Pain - Summary of conditions and ways to help

Pain - Summary of conditions and ways to help
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Chronic pain in our culture has become an ongoing scourge, because Americans are told to take pills instead of curing the underlying problems. The pills themselves cause illness, from addiction to liver problems and more, because they can clog the system, and prevent the body from using its own natural healing powers to overcome the underlying illness.

Pain is a problem that may signal something wrong, like an immediate injury, or may be the result of a secondary source, such as food allergies, or even cancer. It may be the result of chronic overuse such as in an exercise injury, or chronic inflammation due to arthritis in the joint, or irritation in the bowel.

Bodily process of pain

Pain impulses travel from the area of injury up the spinal cord to the brain. Inflammation happens when protease is released in response to injured tissue, starting a cascade effect which results in a protein release that causes the nerves to feel pain. In addition, blood vessels enlarge, and the area becomes hot, red, and swollen. This process is meant to bring healing to the area, as blood flow and immune response increases, but if the underlying injury is not treated, but rather, just masked by pain killers, chronic inflammation and /or chronic infection may cause permanent injury to the area, or, at least, one that is more difficult to heal.

Ways to help your pain.

Endorphins, produced by the pituitary to block pain, may be hindered from being produced by poor nutrition. Here are some areas in your lifestyle that you may want to address, as you may be lacking.

Start with water. With our culture of junk foods and beverages, soda and coffees with caffeine tend to dehydrate us. The urge to drink water is not as strong as the drive to eat, and nutritional studies have shown that as we get older, the drive to drink becomes weaker. In addition, a well-hydrated body is more able to protect itself from infection. Microbiologist Amy Vollmer says that one of the main ways to prevent viral and bacterial infections is to be fully hydrated . In a well-hydrated body, the body’s immune cells work more efficiently than they do in a dehydrated body.

Add juice. The juice of organic fruits and vegetables can increase hydration, increase our nutrient and mineral content, and contribute to the alkalinization of the gut, which will eventually help reduce pain, as an acidic body can increase the sensation of pain in our extremities.

Reduce intake of dairy and meat. Animal products increase the acidity of the gut, contribute to colon cancers, and inflammatory bowel syndromes.

Add high pH vegetables. These include soy beans potatoes, melons, and lemons.


What to Avoid

As mentioned previously, most any food, especially those eaten on an everyday basis, can cause an allergic response that produces arthritis. But certain foods and chemicals are common triggers. Highly acidic foods have been associated with the exacerbation of arthritis symptoms. Saturated fats found in meat, dairy and fried foods, as well as alcohol and aspirin, produce prostaglandin-E2, which suppresses the immune system, causing inflammation and pain. Pork is one of the worst offenders, whether it is in the form of ham, bacon or any food cooked in lard (a hidden ingredient in some restaurant foods).

A small percentage of people with arthritis need to avoid the nightshade family of vegetables: tomatoes, potatoes, eggplant and bell peppers. You can tell if these foods affect you by staying away from them for 30 days and then eating all of them in one day. If you do not feel any worse after challenging yourself in this way, then you need not worry. If pain in the joints worsens, stay away from these foods.

Other substances to avoid include coffee and tobacco (both members of the nightshade family), caffeinated tea, sugar, and salt, as well as artificial colors, food additives, and preservatives. Carbonated drinks are high in phosphates, which change the mineral balance in the body. Margarine is unhealthful because of the partially hydrogenated trans-fatty acids. Overcooked and processed foods rob the body of essential nutrients and can pave the way for arthritis. Anti-inflammatory medications may appear helpful initially but in the long term, they are destructive.

Another thing to avoid, for those with arthritis, is the prolonged immobility of a lengthy car or plane ride. To prevent the increased knee, ankle, or foot pain that can result from such a ride, travelers should try to exercise periodically during the trip, if this is at all possible.


Add lower-PH vegetables and nuts as well: Although they are lower pH than the others, their rich nutrient content, combined with high fiber can increase the richness and variety of the diet, without relying on animal products, which are essentially the most dangerous to our overall health. Brazil nuts, filberts, macadamias, pecans, and walnuts, black beans, adzuki beans, chickpeas, kidney beans, lentils, mung beans, navy beans, red beans, white beans, and pinto beans. Studies are now showing that fruits and vegetables rich in potassium can help prevent bone turnover, which contributes to osteoporosis . In addition, a recent study shows that high intake of fruits and vegetable correlates with lower incidence of head and neck cancers. The vegetables that were the most effective included the following: dried beans, string beans and peas, then apples, peach, nectarines, plums, pears and strawberries, peppers, tomatoes, and carrots.

Supplements:

DL phenylalanine (DLPA) -500mg 3-4 x per day to reduce awareness of pain—(has been used in dental work and lower back pain)

B Vitamins—(helps with pain associated with neural problems, including headaches, arthritis, and dental work)

Vitamin C-(taken to bowel tolerance, Vitamin C can reduce gum pain)

MSM-500 mg x 2 (Can help with muscle soreness and arthritis)

Glucosamine sulfate-1,000 mg (Helps healing of joint tissue, particularly in conjunction with Chondroitin [1,000 mg])

Calcium-500 mg (Helps reduce arthritic and menstrual pain, and important prevention tool for bone loss.

Magnesium-500 mg (Used as a muscle relaxant for migraines)

EFA’s-1,000 mg (Help reduce inflammation)



Various pain conditions:

menstrual pain and cramps

cramps: One herbalist recommends a tincture containing equal parts anjelica sinensis, viburnum opulus, and corydalis. American Wild yam and a small portion of viburnum are also added.

Cinnamon, wild ginger and cassia are can also effective against cramps. As a tincture, 15-30 drops can be taken every half hour. They may also be made into tea.

Premenstrual syndrome: Dong quai and dandelion root can help PMS, as can the Chinese herbs bupleurum, cypems and melia. These latter three herbs are said to help with pain in the breast. Salvia is another Chinese herb which can help with chi at this time in the cycle.

Headaches:

Valerian and Skullcap can be taken in a tincture form, 15 to 30 drops, or several capsules of each. Valerian however, should be taken under a doctor’s care, as it can cause overheating and heart palpitations. Skullcap alone is safer, and has even been used for the tremors in Parkinson’s disease.

White willow bark is the origin of the compound aspirin, but is safer because concentrations are lower than in aspirin.

Wild ginger can be used as well for head pain, but also has a warming effect. Take only small amounts, particularly on hot days, or after workouts, until you know its particular effect on you. Rosemary, in either almond or olive oil can help relieve tension headaches.

Feverfew can be used to stop the onset of true migraines, and the Chinese herbs tian mao gou teng yin and tian ma mi huan can lower blood pressure and reduce muscle spasm.

Stomach pain:

Mint can be helpful for stomach pain, and is sometimes taken with slippery elm and licorice root. Corydalis, which we mentioned earlier for cramps, can also be taken for stomach pain. Chamomile can help relax the digestive tract. Wood betony helps relieve the pain of gas, and can also ease diarrhea and gout.


Urinary Tract infections:

Urinary tract infections can be especially painful, especially when urinating, so people have been known to stop drinking fluids when suffering urinary tract infections. This is a mistake. As we learned earlier, a poorly hydrated body can lead to more optimal conditions for a bacterial infection, and this is especially true for the urinary tract. Taking cranberry for UTI’s is not just an old wives tale, but can help make the bladder inhospitable to bacteria . Cranberry extracts in supplement form are now available, as are cranberry juices without sugar. These are preferable to the supermarket variety, as they contain high amounts of corn syrup, which can increase bacteria and yeast in the body. (In addition, eating unsweetened cranberries can help prevent dental cavities.)

Controlling pain in UTI’s is treated with herbs that contain berberine. Oregon grape root has a high content of this compound, and goldenseal contains it to a lesser extent.

Barberry bark is another herb used for treating urinary tract pain, as is the Chinese herbal, Coptis. Coptis is very strong, so is often mediated by the use of Marshmallow.

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Repetitive trauma disorders, of which carpal tunnel syndrome is one, constitute the most frequent type of work-related illness in the U.S. today.
Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) stems from pressure to the middle nerve in the channel in the wrist that houses nerves and tendons. It can occur after many years of work involving repetitive use of the hands, as on a computer keyboard, or it can occur more suddenly, after a blow or swelling. CTS can also be brought on by rheumatoid arthritis, and sometimes the fluid retention of pregnancy is a contributory factor.
The syndrome is characterized by pain in the wrist and hand, especially when the thumb is bent toward the palm. Sensations include a burning, tingling, or aching that may spread to the forearm and shoulder. Pain may be persistent or intermittent, and is frequently experienced at night. When the condition is severe, the muscles of the hand stop functioning, and may waste away.

Treatment

Orthodox medical treatment for CTS includes wrist splints and surgery. But there are other approaches that can be tried. One is pressure point therapy, a self-administered treatment that has the advantages of being safe and easy to learn. Surprisingly, most of the pressure points for treating carpal tunnel syndrome are not in the hand or wrist itself, but by the elbow.

Try this: Place the index finger two inches below the crease of the elbow. Press this spot for 10 to15 seconds. If carpal tunnel syndrome is present, this spot will feel quite tender at first, but relaxed at the end of the treatment.

In mild or moderate cases Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) could be a solution. During the procedure an acupuncturist points a red beam laser light pen to the acupuncture points of the forearm and the shoulder area of the patient. That might reduce inflammation, and provoke healing of the painful area.

Reconstructive therapy is another approach that syndrome patients have had success with. Performed by osteopathic physicians, who specialize in musculoskeletal disorders, this therapy involves injection of saline solution into muscle/ ligament groups, to stimulate the formation of new blood vessels. With new blood vessel formation in the ligaments, a variety of nutrients, vitamins, and growth factors that enhance tissue repair and growth can be delivered.

Studies indicate, that the swelling of the synovium, the connective tissue membrane necessary for the movements of the wrist, is associated with B6 deficiency. B6 acts as a diuretic, helps the body to get rid of unnecessary fluid. Supplementation of 50-200 mg vitamin B6 could ease symptoms with the support of other nutrients, like 1 capsule of Gamma E Tocopherol (a fat soluble form of Vitamin E) that helps expel peroxynitrate, a toxic chemical inflammation product. Other antioxidants, like 2000 mg of vitamin C and 10,000 -25,000 IU vitamin A can balance out the free radical damage. Four hundred IU of vitamin D and 200 mcg of selenium can enhance the healing effect.

Essential fatty acids are also important to lower the possibility of blood clot-forming, that encourages swelling of tissues. Docosahexaenoic (DHA), gamma-linoleic acid (GLA), alpha-linoleic acid, (ALA), or the omega-3 fatty acid EPA are powerful anti-inflammatories and should be part of the diet of CTS patients. Curcumin from turmeric reduces inflammation as well as boswella and ginger. The following protein-digesting enzymes have the same effect: protease, bromelain, trypsin, lipase, pancreatin, and papain. These enzymes could be supplemented from 2 Super Digestive Enzymes capsule before each meal, and bromelain or papain powder1/8-1/4 tsp before eating. Five hundred mg of elemental magnesium is important for arterial health. Phosphatidylserine (PS) enhances neurotransmitter function; the suggested dose is 100 mg daily. To decrease pain, try 1500-3000 mg of D, L-phenilalanine - this endorphin-level booster could be helpful. Another way to increase endorphins and serotonin levels in order to achieve better pain tolerance is to use cranial electrical stimulation (CES). One of the devices of CES is Liss Body Stimulator, a home based Walkman size machine that also helps to electroporate the anti-inflammatory nutrients to the swollen area.

Prevention

The best way to combat carpal tunnel syndrome and other repetitive strain in juries is not to get them in the first place. Susan Fulton is a New York City journalist who sustained computer-related injuries and went on to develop prevention training. She delineates four physical factors in the workplace that can contribute to the development of CTS: repetitive activity, awkward positions, static posture, and excessive force. First, take breaks from repetitive work, and vary your tasks. For instance, phone calls can be an opportunity to move away from the computer. Or try computer “take-a-break” software programs.

Rearrange your work area and furniture with an eye to minimizing sharp angles in your joints that will pinch and irritate internal tissue. Ask yourself these questions about your desk posture: Are my hands angled up from my wrists when I type? If so, try raising yourself or lowering the key surface. Am I bunching my shoulders down because the table’s too low? Make appropriate adjustments. Am I pinching the phone handset between ear and shoulder? Use a headset. Am I pushing my head forward to see the monitor? Move it closer and lower it. Am I reaching for a phone that’s too far away, stressing my shoulder? Move the phone closer.

A good idea to keep in mind during the workday is to stretch and move around as much as possible. Fulton notes that sitting in one position actually takes work in that your muscles have to hold you in place. They get tight and less supple in the process.

Using less force in your work is a concept that might not come to mind if you’re an office worker. But try holding the pencil less tightly At the computer, don’t squeeze the mouse and pound the keys.

Treatment Summary

Pressure point therapy that can be self-administered, can alleviate carpal tunnel symptoms. Reconstructive therapy, administered by osteopathic physicians, stimulates new blood vessel growth, so that healing nutrients can reach the area.

Prevention of repetitive strain injuries starts with understanding the ergonomic risk factors: repetitive activity, awkward positions, static posture, and excessive force.

To protect yourself from CTS and related problems, rearrange your workspace, vary tasks and take breaks, stretch and move when possible, and monitor your work habits for excess muscle tension.

Chronic Pain

Constant or long-term pain is a widespread problem. If we listen to the mass media, the painkillers manufactured by large pharmaceutical companies are the way we should seek relief. But there are alternatives to these products, and the Americans who suffer from chronic pain would do well to stop obeying the commands of their television sets. Although running to the medicine chest and swallowing a few over-the-counter or prescription pills may provide immediate comfort by eliminating the perception of pain by the brain, underlying causes are not addressed, and overall health has not been improved in any way. By contrast, a wide variety of natural treatment modalities exist that can aid the body in coping with chronic pain at a more fundamental level.

Causes

Pain is a signal that something is wrong with the body. It may be triggered by a myriad of factors, ranging from diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis and cancer, to injuries from exercise or accidents, to food allergies, which can, for example, provoke migraines. While the causes of pain are many the mechanisms used by the body to produce pain are similar. When the body experiences pain, a nerve impulse travels from the injured site up through the spinal cord, and to the brain. At this point the brain reacts by registering the pain in our consciousness.

When the body experiences pain, inflammation usually results. Inflammation is characterized by swelling, redness, heat, and pain, and if left untreated, partial or complete loss of function of the affected area. During inflammation, protease, an enzyme that aids in the assimilation of protein, is liberated in the injured region, initiating a chain reaction that compounds the problem. Small particles of protein, known as bradykinins, are also released and interact with the nerve receptors, resulting in the perception of pain. In addition, the bradykinins summon the immune cells to the region and widen the blood vessels.

Cold and Canker Sores

Cold sores, also known as fever blisters, are caused by the herpes simplex virus (HSV1). The virus lodges in the nervous system, and occasionally manifests in short-lived, but painful, fluid-filled blisters on the skin and mucous membranes, particularly around the mouth and nose. It is important to know that the lesions of the herpes outbreak are highly contagious; therefore, good hygiene is crucial in avoiding herpetic whitlow, infection of the fingers, or ocular herpes (the eye infection that can become severe, or even lead to blindness). In some people, primary herpetic gingivostomatitis could develop when the patient’s mouth and throat are covered with painful ulcers. Canker sores are similar, though they are not contagious; they can be brought on by the herpes virus as well as by allergies, anemia, or poor intestinal flora. Some women experience canker sores with hormonal changes.

Cold and canker sores reflect a weakened immune system. When exhaustion or stress set in, the virus expresses itself. This is one more reason why it is important to keep the immune system functioning optimally at all times.

Treatment

While there is no cure for the herpes virus, it could be kept under control; ice is an external treatment that can relive swelling and pain during an outbreak, and a lot could be done internally, with supplements and herbs.

Supplements

Beneficial bacteria, such as those found in yogurt or lactobacillus and acidophilus, promote digestive processes necessary for the maintenance of a healthy immune system. Zinc gluconate, vitamin C, bee propolis, and beta-carotene provide further immune support. Between 4,000 and 10,000 mg of vitamin C will treat an inflammation of the nerve endings, and works especially well with the bioflavonoid quercetin. The amino acid L-lysine can effectively quell an outbreak. At least 500 mg are needed, two to four times a day. To include brewer’s yeast in the diet could be beneficial. B vitamins counteract biochemical stress and therefore are good as preventive medicine. One good source of B vitamins is bee pollen, unless there is an allergy to bee stings. Other good sources are green algae and the bioflavonoid pycnogenol. And taking pycnogenol daily (60 mg) has the side benefit of keeping the skin healthy and young. Vitamin A is healing to the skin as well, and preventive against infections. Another important nutrient is coenzyme Q 10, which provides oxygen to the tissues, helping them to heal. DMSO (dymethyl sulfoxide) topically applied twice a day penetrates to the center of the herpes infection and stops the growth of the virus. Note: Cold sores may indicate a calcium deficiency.

Herbs

There is an abundance of herbs that support the immune system before or during an outbreak. Echinacea, goldenseal, and chaparral are especially effective at stopping symptoms from worsening when they first begin to manifest. Cayenne has lots of immune-enhancing vitamin C, and relieves pain and itching when taken internally or applied externally in a cream. Another effective topical application is tea tree oil, which has natural antiseptic qualities; it could also reduce the severity of and shorten the outbreak.

Cornstarch paste is another option. Topically applying camphor—or the extract of the mint family herb Melissa officinalis—with a cotton ball could reduce the symptoms. Clinical research confirms that aloe vera is as effective as orthodox medicine in combating herpes in tissue cultures, with no side effects. Red clover blossoms and burdock root cleanse the blood and are good to take as a tea. The tea is made from sage and when combined with one teaspoon of powdered ginger could clear up the sores. Garlic is gentle to the system and can be taken daily as a preventive or during attack. Chewing on licorice root can also be of benefit.

Health food stores sell many of these herbs in salves, which quickly soothe skin inflammations. Some combinations to look for contain goldenseal, comfrey, bee propolis, aloe vera, and vitamin E.


Elagen is a formula that contains the active ingredient of an Asian plant related to ginseng (called eleutherococcus senticosus) can support the immune system. The extract from lomatium, traditionally used by Native Americans is antiviral and a potent infection fighter. The combination of the tinctures of echinacea, calendula, oats, burdock and lomatium (half a teaspoon taken four or five times daily) enhances the immune system and helps expel toxins; it is aniviral and antibacterial. Rubbing an ice cube on the sore could ease the pain; it may also prevent the virus from moving from the nerve to the skin. Sucking on zinc lozenges and using a mouthwash with sage and chamomile may help ease the symptoms of canker sores.


Homeopathy

Homeopathy offers a couple of choices to lessen the symptoms of a herpes outbreak. Natrum muriaticum (Nat mur) is suggested during the early stages of herpes. Before the fluid-containing sores appear, the mouth and the lips are dry, are dry and chapped…Nat mur is recommended in cases where the patient is emotionally upset.

For the burning and itching phase of herpes, when vesicles have appeared, rhus toxicodendron (poison ivy) is recommended. It also can help with the crusting of the tissue, the other characteristic of the outbreak. Sepia (cuttlefish ink) offers relief when eruptions occur around the lips, the corners of the mouth or around the on the nose; it can also provide relief for the patient who is exhausted and depressed.

People who have thick, brown crust with reddish borders, which may bleed, could use dulcamara (bittersweet). These people might find that the symptoms appear parallel to weather changes—from warm to cold damp—or due to hormonal changes.

The herpes vesicles can become infected; we could avert the need for antibiotics by taking hepar sulphuris (calcium sulphide), which may control the infection.

What to Avoid

Cold and canker sores usually surface when stress appears. While this cannot always be avoided, it is important to note what situations create stress and to address those issues. Stress can also be minimized through relaxation techniques, such as meditation, or biofeedback. Foods that stress the system should be avoided in general, and especially during an outbreak. Sugar or caffeine should not be used. Also, acidic foods, such as meat, tomatoes, and oranges, can be problematic. Chocolate, peanuts and other nuts, grains, peas, seeds, oatmeal and whole—wheat products contain the amino acid arginine, which can trigger a herpes outbreak. Canker sores may be decreased by avoiding the usage of toothpastes with SLS (sodium laurylsulfate).

Treatment Summary

External application of ice is helpful. Various nutrients and plant remedies will boost the immune system to aid healing, relieve inflammation and pain, and even prevent cold and canker sores from appearing in the first place.


Arthritis

Forty-six million Americans experience the painful, crippling effects of arthritic diseases. Of that number, about 18 million have osteoarthritis and 7 million are afflicted with rheumatoid arthritis. Many others suffer from less common forms of the condition.

Osteoarthritis, the most common form of the disease, is the form that usually plagues older people or develops after either overuse of the joints or an accident. This is an inflammatory condition affecting any of the 68 joints in the body. It occurs as the spongy cushioning at the end of the bones, known as cartilage, breaks down. Cartilage is encapsulated in a structure called the synovium. The synovium’s function is to lubricate the area between the bones and to nourish cartilage. As cartilage wears away, it ceases to act as a shock absorber. Bones touch one another, resulting in stiffness, swelling and painful friction.

Rheumatoid arthritis is more of a systemic disease than osteoarthritis. It is also characterized by painful, swollen joints, but differs from osteoarthritis in that the synovial membrane becomes inflamed and extra fluid leaks into the joints. The result is pain and swelling. Sometimes the whole body—not just the joints—is affected; early signs can include fatigue, weakness, mild fever and anemia. Women between 20 and 50 are this condition’s prime targets, although 25 percent of those affected are men. At times, onset is sudden and symptoms are severe; on other occasions, no symptoms manifest. At its worst, rheumatoid arthritis can be crippling.

Less common forms of arthritis include gouty arthritis, which occurs when excess uric acid crystallizes and settles into the joints and tissues. The condition affects mainly men who experience pain and inflammation in the joints, accompanied by fever and chills. The disease can become crippling, and, if untreated, can lead to joint breakdown. Psoriatic arthritis is a form of rheumatoid arthritis that affects the bones, often occurring in the joints of the fingers or toes. Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis generally attacks the large joints of children, and may result in bone deformity. Ankylosing spondylitis is an inflammation of the vertebrae that causes back pain and stiffness, especially in young males.

Causes

ALLERGIES

Arthritis is usually an allergic reaction to foods and substances in the environment. Generally, the foods people eat all the time are the ones to which they are allergic. Many people, for example, eat milk, beef, corn or wheat just about every day. And many react to materials breathed in, such as dust, mold or pollen.

Since exposure is continual and invisible, and the effects are not always immediate, most people do not make the connection and thus do not know how to eliminate problem-causing substances.
Why do allergies in some people affect the joints while in others they affect the lungs, the stomach or the skin? The reason has to do with genetic predisposition. Different people have different areas of weakness. So when the body becomes weak from an allergy infection, yeast or some other cause, the most vulnerable area is the one that suffers. Sometimes more than one system becomes affected at once. For example, after drinking milk, a person may experience both arthritis and asthma.

Allergy Testing for Problem Foods

Since allergic responses to foods are a major cause of arthritis, skin and blood allergy tests, administered by a complementary physician, can be of value in that they reveal problem foods and chemicals. The foods to which people are highly sensitive must be completely eliminated, at least for a while. Later, some of these foods can be returned to the diet. Foods that cause less of a reaction can be eaten infrequently on a rotation diet, in which the same food is not eaten more than once every four to seven days. So, for example, if wheat is eaten on Monday, it is not eaten again until Friday, at the earliest.

Sometimes, people are allergic to every food they eat. In these instances they are given low-dose allergy vaccines. Unlike typical allergy shots, where patients are uniformly given similar doses of a substance, these vaccines are prepared for the individual’s unique requirements. Small doses of antigens are given to stimulate enzyme systems. Enzymes are particularly important as they help break down circulating immune complexes that lead to disease. With insufficient enzymes, these circulating immune complexes build up, enter the synovial membrane of a joint, and establish themselves there. The result is swelling, pain and arthritis. When enzymes are active, food is metabolized and the body does not react to it as if it is a foreign substance. Then there is no inflammation and no disease.

•Detoxification...Cleansing the body and the external environment are necessary to overcome arthritis. These are some methods to consider:

•Chelation Therapy…Chelation, a treatment that gets rid of toxic heavy metals and plaque, is an adjunctive therapy that, by improving overall circulatory functioning, and lessening free radical damage, can lessen arthritic symptoms. This therapy is particularly good for alleviating the crippling effects of rheumatoid arthritis. Scientists hypothesize that the chelation drug EDTA has similar chemical properties to penicillamine, a drug rheumatologists use to treat the disease.

•Colon Therapy…Many arthritic patients have constipation from an accumulation of toxins in the body. As a result, they have inflammation and suffer autotoxic reactions, in which the body reacts to the poisons. This can exacerbate any disease, including arthritis.

•Colonic irrigation opens the digestive tract and thoroughly removes accumulated wastes, getting rid of harmful bacteria. A series of treatments leaves a person feeling lighter, cleaner and more alive. When colon therapy is combined with an improved diet and supplementation, proper balance is restored. As a result, mobility increases and arthritis may even disappear.

•Chiropractic…Chiropractic care is a gentle, safe and noninvasive way to offer patients relief from osteoarthritis. During treatment, spinal adjustments are given to release nerve pressure. This allows nerve energy to flow properly. Circulation increases to the joints, enabling them to function better and to heal.

People not helped by this method are those in the advanced stages of the disease, where joints are fused together, causing nerve passageways to be blocked.

Chiropractic treatments increase range of motion, alleviate pain and lengthen the spine, allowing the person to stand straighter and appear taller. Also, by encouraging proper posture, chiropractic treatments minimize pressure on the joints.

•Homeopathic Remedies…Homeopathic remedies for arthritis, like those for other ailments, are keyed to very specific conditions.

•Rhus Toxicodendron...Used for pain that worsens at night and in the morning, upon awakening. Pain is worse in cold, damp weather and before a storm. The person feels better with heat and motion.

•Rhododendron...For joint pains that feel worse in the morning, before a storm or weather change and in heavy winds. Symptoms are alleviated with heat and motion.

•Calcarea Carbonica...For pain that is worse in cold, damp weather, when there is exertion and motion and when the limb is hanging downward.

•Aconitum Napellus...For pain and inflammation, especially when the skin is hot and dry.

•Reconstructive Therapy...To stimulate the healing of ligaments, tendons and cartilage, reconstructive therapy is sometimes used. Treatment involves low doses of nutritional substances that are injected into the ligaments. The substances vary according to the area being treated, but may include vitamin C, glutathione, shark cartilage and glucosamine sulfate. As a result, ligaments become stronger, enabling them to support the vertebrae and joints with greater ease.

By correcting the root of the problem, symptoms naturally fade. Reconstructive therapy strengthens the structural foundation of the body and pain dramatically disappears.

IntraArticular Growth Hormone (IAGH)… Orthopedic surgeon Dr. Allen Dunn has developed a new method to deal with joints that threaten to deteriorate completely. In order to stimulate the growth of the cartilage, human growth hormone is injected directly into the affected joint spaces of the arthritic patient, which increases the production of collagen. The IntraArticular Growth Hormone procedure has proven effective on hips, knees, ankles, shoulders and elbows.

ENVIRONMENTAL TOXICITY
The body can weaken from continual exposures to poisonous substances in the environment, such as pesticides, artificial colorings and preservatives in foods, and chlorine and fluoride in water. These substances enter the bloodstream and cause autotoxemia, which leads to arthritic changes. An invisible enemy is electromagnetic radiation, which can trigger an arthritic reaction.

CHRONIC INFECTIONS

A proliferation of pathogenic bacteria, viruses, yeast or fungi can be a cofactor contributing to arthritis. Fats and carbohydrates ferment and create an environment that invites Candida albicans, unhealthy bacteria and parasite growth. Some of the bacteria produce toxins that attack joints. The result is acute inflammation, or a slow destruction of joint cartilage. Chronic infections are also the result of heavy metal poisoning, from lead, cadmium and the mercury that leaches out of dental amalgams.

Symptoms
Symptoms of osteoarthritis increase as the disease progresses. In the beginning, there are no indications. The first sign to appear is usually joint pain, and it is commonly associated with exercising or the carrying of weighty items. Other signs may include inflexibility when getting out of bed in the morning and when the weather is cold and damp. As the disease advances, swelling and inflammation of the joints may occur. If muscles are underused from a lack of exercise, there may be fatigue, loss of motion and leg cramps.

The signs of rheumatoid arthritis also worsen gradually. At first there are vague feelings of ill health. Later, symptoms specific to the disease appear, such as joint pain, stiffness, swelling and redness. Joints may become warm to the touch, and stiffness may follow periods of inactivity. Weakness and deterioration can eventually spread to the heart and lungs.

Other nutrients for arthritis:

Glucosamine sulfate (in LEF product Arthromax)
[as d glucosamine Sulfate 2KCL] 1000 mg
[N-acetyl-Dm glucosamine] 1000 mg

AKBA (in LEF product Arthromax)
[Acetyl 11-keto-beta boswellic acid] 75 mg

Natural citrus and palm fruit extract (in LEF product Arthromax)
[nobiletin and tangeretin] 300 mg
Omega 3’s
Wild Fish Oil Concentrate (LEF product Super Omega-3 EPA/DHA with Sesame Lignans & Olive Fruit Extract)
EPA 700 mg
DHA 500 mg
Olive Fruit Extract 300 mg
Sesame seed lignan extract 10 mg

Chondroitin sulfate 500 mg
Silica 50 mg
Manganese 25 mg
L Cysteine 500 mg
L-Glutamic Acid 200mg
L Taurine 200mg
Boron 5mg
B-Complex 100mg
Vitamin E 400 IU
Calcium citrate 1200 mg
Magnesium citrate 1200 mg
CoQ10 200 mg
DMG 150 mg
TMG 150 mg
SOD 500 mg
Beta Carotene, 50,000 IU
Folic Acid 1000 mcg
DPLA 250 mg
Zinc 50 mg
Digestive enzymes as directed
MGN 3 1500 mg
Evening Primrose oil 2000 mg
Vitamin C 5-20,000Mg/day
MSM 3,000 mg per day
GLA 920 mg per day
DHA 1000 mg/day

General pain:
Cat’s claw The phytonutrients and other components of Cat’s claw can reduce inflammatory conditions, improve circulatory issues. It has been shown to be particularly helpful in inflammatory conditions of the gut.

Dong quai can be taken to ease muscle pain after workouts. Taken with either mint or ginger, the combination can have either a pleasant cooling or warming sensation after a round of exercise. We mentioned rosemary earlier, in conjunction with headaches, but it can also be used after workouts as a massage aid, as we mentioned earlier, contained in either olive or almond oil.

Curcumin, the compound found in yellow curries, is a pain reducer, and can be taken in supplement form up to 1200 mg per day. It also stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain killers.

Blue vervain is also a pain relieving herb.

Benefits of exercise:

Moderate exercise has a number of pain reducing benefits in addition to the more obvious benefits of 1)weight reduction thereby reducing stress on joints, and 2)increased bowel function, thereby helping clear the gut of toxic materials which may be creating constipation and inflammatory bowel syndrome.
The additional benefits include release of endorphins, which act like opiates on the body, release of cortisone, which is a natural anti inflammatory agent, a boost in self esteem, and regulation of the sleep wake cycle. (Better sleep and higher self esteem are known to enhance a sense of well being.)

Specific exercises for conditions:
Sciatica –lie on back and slowly pull knee toward chest, lie on side in fetal position

Neck pain-gentle rotation of head, hold head in place in each position on the points of the compass

Arthritis—Stretching, exercise, chiropractic adjustments, swimming, 30-40 minutes 3-4 times a week

Leg pain—place leg on a chair and bend from waist, bend over while seated in a chair, being mindful of the stretch

Neck pain—place several tennis balls in a sock and place at the base of the neck. Leave the balls in place, and allow the muscles to relax for several minutes.

Muscle spasm-Add ice packs, to comfort, every 10 –15 minutes, and then removed for an hour. Ice reduces pain signals being sent to the brain.

Depression—People who are in chronic pain may also suffer depression. This may be due to a nutritional deficiency or from limitation of physical mobility. Nutritional approaches, including those we mentioned above, may include rebalancing the Omega 3 versus Omega six fatty acids in the body . Omega threes can be found both in animal and plant foods: Fatty fishes are rich in omega threes as are walnuts and shredded flax seeds. Depression may be aided with the help of supplementation, which can include CoQ10, Vitamin E, St. John’s Wort, among others. Please consult your physician before changing your diet or supplementation, as natural antioxidants may thin the blood dangerously especially if you are on blood thinners. In addition, certain antioxidants are known to reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills.

There are many self help techniques which can reduce depression, including talk therapy, relaxation techniques, meditation, and deep breathing. Author Shinzen Young helps sufferers of chronic pain with mindfulness techniques by helping sufferers isolate each impression of the pain experience, thereby creating an additive rather than compounding effect of pain symptoms.


Self Help Techniques:

Acupuncture-Can help treat chronic pain, by helping the flow of chi, or energy throughout the body. It can help improve blood flow and reduce the effects of chronic pain from old injuries.

Biofeedback-Biofeedback helps patients experience either aurally ofr visually the effects of stress on the body. An electronic device may, for example, measure the amount of muscle tension a person is experiencing. The person may see the tension represented in a graph on a computer screen. The patient is then able to use the visual guide to help him reduce his own tension, thereby relieving symptoms of his own pain.

Magnets-special magnetic pads are made for sleeping and can also be applied directly to the pain site. They can help rebalance the energy of the cells. Use these devices as directed. The body is supposed to touch the north side or negative side of the magnet.

Massage-Massage may inhibit pain by increasing blood flow as well as creating more neural connection within the tissue, interfering with the pain signal’s travel to the brain.

Therapeutic touch, although it works similarly, helps a person release emotional cues that may be stored in various areas in the body. Therapeutic touch may bring these sensations to the emotional surface, thereby allowing the experiencer to release the past. It is done in several formats, including having the therapist touch the skin of the prone patient, much as they would in massage, or differently, where the patient is sitting up, and touching his or her own specific emotional release points as guided by a trained practitioner.

Neuromuscular Therapy...Neuromuscular therapy also uses touch to balance the muscular and nervous systems. The therapist improves skeletal alignment, thereby allowing energy to run freely throughout the joints. This is important because when energy is locked in place, blood and other fluids become stuck and pain occurs. Arthritis can be a response to such stressors, according to neuromuscular therapist Sara Vogeler, who explains that postural distortion can cause pressure on the bones, which, in turn, can create stress and compression, causing the formation of bony spurs. A bony spur can aggravate surrounding soft tissue, and cause pain to travel to other parts of the body. Neuromuscular therapy helps to diminish pain by improving postural alignment and teaching correct ways of moving.

•Other Therapies to Consider...A comprehensive program incorporates several modalities for complete healing. In addition to the approaches mentioned above, those suffering from arthritis might consider acupressure, acupuncture, aromatherapy, Ayurvedic medicine, Bach flower remedies, biological dentistry hydrotherapy, light therapy, massage, meditation, oxygen therapy, ozone therapy, physical therapy, qi gong, tai chi and vitamin drips. Combining a number of treatments is the best way to meet the unique needs of each patient.

Delicious recipe for Omega 3’s!
1 tsp garlic, chopped
1 tsp basil, chopped
¼ cup Dijon mustard
2 6-oz wild Salmon filets
1)Mince Garlic and basil. Coat top of salmon with mustard and bake at 325 degrees for 15 minutes.

Watermelon Lemon Juice—for alkalinization
12 11/2 cups fresh extracted watermelon juice
½ lemon juiced
1. Mix both juices and drink—don’t remove seeds from Watermelon or lemons.

FOOTNOTES:

The complete encyclopedia of Natural Healing: a Comprehensive A-Z Listing of common and Chronic illnesses and their proven natural treatments. New York, 2005

Amy Vollmer lecture to NYC Swarthmore alumni society, December 2007

J Nutr. 2008 Jan;138(1):172S-177S. Links
The balance of bone health: tipping the scales in favor of potassium-rich, bicarbonate-rich foods.
Lanham-New SA.
Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Surrey, Guildford GU2 7XH, Surrey, UK. s.lanham-new@surrey.ac.uk

Int J Cancer. 2007 Dec 18 [Epub ahead of print] Links
Fruit and vegetable intake and head and neck cancer risk in a large United States prospective cohort study.
Freedman ND, Park Y, Subar AF, Hollenbeck AR, Leitzmann MF, Schatzkin A, Abnet CC.
Cancer Prevention Fellowship Program, Division of Cancer Prevention, National Cancer Institute, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD.

Wien Med Wochenschr. 2007;157(13-14):325-30. Links
Cranberry juice-- a well-characterized folk-remedy against bacterial urinary tract infection.
Nowack R.
Dialysis-Center Lindau, Lindau, Germany. nowack@dialyse-lindau.de

Br Dent J. 2005 Dec 10;199(11):698. Links
Cranberries fight bacteria.

http://www.kcweb.com/herb/catsclaw.htm

Am J Alzheimers Dis Other Demen. 2005 Jan-Feb;20(1):21-6. Links
Integrated treatment approach improves cognitive function in demented and clinically depressed patients.
Bragin V, Chemodanova M, Dzhafarova N, Bragin I, Czerniawski JL, Aliev G.
Stress Relief and Memory Training Center, Brooklyn, New York, USA.

Gary Null Seven steps to overcoming Arthritis. NY, 2003

Get Healthy Now. NY 2007


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