Arthritis is a broad term for a group of chronic disorders of the muscles and bones called musculoskeletal disorders. Arthritis is the inflammation of the joints, and is commonly associated with pain.
Forms of arthritis include Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Osteoporosis, Psoriatic Arthritis, Gout, and Fibromyalgia Syndrome, with the first three being the most prevalent forms in Australia.
According to the report from the National Health Survey released in October 2002 by Australian Bureau of Statistics, Arthritis is one of the most commonly reported long-term medical conditions. Approximately 14% of the population in Australia suffer from Arthritis. Arthritis increased with age from 33% of those aged 55-64, to 45% of those aged 65-74, and 52% of those aged 75 and over.
In July 2002, Australian Health Ministers announced Arthritis as a new National Health Priority Area in recognition of the major health and economical burden these diseases place on our community.
A range of agents can cause Arthritis. Different forms of Arthritis have different underlying causes.
Rheumatoid Arthritis most commonly develops between the ages of 25-50, but can begin at any age.
Osteoporosis is regarded clinically as degenerative or wear and tear Arthritis. Early diagnosis is important so as to determine the appropriate course of treatment.
Unfortunately there is no known cure for Arthritis. Treatment and management are mainly for minimising further damage, prevention, reducing pain and swelling.
Cartilage is connective tissue that consists of collagen, glycosaminoglycans and proteoglycans, and is responsible for providing the shock-absorption at the end of bones. It is the loss of this cushioning effect, due to the loss of glycosaminoglycans, that results in pain and loss of range of movement.
Conventional medicine to treat Arthritis, such as Analgesic, anti-Inflammatory tablets, gel or cream, only masks the pain and addresses the symptoms of Arthritis. Drugs help reduce pain and inflammation, but cannot repair damaged bone and cartilage. The growth and repair of the cartilage are only possible if the necessary nutrients for the formation of cartilage are present.
Glucosamine is an amino-sugar; it is synthesised from glucose (a sugar)and glutamine (an amino acid). Glucosamine is a critical compound needed by cells to maintain and regenerate cartilage. It is a major building block of proteoglycans and is needed to make glycosaminoglycans.
Although the human body creates its own glucosamine, ageing, medication, and injuries can cause deficiency in glucosamine. Recent studies have found that tablets and creams containing Glucosamine can reduce pain and swelling in joints. It has been proven effective in numerous scientific trials for easing osteoarthritis pain, aiding in the rehabilitation of cartilage, renewing synovial fluid,and repairing joints that have been damaged from osteoarthritis.
Several other important nutrients also play important roles in helping maintain healthy cartilage and joints. National nutrition surveys have shown that many people consume less than half the amount of calcium recommended to build and maintain healthy bones. Low calcium intakes appear to be associated with low bone mass, rapid bone loss, and high fracture rates. An adequate supply of calcium over the lifetime plays a significant role in contributing to bone health.
Magnesium plays a key role in a number of physiological processes including the maintenance of healthy bones. It is necessary for calcium and vitamin C metabolism.
Vitamin D plays an important role in calcium absorption and in bone health.
Vitamin C is an absolute requirement for the synthesis of collagen.
Vitamin E provides significant benefit for its antioxidant and membrane-stabilising properties.
Our health is largely our personal responsibility. Scientific research and clinical trials continue to expand our knowledge in human nutrition in regards to the relationship of diet and nutrition to chronic diseases. Recent reports on diet and chronic disease by the World Health Organization suggest that chronic diseases are preventable.
Disclaimer: This article is not meant to replace consultation with trained health care professionals. The publisher and author are not responsible for any adverse consequences of effects resulting from the use of any of the information or suggestions contained in this article. All research has been done in good faith, using recognized sources.
