HOMEOPATHY FOR ARTHRITIS

Arthritis is a condition which occurs as a result of the long-term wearing-down of a joint. Patients often describe their discomfort as exhausting and debilitating, and often speak about how their arthritis is stripping them of their independence. Some differences in symptoms exist (depending on which type of arthritis you have), however the most common symptoms include joint stiffness, pain and decreased range of motion. There are various natural alternatives available to help ease the pain and inflammation in those affected by arthritis. With the individualized treatment approach, treatment options range from bio-puncture to supplementation and homeopathic remedies.

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WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS OF ARTHRITIS?

The symptoms of arthritis are largely dependent upon the type of arthritis. There are two main types of arthritis- Osteoarthritis and Rheumatoid arthritis.

	OSTEO- ARTHRITIS	RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS
CAUSE	Gradual wearing-down of the protective cartilage of the joint.	Autoimmune disease of the joints, whereby the individual’s own body attacks the cartilage of the joint.
AGE OF ONSET	common in the elderly (60+)	More common in younger individuals between the ages of 20-40.
COMMON JOINTS AFFECTED	Typically the larger joints- knees, hips, lumbar spine, shoulders.	Can affect either large (elbows,ankles and wrists) or small joints (metacarpophalangeal joints), however smaller joints are more commonly affected.
UNILATERAL OR SYMMETRICAL JOINT INVOLVEMENT	Unilateral joint involvement	Symmetrical joint involvement
SKIN SYMPTOMS	The skin around the joint is typically unaffected, however the joint may feel more “boney” due to the loss of integrity.	Affected joint is red and puffy in colour during a flare-up.
JOINT TEMPERATURE	Unaffected	Warm to the touch
FINGER SHAPE APPEARANCE	Heberden’s nodes present: these are boney swellings which are located on the distal portion of the fingers.	Swan neck and Boutonniere deformity of the fingers.
JOINT SYMPTOMS	Pain and stiffness is often worse after effort with a more characteristic night-time stiffness.	Pain and stiffness with warmth which is often worse in the mornings and relieved by gentle motion.

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NATURAL TREATMENT FOR ARTHRITIS

The treatment approach would be different depending on which type of arthritis needs to be treated. For Rheumatoid arthritis, the biggest goal would be to control the body’s autoimmune reaction and stop the joint destruction.

Ampelopsis weitchii: I absolutely love this gemmo for any joint destruction. It works wonderfully by reducing joint inflammation and promoting regeneration of the cartilage.

Curcuma longa: There are various options available ranging from homeopathic tinctures to Tumeric capsules by different brands. Curcuma longa helps to reduce the body of inflammation and is particularly valuable in those with autoimmune conditions- such as rheumatoid arthritis.

Rhus toxicodendron: a homeopathic remedy wonderful for joint stiffness which is worse for initial movement and better for continuous movement.

Bryonia alba: a homeopathic remedy used in arthritis whereby the knees and right side are affected. There is a lot of stiffness.

Bone building supplements: Phosphorous, vitamin D3, K2 and calcium are all incredibly important for improved oxygenation to bones and for helping to reduce degeneration and improve bone density.

Bio-puncture: Injecting Zeel around affected joints really helps to relieve pain and inflammation and improve cartilage repair and joint circulation.