As we age, were more likely to encounter joint stiffness, and the debilitating pain of osteoarthritis (OA for short), which is also known as degenerative joint disease. In fact approximately 80% of all Americans over the age of 50 suffer from OA.  The first symptom of OA may only be early morning stiffness. However, over time OA may progress to the point that joints may swell and become deformed and even stuck in a “frozen position”. The pain of OA can become excruciating and even debilitating.

Recent studies have shown that many of the medications that people take for arthritis have serious side effects. Among the side effects are increased risk of heart attack, stroke, gastric bleeding and liver and kidney damage. Even over the counter medications, which we think of as harmless, pose serious threats. Aspirin, ibuprofen and other common non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs may be the cause of anywhere from 10,000 to 17, 000 deaths a year.

With all the risks associated with medications, what can you do to control the pain of OA?

First step is to consider dietary factors. Many patients in my own practice free themselves from the pain of OA by making dietary changes that decrease foods that they have intolerances for.  For some people, the nightshade vegetables (tomatoes, potatoes, eggplant, peppers) seem to make them more susceptible to the inflammatory effects of OA. For others, reducing common allergens such as wheat and dairy often helps people reduce the overall stiffness and pain of OA.

Eating more enzyme-rich fresh fruits and green vegetables also will aid in supporting your efforts to reduce dietary irritants.  Among the super foods for this task are pineapple, papaya, and kiwi fruit. Moderate intake of foods rich in omega 3 oils such as cold-water fish and nuts also aid the body making anti-inflammatory chemicals.

Excessive weight can also be a factor in aggravating the symptoms of OA in the knees, hips and low back. Mild to moderate low impact exercise can help reduce weight, and also aid in reducing arthritic pain. Exercises to consider are walking, bicycling, gentle stretching, and swimming. Swimming is especially beneficial, because water supports your body and reduces the pressure of weight bearing exercise.

One supplement that can make a difference is glucosamine sulfate, which promotes repair of damaged cartilage in joints that have OA. Trials show glucosamine not only repairs tissues, but also offers significant reduction in pain without significant side effects. Results have been as good as ibuprofen, but don’t fully take effect until you have been taking glucosamine for two or three weeks.

My own experience with many patients is that taking concentrated proteolytic enzymes between meals can reduce the inflammation of arthritis, and offers significant pain relief. European researchers have also confirmed in trial studies that concentrated enzyme formulas offer pain relief similar to common non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs with virtually no side effects.

While there is no cure for OA, many people can find relief naturally from dietary changes, supplements and mild exercise, without the risks of drugs. Incorporating these changes in your life can help you improve other aspects of your health as well as reduce your pain.

2005, © Dr. Patrick Giammarise, DC

Original Publication Date: February 2005 / Paradise Post “The Good Life”