Getting Relief from Arthritis Pain
WHAT CAUSES ARTHRITIS?
Arthritis occurs when the articulate cartilage, or flexible tissue, that coats the ends of the bones breaks down. There are many causes of cartilage loss, including inflammation, trauma, infections or crystal disease. The most common, though, is degenerative loss of cartilage. This, more commonly known as osteoarthritis (OA or degenerative joint disease), happens when the joint surface is mechanically overloaded, due to repetitive asymmetric motion, or wear and tear.
ARTHRITIS SYMPTOMS
Cartilage exists to allow our joints to move effortlessly without friction. Once the cartilage deteriorates, then pain and swelling develop. Swelling of the joint leads to loss of motion and weakness, which will ultimately lead to a loss of function. Common symptoms include:
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Stiffness in the joint, especially in the morning
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Cracking or crunching types of joint noises
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Stiffness in the joint after sitting or lying down for long periods
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Pain during activity that is improved with rest
ARTHRITIS TREATMENT AND ANKLE JOINT PAIN RELIEF
Research shows that continued movement is extremely beneficial for a patient with arthritis. Unfortunately, though, our natural reaction is to stop moving when we have pain. So, what can you do to maintain function and keep moving, despite the fact that you have joint pain?
Controlling inflammation is a critical component of arthritis treatment. Ways you can control inflammation include:
- Anti-inflammatory medication (as prescribed by your physician)
- Homeopathic creams, such as Arnica or Traumcare
- Ice
- Modalities, such as ultrasound or laser
- Compression
In addition to controlling the inflammation, using the correct muscles during movement or activity, is critical to prevent further wear and tear on the ankle joint surface. Working with a physiotherapist can help you learn how to activate the correct muscles. Utilizing a compression sleeve or wrap on the affected joint is an excellent substitute if you do not have access to a physiotherapist.
Body Helix has a number of beneficial compression wraps and sleeves that work to activate the muscles around the ankle joint. The compression product applies pressure to the skin when you move. This then sends a message to the spinal cord and the brain, which causes the proper muscles to contract. This muscle contraction causes less wear on the cartilage and therefore less inflammation (swelling). Overall, this cycle can slow the degenerative process and keep you moving.
I personally wear Body Helix not only because of the science behind it, but because it feels great. Generally, it makes me feel safe, solid, and more stable when I am active. Don’t just take my word for it, though, see how Body Helix compression sleeves are proven to help arthritis sufferers keep moving:
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