If you find yourself complaining more and more about joint pain and stiffness, you’re not alone. If you haven’t felt the affects of arthritis yet, it may be just a matter of time since 70 to 90 percent of people over 75 suffer from this condition.

The precise reason for osteoarthritis is still unknown. This arthritis appears to be associated to wear and tear on the joints over time; however, not just wear and tear cause osteoarthritis. For a number of people, it may run in the family. Other risk factors consist of joint injury, obesity, prolonged occupational or sports stress and history of extended immobilization.

When a joint is affected by osteoarthritis, the cartilage which surrounds the bones making up the joint starts to break down this degeneration happens because the cartilage making cells stop functioning normally. Eventually, the cartilage may wear away completely so bone rubs on bone. Pieces of bone and cartilage may loosen and hinder joint movement, leading to joint swelling, pain, and stiffness.

There is no cure for osteoarthritis; however, several different options for treatment of symptoms do exist. The goals with treatment are to allow osteoarthritis sufferers to stay functional and have a good quality of life. Maintaining activity and controlling pain are significant parts of reaching these goals. Education, medication, rehabilitation, exercise, alternative medicine and surgery are all options for treatment. A combination of these options are better than just one.

Losing weight for those who are over weight can help those suffering from osteoarthritis to keep active.

Tips for staying active

• Lose weight if you’re overweight
• Regularly for short periods
• Go to a physical therapist
• Avoid heavy lifting
• Avoid overusing your joints
• Take/Apply products to control pain as recommended

Staying active is essential to preserve the muscles around the affected joints. Activity keeps these muscles strong and flexible so movement is easier.

Over the counter medications such as acetaminophen and medications that reduce inflammation (Ibuprofen, naproxen, ketoprofen) may help control pain. Doctors commonly prescribe these non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to help with inflammation and pain. Use of these medications is sometimes limited by their side effects. Topical creams may also help manage pain.

Recent university studies on cetylated fatty acids (CFAs) have revealed them to be successful in reducing pain and improving function in arthritic joints. Myo-Med contains these CFAs and other natural anti-inflammatory agents which can help arthritis sufferers to stay active. Heat and/or ice may help some people. Physical therapists can guide exercise management.

Education about osteoarthritis is essential when building a victorious treatment plan. Those who have arthritis play an important role in managing their disease in conjunction with their health care provider to ensure greatest quality of life.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dr_Lisa_Hill

The signs and symptoms of underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) differ extensively, depending on the severity of the hormone deficiency. For a number of people, low levels of thyroid hormone contribute to joint and muscle problems.

Specifically, hypothyroidism may direct to:

Muscle aches, stiffness and tenderness, particularly in the shoulders and hips are linked to hypothyroidism.

• Muscle aches, stiffness and tenderness, particularly in the shoulders and hips
• Joint pain and stiffness
• Swelling of the knee joint and small joints in the hands and feet
• Carpal tunnel syndrome

Treatment of these joint and muscle problems is often focused at the underlying thyroid disorder. Thyroid hormone treatment often helps dramatically. Pain relievers may help, too.

Keep in mind that hypothyroidism can increase your risk of developing other autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis. If pain, stiffness and swelling don’t get better after sufficient thyroid treatment, check with your doctor. He or she may consider other feasible causes of your joint pain.

Article Source: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/hypothyroidism/AN00069