Pain relief for osteoarthritis

March 25, 2003

We all already know (hopefully) to avoid NSAIDs (irritating to the

stomach/pouch) and -2's (can cause ulcerative bleeding in some). Both

simply mask pain. Dr. Weil adds acetaminophen to the list. While it may be

less irritating to the stomach, it does little to reduce joint inflammation.

A study reported in the " Archives of Internal Medicine " (1/27/03) showed it

was no more effective than a placebo in relieving knee pain.

from Dr. Weil's 4/03 newsletter: Glucosamine sulfate may actually

help restore damaged tissue structure, perhaps bcuz it's a natural

constituent of healthy cartilage. By helping to rebuild new cartilage,

glucosamine may help prevent further joint injury and slow the advance of OA.

(It may interfere with certain diuretics). For info about reliable brands: <A

HREF= " www.consumerlab.com " >

www.consumerlab.com</A>. Suggested daily dose is 1500mg taken in 3 divided

doses.

It may take at least 2 months to feel any results. Doesn't seem to have any

effect on pain from sources other than OA.

(Note: chondroitin is also mentioned in the article, but there is some

concern about " mad cow disease " since it is often derived from cow cartilage.

Murray, N.D. has cited one study that showed it to have no effect at

all on OA. If one wants to take it anyway along with glucosamine, the

recommended dosage is 1200mg to the 1500mg of glucosamine).

New Chapter's " zyflamend " contains ginger, turmeric and other

anti-inflammatory herbs, for osteoarthritis and other chronic pain conditions

involving inflammation.. It appears to lack the side effects of prescription

COX-2 inhibitors (Celebrex, Vioxx, etc) but may take up to 2 months to

relieve pain. To locate a retailer: <A

HREF= " www.new-chapter.com " >www.new-chapter.com</A>

Other therapies: relaxation techniques such as breath work, meditation, yoga,

biofeedback, etc help ease depression and alter pain perception. Acupuncture

has helped some. Massage (but avoid deep tissue work) helps temporarily

restore mobility and flexibility by encouraging blood flow to stiff joints.

And while there is little good scientific evidence to support the claim, some

of his patients say magnet therapy eases their pain.

Exercise increases the flow of lubricating fluid to the cartilage and helps

strengthen muscles, tendons, and ligaments that support the joints. It can

also help you achieve and/or maintain a healthy weight, which eases the

burden on already damaged joints. In one sutdy, the loss of just 11 pounds

cut the risk of developing knee OA by 50%. Biking, walking, or other

low-impact aerobic activity for at least 30 minutes 3 or more times weekly

can help reduce pain and stiffness and make movement easier. Swimming and

other warm-water workouts are also great choices for people with OA bcuz

water helps suport your body weight and places less strain on the hips,

knees, and spine. A strength-training program at least 2x/week would further

protect joints, and stretching exercises such as yoga or tai chi help

maintain flexibility.

Eat plenty of antioxidant-rich fruits and vegetables (or take supplements) as

they may help neutralize free radicals that can cause inflammation and joint

damage. Eat salmon, ground flax seeds, or walnuts several times a week for

anti-inflammatory omega 3 fatty acids. Stay away from polyunsaturated

vegetable (such as corn or safflower) oils, partially hydrogenated oils, and

trans-fats / trans-fatty acids -- all of which promote inflammation. READ

LABELS. Most refined, processed, and snack foods, and ANYthing containing

some form of shortening (baking mixes, margarines, ready-to-eats) contain

some form of the above 3 no-no's.

---------------------------

Carol A

March 25, 2003