Arthritis and Back Pain
Posted: Fri Feb 03, 2006 7:34 pmARTHRITIS AND BACK PAIN: Pain in the musculoskeletal system can arise due to overstrain (overloading) and/or repetitive movements (repetitive strain). This is because often we do not use our bodies correctly or abuse them. Learning the right way to work and move and can be valuable. Regular exercise strictly within our limits can also help improve circulation and strengthen tissues such as tendons, muscles and bone. Gentle stretching exercises such as Yoga, Plilates and Alexander techinque can help us rediscover the proper way to move and respect our bodies.
In some cases arthritic processes can set in with joints becoming painful, stiff, swollen, and deformed. There are over 200 different types of arthritis and some are classed as Rheumatoid where the body's immune system has become deranged and started to attack itself, so called auto immune disease, giving rise to rheumatoid factor in the blood. Often paired joints are affected, knees, elbows, wrists etc. Often in osteo arthritis (wear and tear type) one or unpaired joints are affected at a time. Osteo arthritis may flare up and die down, in some cases 'burn out'. Most forms of arthritis flare up and down, result in some joint deformity, create feelings of lethargy and weakness. Further complications may include sciatica, eye problems, psoriasis etc.
DIET: Tackle any food sensitivities, ensure sufficient fluid intake (avoid dehydrating caffeine containing drinks), ensure good bowel function.
OTHER AREAS: Check circulation function.
SUPPORT: Contact other organisations e.g. http://www.arthritiscare.org.uk
Always consult your GP or practitioner for diagnosis regarding any changes you may have noticed in this area and before considering changing your diet/lifestyle.
In some cases arthritic processes can set in with joints becoming painful, stiff, swollen, and deformed. There are over 200 different types of arthritis and some are classed as Rheumatoid where the body's immune system has become deranged and started to attack itself, so called auto immune disease, giving rise to rheumatoid factor in the blood. Often paired joints are affected, knees, elbows, wrists etc. Often in osteo arthritis (wear and tear type) one or unpaired joints are affected at a time. Osteo arthritis may flare up and die down, in some cases 'burn out'. Most forms of arthritis flare up and down, result in some joint deformity, create feelings of lethargy and weakness. Further complications may include sciatica, eye problems, psoriasis etc.
DIET: Tackle any food sensitivities, ensure sufficient fluid intake (avoid dehydrating caffeine containing drinks), ensure good bowel function.
OTHER AREAS: Check circulation function.
SUPPORT: Contact other organisations e.g. http://www.arthritiscare.org.uk
Always consult your GP or practitioner for diagnosis regarding any changes you may have noticed in this area and before considering changing your diet/lifestyle.