Arthritis

Arthritis is the inflammation of a joint or joints that causes pain, stiffness and swelling. Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in people over the age of 65.

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The two main types of arthritis are osteoarthritis (sometimes referred to as OA) and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is the common form whereby cartilage between the bones in the joints begins to waste away causing the bones to rub against each other. This is the degenerative type of arthritis and can lead to misalignment of the joints particularly in the knees, hips, spine and hands.

Rheumatoid arthritis is a more severe form of arthritis but less common than OA. Rheumatoid arthritis occurs as the body's immune system attacks and damages the joints causing pain and swelling. This form of arthritis reduces function of the joint leading to a loss in mobility as the cartilage and bone is destroyed.

Arthritis has over 200 different forms including: Ankylosing spondylitis, Fibromyalgia and Cervical spondylitis. Although rare, children can develop arthritis and this is referred to as Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis ( or JIA).

The actual cause of osteoarthritis is unclear but many healthcare professionals believe genetics play a major role in the development of the disease. Factors that may contribute to OA include:

• Being overweight (obesity places extra strain on the joints)
• Career, activity, sport – Certain repetitive movements place added strain on the joints)
• Injury or damage to the joint – trauma to the joint may trigger the disease.

Natural Health Products Which May Benefit Arthritis

*Source: GoToSee.co.uk

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