More people than ever are experiencing the pain and inflammation of Arthritis. No longer is it found only in an older population, but in people of all ages. Arthritis is actually an umbrella term for many conditions that can affect your musculoskeletal system (joints, bones, cartilage).

What causes Arthritis?

Most of the time Arthritis is caused by a combination of factors and is more likely to develop if you are at increased risk through:

• Genetics - the way your body is made
• Lifestyle (smoking, stress, etc.)
• Medical history
• A physically demanding job, particularly if it’s repetitive
• Previous injury
• Infections
• Allergic reaction

Symptoms seem to worsen in some people when they eat certain foods, such as members of the ‘nightshade’ family, which includes potatoes (not sweet potatoes), tomatoes, eggplant, and capsicum.

Arthritis as you age 

With time, your joints may begin to ache; yet you want to keep moving—pain free—and enjoy the things you love to do, with ease:

• Play with your grandchildren; get down to their level (on the floor!)
• Garden
• Ride a bicycle
• Play Tennis or Golf
• Carry your shopping

You may be retired, wanting to play sports and stay flexible now that you’re not stuck to the office chair. You want to maintain your energy and heart health through exercise, but are conscious of the ‘wear and tear’ on your cartilage. Staying pain free and with ample mobility is paramount!

An active ageing population needs relief from Arthritis

Activity is strongly recommended as part of a healthy lifestyle these days. You are aware of the endless benefits of staying physically fit. However, with the variety of exercise options available, there’s no doubt that injuries may occur. Trauma, even just overuse of certain joints, can lead to pain and inflammation, resulting in millions of people searching for Arthritis relief.

Approaching Arthritis naturally

There is no “magic bullet”, but there are natural ways you can help relieve Arthritis. It is important to protect your joints and cartilage from further damage, as ageing decreases your body’s ability to do so. Inflammation must also be addressed for pain relief. Any time you experience pain, understand there is also inflammation. Over time inflammation can lead to a myriad of chronic health concerns.

Natural treatment should be long-term for effective Arthritis relief

• Glucosamine is a major building block of the structural formation of cartilage, important for elasticity and shock-absorbing properties. Glucosamine sulfate has been shown to reduce cartilage wear, increase joint mobility and decrease stiffness.
• Chondroitin is also a natural part of cartilage. It helps with joint lubrication and to resist compression.
• Green lipped mussel is anti-inflammatory; it’s made up of complex fatty acids, which help explain its potent action.
• Fish oil is a great source of omega 3 fatty acids that are mostly known for their anti-inflammatory properties. When taken in appropriate dosages, fish oil can provide relief from Arthritis.