Rheumatoid Arthritis: Causes & Treatment Options

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disorder that affects the joints and other parts of the body. It is a progressive disease that can cause severe pain, inflammation, and deformity if left untreated. The condition is characterized by the immune system attacking the lining of the joints, causing swelling and stiffness that can lead to joint damage and loss of function.

As someone who has been diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis, I know firsthand how challenging it can be to manage the symptoms and maintain a good quality of life. However, with proper treatment and self-care, it is possible to live a fulfilling life with this condition. In this article, I will share my knowledge and experience with rheumatoid arthritis, as well as provide information on the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment options available for this condition.

Understanding Rheumatoid Arthritis

Definition and Overview

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the joints, causing inflammation and pain. This disease occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues, particularly the synovium, which is the lining of the joints. RA can affect any joint in the body, but it most commonly affects the hands, feet, and wrists. RA can also affect other organs, such as the heart, lungs, and eyes.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of RA is unknown, but it is believed to be a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Researchers have identified several risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing RA, including age, gender, smoking, and obesity. Women are more likely than men to develop RA, and the risk increases with age. Smoking and obesity are also risk factors for RA, as they can trigger inflammation in the body.

Genetics and Environmental Factors

Genetics play a significant role in the development of RA. People with a family history of RA are more likely to develop the disease. Researchers have identified several genes that are associated with an increased risk of RA. However, having these genes does not necessarily mean that a person will develop RA, as environmental factors also play a role in the development of the disease. Environmental factors that can trigger RA include infections, stress, and exposure to certain chemicals.

Inflammation is a key feature of RA, as it causes pain, swelling, and stiffness in the joints. The immune system’s response to inflammation can also damage other organs, such as the heart and lungs. The immune system plays a critical role in the development of RA, as it mistakenly attacks the body’s own tissues. While the exact cause of RA is unknown, researchers continue to study the disease to better understand its underlying mechanisms and develop more effective treatments.

Symptoms and Diagnosis – Rheumatoid Arthritis

As someone who has studied rheumatoid arthritis, I can confidently say that understanding the symptoms and diagnosis of this condition is essential for early detection and effective treatment.

Common Symptoms

The most common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include joint pain, swelling, and stiffness. These symptoms are often worse in the morning or after periods of inactivity. Additionally, fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite are also common symptoms of the condition. As the disease progresses, symptoms can spread to other joints, including the wrists, knees, and ankles.

Diagnostic Criteria

To diagnose rheumatoid arthritis, doctors use a combination of physical exams, blood tests, and imaging studies. According to the American College of Rheumatology, a person must have at least four of the following criteria to be diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis:

• Morning stiffness lasting more than one hour
• Swelling in three or more joints
• Swelling in the joints of the hands or wrists
• Symmetrical joint involvement
• Rheumatoid nodules
• Positive rheumatoid factor or anti-CCP antibodies

Blood Tests and Imaging

Blood tests play an important role in diagnosing rheumatoid arthritis. The two most common blood tests used to diagnose the condition are the rheumatoid factor (RF) and anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti-CCP) antibodies tests. RF is a protein that is often present in the blood of people with rheumatoid arthritis, while anti-CCP antibodies are antibodies that are produced in response to citrullinated proteins, which are found in high levels in people with rheumatoid arthritis.

Imaging studies, such as X-rays and ultrasounds, can also help diagnose rheumatoid arthritis and monitor its progression. X-rays can show joint damage and bone loss, while ultrasounds can detect inflammation and fluid buildup in the joints.

Overall, understanding the symptoms and diagnostic criteria of rheumatoid arthritis is crucial for early detection and effective treatment. If you are experiencing joint pain, swelling, or stiffness, it is important to speak with your doctor to determine if further testing is necessary.

Affected Areas and Complications – Rheumatoid Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disorder that primarily affects the joints, leading to inflammation, pain, and stiffness. However, it can also cause complications in other areas of the body. In this section, I will discuss the affected areas and complications of RA.

Joints and Musculoskeletal Impact

RA usually affects the small joints of the hands and feet first, before spreading to the larger joints of the wrists, knees, and ankles. The inflammation caused by RA can lead to bone erosion, joint deformity, and loss of function. The symptoms of RA include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and redness. The joint stiffness is usually worse in the morning and after periods of inactivity.

Systemic Effects

RA is a systemic disease, meaning it can affect the entire body. It can cause fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite. RA can also affect the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, blood vessels, and nerves. The skin may develop nodules, rashes, or ulcers. The eyes can become dry and inflamed, leading to vision problems. RA can cause lung disease, such as interstitial lung disease, which can lead to shortness of breath and coughing. RA can also increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Long-Term Complications – Rheumatoid Arthritis

RA can cause long-term complications, such as osteoporosis, a condition that weakens bones and increases the risk of fractures. RA can also cause amyloidosis, a condition where abnormal proteins build up in the organs, leading to organ failure. Additionally, RA can increase the risk of infections, such as pneumonia and urinary tract infections.

RA primarily affects the joints, but it can also cause complications in other areas of the body. The symptoms of RA include joint pain, stiffness, swelling, and redness, and it can also cause fatigue, fever, and loss of appetite. RA can lead to bone erosion, joint deformity, and loss of function. Rheumatoid Arthritis is a systemic disease that can affect the skin, eyes, lungs, heart, blood vessels, and nerves. RA can cause long-term complications, such as osteoporosis, amyloidosis, and infections.

Treatment Strategies – Rheumatoid Arthritis

As someone living with rheumatoid arthritis, I understand how important it is to have effective treatment strategies in place. There are several treatment options available that can help manage the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and improve overall quality of life.

Medications

Medications are often the first line of defense against rheumatoid arthritis. Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) are commonly prescribed to slow down the progression of joint damage. Biologics, a type of DMARD, are often prescribed when traditional DMARDs are not effective. Steroids, such as corticosteroids, may also be prescribed to reduce inflammation and pain.

It is important to work closely with a healthcare provider to find the right medication(s) and dosage(s) that work best for you. Regular monitoring of medication side effects and effectiveness is also important.

Physical Therapy and Exercise – Rheumatoid Arthritis

Physical therapy and exercise can help improve joint flexibility, strength, and overall function. A physical therapist can create a personalized exercise plan that takes into account your individual needs and limitations. Regular exercise can also help reduce pain and improve overall mood.

Surgical Options

In some cases, surgery may be necessary to repair joint damage caused by rheumatoid arthritis. Synovectomy, a surgical procedure to remove the inflamed lining of the joint, and tendon repair may be recommended to reduce pain and improve joint flexibility.

It is important to note that while these treatment strategies can be effective in managing the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, they may not work for everyone. It is important to work closely with a healthcare provider to find the right treatment plan for you and regularly monitor the effectiveness of your treatment.

Living with Rheumatoid Arthritis

As someone living with rheumatoid arthritis, there are certain lifestyle modifications that I have found helpful in managing my symptoms. These modifications include changes to my diet and stress management techniques.

Lifestyle Modifications

Diet plays an important role in my overall quality of life. I have found that avoiding processed foods and consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and lean protein helps to reduce inflammation and manage my symptoms. Additionally, I limit my intake of alcohol and caffeine, as both can trigger flares.

Stress is another factor that can exacerbate my symptoms. To manage stress, I practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and yoga. I also make sure to get enough rest and prioritize self-care.

Support and Coping Strategies – Rheumatoid Arthritis

Living with rheumatoid arthritis can be challenging, but having a support system in place can make a big difference. I have found it helpful to connect with others who are also living with the condition through support groups or online communities.

In addition to support, coping strategies are important for managing flares and maintaining a good quality of life. When experiencing a flare, I make sure to rest and avoid overexertion. However, I also try to maintain a level of physical activity that is appropriate for my condition, such as gentle stretching or low-impact exercise.

Finally, as a smoker, I have found that quitting smoking has been one of the most beneficial changes I have made in managing my rheumatoid arthritis. Smoking can worsen symptoms and increase the risk of complications, so quitting has been a critical step in improving my overall health.

Special Considerations – Rheumatoid Arthritis

As a personal trainer, I understand that clients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) require special considerations. RA is a chronic autoimmune disease that affects the joints, causing pain, stiffness, and swelling. It can affect people of any age, gender, or ethnicity. However, there are some special considerations that I need to keep in mind when working with clients who have RA.

Rheumatoid Arthritis in Women and Men – Rheumatoid Arthritis

RA is more common in women than men. According to the American College of Rheumatology, women are two to three times more likely to develop RA than men. The reasons for this gender difference are not fully understood, but some researchers believe that hormones may play a role. Women who have RA may experience more severe symptoms during pregnancy and menopause. Therefore, as a personal trainer, I need to be aware of these hormonal changes and adjust my exercise program accordingly.

Pediatric Rheumatoid Arthritis

Pediatric rheumatoid arthritis (JIA) is a type of arthritis that affects children under the age of 16. JIA is a chronic disease that can cause joint damage and disability if left untreated. As a personal trainer, it is crucial to work with the child’s pediatric rheumatologist to develop an exercise program that is safe and effective. Children with JIA may have limitations in their range of motion and muscle strength, so I need to be aware of these limitations and adjust the exercise program accordingly.

Elderly Onset Rheumatoid Arthritis

Elderly onset rheumatoid arthritis (EORA) is a type of RA that develops in people over the age of 60. EORA can be more severe than RA that develops in younger people and can lead to joint damage and disability. As a personal trainer, I need to be aware of the limitations that come with age and adjust the exercise program accordingly. It is important to focus on exercises that improve joint mobility, balance, and strength while avoiding high-impact activities that can cause joint damage.

Clients with RA require special considerations when it comes to exercise programming. As a personal trainer, I need to be aware of the client’s age, gender, and disease severity to develop a safe and effective exercise program. By being knowledgeable and confident, I can help clients with RA improve their quality of life and manage their symptoms.

Research and Future Directions

As a researcher in the field of rheumatoid arthritis, I am excited about the emerging therapies and genetic research that are paving the way for more effective treatments and potential cures. In this section, I will discuss some of the latest developments in the field and their potential impact.

Emerging Therapies

Biologics have revolutionized the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis, but they are not effective for everyone. That is why I am excited about the potential of Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors, which target a different pathway in the immune system. These drugs have shown promise in clinical trials, and several are already on the market. However, more research is needed to determine their long-term safety and efficacy.

Another emerging therapy is stem cell therapy, which has shown promise in animal studies. While this therapy is still in its early stages, it has the potential to regenerate damaged tissue and reduce inflammation. I am eager to see how this therapy develops in the coming years.

Genetic Research

One of the most exciting areas of research in rheumatoid arthritis is genetics. Researchers have identified several genes that are associated with an increased risk of developing the disease. By understanding the genetic basis of the disease, we may be able to develop more targeted treatments and even prevent the disease from occurring in the first place.

Clinical Trials

Clinical trials are essential for testing the safety and efficacy of new treatments. As a researcher, I am encouraged by the number of clinical trials currently underway for rheumatoid arthritis. These trials are investigating new drugs, as well as combinations of existing drugs. By participating in these trials, patients can help advance the field and potentially benefit from new treatments.

The field of rheumatoid arthritis research is constantly evolving, and I am excited to be a part of it. With emerging therapies, genetic research, and clinical trials, we are making progress towards more effective treatments and, ultimately, a cure.

ARTHRITIS FORMULA TO REDUCE PAIN, AND SWELLING AND INCREASE MOVEMENT.

The two most common forms of arthritis are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Both are characterized by inflammation and/or pain in a joint or joints. Both diseases are related to nutrition. Osteoarthritis is from a lack of proper nutrition to replace what is lost through wear, tear, and aging and involves deterioration of the cartilage at the ends of the bones.

The other arthritis is Adult and Juvenile Rheumatoid arthritis. They are a type of autoimmune disease that causes inflammation in the synovial fluid membranes surrounding the lubricating fluid in the joints (there are at least another 100 lesser-known subtype autoimmune arthritic diseases such as ankylosing spondylitis AS). These autoimmune diseases like all autoimmune diseases are due to poor nutrition and exposure to the pollutants and heavy metals that contaminate our air, soil, and water.

These pollutants cause certain parts of your body, like your joints, to be unrecognizable to your immune system which attacks them (we do not need to wait for reluctant science to figure this out; it is obvious). We can also add toxic vaccinations and medical drugs to our individual toxic load and we are individually compelled to be a part of this autoimmune disease epidemic. And I am sorry to add that once you have one autoimmune disease it has been proven you will contract another and so on.

Reverse This Downward Autoimmune Disease Spiral!

There are two answers that I know of personally that will reverse this downward autoimmune disease spiral. One, cleanse the body of these toxins, and two, add proper absorbable nutrition to the diet. I know that this sounds simplistic but without establishing these basic fundamental needs of your body you will never be well. The accepted form of medication with drugs will only mask the symptoms while adding still more toxicity as the real cause continues to relentlessly destroy your joints.

I personally experienced arthritis twenty years ago, because when I had cancer I also had arthritis. At that time I was working in the plastering industry with its heavy lifting, repetitive movements, and wet environment and I was toxic. The arthritis was in my lower back (x-ray and MRI confirmed by Ca), my hands, shoulders, hips, knees, and feet. My hands and feet were the most irritating and bothersome until my back locked up. It would do that about once a month and when it did I was stuck stooped over. I would leave work and get treatment at a chiropractor’s, put on a back brace, and return to work; I had responsibilities.

The Naturopathic Medicine Way – Rheumatoid Arthritis

When I cured the cancer (see my bio), that was the end of the arthritis. Curing my arthritis was one of many positive side effects of that Naturopathic treatment, I did not expect it. So, I have personal experience with this devil and I can help you relieve yourself of it if you want.

A lot of things cleared up at that time; headaches, chronic indigestion, skin cancers, loss of energy, depression, and anxiety. All went away. Some of them were genetic, especially the cancer which runs on the paternal side of my family, and depression on my mother’s side. But some were due to stress, some were nutritional (my diet was standard USA), and some were toxic chemicals and heavy metals in my body.

And some were from the lack of a counter-exercise to what I was doing. I was in excellent physical condition but I had no counter-stretching to relieve the physical stress. And spiritually I was rudderless. So, if you put those kinds of negative stresses on anyone, plus given enough time, they will find all their genetic weaknesses. The obvious answer that Naturopathic medicine proposes, is that you undo all those stresses. That will take the strain off of your genetic weaknesses and there will be no reason for the disease.

Change Everything!

The Naturopathic treatment I went through dealt with every one of those areas. Change the food, water, and air going into the body. Eliminate any and all toxic chemicals and heavy metals through cleansing and detoxing. Exercise to build up conditioning and stretch out physical/mental stress. Modify your lifestyle to get the stress out of your daily life or eliminate it. Plus get a solid spiritual foundation that connects you to your spiritual roots. If you rigorously and thoroughly deal with all of those areas of your life simultaneously, I do not care what your genetic disease(s) are, they will be eliminated just like mine.

Modern science says that what I just said and what I did is anecdotal and not possible. Well, they say it is anecdotal, but they need to prove through independent unbiased experiments that what I and thousands of other people have experienced is not possible. Until that science is done independently, they cannot say that it is not possible because their statement is unscientific and anecdotal. If I waited for them to do their experiments I would be dead today just as my father and grandfather both prematurely died. The track record of modern medicine is poor at best. They have not cured one single disease in over a half-century.

I employed Thompsonian Naturopathic cancer treatments (see Incurables) on myself using their simple effective techniques. The more intently I did what they suggested the more positive results I got. Two of the treatment techniques I will be discussing here are changing the nutrition your body is receiving, and cleansing all the toxic chemicals and heavy metals from your body. I suggest you make these positive changes to your body to get the same results I did.

Nutrition

Receiving, proper nutrition is not easy in America where your average grocery store is a nutritional disaster. The shelves are loaded with refined products, GMOs, and irradiated produce. I am sorry but the food and grocery industries worry more about shelf life and profits than what happens to you when you eat their nutritionally poor and toxic products.

So that leaves us with supplementing which I am sure many of you are doing right now, but are you really? Isn’t it the case that when you have been doing something for years someone comes along and points out that you have been misled by false information? That what you thought was helping you could actually make your disease worse. Well, this happened to me regarding the truth about vitamins and minerals and it may be happening to you. Please read very carefully the important warning below. This information will change your health in a very direct way and also save you a great deal of money. Before you read it let me say in advance that I am sorry about the money you and I wasted on supplements.

Vitamins and Minerals and a Basic Law of Nature – Rheumatoid Arthritis

You may not be aware or know that there is a simple basic law of nature and it is a scientific fact. When it comes to the absorption of nutrition for humans or animals, this natural law cannot be broken. And when you understand this law it becomes just simple common sense. The law is that all living things on the surface of the earth depend completely on plants like wheat, lettuce, apples, and so on for their nutrition. Without those plants, we will starve to death. Common sense, right?

So then how do we reconcile this basic law with the fact that over 95% of the supplements on the market are synthetic, closer to dirt or drugs than nutrition?

I was first made aware of this simple reality when I read Dr. Robert Thiel’s published paper ‘The Truth about Vitamins in Supplements‘ (see ref.).

We have been confused

We have been confused by convincing ads, stylish labels, or the jargon with high numbers used by the supplement industry, many of whom are pharmaceutical drug companies. However, the fact remains that these supplements cannot be absorbed properly by humans or animals. Even though it says USP; synthetic vitamins can be made from benzene, petroleum esters, irradiated animal fat/cattle brains, acetylene, coal tar derivatives, hydrochloric acid, and acetonitrole with ammonia. And worst of all, I just heard recently, sewage sludge (R. Schulze). That’s right; some forms of USP Vitamin B12 can be made from sewage as long as it meets USP standards. Obviously, these are just the kind of products that can give you arthritis and other diseases. (Ref R. Thiel)

Just the opposite of synthetic vitamins are whole-food vitamins. They are made from nutritional yeast, rice bran, carrots, acerola cherries, citrus fruits, cabbage, broccoli, and rice. These are the ingredients that your body easily absorbs and uses to fight both major and lesser kinds of arthritis. I think we can agree that this is common sense and these are the kinds of ingredients that can realistically help you battle any disease. (Ref R. Thiel)

Need To Know What You Are Taking

OK, I know what you may be thinking and I had the same question, “but I feel better when I take those vitamins”. I know you can and so did I, but I also got very sick and I had arthritis. Here are the reasons that you may have felt better when you took a synthetic supplement.

One, there are a few ingredients in those supplements that you can actually fully or partially absorb and if you were lacking them, then you will feel better. Another is the placebo effect, “that you feel better because you expect to”. But the fact still remains that those synthetic vitamins are not food and I do not know what they are, do you? The reason it was done is because it is dirt cheap and no one said they could not do it, like our government who gives them the USP approval even though it is sewage sludge.

What does this mean to you? It means that if your vitamin supplement does not say the words somewhere on the label “Whole Food Vitamins”, “Made From Whole Foods” or “Food Vitamins”, do not waste your money on it because it is synthetic and you cannot absorb it properly (and by the way Food Based is just another hoax).

All of the ingredients in the suggested formulas below are considered foods by many in the scientific, allopathic, and naturopathic healing communities. The enlightened members of these communities also agree that “arthritis is a disease of both the fork and a toxic environment. That by changing what you put in your body and what you clean out you can cure arthritis and all other diseases”.

Supplements for the Relief of Arthritis

I am going to talk about supplements for arthritis in the order of their importance. Adding whole food supplements to a routine will bring relief from both Osteo and Rheumatoid arthritis.

The Loss of Cartilage and Vitamin C

One, of the greatest threats to any arthritis sufferer is the loss of their cartilage at the affected joints. Lose enough cartilage and you have bone rubbing against bone with its debilitating pain. The cartilage at the end of each bone is formed from collagen and collagen is created in the body using Vitamin C. Yes, Vitamin C is scientifically proven to be essential to and involved in every step of the production of collagen. So that puts Vitamin C at the top of our list but not just any vitamin C will do? (see references)

For the human body to optimally produce this indispensable collagen it must have totally absorbable Vitamin C. Well that seems easy; you just go to any store and buy ascorbic acid. But remember, I said above ‘that your body cannot totally absorb and utilize chemicals?’ Ascorbic acid is not really the Vitamin C you find in an orange; ascorbic acid is a chemical. (see references)

Read below what the formulator of whole food Vitamin C Complex, Dr. Robert Thiel of Doctors Research says about the scientific studies involved in its creation.

Vitamin C in Foods exists in at least two distinguishable forms with accompanying Food factors. Yet, regular ascorbic acid as well as mineral ascorbates are too incomplete to be properly called vitamin C as they do not contain both forms nor the accompanying Food factors! It is of interest to note that even Albert Szent Gyorgyi, while accepting the Nobel prize for isolating ascorbic acid, told scientists that isolated ascorbic acid did not work by itself–it worked best with the factors that are naturally found with it in foods such as citrus (Food C Complex is a citrus Food!). Citrus contains both natural forms of vitamin C. Thiel R. 

VITAMIN C COMPLEX (A Whole Food Vitamin C Complex)

One study found that Food C Complex had proven to have 492 micro moles per gram T.E. (Trolox equivalents) of hydrophilic ORAC (oxygen radical absorbance capacity)’ORAC is essentially a measurement of the ability to quench free radicals (antioxidant ability)’while blueberries (one of the highest ORAC sources) only had 195 micro moles per gram T.E.’thus Food C Complex has 2.52 times the ORAC ability of blueberries. Vitamin C containing food has over 15.6 times the ORAC of isolated ascorbic acid (Food C Complex may be infinitely higher). Actually, there are doubts that isolated ascorbic acid has any significant antioxidant effects in humans. Food C Complex is clearly superior for any interested in ORAC’which should include everyone! Thiel R.

Pregnenolone – Get Yours Here.

Ever heard of Pregnenolone? I hadn’t until about 5 years ago when I stumbled across an article by Alan E. Lewis titled ‘Pregnenolone, The Pleiotropic Parent Steroid’. As I read this article I realized Mr. Lewis had just handed me and everyone who read this article a supplemental treasure.

I had just turned sixty and even with all the health-enhancing techniques I applied to my life I was losing my edge. I was beginning to feel like my age and it was not fun. So I was looking for natural foods, supplements, and herbs with no side effects that could help me, be as comfortable as possible as I passed 60 years of age. Pregnenolone made from the Mexican wild yam turned out to be one of those I found that was very safe and highly effective (see the list of benefits below).

Why are hormones so important in the aging process?

Here is what the Merck Manual (medical Bible) says, ‘Ultimately, hormones control the function of entire organs, affecting such diverse processes as growth and development, reproduction, and sexual characteristics. Hormones also influence the way the body uses and stores energy and control the volume of fluid and the levels of salts and sugar in the blood. Very small amounts of hormones can trigger very large responses in the body.’

What is Pregnenolone?

It is the parent of all the hormones that you have been making all your life. Pregnenolone is called a precursor which means that it is needed to produce something else. That something else is all the hormones a man or woman produces throughout their lifetime.

But at about 30 years of age, you begin to make less and less Pregnenolone each year until you reach about 70 years. At about that age, you are making 15% of what you made when you were young, and you notice it. Why does the body reduce the amount so quickly? That is not understood completely but part of the reason is said to be a natural decline that takes place with aging. Another reason is that the environment we have created with the toxins and stress we have heaped upon ourselves speeds up this decline of Pregnenolone and the aging process that comes with it.

But doesn’t that make it a steroid is a question I asked myself.

No, because Pregnenolone by itself has insignificant hormonal effects. It is the basic material from which your body produces hormones, not the finished product. So it does not have those side effects we hear about that occur with steroid drugs.

Pregnenolone is a little like the flour used by a baker; put some flour in your mouth and it is not really tasty. But give it to a baker who combines it with other ingredients and you have bread, pastries, pancakes, etc. The baker like your hormone system is only going to use the amount of flour (Pregnenolone) called for in the recipe. This is why pregnenolone has proven to be so safe to use.

Pregnenolone has been tested by science since the 1940s and here are some of the improvements in physical and mental health that science found. Improved skin tone and health, reduction of body fat and increased lean body mass (muscle tissue), increased strength and endurance, more energy, a reduction or elimination of inflammation, elimination of joint pain, improved wound healing, improved vision, enhanced functioning of the immune, metabolic and nervous systems. Also improvements in Mental Health like stress tolerance, mental cognition, better sleep patterns, improved mental outlook, mood, and memory. An increase in male hormones like testosterone and accompanying physical well-being and improved sexual functioning. Improved female reproductive cycle, progesterone, enhanced sexual enjoyment or libido, and much more.

Pregnenolone for Arthritis

During the 1940s and 50s, Pregnenolone was used successfully as a treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. A study by Henderson and colleagues found that 300 mg Pregnenolone per day for 40 days resulted in a substantial reduction in joint pain, tenderness, and spasticity, with improved strength and range of motion. In another study by Freeman and colleagues, 64 patients, used 500 mg of Pregnenolone daily for periods of 2 to 30 weeks; 24 patients showed striking improvements, and 20 showed minor improvements.

Why didn’t science tell the world what they had found? Well at just about the time they discovered Pregnenolone they also discovered synthetic steroid drugs like cortisone. These steroids are synthetic and even though they have harsh side effects they work fast and they could be patented, so sadly that was the choice they made. Pregnenolone on the other hand was naturally made from the wild yam root, and they could not patent it. So Pregnenolone was set aside and forgotten except for a few people who saw its value.

Pregnenolone’s Safety – Rheumatoid Arthritis

Fortunately, because of all the scientific attention Pregnenolone received it also received a great deal of safety testing. Since it was a precursor it had minimal effects and so tested safer than anything on the market. The Pregnenolone researchers working with both human and animal subjects since the 1940s have consistently commented on pregnenolone’s virtual absence of toxicity. For example, the classic review article on pregnenolone by Henderson and colleagues in 1950 states: ‘It [pregnenolone] has an extremely low order of toxicity; [it] has not shown any adverse effects on endocrine [hormone] physiology.

Pregnenolone has been given orally to humans at doses as high as 500 mg/day for as long as 30 weeks without evidence of adverse effects. In one human study, eight people received 50 to 150 milligrams per day by intramuscular injection for 75 days, with no reported side effects. Dr. Eugene Roberts gave 20 Alzheimer’s patients 525 mg/day for three months with no toxicity. During rheumatoid arthritis experiments with pregnenolone, Dr. H. Freeman and colleagues gave 500 mg pregnenolone/day for up to 30 weeks, with no toxicity. Drs. Pincus and Hoagland, two of the pioneer researchers on pregnenolone use by humans in the 1940s, found no toxic reactions with pregnenolone used by hundreds of men and women at dosages of 100 mg/day for four months.

Dosage – Rheumatoid Arthritis

Personally, I started at 25 mg and decided it was fine and jumped right in. After 5 years of use with no problems at all, I settled on a dose of 150 mg and it works great. But everyone is different and they have to make up their own mind. You might play it safe by starting out where I did at 25 mg or lower and gradually working your way up. Remember that when you compare the dangerous drugs used for the treatment of arthritis to Pregnenolone’s safety there is no comparison. You could also add an extra safeguard by taking a break from Pregnenolone for a few days to a week each month and then begin taking it again.

From everything I have read the best time to take Pregnenolone is in the morning. The reason is that it is fat-soluble and follows the circadian cycle in 5-Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) of high in the morning and dropping by the late afternoon.

Suffering From An Ailment

If you are suffering from an ailment have a look at the studies above plus references and use their amounts as a gauge for yourself. If you have read the studies and have decided to use a higher dose you may want to consider consulting with your physician. Just keep in mind that all final decisions when it comes to your health are made by you.

Note:

ARTHRITIS AND WHOLE FOOD VITAMINS:

Oxidation can cause arthritis and rheumatism through toxins carried into our bodies via the air, water, and the food we eat. These free radicals attack the weakest part of the body causing tissue damage. Anti-oxidant vitamins like A, C, and E, can attract these free radicals and neutralize them.

B STRESS FORMULA (all Vitamins in this Formula should be from Whole Foods)

– Benefits: Enhances the health of the nerves, eyes, skin, mouth, liver, and muscle tone in the gastrointestinal tract. B vitamins can help with stress and depression. Some Alzheimer’s patients were found to have a vitamin B deficiency. Get it here.

CALCIUM COMPLEX – Get it Here

– Take the first dose with your oil and juice in the morning, the second dose at lunch, the third dose with dinner, the fourth dose before bedtime with oil and orange juice. With each dose take a minimum of 100 milligrams of vitamin C, this will aid in absorption.

– Magnesium makes calcium soluble in the body so it will not form stones or
deposits in the kidneys, joints, or muscles.

MAGNESIUM COMPLEX – Get it Here

– Everyone thinks that calcium is the mineral that is lacking in the American diet;

– Actually, it is magnesium. Without magnesium, calcium cannot even be absorbed into your body; unabsorbed calcium is toxic and can help cause arthritis. Magnesium is responsible for 300 different biochemical reactions necessary for our body to properly function.

VITAMIN C COMPLEX – Get it Here

– Essential for the manufacture of collagen used by the body to manufacture the organic matrix of the bone (reinforces the bones).

– Benefits: Strengthens all connective tissue, used in wound healing, used by all individual cells to clean themselves, anti-oxidant, etc.

SELENIUM E COMPLEX – Get it Here

– 100% Food complex nutrient with extremely important antioxidant properties.

Benefits: Vitamin E is an antioxidant, prevents premature aging, can extend your prime of life by 15 to 20 years, prevents cardiovascular problems from developing, and increases your energy and endurance.

PEANUT OIL and OLIVE OIL (cold pressed only)

– 1 Tablespoon of each in juice in the morning before breakfast, use my Morning Drink formula or add it to orange, grapefruit, apple, or cranberry juice.

– Use the peanut oil as a massage oil and rub it into the affected area daily, the excess can be wiped off with a tissue before dressing (do not wash off excess).

– Benefits of using these two oils. They will improve your arthritis or rheumatism and also raise your vitality, improve your complexion, make your hair shine, maintain your body’s proper water balance, and improve sexual performance.

OMEGA 3/ EPA/ DHA COD LIVER OIL – Get it Here

I recommend you use a product that has undergone molecular distillation which removes virtually all traces of mercury, PCBs, PDEs, and dioxin.

– Benefits the synovial membrane where a fluid is made that lubricates joints and keeps cartilages elastic, teeth and gums in good shape, also used by the body for vision at night and helps ease the pain of arthritis.

– 1 tablespoon of cod liver oil in a small glass of orange juice just before you go to bed each night.

– Cod liver oil assists in the proper absorption, assimilation, and metabolism of calcium in your body.

ALFALFA – Get it Here

– Recent research reveals that there is a powerful substance in alfalfa that scientists call an anti-stiffness factor. Alfalfa supplements from seed are the most powerful.

– 3,000 milligrams with each meal for a total of 12,000 milligrams daily.

– When the pain, swelling, and stiffness disappear reduce to 2,000 milligrams with
each meal.

– Alfalfa is the basis for liquid Chlorophyll, with a balance of chemical and mineral constituents almost identical to human hemoglobin.

– Benefits of taking alfalfa: a rich source of B-12, ounce for ounce alfalfa contains three times the calcium of milk, contains a natural fluoride that hardens the bone and teeth, and is also a blood purifier.

IMPORTANT NOTE HERE, ARTHRITIS AND CAYENNE:

Cayenne is the only known herb or medication to relieve the pain and reverse the disease of arthritis. The scientific community has done over thirteen hundred studies and the majority confirmed that cayenne and capsaicin relieve arthritic symptoms and improve joint flexibility. You can now find creams, liniments, and plasters in health food and drug stores that contain the key ingredient of cayenne, “capsicum”.

Deep Heat Ointment with Capsicum – Get it Here

How I have used the “Deep Heat Ointment” for arthritis: I was mixing heavy materials and building scaffolds on houses and high-rise apartment buildings, very heavy work. I was 45 and the working environment was wet or damp most of the time. The arthritis developed in my feet, ankles, knees, hips, elbows, shoulders, neck, and lower back.
I have applied the ointment on the area and rubbed it in 4 times a day. Another way I have used the ointment is to put a liberal amount on the area, cover it with a sheet of plastic wrap then wrap it with a sports wrap-type elastic bandage. For my elbow or knee, I used a sports support over the plastic wrap for the appropriate area. Treating my back, I used a back support wrap to hold the plastic wrap in place. I felt heat in the area, if the cream seemed too hot I diluted it with a little cold cream. If it is not hot enough I use a stronger cream.

Wash off the cream with soap and water one-half hour before you shower or take a bath.

You can make the ointment stronger by adding more capsicum powder to it yourself. You can find this powder in the product section under “bulk herbs”. They are listed under “Cayenne” I would choose “Cayenne 180 HU or more (Heat Units)” to begin with. Go easy; add a very small amount to begin with. As you learn how to use it, become more aggressive. Do not use any kind of cool or cold Cayenne they will not work.

You can make the ointment stronger by adding more capsicum powder to it yourself. You can find this powder in the product section of your health food store. They are listed under “Cayenne” I would choose “Cayenne 40,000 HU or more (Heat Units)” to begin with. Go easy; add a very small amount to begin with. As you learn how to use it, become more aggressive. Do not use any kind of cool or cold cayenne it will not work.

BOWEL CLEANSING AND DETOXING FOR ARTHRITIS – Rheumatoid Arthritis

Bowel cleansing and detoxing for arthritis, why would you want to do that? One of the causes of inflammation is having toxins and pollutants in the area of the irritated joint. These toxins and pollutants slow down the healing in osteoarthritis and encourage the attack on the joint by your immune system in rheumatoid arthritis.

But arthritis in your hand seems like a long way from your bowel why cleanse out the bowel? It is simple, every waste product, toxin, and pollutant is moving toward your bowel. If that bowel is not running the way it should things begin to slow down and even back up.

Bowel cleanses and detox is simple to do, you control it, and it cannot hurt you. It is done slowly and incrementally so you do not need to take time off from work. You may find that once you experience what a clean body feels like you would never again let your colon become toxic.

COLON CLEANSE FORMULA – Rheumatoid Arthritis

Below are the herbs I suggest you look for in a Colon Cleanse Formula (they should all be wild crafted or organic for safety) plus their benefits and historical safety are listed.

Aloe Leaf

One, of the oldest known healing herbs. Has a gentle laxative effect while encouraging the proliferation of friendly bowel bacteria.

Barberry Root – Rheumatoid Arthritis

First used by North American Indian tribes and the Egyptians. It is known for its ability to treat liver-related constipation while increasing bowel function as it strengthens the body.

Cascara Sagrada aged bark

Another American Indian herb; the Spanish name “sacred bark”. A remedy for constipation and treatment of hemorrhoids; encourages peristalsis, and is not known to be habit-forming. Adopted by many pharmaceutical companies because it is safe to use.

Garlic bulb

Parasiticide and antibiotic while leaving safe friendly bacteria. Dr Paavo Airola called garlic the “King of the Vegetable Kingdom” also designated a Super Food because of its potent healing properties.

Senna leaf

Effective at cleaning the colon is also an efficient vermifuge (kills parasites). Stimulates intestinal peristalsis. One of the few herbs approved by the FDA for over-the-counter use and may be one of the most widely used herbal medicines in the United States.

Turkey Rhubarb root

A gentle laxative in combination has a tonic effect, as well as a blood builder and cleanser. Has a cleansing action upon the gut, removing debris, and then it’s astringent with antiseptic properties. This herb has over 2000 years of continuous use in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East.

Black Walnut hull – Rheumatoid Arthritis

Both American Indian and European herbalists used this herb as a nutritional aid for the digestive system and as a moderate laxative. This herb also has strong antifungal, antiparasitic, and antiseptic properties.

Clove bud

The ancient Chinese, Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans all prized and used cloves for centuries. Clove is considered a warming herb that improves the assimilation and digestion of foods and also reduces the sensation of bloating and gas pressure within the digestive system. 

Fennel seed

Helps stop nausea, hiccups, belching, and intestinal gas by improving digestion. Reduces mucus in the intestinal tract and assists in the breakup of uric acid in tissues, helps digest protein and protein waste products.

Ginger root

Many herbalists consider ginger to be one of the top 10 herbs of all for its ability to act quickly and safely. It has a robust ability to stop dizziness, nausea, and vomiting while also relieving griping and cramping in the abdominal and intestinal areas.

Wormwood leaf

Used for all complaints of the digestive system; it will stimulate appetite, calm indigestion, relieve constipation, plus expel excess gas from the stomach and intestines.

Why so many herbs? Each one of the 11 cleansing herbs has different benefits for the bowel so in very small incremental amounts your bowel is cleansed gently and gradually; no need to take off work.

COLON DETOX FORMULA

This cleansing soothing formula is to be used periodically in conjunction with the Colon Cleanse Formula. It acts as a strong purifier and intestinal vacuum, helping to draw out old fecal matter from the walls of your colon and out of any bowel pockets. Colon Detox aids in the removal of poisons, toxins, parasites, and heavy metals. Also, used to stop diarrhea or to counteract food poisoning. These herbs should be organic or wild-crafted for safety.

Psyllium seed, Psyllium husk

Psyllium seed, Psyllium husk (do not use for more than 5 days consecutively can strip cilia from the small intestine). Found in many over-the-counter laxatives, the word in Greek means flea relating to its size. Psyllium is a hydrophilic (absorbs water), mucilaginous, bulking agent that can increase the volume of the intestinal contents.

Psyllium adds bulk to the stool, absorbs toxins, soothes inflamed tissues, removes putrefaction, and promotes the growth of friendly bacteria. This action can help reduce diverticulosis and diverticulitis.

Used properly Psyllium can stop loose bowels or prevent constipation. Because Psyllium absorbs water (hydrophilic absorbs 8 to 14 times its weight in water) it can help stop loose bowels. Psyllium’s scrubbing action stimulates the bowel’s peristaltic action thus helping prevent constipation.

Bentonite clay

The molecules in Bentonite clay are negatively charged so as it moves through the intestinal tract it attracts toxic particles which are positively charged. So, like a magnet, the Bentonite draws the toxic molecule which is then absorbed into the clay. In this way, your body can expel the toxin-filled clay in a normal bowel movement. Bentonite is also recommended for those who were exposed to radiation or who have had radiation treatments. Helps maintain healthy friendly bacterial balance in the digestive system promotes liver detoxification and boosts your immune system.

Flax seed – Rheumatoid Arthritis

In its whole form, the flax seeds include fibers, both soluble and insoluble that are so vital to enhancing digestive health. It will help regulate bowel movements, increase their frequency, and prevent or treat bowel irregularities and constipation. Taken with a significant amount of water, flax expands 20 times in volume. The water will change to a smooth consistency. That seed and smooth water is great for a toxic colon, it lubricates and absorbs toxins seamlessly. Flax seed also contains lignans that have anti-viral, anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, and anti-cancer properties.

Apple fruit Pectin

Has a highly absorptive quality that draws numerous harmful substances out of your intestines, especially heavy metals like mercury and lead. It even draws carcinogenic radioactive materials like strontium 90 (it was used at Chornobyl to draw radioactive particles from the people there).

Slippery Elm inner bark

Used to cleanse, purify, and detoxify the colon, bowel, and intestines. Soothing and strengthening the entire intestinal tract. Native Americans used Slippery Elm in healing salves for wounds, boils, ulcers, burns, and skin inflammation.

Marshmallow root

Hypocrites used it as a wound healer. Its generic name Althaea comes from the Greek Altho to heal and make “soft” because of its special softening and healing qualities. It is anti-inflammatory and anti-irritant making it a soothing treatment for the gastrointestinal tract. Great detoxer, because of high content of mucilage, starch, and other factors allows it to combine with and eliminate toxins, aiding the body to detox.

Fennel seed – Rheumatoid Arthritis

Helps in the elimination of nausea, hiccups, belching, and intestinal gas by improving digestion. Reduces mucus in the intestinal tract and assists in the breakup of uric acid in tissues, helps digest protein and protein waste products.

Arthritis and The Herb Prof: A Soothing Synergy

Let’s explore the world of Arthritis, a common health concern, and its unique connection with our website, theherbprof.com.

Arthritis can be a challenging part of one’s health journey. But don’t worry! Nature has provided us with herbs that can help soothe it. It’s like a comforting hug for your joints!

But how does this tie into theherbprof.com? Well, we’re all about sharing the wisdom of herbs. And Arthritis? It’s one of the health concerns we aim to address!

We’re a perfect pair, really. Theherbprof.com provides the platform, and Arthritis is one of the topics we cover. We highlight the herbs that can help manage it, and it brings a wealth of information to our readers.

So, when you’re browsing theherbprof.com, make sure to stop by our Arthritis section. It’s a dynamic duo you won’t want to miss! And remember, laughter is the best medicine, but a little herbal knowledge might just be the perfect sidekick! Check our home page here!

References:

Little Herb Encyclopedia, by Jack Ritchason; N.D., Woodland Publishing Incorporated, 1995
The Ultimate Healing System, Course Manual, Copyright 1985, Don Lepore
Planetary Herbology, Michael Tierra, C.A., N.D., Lotus Press, 1988
Handbook of Medicinal Herbs, by James A. Duke, Pub. CRP Second Edition 2007
The Complete Medicinal Herbal, by Penelope Ody, Published by Dorling Kindersley

Before You Go – Check the Following Articles!

Aging Prematurely: How To Reverse It!

Autoimmune Diseases

Free Healing Herbal Remedy for Bursitis Swelling

Cancer

Check these Categories:

Ailments

Herbs

Frequently Asked Questions – Rheumatoid Arthritis

What treatments are available for managing rheumatoid arthritis?

There are several treatments available for managing rheumatoid arthritis. The most common treatments include medication, physical therapy, and surgery. Medications such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (DMARDs) can help reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and slow down the progression of joint damage. Physical therapy can help improve mobility and flexibility, while surgery may be necessary in severe cases to repair or replace damaged joints.

What are the common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis?

The common symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis include joint pain, stiffness, and swelling, especially in the hands, feet, and wrists. Other symptoms may include fatigue, fever, and weight loss. The symptoms can vary from person to person and may change over time. It’s important to see a doctor if you experience any of these symptoms.

Can rheumatoid arthritis be cured permanently, and if not, how is it managed?

Unfortunately, there is no cure for rheumatoid arthritis. However, with proper treatment and management, the symptoms can be controlled, and joint damage can be slowed down. It’s important to work with a doctor to develop an individualized treatment plan that may include medication, physical therapy, and lifestyle changes.

What are the different stages of rheumatoid arthritis progression?

Rheumatoid arthritis is a progressive disease that can be divided into four stages: early, moderate, severe, and end-stage. In the early stage, symptoms are mild, and joint damage is minimal. In the moderate stage, symptoms become more severe, and joint damage becomes more visible on X-rays. Now, in the severe stage, joint damage is significant, and mobility is limited. In the end-stage, joint damage is irreversible, and joint replacement surgery may be necessary.

How do rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis differ?

Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis are two different types of arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease that causes inflammation and joint damage throughout the body. Osteoarthritis, on the other hand, is a degenerative joint disease that occurs when the cartilage in the joints wears down over time. While both conditions can cause joint pain and stiffness, they have different causes and require different treatment approaches.

What is the typical life expectancy for someone diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis?

The life expectancy for someone diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis is not significantly different from that of the general population. However, the disease can lead to complications such as cardiovascular disease and lung disease, which can affect life expectancy. It’s important to work with a doctor to manage the disease and prevent complications.