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Sometimes medication may be necessary, but be alert to potential adverse effects. Listen to your body, and trust your own judgment. Do not be afraid to ask your physician to adjust your dose, change medications, or discontinue medication altogether. (To prevent withdrawal symptoms, some medications, particularly psychotropic drugs, require tapering the dose off over an extended period before completely discontinuing the drug.) Many times, there are safer alternatives, especially with chronic health problems. Take control of your health care: you have the right to say "no" ! Your greatest wealth is your health. Don't give it over to the lowest bidder or the latest fad.
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November 18, 2008
Grape Powder Alleviates Joint Inflammation - Constituents In Grapes Have Antihyperalgesic Effects In A Rat Model Of Joint Inflammation
Johns Hopkins Researchers at Neuroscience 2008 - Table grapes are high in flavonoids, which are thought to have strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Now, researchers at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine have shown that powdered grapes appear to reduce pain and inflammation in a rat model of arthritis, where rats knees are inflamed using a chemical injection. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/129800.php
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November 8, 2008
We all know physical activity is good for you. But why exactly is it good for you? What effect does exercise have on the cells and tissues of the body?
What do we need to know so that we can use physical activity more effectively to combat chronic diseases such as arthritis, diabetes and heart disease?
"As Canada's population ages and grows, the burden of arthritis, osteoporosis, and other musculoskeletal, oral and skin conditions on our health care system will increase," said Dr. Jane E. Aubin, IMHA's Scientific Director. "We want to reduce this burden and improve the health and quality of life of Canadians of all ages by supporting research that increases our understanding of the relationship between physical activity, mobility and health." http://www.news-medical.net/?id=42457
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November 7, 2008
Researchers at Hospital for Special Surgery have identified a potential new therapeutic target that could be used to treat inflammatory disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
The study, published online ahead of print, will appear Nov. 15 in the journal Immunity. Specifically, the study reveals that two molecular pathways, the Notch and Toll-like receptor pathways, are linked and that manipulating a protein called RBP-J involved in both pathways, could serve as a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis.
http://www.news-medical.net/?id=42497
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November 1, 2008
Low levels of vitamin D in adults may lead to fractures caused by osteoporosis, as well as bone and joint pain, muscle weakness and falls. http://www.arthritisvic.org.au/downloads/Calcium%20English.pdf
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October 31, 2008
Vitamin D Deficiency: Common Cause of Many Ailments
The Institute of Medicine brought experts together recently to explore the question of whether the RDA or recommended daily allowance, of vitamin D has been set too low. The impetus for the occasion was the mounting evidence for this vitamin's role in preventing common cancers, autoimmune diseases, type 1 diabetes, heart disease, and osteoporosis. Furthermore, studies have shown that vitamin D deficiency is common in the U.S. Because the typical symptoms are aching bones and muscle discomfort, vitamin D deficiency is often misdiagnosed as fibromyalgia or chronic fatigue syndrome, according to Michael F. Holick, MD, PhD, of the Boston University School of Medicine.
And another study showed vitamin D intake is inversely associated with rheumatoid arthritis. http://www.medicalconsumers.org/pages/VitaminDDeficiencyCommonCauseofManyAilments.html
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A second study, published in the journal Arthritis & Rheumatism, showed that vitamin D may prevent rheumatoid arthritis, another autoimmune disease in which the joints are attacked and destroyed.
The 11-year study of 29,368 women aged 55 to 69 involved detailed questions about eating habits, use of vitamin pills and other lifestyle choices. In this group, 152 women developed rheumatoid arthritis.
The women whose diets were highest in vitamin D had the lowest occurrence of the disease, the researchers at the University of Iowa, the University of Alabama at Birmingham and elsewhere found. Again, supplements seemed to be a better source than food, they reported.
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Vitamin D may prevent multiple sclerosis
Vitamin D, which the body makes when exposed to sunlight may help prevent multiple sclerosis (MS) and rheumatoid arthritis, two studies suggest. http://www.abc.net.au/science/news/health/HealthRepublish_1024783.htm
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October 22, 2008
The burden of Arthritis is increasing
There is no cure for arthritis and as the population ages, the burden of arthritis is increasing. The onset of arthritis is usually between the ages of 25 and 50, when people are active in the workplace and in family care roles, so has considerable social and economic costs. This is the International Bone and Joint Decade in which Commonwealth Government of Australia has made arthritis a national health priority. In response to this a National Action Plan has been developed, a key objective of which is to advance knowledge in RA, the most disabling form of arthritis. The knowledge gained from this project is likely to provide direction for new strategies to prevent joint destruction in arthritis. This new science will also provide insights into other diseases affected by similar mechanisms involving abnormal lymphocyte function including a large group of auto-immune and inflammatory diseases such as multiple sclerosis, inflammatory bowel disease and type 1 diabetes. http://www.usyd.edu.au/su/sutton/Research/arth.htm
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October 22, 2008
Arthritis is a major cause of chronic pain and disability which affects the quality of life of millions of people worldwide. In fact, it is estimated that 3.1 million Australian's (as of June 2000) suffer from this debilitating disease. This figure correlates to approximately 16.5% of the population. http://www.usyd.edu.au
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October 21,2008
Chronic diseases such as diabetes and arthritis may be keeping more than 660,000 older Australians out of the workforce, Sydney University academics have found.
Their study, published in the latest issue of The Medical Journal of Australia (MJA), estimated that 663,235 older Australian workers were missing from the labour force because of ill health in 2003, reducing Australia's gross domestic product by around $14.7 billion per annum.
"Back injuries, arthritis and mental health disorders accounted for approximately half the missing workers," Dr Schofield said. http://www.news-medical.net/?id=42052
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October 19, 2008
An occupational therapist-led approach gets people with osteoarthritis moving
Physical activity is the cornerstone of any healthy lifestyle - and especially for people with osteoarthritis as exercise helps maintain good joint health, manage their symptoms, and prevent functional decline. Osteoarthritis, however, often makes physical activity, such as exercise, and even performing daily activities, a challenge.
But an occupational therapist-led approach - called activity strategy training - could provide patients with knee and hip osteoarthritis the opportunity to lead more active lives and even improve their overall health, according to a new study led by researchers at the University of Michigan Health System. http://www.news-medical.net/?id=41734
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October 17, 2008
PAIN
Pain is more than a symptom of osteoarthritis, it is an inherent and damaging part of the disease itself, according to a study published today in journal Arthritis and Rheumatism. http://www.news-medical.net/?id=41723
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September 19, 2008
Out of Joint
A new diagnostic tool for arthritis developed by TAU could stop irreversible damage from setting in.
A new diagnostic technique from Tel Aviv University and New York University may keep Baby Boomers running through their golden years. The researchers have developed a unique application of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology that provides a non-invasive early diagnosis of osteoarthritis. The results from the new tests, which cost the same as a standard MRI, could be read within one day. http://www.aftau.org/site/News2?page=NewsArticle&id=7693
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September 16, 2008
Anti-Inflammatory Drugs May Mask Prostate Cancer Marker
Regular use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as aspirin and ibuprofen, may reduce serum levels of the prostate biomarker, PSA (prostate specific antigen), and hence may alter the detection of prostate cancer in individuals who take these medications.
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September 15,2008
Landmark Study Finds Popular Surgery Provides No Relief For Osteoarthritis Of The Knee
A landmark study conducted in London, Canada at The University of Western Ontario and Lawson Health Research Institute shows that a routinely practiced knee surgery is ineffective at reducing joint pain or improving joint function for sufferers of osteoarthritis. The study appears in the New England Journal of Medicine. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/121146.php
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September 11, 2008
Psychological therapies ease arthritis pain
Arthritis sufferers can alleviate their pain by using mental imagery and hypnotherapy. This is the finding of Bryan Bennett and colleagues from Bangor University who presented their findings on the11 September 2008, at The British Psychological Society. http://www.bps.org.uk/media-centre/press-releases/press-release-archive$.cfm
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September 11,2008
Important new safety information regarding Rituxan® (rituximab).
A case of progressive multifocal leukoencephalopathy (PML) leading to death has been reported in a patient with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) who received Rituxan in a long-term safety extension clinical study. This is the first reported case of PML in a Rituxan-treated patient with RA
The case of JC virus infection with resultant PML and death was reported in an RA patient treated with Rituxan and was diagnosed approximately 18 months after the last dose of Rituxan. http://www.fda.gov/medwatch/safety/2008/rituxan_DHCP_Final%209411700.pdf
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September 5, 2008
FDA orders stronger warnings for 4 arthritis drugs
FDA: Manufacturers of TNF-Blocker Drugs Must Highlight Risk of Fungal Infections
Agency invokes new authorities under FDAAA to alert patients and prescribers to risk
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today announced that the manufacturers of Humira, Cimzia, Enbrel, and Remicade must strengthen the existing warnings, in the Warnings and Precaution sections of the drugs' prescribing information and Medication Guides, on the risk of developing opportunistic fungal infections. Some patients with invasive fungal infections have died.
The four drugs, known as tumor necrosis factor alpha blockers (TNF-alpha blockers), which suppress the immune system, are approved to treat a variety of conditions which may include rheumatoid arthritis, juvenile idiopathic arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, plaque psoriasis, ankylosing spondylitis, and Crohn's disease. http://www.fda.gov/bbs/topics/NEWS/2008/NEW01879.html
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September 2, 2008
Nearly half of U.S. adults will develop painful knee osteoarthritis by age 85: study
Almost half of all U.S. adults and nearly two-thirds of obese adults will develop painful osteoarthritis of the knee by age 85, a study based at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill suggests.
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August 26, 2008
Calcium
Philadelphia, Aug. 20, 2008 — Chemists in Philadelphia are reporting a discovery that could expand the palate of human tastes — sweet, sour, salty, bitter, and savory — to include a new taste sensation that they term “calcium.” Calcium is a mineral with critical roles in building and sustaining strong bones. Without it, children develop weak bones; calcium-deficient adults risk the progressive loss of bone mass known as osteoporosis, a major cause of fractures in older people. Studies also have linked low calcium intake to an increased risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, and certain cancers. American Chemical Society http://www.acs.org/
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August 24, 2008
Researchers have discovered key details of how rheumatoid arthritis (RA) destroys bone, according to a study published in the Aug. 22 edition of the Journal of Biological Chemistry. The findings are already guiding attempts to design new drugs to reverse RA-related bone loss and may also address more common forms of osteoporosis with a few adjustments. http://www.urmc.rochester.edu/pr/news/story.cfm?id=2081
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August 21, 2008
A study that provides new evidence that consumers need to avoid Grapefruit and other Juices when taking some Drugs
Scientists and consumers have known for years that grapefruit juice can increase the absorption of some drugs, causing potentially toxic effects. Now, researchers are reporting new evidence that drinking grapefruit and other common fruit juices, including orange and apple, also can substantially decrease the absorption of some drugs, wiping out their potential beneficial effects. The study provides a new reason to avoid drinking grapefruit juice and these other juices when taking certain drugs, including some that are prescribed for fighting life-threatening conditions such as heart disease, cancer, organ-transplant rejection, and infection, the researcher says. These findings - representing the first controlled human studies of this type of drug-lowering interaction - were described at the 236th National Meeting of the American Chemical Society .
Bailey advises patients to consult with their doctor or pharmacist before taking any medications with grapefruit juice or other fruits and juices. Unless it is known to be a problem, he recommends taking most medications only with water. As a result of the so-called "Grapefruit Juice Effect," some prescription drugs now carry warning labels against taking grapefruit juice or fresh grapefruit during drug consumption.
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August 20,2008
Newcastle scientists in new research to develop rheumatoid arthritis vaccine
Scientists in Newcastle are aiming to develop an exciting new vaccine which could suppress the effects of rheumatoid arthritis, using patients’ own blood cells.
John Isaacs, Professor of Clinical Rheumatology at Newcastle University’s Musculoskeletal Research Group, who is leading the team, said that although the work was in a very early, experimental stage it was “hugely exciting” and if successful, could signal a major breakthrough in treating rheumatoid arthritis. http://www.arc.org.uk/news/pressreleases/18155.asp
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August 19, 2008
Hydrogels Provide Scaffolding For Growth of Bone Cells
Currently, physicians are able to treat patients with damaged bone tissue, like those who have bone fractures that fail to heal, using demineralized bone matrix, a biological material obtained from cadavers. Demineralized bone matrix is rich in growth factor proteins which signal bone cells in the area to multiply and form complex bone tissue, while other proteins in the matrix regulate the activity of the growth factors. Demineralized bone matrix is in limited supply, and because it comes from a human donor, there is a risk of transmitting viruses to the recipient. http://www.cmu.edu/news/archive/2008/August/aug18_hydrogels.shtml
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August 11, 2008
People coping with rheumatoid arthritis or lupus already have a lot to deal with. Even so, paying attention to heart health may be especially important for this group. The August 2008 issue of the Harvard Heart Letter reports that rheumatoid arthritis doubles a person’s risk of heart attack or cardiac arrest. Heart disease risk is even higher with lupus, and a new study suggests that gout, another common kind of arthritis, is also linked to cardiovascular disease. http://www.health.harvard.edu/press_releases/joint-inflammation-may-raise-risk-of-heart-disease.htm
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July 22, 2008
Vitamin D deficiency is increasingly recognized as an important cause of muscle pain and weakness.
Vitamin D is essential to strong bones. Inadequate vitamin D can lead to osteoporosis, a brittle bone disease.
The major biologic function of vitamin D is to maintain normal blood levels of calcium and phosphorus. Vitamin D aids in the absorption of calcium, helping to form and maintain strong bones. Recently, research also suggests that Vitamin D may offer protection from type 1 diabetes, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, osteoporosis and other autoimmune diseases by reducing inflammation and strengthening the immune system. The July issue of Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource reports findings on how much vitamin D you need. Recommendations from medical groups vary, but a daily intake in the range of 800 to 1,000 IU is likely to benefit most adults. The body produces vitamin D when exposed to ultraviolet rays, but many people need a supplement to reach recommended levels. Many multivitamins contain vitamin D. www.mayoclinic.com
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July 18, 2008
Farming at Young Age May Lead to Bone Disease in Adulthood
Although farm chores are likely to keep young boys in shape and out of trouble, University of Cincinnati (UC) environmental health experts caution that it could be harmful to overall bone health if done too often at a young age.
A UC research team recently reported data suggesting that excessive weight-bearing activities-such as squatting, kneeling or lifting-can affect the mechanical properties of developing bone. They say this could leave junior farmers more susceptible to degenerative skeletal disorders later in life. Increased stress concentrations cause maladaptations in bone modeling, which can lead to osteoarthritis conditions that make the bones very stiff and cause damage to the cartilage between the bones. http://healthnews.uc.edu/news/?/7204/
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June 18, 2008
Omega 3 has many health benefits including helping to maintain normal, healthy cardiovascular function and good joint heatlh. Essential Fatty Acids are key structural components of the retina, brain and cell membranes. Intake of oily fish, or EFAs in supplemental form, has been demonstrated to have a protective effect against the development of Rheumotoid Arthritis. Another tremendously valuable attribute of these fats is their anti-inflammatory properties which makes them exceptionally helpful for inflammatory conditions like Arthritis. Essential Fatty Acids are found in high quantities in flax oil and fish oil.
Oily Fish Can Protect Against RA, But Smoking And Psychosocial Stress Increase Its Risk
Results from the EIRA study
New data presented at EULAR 2008, the Annual Congress of the European League Against Rheumatism in Paris, France, show that intake of oily fish is associated with a reduced risk of developing rheumatoid arthritis (RA), whereas psychosocial work stress and smoking can increase the risk of developing the condition. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/111371.php
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June 18, 2008
Rheumatoid Arthritis Is A Risk Factor For Cardiovascular Disease
The risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) for people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) has been found to be comparable to the risk of CVD in people with type 2 diabetes, according to the conclusions of two studies presented at EULAR 2008, the Annual Congress of the European League Against Rheumatism in Paris, France. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/111369.php
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June 16, 2008
Lupus more severe in patients with ancestry from southern Europe
Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients with a higher percentage of ancestry from southern Europe have more severe disease manifestations, according to new research presented today at EULAR 2008, the Annual Congress of the European League Against Rheumatism in Paris, France.
SLE is a complex autoimmune disease characterised by chronic inflammation and damage to body tissues, which occurs as a result of the production of abnormal antibodies that target and cause damage to cells of the patient's body, including immune cells. SLE has the potential to affect a variety of areas of the body, including the heart, lungs, kidneys, joints, and/or nervous system. The course of the disease is unpredictable, with periods of illness (called flares) alternating with remission. http://www.news-medical.net/?id=39152
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June 14, 2008
High prevalence of periodontal disease in rheumatoid arthritis found
Over 1.3 million Americans suffer from rheumatoid arthritis (RA), a chronic, inflammatory disease of the joints. RA is a disabling condition, and can lead to long-term joint damage resulting in persistent pain and loss of function in affected areas. A recent study published in the June issue of the Journal of Periodontology, the official publication of the American Academy of Periodontology (AAP), uncovered yet another potential side effect of RA. Researchers in Berlin, Germany discovered that patients with RA have a higher incidence of periodontal disease compared to healthy controls
(Study Abstract - http://www.joponline.org/doi/abs/10.1902/jop.2008.070501)
For some patients, adverse RA symptoms may affect manual dexterity, which can make one’s daily routine quite difficult. One area that may be affected is oral hygiene which can ultimately lead to periodontal disease. However, these research findings indicate that poor oral hygiene alone did not account for the association between RA and gum disease, suggesting that other factors may play a role as well. http://www.perio.org/consumer/arthritis-link.htm
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June 4 2008
Early Communication About an Ongoing Safety Review of Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) Blockers
(marketed as Remicade, Enbrel, Humira, and Cimzia)
FDA is investigating the possible association between the use of medicines known as tumor necrosis factor (TNF) blockers and the development of lymphoma and other cancers in children and young adults. These individuals were treated with TNF blockers for Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA), Crohn’s disease or other diseases. JIA is the new name for what was called Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis (JRA).
TNF blockers suppress the immune system by blocking the activity of TNF, a substance in the body that can cause inflammation and lead to immune system-related diseases. There are currently four TNF blockers available in the United States. Remicade, Enbrel, Humira, and Cimzia are each approved to treat one or more of a number of immune system diseases including JIA, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, plaque psoriasis, Crohn’s disease, and ankylosing spondylitis. http://www.fda.gov/cder/drug/early_comm/TNF_blockers.htm
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4th May 2008
When your doctor prescribes a new medication, are the dosing and potential side effects thoroughly discussed? For many patients they are not, as a recent study discovered.
There is no single ideal dose of any medication for all patients, because people often respond differently to the same medications. The dose must be tailored to you and your specific medical needs. The goal is to identify the minimum effective dose: one that provides sufficient benefit, with minimum side effects, and at the lowest cost.
On the other hand, the maximum useful dose is the point beyond which increasing the dose offers no additional benefit and, potentially, confers an increased risk of side effects.
And it is often left to the consumer to determine how best to use their medications, this according to a study reported in the Archives of Internal Medicine (Volume 155, page 1855). A study of physicians in Sacramento, California, found “spotty” and "overall poor" patient counseling about new prescriptions and over-the-counter drugs.
Researchers used surveys and tape recordings to document 185 doctor-patient encounters involving a new prescription medication or recommendation. The doctors were evaluated on how well they communicated five types of information about a new medication: its name, its purpose, how long to take it, how often to take it, the amount to take each time, and potential side effects.
The doctors got relatively good marks for citing the proper name of the medications and the purpose of the prescription. A little more than half the time they said how many tablets to take and how often. However, they discussed adverse side effects and the duration of dosing (whether it was a one-time prescription or the patient needed refills) only about a third of the time.
These findings don’t necessarily represent the practice of all physicians. But it would be smart to educate yourself about your own medications, by reading labels and asking the pharmacist questions if you find the doctor hasn’t told you all you want to know. John Hopkins Health Alerts
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April 19, 2008
Gender-Specific Knee Implants Offer Women a Choice
Now women facing knee replacement surgery can choose an implant designed to fit the narrower shape of their knees and offer greater flexibility and comfort. According to Consumer Reports, more than 600,000 people in the United States have hip or knee replacement surgery each year, 70% of them because of osteoarthritis. A 2006 survey showed that even though recovery can be long and sometimes painful, 82% of people who had this kind of surgery were very or completely satisfied with the results.
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April 17, 2008
Hip and Knee Replacements on the Rise
Researchers Say Obesity, Arthritis, and Aging Population Are Behind the Trend
Research presented at the UK National Stem Cell Network Annual Science Meeting in Edinburgh could offer hope that bone stem cells may be harnessed to repair the damaged cartilage that is one of the main symptoms of osteoarthritis.
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02 April 08
Cod Liver Oil Reduces Painkiller Use
"Two teaspoons of cod liver oil a day can cut the number of powerful painkillers needed to ease the pain of arthritis", reports the Daily Mail. Patients who were given the supplements "were able to reduce their daily dose of anti-inflammatory drugs", the newspaper says. These findings are important because the long-term use of anti-inflammatory drugs "can double the threat of heart attack and raise the risk of strokes and heart disease", the Mail adds. The reports are based on a small study in people with rheumatoid arthritis that showed the potential benefits of cod liver oil capsules in reducing the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The picture is complicated because the people taking the capsules were also on other drugs for their rheumatoid arthritis, and the study did not aim to reduce the dosages of these other medications. Not all people with rheumatoid arthritis will be able to reduce their NSAID dosage with cod liver oil capsules, and some people will not be able to stick with the daily regimen of 10 capsules. Although cod liver oil supplements may be worth considering by some people with rheumatoid arthritis, patients should talk to their doctor before making any drastic changes in the medicines they take.
This was a double-blind randomised controlled trial looking at whether taking high strength cod liver oil capsules could reduce the need for specific painkillers (NSAIDs) in people with rheumatoid arthritis. Cod liver oil contains the essential fatty acids DHA and EPA, which are thought to have anti-inflammatory effects. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/101632.php
Conclusions. This study suggests that cod liver oil supplements containing n-3 fatty acids can be used as NSAID-sparing agents in RA patients. http://rheumatology.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/abstract/ken024v1
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26th March 08
Being Heart-Smart With RA
People with rheumatoid arthritis understandably focus on caring for their joints. But their most serious health risk involves their heart.
Compared to the general population, rheumatoid arthritis patients have a significantly increased risk of heart attack and stroke, and a shorter life expectancy.http://www.johnshopkinshealthalerts.com/alerts/arthritis/JohnsHopkinsArthritisHealthAlert_1515-1.html
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24th March 08
Relieving Pain of Rheumatoid Arthritis with Acupuncture
Chinese researchers believe that acupuncture can reduce joint tenderness in people with rheumatoid arthritis. Should you try it? Johns Hopkins offers bottom-line advice. http://www.johnshopkinshealthalerts.com/alerts/arthritis/JohnsHopkinsArthritisHealthAlert_1850-1.html
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16 March 2008
Scientists Shine New Light on Inflammatory Diseases
Investigators at Hospital for Special Surgery have identified a new mechanism involved in the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases such as Rheumatoid Arthritis. The mechanism may also shed some light on why gene therapy experiments that use adenoviruses to deliver genes to humans have run into problems. The study will appear online on March 16 in the journal Nature Immunology.
Tumour necrosis factor (TNF) is known to play a role in several important inflammatory diseases including Rheumatoid Arthritis. http://www.hss.edu/newsroom_TNF-inflammatory-diseases-ivashkiv.asp
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14 March 2008
Misdiagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis
3 March 07. In an article recommended by Annelies Boonen of Faculty of 1000 Medicine, researchers look at the way rheumatoid arthritis is diagnosed by analysing the administrative databases used by physicians in Quebec.
The authors of the paper, published in Arthritis & Rheumatism, report that general practitioners diagnosed 79% of the 10,001 rheumatoid arthritis cases but only 27% of patients then saw a rheumatologist. Half of these patients were seen in the first three months and of these it emerges that only 17% received confirmation they were actually suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.
Rheumatologist, Boonen says, "The low referral rates of cases with suspected rheumatoid arthritis to rheumatologists is worrisome, especially when considering the discrepancy in diagnoses between the initial diagnosis by the non-rheumatologists and the following diagnosis by the rheumatologists."
Boonen recommends further research to confirm the findings and explore the wider implications of the study. “If we really feel the window of opportunity for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis exists, rheumatologists should increase their efforts to raise diagnostic capabilities of first-line physicians towards early diagnosis and referral of suspected patients with rheumatoid arthritis".http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2008-03/bc-mor030308.php
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7 February 2008
Double-jointed teenagers in new chronic pain research
Teenagers in Bristol are to take part in a major new research project aimed at finding out if children who are double-jointed are at increased risk of developing joint and muscle pain during adolescence.
Medical research charity the Arthritis Research Campaign has awarded more than £116,500 to researchers and doctors at the University of Bristol and the Royal Bristol Children’s Hospital to carry out the three-year study.http://www.bristol.ac.uk/news/2008/5813.html
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30 January 2008
Untreated blood disorder leads to liver cancer and arthritis
Australian researchers have discovered that more than one quarter of men with hemochromatosis develop liver cancer, arthritis and other complications.
According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) the early symptoms of the disease include fatigue, weakness, weight loss, abdominal pain and joint pain. http://www.news-medical.net/?id=34509
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29 January 2008
Supercarrot to protect against bone diseases
American scientists have created a "supercarrot" which may protect against conditions such as brittle bone disease and osteoporosis. http://www.megite.com/health/1200498220/41
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15 January 2008
Does Weather Affect Arthritis Pain?
Although some evidence exists that people living in warmer, drier climates experience fewer episodes of arthritis pain, climate does not affect the course of the disease. At most, it may affect symptoms of arthritis pain.
One theory holds that a drop in air pressure (which often accompanies cold, rainy weather) allows tissues in the body to expand to fill the space, meaning that already inflamed tissue can swell even more and cause increased arthritis pain. Other possibilities: Pain thresholds drop in colder weather; cold, rainy days affect mood; and during colder weather people are less likely to be outside and get the exercise that normally helps keep arthritis pain in check. http://www.hopkinsreport.com/arthritis/
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14 January 2008
Severe but not mild psoriasis is associated with an increased risk of death.
Psoriasis is a common inflammatory disorder that affects the skin and joints.The results of this study demonstrate that patients with severe psoriasis have a 50% increased risk of mortality, whereas patients with milder psoriasis have no overall increased risk. Male and female patients with severe psoriasis died 3.5 and 4.4 years younger, respectively, than patients without psoriasis, which provides further insight into the effect of excess mortality risk associated with having severe psoriasis. The increased risk of death in patients with severe psoriasis persisted when we excluded patients with diagnoses of psoriatic arthritis and rheumatoid diseases.http://archderm.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/full/143/12/1493
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7th January 2008
Exercise program improves symptoms in arthritis patients
A new study published in the January issue of Arthritis Care & Research evaluated the effects of the Arthritis Foundation Exercise Program, formerly called People with Arthritis Can Exercise (PACE) to promote managing arthritis through exercise. Although pilot studies had shown that the program led to improvements for arthritis patients, this was the first randomized controlled trial to evaluate the program. http://www.health.am/ab/more/exercise-program-improves-symptoms-in-arthritis-patients/
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17 Dec 07
Holiday Travel Tips
Traveling during the holidays is a stressful undertaking - even more so if you have arthritis.
Don't let travel worries ruin your holiday plans.
Here are some tips to help you have a happy holiday season.
Continue reading...
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6 December 2007
Easing the pain of spinal fractures
Osteoporosis and the bone fractures it causes often mean unremitting pain and misery to those affected.
A treatment called vertebroplasty, where cement is injected into fractured vertebrae, has been developed in order to treat osteoporotic fractures of the spine, and an adaptation of this procedure, called kyphoplasty, may help to correct deformity in the spine before cement is injected. Both procedures are being used increasingly in the USA and UK to alleviate the pain associated with spinal fractures. However, little is known about how these procedures relieve pain and how they might influence the spine’s mechanical function. http://www.action.org.uk/touching_lives/2007/11/osteoporosis/
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21 Nov 2007
Blood Clotting Protein Linked To Rheumatoid Arthritis
Researchers at Cincinnati Children's have issued the first study showing that a protein normally involved in blood clotting (fibrin), also plays an important role in the inflammatory response and development of rheumatoid arthritis. Affecting 2.1 million people in the United States, rheumatoid arthritis is a painful and debilitating disease involving chronic inflammation, tissue degeneration, loss of cartilage and bone and ultimately loss of joint mobility and function, according to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/89122.php
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7th Nov 2007
Researchers identify gene behind Rheumatoid Arthritis
Medical Research News 5-Nov-2007-
University of Manchester researchers have identified a genetic variant in a region on chromosome 6 that is associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), the most common inflammatory arthritis affecting 387,000 people in the UK.
Rheumatoid arthritis, which affects up to 1% of the adult population, is a chronic inflammatory disease that can affect nearly all joints in the body, particularly the hands and feet. Complications such as lung disease can occur. In addition, patients with RA are more likely to die from cardiovascular disease and some cancers. Some people respond well to treatment, but most suffer a lifetime of disability. Dr Anne Barton, a clinician on the team, said: "RA is a complex, heterogeneous disease with some people suffering inflammation of the hands and feet which comes and goes whilst others develop a progressive form which can quite rapidly result in marked disability. We believe the genetic marker we have found may determine who develops RA or how severe the disease becomes."
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4th Nov 2007
Research finds novel mechanism for synovial inflammation in degenerative arthritis
Medical Research News
29th Oct 2007
Intrigued by the potential role of tendon or ligament attachment sites in synovitis, Professors Michael Benjamin of Cardiff University and Dennis McGonagle of the University of Leeds decided to investigate the extent to which different entheses could contribute to inflammation by forming a functional unit and destructive partnership with adjacent synovium. Featured in the November 2007 issue of Arthritis & Rheumatism (http://www.interscience.wiley.com/journal/arthritis), their findings shed light on a potential novel mechanism for synovial inflammation in degenerative arthritis.
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18 Oct 2007
04 Oct 07 ----- Osteoarthritis drug Prexige withdrawn from Canadian market
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Health authorities in Canada have withdrawn the osteoarthritis drug Prexige from the market amid concerns the drug increases the risk for serious liver-related damage including hepatitis.
Health Canada says the anti-inflammatory drug has been associated with four cases internationally, including two cases in Canada, of hepatitis associated with the 100 mg dose.
Prexige is made by the Swiss drug company Novartis Pharmaceuticals.Prexige is another of the Cox-2 selective inhibitor drugs and is known generically as lumiracoxib; it is used to treat osteoarthritis in adults.
The drug was taken off the market in Australia in August 2007 following incidents of serious liver damage linked to the 200 mg and 400 mg daily doses.The drug has been available in Canada since November 2006.
Health Canada says even at a 100 mg daily dose Prexige cannot be safely and effectively managed.
Patients taking Prexige are advised to contact their doctor in order to discuss alternative treatment options and return remaining doses of the drug to their pharmacy for disposal.
Vioxx, another Cox-2 inhibitor drug, was also recalled in September 2004, because it was linked to an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. |
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17 Oct 2007
RA Patients Suffer In Silence To Stay On Drugs, UK
New research highlighting the devastating impact of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) on peoples' lives has found that one third of people with RA do not always tell their healthcare professionals the true extent of their symptoms.
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10 Oct 2007
Renewed search for lupus treatments and cure
Thursday, 4-Oct-2007
For the first time in decades, a significant number of clinical trials are being conducted to seek a treatment, perhaps even a cure, for LUPUS, a chronic and potentially fatal autoimmune disease that affects more than 1.5 million Americans 10,000 in Los Angeles County alone. http://www.news-medical.net/?id=30774
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6 October 2007
Prexige, Anti-inflammatory Drug, Withdrawn In Canada
The sale of Prexige (lumiracoxib) has been stopped in Canada. Health Canada advises that it will cancel the medication's market authorization because of potential for serious liver-related adverse events.
Prexige is a Cox-2 selective inhibitor non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug. It has been on the market in Canada since November 2006. The drug is used for treating adult patients with the signs and symptoms of osteoarthritis - maximum dose 100 mg (daily). http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/84794.php
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21 Sept 07
Adverse Drug Events Reported to FDA Appear to Have Increased Markedly
CHICAGO, Sept. 10, 2007—The number of serious adverse drug events reported to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) more than doubled between 1998 and 2005, as did deaths associated with adverse drug events, according to a report in the September 10 issue of Archives of Internal Medicine, one of the JAMA/Archives journals.
A serious adverse drug event, as defined by the FDA, means an adverse event that resulted in death, a birth defect, disability, hospitalization, or was life-threatening or required intervention to prevent harm, according to background information in the article.
http://archinte.ama-assn.org/cgi/content/short/167/16/1752
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September 20/07
The Genetics Behind Rheumatoid Arthritis
Five Susceptibility Genes and Counting
Posted 9/5/2007
Past Arthritis Foundation grant recipient, Peter K. Gregersen, MD, of the Feinstein Institute for Medical Research in Manhasset, NY, has spent years of his professional life analyzing the human genome to figure out what makes certain people susceptible to rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Published online today (September 5, 2007) in the New England Journal of Medicine, Dr. Gregersen and a huge international team of investigators announced two genes that impart an increased risk of developing RA. Combined with three previously recognized susceptibility genes, these two newly identified genes give us five in total that Dr. Gregersen says have been validated by the data and are "quite certainly" linked to RA. Read more at:
http://www.arthritis.org/genetics-ra.php
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Osteoarthritis
Depression
It is not uncommon for someone with a chronic illness like arthritis to become depressed or feel helpless. It isn’t unusual for someone who is living with pain, fatigue and loss of function to feel overwhelmed and anxious about the future. If you do, it is important to recognize these feelings and get help working through them.
Mild depression can be helped through social interaction, journaling, posting messages on online discussion boards, exercise or doing something you find fun, such as shopping, taking a walk or seeing a funny movie.
If your depression is something more than just the "blues," it is not something to suffer through silently. Speak to your doctor about finding a qualified professional to work with you to help you feel better and in more control of your life.
http://www.arthritis.org/disease-center.php?disease_id=32&df=resources
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Arthritis Of Knee Might Be First Sign Of Type Of Lung Cancer
06 Sep 2007
Heavy smokers are susceptible to a type of lung cancer that is hard to treat - arthritis of the knee could be the first sign of this type of cancer, according to a report published in the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases.
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/81608.php
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GOUT
635 RIBONUCLEOTIDES … flavour enhancer
A combination of disodium guanylate (627) and disodium inosinate (631). Used in the same foods as MSG, also rotisseried chicken, chicken flavoured salt, blended butter. Originally prepared from sardine, meat and yeast extract, now prepared synthetically. Reports of adverse effects include itchy skin rashes, angio-oedema (swelling of the lips, tongue or eyes, may constitute a medical emergency), and behavioural effects in children. Not permitted in foods intended specifically for infants and young children. Should be avoided by people with gout.
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Calcium Supplements Thwart Bone Loss - For Best Benefits, Take Calcium and Vitamin D Supplements Correctly, Researchers Say
Aug. 23, 2007
Confused about whether calcium supplements and vitamin D supplements protect your bones?
A report in this week's edition of The Lancet sheds new light on that question.
People aged 50 and older who take calcium supplements are 12% less likely to fracture a bone than their peers who don't take those pills. http://www.webmd.com/osteoporosis/news/20070823/calcium-supplements-thwart-bone-loss?ecd=wnl_hbn_090407
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Get moving, Grandma! Exercise fights Arthritis
Study: The more older women work out, the longer they'll be pain-free
Exercise isn’t just about improving your heart and fighting flab that comes with aging. It may also be the answer to preventing stiff, achy joints that can lead to debilitating arthritis.
An Australian study suggests the more time older women spend exercising, the better their chances are of staying pain-free from one of the biggest chronic conditions plaguing developed countries.
Even exercising as little as one hour and 15 minutes a week now can make a difference over the next three years, according to findings recently published in the journal Arthritis Research & Therapy. http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/17945811/wid/11915773?GT1=9303
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New Online Resource For Patients With Severe Hip Osteoarthritis
20 Aug 2007
DePuy Orthopaedics, Inc., announced an advancement in online education for the more than 200,000 Americans who undergo hip replacement each year. This extensive patient Web site, http://www.hipreplacement.com, provides hip pain patients with a broad range of resources from mobility assessment tools to surgical options and recovery information, as well as linking to an online discussion group for peer-to-peer support. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/80070.php
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According to a new study, many kids and adolescents who are otherwise healthy may have inadequate blood levels of vitamin D, a nutrient essential for normal growth and development. A vitamin D deficiency in childhood may lead to muscle weakness, defective bone mineralization and rickets. |
The researchers from Children's Hospital of Philadelphia assessed dietary and supplemental vitamin D intake, body mass, and measured blood levels of vitamin D in 382 healthy children between six years and 21 years of age living in the northeastern U.S. and found that more than half of the children had low blood levels of vitamin D. Of the subjects, 55 percent of the children had inadequate vitamin D blood levels and 68 percent overall had low blood levels of the vitamin in the wintertime. African Americans, children aged 9 and older, and those whose vitamin D intake was low were likeliest to have reduced serum vitamin D levels.
"The best indicator of a person's vitamin D status is the blood level of a vitamin D compound called 25-hydroxyvitamin D," Dr. Zemel, the lead investigator noted. "Vitamin D deficiency remains an under-recognized problem overall, and is not well studied in children."
The researchers added that further study is needed to determine the appropriate blood levels of vitamin D in children, as well as a review of the current recommendations for vitamin D intake.
The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2007 July; 86(1):150- 8
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FDA Warns Consumers about Counterfeit Drugs from Multiple Internet Sellers
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is cautioning U.S. consumers about dangers associated with buying prescription drugs over the Internet. This alert is being issued based on information the agency received showing that 24 apparently related Web sites may be involved in the distribution of counterfeit prescription drugs.
Consumers should be wary, if there is no way to contact the Web site pharmacy by phone, if prices are dramatically lower than the competition, or if no prescription from your doctor is required. As a result, FDA strongly cautions consumers about purchasing drugs from any of these Web sites which may be involved in the distribution of counterfeit drugs and reiterates previous public warnings about buying prescription drugs online. Consumers are urged to review the FDA Web page at www.fda.gov/buyonline/ for additional information prior to making purchases of prescription drugs over the Internet.
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The Importance Of Vitamin D And Problems Caused When Deficient
23 July 2007
Humans attain vitamin D from exposure to sunlight, diet and supplements. Vitamin D deficiency is common in children and adults. In utero and childhood, vitamin D deficiency may cause growth retardation, skeletal deformities and increase risk of hip fractures later in life. In adults, vitamin D deficiency may precipitate or exacerbate osteopenia, osteoporosis, muscle weakness, fractures, common cancers, autoimmune diseases, infectious diseases and cardiovascular diseases. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/77290.php
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People often use omega-3 fatty acids to reduce the inflammation associated with arthritis. As it turns out, these fatty acids may actually help prevent bone loss. French researchers found that high levels of pro-inflammatory omega-6 fatty acids were strongly associated with bone loss in a group of 105 periodontal patients. The use of omega-3 supplements — 360 mg/day of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and 240 mg/day of docasahexanoic acid (DHA) — appeared to decrease production of proinflammatory prostaglandin E2 in bone. Significantly, it also stopped bone loss.
Jack Challem, The Nutrition Reporter, has been writing about vitamin research for 25 years.
Reference
1. Requirand P, et al. Serum fatty acid imbalance in bone loss: example of periodontal disease. Clin Nutr 2000;19:271-6.
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Rheumatoid Arthritis Impacts Millions Of Americans But Remains Severely Underfunded
Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) affects 2.1 million Americans and despite many advances in the understanding of the disease, funds for research remain limited and both the cause and a cure are still unknown. The American College of Rheumatology Research and Education Foundation (ACR REF) is working to accelerate RA research and expand financial support of this disease by launching the Within Our Reach: Finding a Cure for Rheumatoid Arthritis campaign. The new program is designed to raise unprecedented funds to search for a cure. http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/76825.php
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Healthy Body Weight Helps Delay Disability
Obesity in this country is at an all-time high, putting millions at risk for disabling arthritis," said Patience White, M.D., chief public health officer, Arthritis Foundation. "Coupled with sedentary lifestyles and an aging baby boomer population, we are facing a public health crisis if Americans don’t take action now. People of all ages need to get moving, and walking is one of the easiest, safest and most beneficial forms of physical activity for most people," said White. "Walking as little as 30 minutes – even 10 minutes three times a day – can ease joint pain, improve mobility and reduce fatigue.
Obesity may lead to joint wear and tear, reduced exercise capacity, and a higher rate of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and arthritis that can result in physical disability," she said. "Obesity in young and middle adulthood may result in earlier onset of chronic diseases and lower physical activity, contributing to decreased muscle strength and cardiovascular fitness and greater declines in physical performance.
http://www.arthritis.org/research/summaries/body-weight-disability.asp
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Calcium and Vitamin D are nutrients both known to help prevent osteoporosis, amongst other benefits.
May 9, 2007
A study in the January 7th edition of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition indicates that adding 1200 milligrams of elemental calcium plus 400 IUs of Vitamin D as part of a weight reduction program contributes to the reduction of LDL and improves the LDL-to-HDL ratio.
An earlier report in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association stated that "Increasing total calcium intake, in the form of calcium supplementation, may be beneficial to weight maintenance, especially in women during midlife". The study showed that over a 10 year period, women in midlife who took more than 500 mgs of calcium supplements per day gained almost 2 kilos less than women who did not supplement.
Besides taking care of our bone health, we have two additional benefits to add calcium and vitamin D to our daily supplement regimen!
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Scientists Develop 3-D Fabric to Aid in Joint Cartilage Repair
If the knees of your favorite jeans become worn and thin, patching them with a piece of fabric may provide a satisfactory fix, extending their life and delaying the need to replace them with a new pair. Someday doctors may be able to use a different kind of fabric to repair your own knees - as well as hips, shoulders and other joints - that wear out due to the common joint disease osteoarthritis (OA). Using a unique weaving machine of their own design, researchers supported by the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS) have created a three-dimensional fabric scaffold that could one day be used to patch damaged joint surfaces, allowing one’s own stem cells to move in and repair the damage.
http://www.niams.nih.gov/ne/highlights/spotlight/index.htm
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Green Tea Compound May Be A Therapy For Rheumatoid Arthritis
Article Date: 30 Apr 2007 - 0:00 PDT
A new study from the University of Michigan Health System suggests that a compound in green tea may provide therapeutic benefits to people with rheumatoid arthritis.
The study, presented April 29 at the Experimental Biology 2007 in Washington, D.C., looks at a potent anti-inflammatory compound derived from green tea. Researchers found that the compound called epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG) inhibited the production of several molecules in the immune system that contribute to inflammation and joint damage in people with rheumatoid arthritis.
The compound from green tea also was found to suppress the inflammatory products in the connective tissue of people with rheumatoid arthritis.
http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/medicalnews.php?newsid=69309&nfid=nl
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1 Out Of Every 3 Arthritis Sufferers Is Affected In Ability To Work
Article Date: 02 Apr 2007
Arthritis, a leading cause of disability among US adults, affects 46 million people. Arthritis-attributable work limitation (AAWL) can have substantial social and economic impacts including absenteeism, reduced productivity, work loss and lower income. Arthritis-attributable work limitation affects nearly 7 million U.S. adults, disproportionately affects minority groups, and presents opportunities to reduce arthritis impact by implementing effective interventions to preserve and improve function.
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Success Of Hip Replacement Surgery May Be Determined By Genes
Article Date: 17 Mar 2007 - 2:00 PDT
The success of long term hip replacement surgery may lie in the genes, suggests research published ahead of print in the Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases. The researchers analysed genetic variations in 312 people, just over half of whom (162) had problems after hip replacement in the 10 years following surgery.
Among those with symptoms, 91 had early signs of "aseptic loosening," which describes a condition in which the artificial joint comes loose and the surrounding bone begins to dissolve. The other 71 patients had deep-seated infection, which occurs when the body is unable to control infection caused by bacteria colonising the artificial implants. DNA samples were taken from all participants to test for genetic variations in genes responsible for generating matrix metalloproteinase 1, or MMP1 for short, interleukin 6, and vitamin D synthesis. MMP1 is an enzyme that breaks down collagen, the main protein found in bone and cartilage, while interleukin 6 is a chemical involved in bone metabolism and the immune response.
Vitamin D synthesis is important for strong healthy bones.
Variations in the interleukin 6 gene did not seem to have any effect. But those with variations in MMP1 were more than three times as likely to have aseptic loosening as those who did not carry the genetic variation. And variations in the vitamin D receptor gene almost doubled the chances of bone dissolution and deep infection. The authors conclude that if confirmed in other research, these findings could be used to predict long term success in patients undergoing hip replacement surgery. And they could also be used to develop targeted genetic treatments
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Feb 2007
Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) is the most common rheumatic disease in childhood, yet unlike adult arthritis, little is known about its economic impact. A new study published in the February 2007 issue of Arthritis Care & Research examined direct medical costs of children with JIA and found that the economic impact was substantial.
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Nov 2006
Significant Findings - Mayo researchers found that the people diagnosed with psoriasis experienced heart attacks more than twice as often as people of the same gender and age in the control group. "The fact that people with psoriasis exhibit this increased risk for heart disease offers additional proof that psoriasis is a systemic inflammatory disease rather than just a skin disorder," says Sherine Gabriel, M.D., Mayo Clinic epidemiologist and the study's lead researcher.
The Mayo research findings also emphasize the need for psoriasis patients to monitor their cardiovascular health at an earlier age and to take measures to lessen their risks for heart attack, heart failure and other cardiovascular problems.
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November 3, 2006
Acupuncture plus routine care were effective in controlling the pain of knee and hip osteoarthritis (OA), and results were maintained for 6 months, according to the results of a randomized controlled trial reported in the October 30 Early View issue of Arthritis & Rheumatism.
"In routine care, a broad variety of acupuncture styles is used, and acupuncture is often administered in conjunction with other treatments," write Claudia M. Witt, MD, of the Charité University Medical Center in Berlin, Germany, and colleagues. "To date there has been little information about the effectiveness of acupuncture treatment provided as an adjunct to routine medical care.... Based in part on the results of the present study, the German Federal Committee of Physicians and Health Insurers proposed in April 2006 that acupuncture will be reimbursed by statutory health insurance funds."
http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/547162
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ARTHRITIS: This drug causes stomach and heart problems, that one causes heart and stomach problems
Arthritis sufferers were traditionally prescribed an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug) to help relieve the pain. But eventually researchers realised that NSAIDs such as Advil and Aleve caused gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding, and also increased the risk of heart problems.
So the drug manufacturers went back to the shareholders, sorry, drawing board, and came up with a new family of painkillers known as the COX-2s. But researchers eventually realised that COX-2s such as Bextra and Celebrex increased the risk of heart problems - just as much as an NSAID.
And now researchers have discovered that the COX-2s also cause gastrointestinal bleeding - just as much as an NSAID.
This latest discovery comes after monitoring the progress of 34,701 arthritis sufferers who were given either an NSAID or a COX-2 for 18 months.
The researchers hope their discoveries will help doctors develop better treatment guidelines for arthritis. Such as not giving the patient an NSAID or a COX-2?
(Source: The Lancet, published online 13 November 2006).
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Oxidative Stress and Arthritis.
There has been great interest among researchers for the past 20 years involving the role of oxidative stress in the development of arthritis.
Many different factors may be culprits of increased oxidative stress within the inflamed joints. When researchers study joint fluid extracted from an inflamed joint, they note a significant increase in the number of excessive free radicals. In contrast, fluid from a normal joint, has no free radicals present. These different sources of increased free radical production within the inflamed joint all cause significant oxidative stress resulting in an overload in the antioxidant defence system of the joint space. The synovial fluid (joint fluid), which is usually very thick becomes thin and all components of the cartilage become damaged as the process of joint destruction begins taking place.
Studies are now being conducted in which antioxidant micronutrients are being used as part of the therapy for patients with either rheumatoid or osteoarthritis. www.bionutrition.org
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