Magnetic therapy – mixed levels of success, some people swear by it while others have found that benefits are few and far between. Little evidence of negative effects but those with pacemakers should avoid.
Acupuncture – studies into the benefits of acupuncture have come across many difficulties in accessing the efficacy of the treatment. However, a recent study in patients with osteoarthritis of the knee showed that in addition to the standard treatment (anti inflammatory medications and pain relieving medications) patients showed improved function at 8 weeks and decreased pain at 14 weeks.
(Arthritis Victoria)
Glucosamine –occurs naturally in the body and appears to be involved in the formation and repair of cartilage. There is growing evidence that glucosamine sulphate could prevent changes in joint structure associated with osteoarthritis and also significantly improve symptoms. Some clinical studies of glucosamine indicate that 500mg taken three times daily orally (a total of 1,500mg) may help relieve pain and help preserve cartilage
Glucosamine sulphate is made from lobster shells and so those with shellfish allergies are often sensitive to these supplements. Glucosamine is technically a carbohydrate and while it is not converted into glucose diabetics should be carefully monitored in case of any unexpected interactions. Gastrointestinal upsets, sleepiness, headaches or skin reactions may also occur in some people. Pregnant women should avoid taking glucosamine as not enough research into the long term effects on an unborn child have been completed.
Chondroitin – another dietary supplement used by those suffering from OA. Less research has been done into chondroitin than glucosamine, but like glucosamine it has been shown to be safe (at least short term) and to be a valid option to use in conjunction with other treatments, as it seems to increase mobility and analgesic effects.
People taking blood-thinning medications should consult their doctors as chondroitin may also increase bleeding. It may also cause stomach upsets and may interact with other drugs and supplements.
Things to consider:
- Drug interactions and other factors that may negatively interact with any treatments/patient factors (eg food allergies, pregnancy etc…)
- Complementary therapies may take several weeks before any benefits may be noticed (and so are often best used in conjunction with other treatments)
- While using complimentary therapies patients may find it useful to keep a journal recording treatment, symptoms and activities for a month so that they can access any benefits.
- Many complementary treatments are not as heavily regulated as other treatments and so patients should be particularly weary of products that:
• Claim to “cure” arthritis
• Claim to work for all types of
• Arthritis and / or other disorders
• Claim to be free from all side effects
• Don’t list the ingredients.
No comments:
Post a Comment