Osteoarthritis

Hello all, I'm not new to The Mighty but I don't post very often and I'm trying to teach myself to reach out more to people who understand how weird it is to be a zebra in a world full of lions....So here goes.... I've had the typical issues that plague EDS sufferers basically my whole life and like so many of you, I didn't know what was wrong with me until I was 43 yrs old (I'm turning 47 on May 3). I have an extensive list of diagnosis (EDS, fibromyalgia, chronic hives, degenerative disc disease, osteoarthritis, bursitis, bipolar, depression, anxiety, panic disorder, etc). I've been battling to get disability since 2019 and just filed again last week. Fingers crossed cuz I'm so over the whole being destitute thing lol. Anyway, I've learned that my pain level sits at a 7 out of 10 on really good days and a 20 out of 10 on bad days, I've come to terms with the fact that I'm evidently going to be exhausted all day, every day for the rest of my life, and I've accepted the plethora of braces and mobility helpers I have to use. I've also accepted that nobody REALLY understands what I'm going through and that I will forever deal with people who say stupid and hurtful things to me, albeit with good intentions. What I'm currently having the hardest time with is the medications they have me on (I've tried soooooo many). None of them touch my pain or seem to effect my depression or anxiety but I'll tell you what they do accomplish...they are excellent at helping me gain weight!! Coupled with my lack of movement, I have gained 60lbs in the last year!!! I've never been a skinny little thing but I wasn't big like this! The only exercise I can currently tolerate is swimming and I don't have access to that right now! It doesn't help that food is my favorite coping mechanism aside from sleep! I just don't know what to do to stop from gaining! My food intake doesn't appear to have any cadence on how much I'm gaining. I've tried diet pills and they did nothing. It's really starting to get to me. My self esteem is already low due to my incapability to do the things I want to do and used to do but this getting fatter and fatter is sending me into a tail spin! Thankfully I have a FANTASTIC support system in my life, one which I doubt I'd be here without, but I wanted to get some advice from my fellow zebras....is anyone else dealing with this issue also? If so, let me know! Thank you everyone for reading along with my giant rant...I appreciate you all!

Part 1 of 2 Joint replacement surgery is a common solution for severe joint pain. However, due to the risks and recovery time associated with surgery, many patients are interested in natural alternatives. This guide delves into various options that offer pain relief and improved joint health.

Understanding Joint Health and Causes of Deterioration

Joints, comprising cartilage, synovial fluid, ligaments, and tendons, facilitate movement and bear weight. Deterioration can result from osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, injuries, and wear and tear. There are many natural treatments that can prevent or delay the need for joint replacement. This article lists 19 helpful strategies.

Dietary Approaches and Nutritional Supplements for Joint Health

Joint inflammation is common across arthritis types. Adopt an anti-Inflammatory diet rich in fruits, vegetables, fatty fish (salmon, trout, etc.), and olive oil. These foods help reduce inflammation, with extra-virgin olive oil acting similarly to anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen: Avoid inflammatory foods high in omega-6 fatty acids (corn, sunflower, soybean oils), sugary items, and red meat. These can worsen joint inflammation. Some individuals with RA benefit from eliminating gluten-containing grains.
Glucosamine and Chondroitin Essential for cartilage health, glucosamine helps build cartilage, while chondroitin provides elasticity. Studies show they may reduce pain and slow deterioration in osteoarthritis. However, they can interact with blood thinners and affect glucose levels.
Chronic joint pain often involves inflammation. Omega-3 fatty acids, turmeric and ginger have shown anti-inflammatory effects and can complement other treatments. Other helpful supplements include selenium, folic acid, vitamins C, D, B6, B12, E, calcium, magnesium, and zinc.
Weight management: Excess weight puts additional stress on joints. Losing even a small amount can significantly improve pain and function.

Topical creams and gels: These can include those that contain CBD, essential oils or homeopathic ingredients.
Hot and cold therapy: Applying heat packs for muscle tension and cold packs for acute pain can be helpful.

Get Adequate Rest

Prioritize adequate sleep. When entering sleep, the brain signals the release of large amounts of growth hormones. Hormones such as Human Growth Hormone (HGH) and testosterone are responsible for building new proteins to replace damaged ones in muscle, tendon, ligament, and bones. Hormone levels are highest during sleep and, as a result, the majority of repair occurs at night.

Manage stress because chronic stress slows healing and cellular repair and reduces natural levels of anti-inflammatory cortisol.

Helpful therapies include:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Replaces fear-triggering thoughts with calming ones.

Meditation and Relaxation Techniques: Redirects attention from worries and promotes calmness.
Biofeedback: Measures and teaches patients to control physiological responses to stress.
Trauma Resolution Techniques: Resolves past traumas and reduces stress. Includes energy psychology, EMDR and somatic experiencing.

Physical Therapies and Exercises

Physical Therapy (PT):  PT

aims to strengthen muscles, increase flexibility, and alleviate pain. Customized exercises can improve mobility and reduce the need for surgery.
Targeted Exercises and Yoga: Exercise helps lubricate joints. Low-impact exercises like swimming and cycling minimize joint stress. Yoga improves flexibility, strength, and balance, and is beneficial for joint health.

Alternative Therapies

Massage Therapy: Massage can improve circulation, reduce stiffness, and promote relaxation, beneficial for joint pain relief.
Acupuncture: Acupuncture is used for chronic pain, including joint issues, with many patients reporting significant relief
Red/infrared light therapy: Reduces pain and inflammation and promotes tissue repair.
Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF): Uses electromagnetic fields to increase circulation, reduce inflammation and stimulate cellular repair and regeneration, resulting in pain relief and improved functionality.

Regenerative Medicine Techniques

Stem Cell Therapy Involves injecting stem cells directly into the affected joint. It can enhance the natural repair process by providing a fresh supply of stem cells to the damaged area, supporting tissue repair and regeneration. Stem cell therapy for joint conditions is still under extensive investigation. Efficacy, optimal treatment protocols, and long-term outcomes are areas of ongoing investigation. Be sure, if you are pursuing this option, that you are seeking care from highly regarded healthcare professionals.
Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) Therapy: PRP therapy involves injecting concentrated platelets to promote h

Part 2 of 2 ealing. Studies show effectiveness, particularly in osteoarthritis of the knee.

This guide offers options for natural alternatives to joint replacement surgery. Each option has benefits, but individualized treatment plans are crucial. Consult healthcare professionals to determine the most suitable approach.

Hi, my name is Versatility2024. I'm here because I suffer with PTSD, depression, fibromyalgia and osteoarthritis. I can usually navigate and manage all these at once. The last two days have been difficult and I feel like I'm declining. I had a behavioral health appt this past Sat, but it was canceled.

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