized while walking. Keeping your knee stabilized is vital to reducing your pain because the reason the knee hurts is because some sort of motion or movement damaged the knee. Stabilizing it can help heal scar tissue as well.

Add any of these practices to your day and your knees will thank you.

ACL Tear Is an Athlete's Nightmare

Having a tear in the ACL or the Anterior Cruciate Ligament is one of the worst things that could happen to an athlete. The ACL is one of the major ligaments in the knee and if it is torn, the knee would give out. ACL tear is an injury that is usually acquired by athletes. Sports such as football, basketball, volleyball and tennis could incur extreme stress in the ACL. That is why a torn ACL is common to athletes playing those types of sports.

Symptoms of a torn ACL may include swelling in the knee, unstable knee, a 'popping sound' when the injury occurs and a clicking sound when walking. Persons with torn ACL would actually feel a discomfort in the knee when either walking or running. An injured ACL would greatly affect the normal activity of a person that involves proper function of the knee. For an athlete it is impossible to perform well with a torn ACL.

Treatment of ACL for athletes usually involves surgery such as ACL reconstruction. For an average person, the treatment does not really have to involve surgery depending on the gravity of the injury. A physical therapy rehab is also necessary to help the knee gradually regain its proper function. There are also some exercise routines that could be followed to help the ACL recover. Popular ACL reconstruction methods include the use of patellar tendon, hamstring and ACL transplant.

The time required for an ACL tear to fully heal also depends on the gravity of the injury and the treatment procedure that the person has undergone. After going through surgery, it might take some time for the ACL to recover. Even though athletes have personal therapists and modern equipments at their disposal, getting back on the playing field may take a while.

Studies to help determine what could be done to help prevent ACL tear are still ongoing. There are some however that suggest proper training and doing exercises which gives focus in strengthening the knees may help prevent such injuries from occurring. Proper stretching routines before the game could also help to avoid the tearing of the ACL.

Even though there is no scientific explanation why, ACL injuries are more frequent for female athletes as compared to their male counterparts. The theory on why this happen might be related to the body structure being different between a male and a female.

Though there are some athletes that never regain their full playing capacity after an ACL tear injury, there are also a lot who have fully recovered. When playing, it is always best to be careful to avoid any type of injury. Proper training and being well-prepared prior to a game always helps.

Osteoarthritis - General Types of Treatment

Although Osteoarthritis (OA) has no cure, numerous treatments are effective. Some people with severe osteoarthritis are pain-free, while others experience great pain with minor joint changes. Two people with OA in the same joint may have different results from the same treatment. Various therapies for this condition, from self-help to invasive surgery, are available.

Overweight people experience greater joint pressure, causing a faster rate of cartilage wear. Doctors should advise which exercise programs suit individual physical capabilities. Exercise, by reducing weight and increasing function, may slow the disease's progress. Low-impact aerobics, stretching, and strengthening exercises are often recommended. Several short sessions daily are preferable to a long one. Safe warm-ups and cool-downs (slow 5-minute walks) are important. Avoid jogging and tennis; exercise bikes are not advised for those with arthritic knees. Diets should include legumes, whole grains, fruit, and vegetables.

If losing weight and exercise do not relieve symptoms, medication may be recommended. No drug stalls or cures OA's progression, but several reduce joint pain. Whether obtained OTC or by prescription, drugs for this purpose often have side effects, even after taking for some time. Kidney, liver, tinnitus, and cardiovascular problems have been reported when taking large dosages long-term. Consult your doctor if you feel anything unusual when on such medications.

Acetaminophen provides pain relief but not inflammation reduction. Aspirin is effective against both, but should not be used by those with aspirin allergy or ulcers. Ibuprofen or Naproxen (Motrin, Advil) reduce pain and inflammation and are stronger by prescription. With some medications, stomach upset may occur. Antacids (Cytotec, Prilosec) may relieve symptoms while decreasing ulcer risk. Cox 2 inhibitors such as Celebrex may prevent certain side effects.

Corticosteroids may be effective when other medications are not. Side effect risks are weight gain, infection, and cataracts or osteoporosis.

Doctors may recommend antidepressants for chronic pain. Cymbalta or antidepressants affecting brain chemicals that cause pain sensation may help. Drowsiness, dry mouth, and blurred vision may result. Rarely, mood changes and suicidal thoughts occur.

Stress management techniques may be beneficial. Occupational and physical therapy, bracing, orthotics, chiropractic manipulation, massage therapy, herbs, and glucosamine/chondroitin supplements are sometimes used. Heat (soothing) or cold (numbing) applications frequently give temporary relief but should be limited to twenty minutes. Topical pain relievers are also temporarily effective, but physicians should be consulted before use by those allergic to aspirin or those taking anticoagulants. Accupuncture is a popular alternative treatment; its benefit is suggested but not conclusive.

Joint injections of corticosteroids are safer for younger people and should be administered only for occasional flareups. Joint degradation may occur if used for long periods of time, especially in older adults. Injections of hyaluronic acid, presently approved only for the knee joint, can provide a year's relief with no side effects.

Conservative methods should be the first approach to OA treatment. If no other method improves function and relieves pain, surgery may be recommended. There are several surgical procedures for osteoarthritis of the knee.

Arthroscopy incisions and instruments are small. Damaged cartilage can be trimmed, loose debris removed, and the joint cleaned in this procedure. At the same time, meniscus tears or damaged ligaments can be corrected. Arthroscopy may help those under 55 delay more invasive surgery.

An osteotomy (reshaping the bones) can restore knee function, diminish OA pain, and may stimulate new cartilage growth. However, results deteriorate over time; and many will need a full replacement eventually.

Total joint replacement (arthroplasty) is usually recommended for severe pain and limited movement. Replacement parts are made of titanium or cobalt-chrome metals and wear-resistant smooth polyethylene (plastic). Results are generally excellent, with significant pain relief and improved function. Full rehab may take 3 to 6 months. The success rate ten years after surgery is about 90%

Surgeons can permanently fuse joint bones (arthrodesis) when pain is so severe that joint immobilization is an improvement. A fused ankle joint bears weight painlessly but has no flexibility. Consequently, this procedure usually occurs on smaller (finger and toe) joints.

For successful recovery, arrange to have help at home and safe mobility, possibly with ramps or grab bars. Meal prepararation, bathroom use, and getting in/out of bed should require little effort. Stay on one floor; stairs are impossible immediately following surgery.

There are several options for osteoarthritis relief. Your physician and yourself, together, form the best decision-making team.

Progressing Collegiate Football Position

Running Drills are a big help

If you have more energy at the fourth quarter then your opponent then you have won, and the best way to get endurance are running drills. Running drills will help you gain stamina so that you will be able to play to your full extent throughout the game. Though running drills can be a big help to your game, many people complain the most about the running. Whether you are tired, exhausted, and ready to throw up, if you keep running your added strength will help you win games. Running has a final help to your team, and that is learning how to push beyond your limits, you will be surprised how often that happens in football, and in life

Up Downs Conditioning Drill

Up downs is an excellent conditioning drill that will improve reaction time and endurance. Players will start this drill by running in place as fast as they can, keeping their knees high as possible. Then at random a coach will yell, "down" or blow a whistle at which the players must dive to the ground do a push up and then jump back into running in place. This drill is an excellent workout and should be worked in slowly at first and then increased in intensity and length over time.

Learning the Plays from the Playbook

Practicing the plays is fun, and also very important. When you master your part of the play it will strengthen your team and yourself. Because football plays can be intricate, it is important that you understand and follow the coach's instructions. As you start to practice the play make sure to slow it down, there is no sense in practicing errors. Practice is a great time to get some extra help, so if you are struggling with a certain play remember that your coaches are there to help you master the techniques. Always, always ask for the help that you need. After practice is over visualize the play in your mind. Go over it again and again, and you will find that your mind will help you learn the plays even when you sleep.

Forcing the Fumble

In order to win football games you need to have possession of the football. Forcing a fumble is one of the quickest ways that you can turn the tides and retain possession of the football. A great way to practice is have two players line up, one as the defense, the other with the football as the offense. The defender will practice stripping the ball by bringing his hands up quickly with a clenched fist to grab the opponent and as he does so to aim to knock out the football. Practice these movements slowly to start muscle memory and to correct bad habits.

Orthoses Inserts - A Shoe Insert For Pain Relief

If you can answer 'yes' to any of the conditions mentioned below you may require orthoses inserts.

You can first try temporary orthoses inserts. They are a very good low cost alternative to prescription orthotics. However, a podiatrist can help you decide if you need prescription orthotics if the condition persists.

- Do you have hip, knee or back related problems?
- Do you have visible signs of foot related problems such as bunions, hard skin, hammer toes etc.
- Are you very sporting and are your activity levels very high impact?
- Does your family have a history of foot, hip and lower back related problems?
- Do you have a leg length problem?
- Do you spend a lot of time walking on hard surfaces?
- Do you in toe or out toe while walking?
- Do you have condition such as Rheumatoid Arthritis or any other joint related problem?
- Are you aged over 40?
- Do you have knock knees or bow legs?

- Orthotics may relieve your discomfort almost immediately.

Orthotics is a corrective appliance that fits easily into your shoes to gently redistribute your body weight more effectively, correcting any abnormalities in the way that you walk.

Orthoses help the brain to send messages to the ligaments thus correcting the firing pattern of the muscles, to correctly realign your body mechanics via proprioception from the cerebellium in the brain. This is the part of the brain that is largely responsible for reporting unconscious sensory feedback to other parts of the body down the spinal cord. By correcting the body in this way orthotics can help with your foot, knee, hip and lower back problems.

Temporary orthoses inserts are generally used in the rehabilitation of short term injuries, where the injury or gait problem is more serious prescription orthoses are normally advised. In the same way that you would go to an optician to be measured for glasses, a Podiatrist will measure you for prescription orthoses. Where better control and accuracy is required a Podiatrist will complete a biomechanical assessment and have your feet and lower limbs measured correctly. Also, permanent orthoses just do that, the shell lasts for a lifetime. This will help you to achieve comfort and relieve your aches and pains. Once re-balanced you will walk with ease. You will need to bring the shell back every few years to be re-fitted.

Common Causes of Knee Pain - Arthritis, Injuries & More

Every day, millions of people all over the world suffer from knee pain, which for many can be debilitating. Knee pain occurs for a number of reasons, from injuries to strains to just moving the wrong way. Often, doctors can immediately diagnose the cause of knee pain, but other times, it requires many tests, including x-rays, to figure out why the pain is occurring. Some of the most common causes of knee pain include arthritis, injuries to cartilage, injuries to ligaments, and chondromalacia patella.

Arthritis

Arthritis is probably one, if not the most common, cause of knee pain, and the arthritis itself can be caused by a number of things, including trauma, hereditary, aging and even being overweight, as this puts added stress on the joints. The most common form of knee arthritis is osteoarthritis, which is also referred to as degenerative joint disease. Basically, osteoarthritis is the degeneration, or wearing away, of the cartilage that protects the knee joint. Some of the symptoms patients complain of include pain, stiffness, tenderness to the touch and less range of movement.

Injuries to Cartilage

It is extremely easy to cause damage to cartilage with the simplest of injuries. In the knee, the cartilage is known as the menisci, and its job is to keep the body weight even across the knee joints. There are two main causes of meniscus tears - injury and age (degeneration) - and in either case, the condition is very painful. Symptoms of meniscus tears include pain, swelling, tenderness to the touch, limited range of motion, and an audible popping noise when the joint is in motion.

Injuries to Ligaments

The most common cause of injuries to the knee ligaments is over-extension, which causes the ligaments to tear or rupture. There are two ligaments in the knee, medial collateral ligaments and lateral collateral ligaments. The three main types of ligament injuries are sprains, partial tears and complete tears, all three of which are painful, with the latter two often requiring surgery. Some of the symptoms patients with injured knee ligaments have reported include pain, tenderness, swelling and a limited range of motion.

Chondromalacia Patella

Chondromalacia patella is a painful knee condition mainly seen in adolescents and young teenagers, usually between the ages of 13 and 15 years. This condition is also known as runner's knee, and is caused by an irritation beneath the kneecap or patella. Chondromalacia patella tends to affect young people who are into sports, particularly females, and treatments include physiotherapy and anti-inflammatory medication. If the condition persists, surgery may be required. Some of the symptoms of this condition include pain and swelling (particularly on the top of the kneecap), tenderness to the touch, and limited range of movement.

There are a number of other causes of knee pain, such as bursitis, gout and a dislocated kneecap. Many of the causes of knee pain can be treated and relieved with exercise, hot/cold therapy, medications (pain and anti-inflammatory) and, in the worst-case scenarios, surgery. If you are suffering from knee pain, talk to your doctor. Find out the cause, so you can get to work at becoming pain-free as soon as possible.

Top 3 Exercise Treatments for Common Knee Joint Pain

There are 2 types of knee pain causes that are mainly acute knee pain and chronic knee pain. Generally acute knee pain is caused by an accident or a fall and the pain will only be present for a short time. It occurs mostly in sports activities and the treatment for it is to undergo a surgery so as to be fully treated.

The second cause is chronic knee pain. This form of injury goes with you for a long period of time and it often hurts every now and then. There are different types of it such as tendonitis, gout and identification. This includes arthritis, which is one of the most common knee pain causes known as osteoarthritis.

This form of disease will gradually wear off the joints due to the excessive exertion of pressure, which might raised the chances of reinjuring your knee joints.

To avoid your knee joints from reinjuring, here are 3 types of knee pain exercises to improve your condition:

1. Range-of-motion exercise, such as dancing, is a form of exercise aid in relieving stiffness in the knee. It also helps in maintaining normal joint movement. This form of exercise will help an individual to increase flexibility. It is recommended to perform this workout on a daily basis or once every other day to improve on your knee joint condition on a long run.


2. Aerobic exercise, such as bicycle riding will help to improve the cardiovascular fitness of the patient. This form of exercise should be practiced twice a week for about 20 to 30 minutes. Should you encounter frequent pains or swelling in your joints, don't push your limits and take a break from it.


3. Strengthening exercise (weight exercise) is a form of exercise to help improve your muscle strength. Patients can start with small free weights exercise first, subsequently moving on to the exercise machines. This form of exercise should be done once every other day. Should you encounter frequent pains or swelling in your joints, don't push your limits and take a break from it.

Should you encounter frequent pains or swelling in your joints, don't push your limits and take a break from it. Stop performing the workouts if your joint continues to swell. It is advisable to seek for professional help if the pain in your knee joint persists after you have stopped the exercise for an hour.

Hopefully this article helps you in your recovery from arthritis.

Flatfeet in Children - When Are They a Problem?

There are high arch feet and low arch feet and many different foot types in between. Many individuals have flatfeet, but do not have foot problems. All of us are born with flatfeet and some of the greatest athletes have flatfeet. But, flatfeet are a problem when the arch completely collapses in combination with excess inward rotation in the foot. This type of flatfoot causes excess stress on the joints, ligaments and tendons in the foot and ankle. If not treated appropriately, tendon and joint problems will develop.

Flatfeet are normal in infants and the arch will not start to develop until between four and eight years of age. Up until this time, all children will have flatfeet. Many children under the age of 4 may have excessively flatfeet and excess rotation in their feet. How do you tell the difference? The following list may indicate that your toddler's flatfeet are a problem:

1. Your child is over 15 months of age and has not started walking.

2. Your child started walking around 12 months but seems to prefer crawling.

3. Your child is between the ages of 2-4 and complains of foot pain or leg pain. In many instances, this leg pain is confused with growing pains.

4. The wear on your child's shoe is uneven.

5. Your child's arch is touching the ground and the ankles look like they are rolling in, bringing the knees together.

For toddlers, the typical treatment is a kiddie orthotic. This is a pre-made orthotic which comes in different sizes. It will fit into any of your child's shoes and should be comfortable for them. This will help stabilize their foot while they are walking. In severe cases, or in children ages 3 and 4, a custom made orthotic may be necessary. A custom made orthotic is a device that involves taking a mold of the foot, typically done with plaster, but sometimes done with foam. A device is made with specific corrections for your child's foot and looks like a plastic insert. This insert can slip into the shoe and can be switched from shoe to shoe.

Children can wear the same insert for up to 2 shoe sizes, then a new pair must be made. Although the insert will not change the way the foot develops, it will support the foot and allow for a more normal walking pattern. In some cases, children only need the orthotic during the first few years, and after the arch develops, the orthotic is no longer needed. In most cases, children will not "outgrow" their flatfeet.

As the arch develops between 4 and 8 years of age, the child's body goes through numerous changes. The bones grow in length while the leg and thigh bones are rotating. During these years it may be difficult to determine if the flatfeet will become a problem or not. One of best indicators of a problem is pain. Children should not have pain in their feet. They should be able to run around with their friends or in an organized sport without any pain. If your child is having foot, ankle or leg pain, make sure they see a podiatrist.

Young children between eight and thirteen years may have flatfeet, but not complain of any pain. This is a common occurrence in this age group, especially if the children are not competitive in any sports. Look for the following:

1. The arch touches the floor and the ankles and feet rotate in.

2. The knees are very close together (knock-knees).

3. Shoes are worn out within 3 months.

4. Wear pattern on the shoe is toward the inside (big toe side).

5. Your child's gait is bouncy or looks awkward.

6. Your child seems slower than his or her friends or shows a lack of interest in sporting activities despite being athletic.

If your child shows any of these signs it is necessary to visit a podiatrist to be evaluated. In many cases, small problems that are developing in this age group can lead to more severe problems down the road. Generalized ankle pain is the most common complaint in children this age with flatfeet. Typically, they will be able to run and play sports, but find that they have a deep, achy pain in and around their ankle when they are done. Children this age have a very difficult time expressing the type of pain they are experiencing and when they experience it. Writing down when the pain happens and where is occurs will help your doctor during the visit.

Over fourteen years of age, the growth slows in girls and over the next few years the growth plates in the feet fuse. Boys will have continued growth until 16 to 18 years of age. Children in this age group will typically complain of pain. The most common problem in children with flatfeet in this age group is tendonitis. The pain is either at the back of the heel, or at the inside of the arch. Sometimes the foot and ankle are stiff and sore in the morning, when first stepping down. Walking up and down stairs or hills, squatting or walking on uneven surfaces will cause more pain in these tendons.

Treatment of tendonitis involves rest, ice and immobilization for a minimum of two weeks, but two months can be a common recovery time. When these conditions develop as a result of flatfeet, it is necessary to be fit with orthotics to prevent the problem from occurring again. Not every foot needs a custom made orthotic. There are many prefabricated orthotics that work well. A prefabricated orthotic is not the same as an insert. An insert slips into the shoe and will provide comfort, cushion and a little support. In some cases, inserts purchased at the drugstore will help alleviate some arch or heel pain and give relief to sore, tired feet. But, an insert is not an orthotic. Orthotics are devices which fit into the shoe and aid in foot function.

The most important difference is an orthotic controls abnormal motion and corrects foot function, while an insert will only provide cushion and comfort. Pre-fabricated orthotics can be found at your local sports store and will help many individuals with flatfeet. They are much cheaper than custom-made orthotics, but they will wear out in 1-2 years. A custom-made orthotic is custom to each foot and corrections are built-in to help the foot function. They are designed to keep stress off the ligaments and tendons in the arch and designed to distribute the pressure evenly while walking. The cover material on the custom-made orthotic may need to be changed every one to two years, but the orthotic itself will last ten years. As expected, custom-made orthotics are much more expensive than prefabricated orthotics or inserts.

In summary, all infants have flatfeet, but more severe flatfeet in this group can become a problem. The arch develops between four and eight years of age and predicting long term foot problems in this group can be difficult. Many children, teenagers and adults have flatfeet, yet no foot problems. Therefore, not all flatfeet need to be treated. But, children with foot, ankle or leg pain and flatfeet should be evaluated by a podiatrist. For children with flatfeet and foot pain, custom made orthotics are essential to treatment of the foot problem and for prevention of problems in the future.

Causes of Water Retention - 10 Common Reasons For Swelling of the Body

Water retention is a common health problem that greatly affects the day to day activities of the sufferers. Water retention - medically referred to as edema - is the accumulation of excess fluid that leaks into the body tissues. The leakage will lead to swelling in all over the body (generalized swelling) or more localized swelling, such as swelling in legs, feet and ankles or fluid retention in abdominal, the face, hands, arms, and around the lungs.

Although there are many different conditions and diseases associated with the term water retention or edema, there are several more prominent causes of water retention. And here is some of them:

1. Arthritis
Arthritis, which means "joint inflammation", is described as an inflammation of one or more joints that involves the mechanical failure of cartilage resulting in joint pain, swelling, and limited movement. It can affect any joints in the body from hip, heel, spine, shoulder, knee to the big toe.

There are more than 100 different types of arthritis but the three most common types are: osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout. Different types of arthritis show different symptoms. Common symptoms of arthritis include: persistent joint pain, fever, tenderness, joint swelling, stiffness, redness, joint malformation, inflexibility of joint and unexplained weight loss.

2. Kidney disorders
Certain form of kidney disorders such as kidney failure and glomerular disease will lead to swelling throughout the body as well as localized swelling in the abdominal, ankle, feet and leg swelling. This occurs because the kidneys have lost its normal functions including to efficiently removing salt and water out of the body. This will in turn cause the body to retain fluid and over time, get accumulated in the body tissues.

3. Chronic lung disease
Chronic lung disease is a general term of persistent lung disorders that damage the function of the lungs. Severe chronic lung disease will cause water retention in the body include fluid retention in lungs (pulmonary edema), ascites, neck, face, ankle and feet swelling. Chronic lung disease such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), smoke inhalation injury, acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), lung cancer, mesothelioma, etc. may lead to pulmonary edema, abdominal edema / ascites, fluid retention in the neck and face, swelling in the ankles and feet.

4. Cirrhosis of the liver
Cirrhosis of the liver usually causes abdominal fluid retention. It also causes low protein albumin synthesis by the liver and results in legs and abdominal fluid retention.

5. Congestive heart failure, cardiomyopathy disease and heart valve disease
Congestive heart failure obstructs the normal circulation of the blood and often leads to water retention. Two most common causes of water retention in congestive heart failure patient are: (1) the blood flow to the heart backups and leaks into the lung and vein; (2) the kidney retain fluid due to the insufficient amount of blood flow. Both cardiomyopathy and heart valve disease are a variety of heart disease and lead to heart failure.

6. Excess sodium intake
In people who are more sensitive to sodium, excess sodium intake will raise the blood pressure and lead to water retention especially in the lower extremities such as swelling in the ankles and feet.

7. Gravity
Standing or sitting too long in one position because of occupation necessity or after long trips may cause fluid retention in legs. This is usually worsened in high temperatures.

8. Pregnancy
In some cases, the developing uterus in pregnant women may press the vena cava leading to fluid retention in the legs. Hormone imbalances and increased amount of blood flow also responsible for water retention during pregnancy. The most affected areas of swelling during pregnancy are in the lower extremities especially the ankles and feet.

9. Side effects of certain medication
Certain medication such as anabolic steroid, calcium channel blockers, levitra, methadone, etc. may affect the normal functions of the body and lead to swelling particularly in the legs, feet and ankles.

10. Venous Insufficiency
Venous insufficiency is a disturbance of the blood flow in the leg veins because of the damage of the veins itself or the valves causing the fluid to backup and leak into the surrounding tissues. This disorder is one of the most common causes of water retention in legs.

Look over the list of water retention causes and decide if you are indeed experiencing one or more. Remember, many diseases take years to appear after the symptom does. Thus, you should speak to your doctor if you have any questions regarding water retention in any parts of your body. Your doctor is the one who can tell you just what exactly the cause of your swelling and what treatment options will work best for you.

All About Total Knee Joint Replacement

Total Knee joint replacement is a surgical procedure required by persons suffering from a condition called Knee arthritis, which results in extreme knee pain and inflammation and causing difficulty in any movement of the knee joint.

Causes
o Wear and tear of the joint.
o Extreme obesity that the knee is unable to support the body weight.
o Genetic factors.
o Injury caused to the knee.

Symptoms
o Extreme pain.
o Unability to move knee.
o Stiffness or swelling of joint.
o Tenderness along the joint.
o Deformity of the joint (knock-knees or bow-legs).

When other treatments such as medication, therapy and lifestyle changes (weight loss or therapeutic activities) fail, the last option that remains is the Total joint replacement surgery.

Understanding the surgical procedure

During the surgery an 8 to 12 inch cut is made on the front side of the knee after injecting general spinal, or epidural anesthesia. The damaged cartilage of the joint is taken out and is replaced with a metal or plastic artificial joint which is attached to the thigh bone and knee cap using cement or some special material to bind.

With new technical developments in the field of surgery, Minimal invasive surgery is used which requires only a three to four inch cut. When the incision is smaller it is easier during the surgery as less tissues are cut. Hence it also decreases pain and quickens post surgery recovery.

After the surgery muscle strength is recovered with physical therapy though people start to walk with support such as parallel bars crutches or walker, until the joint is not strong enough to bear the entire body weight. After a few weeks people start to walk without assistance and thereafter can pursue most daily activities except heavy physical activity such as running , jumping etc.

An artificial joint usually lasts 20 years and could last even more.

Recovery after surgery

o Avoid using stairs.
o Donot twist leg, keep knee straight.
o Avoid hectic physical activity.
o Avoid squatting and kneeling.
o Use firm straight back chair and avoid recliners and sofas.
o Avoid injury and falling or slipping.
o Return to activities such as driving and exercise only after complete recovery and after being reassured by a doctor.

Risks after the surgery

o Due to restricted movement blood clots could occur which would require blood thinners.
o Swelling could occur in the nerves hence causing discomfort and numbness.
o Bones could get injured or cracked during the surgery hence requiring treatment.
o Infection and bleeding as risks in any operation.
o The replaced parts of the joint could become loose or could break , but this is a very rare condition.

Training Your Horse - Show Ring Hunter, Common Mistakes to Avoid

According to the rules all hunters are to be judged on their jumping form. This means that their jumping style, that is, knees up and rounding, or their bascule, is the number one priority. 
 
Competitors show over a course of minimum of eight fences that simulate jumps found in a field hunt. Jumps such as stone walls, hedges and coops are often used as well as natural colored poles. The horse, however, must be able to knock down the top element of the obstacle.
 
In addition to their form over fences, hunters are also considered on their manners and way of going during the round. 
 
When showing in the hunter ring you are judged from the moment you enter the ring and the judging stops when you leave the ring.   
 
As a judge critiques your round, they keep score with their own personal series of cryptic symbols to remind them how the horse performed. Each fence is marked with a code to reflect how the horse jumped. The fewer the marks the better the score. 
 
Remember that the Hunter Round starts as soon as you get into the ring and ends when you leave so everything that you do in the ring can and will be judged. So if you go into the ring, and immediately pick up a wrong lead, that will be scored. Likewise, if your horse balks, or resists, at the in-gate that will also be considered as part of your round.
 
I've judged my fair share of hunter rounds. Some were wonderful. Some, well, they need help! If you avoid the following ten things you will most likely be in the ribbons every time.
 
Poor Form
A horse should jump with its knees up and square, or even. Uneven knees or 'hanging a leg' is reason for not pinning in a class. A horse is said to 'hang' when the forearm is in a more vertical position (knee pointing toward the ground) as opposed to horizontal position (knee pointing straight ahead) over a fence. This is undesirable as a horse that 'hangs' could be dangerous because it may hit the jump with its forearm and cause a terrible accident.
 
If your horse has good form but has one bad fence where he 'hangs a leg', it could knock you out of the ribbons depending on the size of the class and severity of the bad jump.
 
To improve your horses form over fences you can use gymnastics. This type of training should be under the supervision of your trainer or coach. The type of gymnastic that you use will depend on the jumping form you are trying to treat. Check with your trainer and develop a systematic training program to cultivate your horse's form.
 
Refusal and/or Run-out
To be considered for a placing in a hunter class you must complete all the fences. Having a refusal, meaning stopping in front of the fence without jumping it, is a major fault and will be scored as such. A run-out, when a horse goes past the extended horizontal line of the jump is also a major fault. You must approach and jump the fence to complete the course.

A horse must get to each jump and its form over the fence is considered. If it cannot get over the fence then it is a serious fault. A circle at the beginning of a round and a closing circle at the end is permitted however, any other circles will be counted as a refusal. I use the symbol 'R' on my judge's sheet to note a refusal and will not place a horse that has an 'R' unless I really have to.
 
To prevent refusals and run-outs at horse shows, work with your trainer to ensure that you and your horse are ready for competition. Know the requirements of the level you are showing in and practice this height of fence at home. It is also helpful to have similar types of fences to school over when training so your horse is not surprised by flowers, brush or coops when they are at a show.
 
If there are few participants in a class a refusal or run-out may get a low placing.
 
Knock Down
A fence is considered to have been knocked down when the pole is no longer resting in the support. A knock down is a major fault and is scored as such. A perfectly good round can be destroyed by an untimely rail. A knockdown is considered a major fault. If I see a 'K' on my sheet I will not place this horse unless I have to.
 
To prevent knock downs while on course prepare your horse for the show season with a systematic training program to develop your riding and your horse. Gymnastics will develop strength and agility and also prepare the rider  for the courses.
 
Breaking or Trotting
Break into a trot any where on course and your score will go down or you will be placed lower. I write 'BROKE' on my sheet to keep track. One horse I judged had a winning round. The rider was enjoying his beautiful canter and he looked up and as he looked up his horse broke into trot for two steps! He lost the class!
 
Wrong Lead
Having a wrong lead around the ends of the arena can make the horse unbalanced and they often have a bad fence after. Wrong leads will certainly knock you out of the ribbons. I mark "XL" to note horses that have wrong leads.
 
Also a disunited canter "DIS" or cross canter will also lower your placing.
 
Adding in or Leaving out Strides
If you have a four stride line and do it in three strides at mach1 with the second fence HUGE, you have an athletic horse and have the great makings for a jumper. You may wan to consider changing disciplines. If you leave out strides I mark it with a "[-]".
 
When you add strides, I mark my judge's sheet with a"[+]" to show that they added.
 
Missed jump/bad spot. 
To be considered for placing, particularly in a large class, a 'chip' (a short stubby stride just before the fence) will ruin your chances. Likewise for an overly long or reach on take-off. I use the following symbols for chips "Λ−a"C " or jumps long "∩a"C."
 
 
Uneven Rhythm
My first reaction to a hunter round should be, "that was a nice even round." If I'm holding, white knuckled, onto my chair, chances are you are going too fast or steadying in the corners and zooming down the lines towards the jumps.
 
If you are speeding toward the jumps in a rushing fashion I will mark my page with a "aa" to represent speed.
 
Bad/poor Mover
This is a difficult one. So, if you've got to the jumps, good form, even rhythm, right striding and your correct lead. That is great, however,  if your horse is an average mover up against a pack of superior movers of the same jumping ability, the horse with the correct form and better movement will place higher.
I mark a poor mover with the symbol "↑↓".
 
Turnout
The icing on the cake is the turnout. You and your horse should present themselves in a clean professional manner according to the specifications of the class. Braiding is always acceptable and shows off your horse. Tails well prepared and tack shining. A finished picture with hooves oiled is a pleasure to see. If there were ties a tie breaker would be turnout. I simply write 'lovely turnout' if I think it would make or break a winning round.

Arthritis Knee Surgery - The Pros and Cons

Arthritis is a disease characterized by abnormal inflammations affecting the human body's articulations or joints. The fingers, elbows, hips, and knees are the primary targets of arthritis. Arthritis comes in varied forms. Osteoarthritis, the most common type of arthritis, is caused predominantly by old age, but may also develop in response to certain lesions, infections, or malformations, of the knee. Other less common but equally debilitating forms of arthritis are as follows: gouty arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis.

Treatment Options for Arthritis In the Knee

Several modes of treatment are available for managing arthritis and its symptoms. These may range from physical therapy, pharmacological remedies (medications), to arthritis-specific surgical procedures.

The latter, more commonly known collectively as arthritis knee surgery, has a variety of more specialized types - for example, knee osteotomy, arthroscopy, and knee replacement surgery. The specific form of arthritis knee surgery will depend on a number of factors, such as the extent and severity of the disease.

What is Knee Arthritis Surgery?

Depending on the state of arthritis, the most recommended option for treatment is frequently arthritis knee surgery.

Arthritis usually develops in stages, gradually destroying the cartilaginous tissue present in the tissue joints. In its early stages, anti-inflammatory treatment and physical therapy are the primary modes of treatment. However, as the disease progresses, arthritis knee surgery becomes an urgent and crucial necessity.

Arthroscopy: A Less Invasive Option

Arthroscopy is a less invasive surgical option in arthritis treatment. This procedure involves the repair of ligament and cartilage tissue injuries in the knee and the other joints. During an arthroscopy, a tiny instrument resembling an endoscope will be inserted in the affected articulation via a little incision.

Although the effectiveness of this procedure remains an issue of debate, many proponents attest to the benefits of arthroscopy when applied in appropriate scenarios.

Telltale signs that a patient requires knee arthroscopy are as follows: painful popping of the knee, knee joint instability or wobbling knees, a prickling sensation when using the knee joint, and inflammation or swelling of the affected body part(s).

Knee Osteotomy: Better Option for Younger Patients

In cases of younger patients, these arthritics only often have damage in only one part of the knee joint. Consequently, they are not advised to undergo complete knee replacement surgery.

Sometimes, arthritis also manifests through knock-legged or bow-legged cases, which are characterized by a joint reorientation, such that the joint's weight center is transferred from its damaged area to its healthy area. In such cases, knee osteotomy is often the best course of action.

Partial Knee Replacement Surgery: The Hybrid

Considered a "hybrid" of both osteotomy and complete knee replacement surgery, partial knee replacement surgery is significantly less invasive than the latter. This procedure is done by replacing the damaged portion of the affected articulation with a prosthetic one, while the healthy parts are left intact to heal. Partial knee replacement surgery is recommended for severe arthritis confined to certain parts of articulation. Compared to complete knee replacement surgery, this procedure requires smaller incisions and allows for a more rapid recovery time.

Complete Knee Replacement Surgery: A Practical Option

For several arthritis cases, the most practical option is complete knee replacement surgery. This procedure entails the complete removal and replacement of the damaged joint tissue with plastic or metal prosthetic implants.

Associated Risks: Arthritis Knee Surgery

As in most forms of major surgery, arthritis knee surgery patients are susceptible to thrombosis, infections, nerve damage, and certain anesthesia risks.

In addition, arthritis knee surgery involves a number of post-surgery risks, including instability of the affected joint, kneecap fracture or dislocation, and even decreased mobility or reduced range of motion.

Arthritis Knee Surgery: Pros and Cons

In spite of the risks associated to the procedure, arthritis knee surgery comes with several advantages that can benefit the inflicted patient. The primary benefits are, of course, considerable pain alleviation, enhanced mobility, as well as a substantial improvement in one's quality of life. Most importantly, within 6 months subsequent to the surgery, the previously affected joint has the potential to regain its full functionality.

Conversely, arthritis knee surgery also comes with some perceptible disadvantages. For example, post-operative patients may experience discomfort and soreness in the period following the procedure. Additionally, the use of the prosthetic joint can be noisy and draw attention to its presence. In some cases, difficulties in movement may arise. And, depending on the type of prosthetics used, the replacement knee may have limited usability, such as only 10-15 years before a new replacement knee becomes necessary once more.

All things considered, however, if we weigh the pain and discomfort that are observed in some cases against the immense potential for successful post-surgery results, it is easy to conclude that the pros of arthritis knee surgery unquestionably exceed its cons.

5 Drills For Extreme Football Conditioning

In the dark ages of football, conditioning usually amounted to nothing more than running a few miles and maybe jogging up stadium steps. It was the old standby. And, often the only reason it was done was because that's what your coach did when he was young, and his coach before him. . . and on and on and on. . . it was the mediocre conditioning conundrum and it struck football like a plague.

If there's one thing that all football strength and conditioning coaches should agree on it's that running sucks for improving football conditioning.

Jogging is boring, results killing, and, if you are over 200lbs (and you all should be), it can be hell on your knees and ankles. We never run distance in a game, and usually not much more than 30yards and often only 3 - 10yards!

Yet, no matter what, some football players continue to rely on the dreaded and unproductive jogging as the mainstay of their football conditioning programs.

Why?

I'm pretty sure it's because most coaches grew up when the aerobics craze hit. Jogging was the solution from everything from fat loss, heart health, sports conditioning to solving world peace.

But, just because you did something 25-years ago doesn't mean you should still do it! It used to be common practice to not allow your players to drink water during summer practices. It took a few tragic accidents before this stupid practice was put to rest.

How many times must we run around the practice field screaming "4th Quarter" before someone gets that in order to win the big games. . . the close games against good teams, we have to be in extreme football condition, or, as we like to say. . . game shape.

But, if you don't run how the hell do you get "in shape?"

If you play a sport, you should do conditioning that is similar to the demands of your sport, which is why Football players have absolutely no business running distance. Ever.

Sprinting, of course, is the usual answer. And, it should be. But, for most of the country, sprinting outside isn't always an option. Here in NJ it seems to either rain, snow or dump buckets of ice on us at the most random times. I can only imagine what the hell goes on in places where it really snows.

Sprinting in the snow may seem cool and hardcore, but, slip on one spot of ice and your season is done.

There are alternatives for those time. . .

But, a word of warning. . . it is not for the weak hearted.

Combining three exercises, often called Triple Threats, is not new. Early strongmen would often perform triples; typically a Two-Hands Anyhow, a Press, then a Side Press. Olympic lifters often use them and guys like Alwyn Cosgrove have applied complexes to fat loss training with phenomenal results. But, we aren't talking about just combining exercises in the gym. Using Triple Threats for extreme football conditioning is a great way to get into amazing football shape even when going outside is impossible.

1. Prowler, Farmers Walk, Sprint

This movement is brutal. There's just no point where it lets up. Start off by setting up a Prowler (or sled) about 30-yards from a set of loaded Farmer's Walk bars. Very heavy dumbbells can be used if you don't have access to Farmer's bars.

Get down low and start pushing that Prowler. This should be a sprint, so don't overload the sled too much. As soon as you reach the bars, pick them up and do a Farmer's Walk back to the starting point. Then, drop the bars and sprint back to the prowler.

The last sprint might feel a little funny, especially on the later sets, but tough it out. Yell out "Fourth Quarter!" or whatever clich矇 gets you to keep going when you just want to vomit.

Start with 3 sets of this combo, rest as needed. When you get good, try to cut the rest periods down to 45-seconds. Gradually. Trust me, go gradually. Five sets of this will be enough for most. You can use it as a stand-alone movement, as part of a conditioning day, or as a finisher after a weight room session.

You can do this in the gym if outside isn't a possibility. The Prowler wouldn't go over well with the school, but, you can get a tarp or even a heavy piece of rug, throw a few plates on top, attach a rope and pull. Instant indoor sled.

2. Dumbbell Cleans, Dumbbell Front Squats, Dumbbell Duckwalk

This is a favorite of mine. It's super easy to set up, easy to do, and is excellent for conditioning and teaching your body to be coordinated when tired. By the way, this is important. I've heard for years that you shouldn't put high skill exercises toward the end of your strength sessions because you're too tired to perform the movement correctly. But, seriously, if you play football (or any sport really) you damn well better be able to perform high skill movements when tired. You better be as fresh in the 4th Quarter as you were in pre-game warm ups!

This trio is great for teaching the body to be on point even as you tire. Grab two dumbbells and knock off 5 rapid fire Cleans.

On the 5th, immediately do 5 explosive Front Squats. Then, on the 5th, keep the 'bells on your shoulders and go right into a Duckwalk. You can go for about 10 yards. But, speed of movement is more important.

The keys here are:

Speed! You have to move fast
25-Seconds rest between sets
Focus. . . you must learn to perform when tired

Go for 3 - 5 sets to begin with. This works great as a finisher, done at the end of a strength training session.

3. Kettlebell Swing, Kettlebell Bear Crawl, Kettlebell Push ups

This trio can also be done with Dumbbells, but it's no where near as fun. It's best to do this combo outside, preferable in crappy weather (conditioning is as much about mental toughness as it is physical). Yea, yea. . . I just said don't sprint outside. . . there's not sprinting here, sucka.

Start off by doing 10 - 15 reps in the KB Swing. As soon as you finish, drop down and, with kettlebells in hand, start doing a Bear Crawl. Crawl about 30 yards. When you reach the finish line, keep your hands on the K-bells and do as many push-ups as possible.

Rest as needed at first, but eventually try to cut the rest down to under 45-seconds between sets.

Once you get used to this combo, try doing it with two different size K-bells. No one ever said the weights always have to be perfectly balanced. This will increase difficulty and keep your stabilizers working the entire time.

This complex can be used as a finisher on an upper body day or as part of a conditioning day. Start off with4 sets and work up to 6. Experiment with different Kettlebell weights, try using dumbbells, or wear a weighted vest throughout to increase the workload.

4. Sandbag Bearhug Carry, Shoulder and Squat, Sandbag Deadlift

Again, best to head outside for this one, but, if you can't then the gym is perfectly fine. I've said it a million times; Sandbags are excellent for improving strength and football conditioning. . . and it's the #1 tool for bridging the gap between the weight room and the field.

You will have to play around a bit with the weight of the bag. If it's too heavy, you'll never make it. But, if it's too light, the exercise becomes too easy. Starting light and going heavier is the best way to go.

Start off with feet shoulder-width apart. Bend and grab the bag just as you would a barbell Deadlift. You will have to find the best form for you, but, a good way to start for beginners is to Deadlift the bag to the thighs, then do a high-pull/hip pop combo to get it to the chest. If you've ever watched World Strongest Man competitions, you've seen this move used when lifting the large, round stones. It'll take some practice to find your sweet spot, but, once you do, you'll have very little problem.

Once the bag is at chest level, wrap your arms around it and squeeze the hell out of the damn thing. If you relax your grip, the bag will fall, especially as you get tired. Once secured, start walking. When you get to the 50-yard marker drop the bag, repeat the lifting sequence but this time get it to your shoulder. Do 5 reps each side.

When you hit the 10th rep, drop the bag again and do as many Deadlifts as you can. This is quite a bit of work in a short time, so it is ideal when used as a finisher. Start with 3 sets and gradually increase to six.

5. DB Swing, DB Snatch, DB OH Lunge

Again, if you are afraid of accidentally becoming a card carrying member of a Kettlebell Kult, you can use Dumbbells for this complex. This is best done with one 'Bell at a time.

Grab one Kettlebell or Dumbbell, take a shoulder width stance and knock off 20 Swings. Immediately do 20 Snatches then, keep your arm locked out overhead and do 10 Lunges with each leg.

This is ideal for those who are forced to workout inside or in a very small gym because it takes up so little space. You can do the swings and snatches without much fear of some dummy walking directly in the path of the dumbbell. . . though I once saw Roder drop the bar he was doing Straight Leg Deadlifts onto his foot, so I guess ya never know, eh?

This is also a great way to condition when you can't get to the school's weight room. . . like on Christmas break. All you need is one dumbbell and some balls.

Depending on your needs, choose 1 - 3 of the combos and work them hard 2 - 3 times a week. If you are early in your off-season, one day a week should hold you. As the season draws near, or if you are looking to lose fat for a specific occasion, start to increase the amount of conditioning you do. The old mainstay of doing 3 weight training workouts and 2 conditioning sessions is a good starting point.

What Causes Arthritis Knee Pain?

Arthritis is a disease which causes pain and damage to the body's joints. Any joint can be affected, and all will cause different quality of life issues. One of the problems that affects many sufferers is arthritis knee pain. There are different causes for this pain depending on the type of arthritis that you have.

The knee is made up of three bones. It is located where the bottom of the femur and the top of the tibia meet. It is protected in the front by a bone known as the patella, or kneecap. There are a number of tendons and ligaments which hold the bones in the proper alignment and allow the bones to hinge properly. There is also cartilage which is located on the bones and under the kneecap that cushions the joint and prevents damage to the leg bones. A tissue pad called the meniscus also helps cushion the joint.

In osteoarthritis, knee pain is a result of the break down in cartilage. The ends of the bones become rough and jagged in later stages of the disease, and knee damage and pain can result. Osteoarthritis is normally a disease which affects older people but younger people who have injured their joints may also experience the symptoms of osteoarthritis. With rheumatoid arthritis, the body's immune system attacks the joints and can destroy cartilage. There is inflammation, heat and swelling in addition to joint pain. Rheumatoid arthritis can affect people of any age, which makes it different than osteoarthritis.

There are a few different ways that you can treat knee pain that comes from arthritis. There are anti-inflammatory medications, pain relievers and supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin that are designed to support and repair cartilage. If you suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, there are oral medications which are designed to modify the way the disease is affecting you. They include methotrexate. Gold therapy is also used although this is much less common now that safer drug alternatives have been discovered.

If you are suffering from pain in your knees, you should check with your doctor to make sure that there are no untreated injuries. This can include torn cartilage, damaged ligaments, or even a dislocated kneecap. Surgery can correct these. If your joints are severely damaged by arthritis, you may need to have the joint surgically replaced.

Other non medical means of treatment can include heat wraps and arthritis creams. These can soothe sore joints and provide some relief. Remember that you should never heat a joint that has been affected by rheumatoid arthritis. You want to calm the heat that is in the joint, not add to it. You also want to make sure you are continuing to use the joint since letting it become immobile will not help and you will end up with more severe problems down the road. Arthritis websites or a rheumatologist can help you establish a safe and effective exercise routine.

Knee pain can be one of the most difficult aspects of arthritis to deal with. You use your knees for so much in your life that having pain can cause problems in your every day routines. Knowing what your treatment options are can help you get on with your life and stay as normal as possible.