Arthritis is one of the most common and crippling degenerative diseases in this country, and until recently, sufferers were dependent on daily doses of powerful drugs to ease their pain and stiffness. These drugs include NSAIDS—such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium. They can cause stomach upset or internal bleeding, and long-term use is not recommended. Other drugs called corticosteroids are synthetic versions of cortisone, and can cause side effects such as weight gain, bone loss, muscle weakness, and skin change, as well as lowered immunity. In especially painful cases, joint replacement surgery allows the surgeon to remove the diseased joint and replace it with a synthetic one.
There are several different types of arthritis. One, osteoarthritis, is caused by a chronic wearing away of cartilage, and is often associated with age. Rheumatoid arthritis, on the other hand, is a chronic inflammatory disease that results in swelling and destruction of both cartilage and bone. Women between the ages of 30 and 50 are most commonly affected. Infections with bacteria, such as that caused by Lyme disease or gonorrhea, can sometimes cause arthritis.
Now, a nutritional supplement promises to reverse and relieve many cases of arthritis without harmful side effects of drugs. Psychology Today asked naturopath Michael Murray, M.D., co-author with Joseph Pizzorno, N.D., of The Encyclopedia of Natural Healing, just how effective this natural cure really is.
PT: What causes the pain of arthritis?
MM: The pain of the most common form, known as osteoarthritis, is caused by destruction of the cartilage in the joint. Cartilage is gel-like and protects the ends of joints, acting as a shock absorber.
PT: How is arthritis usually treated?
MM: The conventional treatment is to prescribe non-steroidal, anti-inflammatory drugs, commonly known as NSAIDS. These drugs help in the short term, but actually accelerate the destruction of joints. Recent studies show these medications inhibit the repair of cartilage and can cause side effects ranging from stomach upset to headaches and dizziness.
PT: Tell us what you know about a natural approach to arthritis?
MM: I recommend glucosamine sulfate. It's a simple molecule that can be made by the body, and it has been known to stimulate key components of cartilage.
PT: Is there any proof that it works?
MM: Yes. This supplement has been the subject of over 300 scientific investigations and over 20 double-blind studies. Studies have shown it produces better long-term results than any NSAID. This supplement significantly relieves the pain and inflammation of osteoarthritis.
PT: But can cartilage actually regenerate?
MM: If there is any cartilage left between the joints, the thickness can be increased. Ultrasound studies have shown this.
PT: How quickly does it work?
MM: Most people experience improvement within the first month.
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