Abstract This paper addresses the question of whether the management of arthritis can be facilitated by nutrition instead of a reliance on conventional medication. The paper defines the various types of arthritic conditions and lists their associated symptoms. The paper then describes traditional methods of managing arthritis through medication, including the negative effects of medication. The author contrasts traditional management with management through nutrition as an alternative. Relevant literature is cited supporting the use of nutrition. The author concludes that while no cure exists for arthritis, there are numerous studies and experiential reports of that show the importance of diet and nutrition in combating the symptoms of this disease.
Outline:
Introduction
Nutrition and Arthritis Nutrition versus Medication
Nutrition as an Alternative
Conclusion
From the Paper "Each of the above categories provides a slightly different set of symptoms. More importantly, each major form of this disease necessitates different treatment processes and management strategies; as well as a variable dependence on drugs and medication. However, in the overview of the place of nutrition in treatment and management in this paper, the role of nutrition will be dealt with in a genera sense to cover all the forms of arthritis and refer to the specific types where applicable. "
Abstract This paper presents the writer's personal reflection of two articles on rheumatoid arthritis and how these articles relate to her profession as a nurse. The two articles reviewed are "Decreasing Pain and Depression in a Health Promotion Program for People with Rheumatoid Arthritis" by H. Oh and W. Seo and "Benefit-finding among People with Rheumatoid arthritis in Japan" by M. Sato, Y, Yamazaki, M. Sakita, and T.J. Bryce.
From the Paper "Living with RA entails psychological and sociological consequences. RA patients may have difficulty in functioning socially, have limited ability to partake with social activities, and may even have sexual dysfunctions. Patients tend to feel incapacitated; this leads to poor outlook and depression. On the other hand, it has been reported that people suffering from a chronic illness have the ability to have a positive outlook in spite of his disability. The article calls this benefit finding (BF). This is further defined as having a positive perception of one's self, change in life priorities, and improved appreciation of life, good interpersonal relationships, and positive behavioral changes. It has been found that increased BF improves one's health psychologically. This study aimed to discover the factors that encourage BF among RA patients in Japan. The study involved 364 persons with RA aged 20 to 59 years and were made to answer questionnaires to assess factors associated with BF. It has been found that patients who have been diagnosed with RA for at least 15 years, were female, had been unemployed, have suffered chronic pain, and did not have a source of emotional support had the highest BF scores. The most common type of BF involved "developing compassion towards others" and "an appreciation of things not previously important." One surprising finding in this study was that only 7.4% of the participants reported having ever received emotional support from medical staff. The study also found that patients with RA that have developed self-care skills that enable them to have higher BF scores. Therefore, living an RA may not have negative consequences, as long as patients are able to adapt to their situation appropriately."
Abstract The media are filled with advertisements for spas and health clubs that include massage therapy among their programs. For people who want to relax and be pampered, that is fine. For arthritis sufferers, however, massage therapy performed by registered nurses offers significant relief from painful arthritis symptoms and helps lead to a better quality of life.
Abstract This paper discusses arthritis and how it relates to the elderly individual. The paper discusses risk factors, treatment, why it is a problem, and what needs to be done. It includes citations and scholarly references.
Outline
Introduction
Why This Is an Issue/Problem
Predisposing Risk Factors
Treatment, Solution, Intervention
Review of the Current Literature
Summary and Conclusions
From the Paper "Arthritis is a very debilitating condition. "Arthritis is second only to heart disease as a cause of work disability (Arthritis Foundation 2004)." Arthritis is a systemic joint disease. The "arth" part of the word means "joint"-not muscle, tendon, ligament, or bone. The "itis" part means "inflamed." Thus, true arthritis affects the joints, and the affected joints are inflamed-red, warm, swollen, or tender when squeezed.(Taibi & Bourguignon 2003)"
A look at the role a family nurse practitioner could play in providing complementary and alternative medicines to patients suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.
1,575 words (approx. 6.3 pages), 7 sources, 2006, $ 62.95
Abstract This paper discusses the proposed role of the family nurse practitioner in the provision of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) to patients with rheumatoid arthritis, particularly chiropractic body manipulation. It is emphasized that this should be presented to the patient with caution and should be considered, due to the lack of clinical evidence, a complementary, palliative option.
From the Paper "The role of the family nurse practitioner is the provision of nursing care in the context of advanced nursing practices, which have come to include the diagnosis and treatment of some diseases as well as the palliation of others' suffering. Rheumatoid arthritis remains a challenging disease to treat and manage due to its chronic course. Although remissions can occur, rebounds can likewise occur, making this disease a lifelong one. In this light, it is quite understandable that some patients may express discontent over their current disease management and opt to experiment with unconventional therapies in parallel with (complementary) or in place of (alternative) current medical practices. As for allopathic practitioners, there is an inherent bias against chiropractic referral."
Abstract This paper explains that the Orthopedic approach states that gouty arthritis is a systemic inflammatory illness (PMR), which is a synovitis of the large proximal joints, although more distal joints also can be involved. The author points out that, in the Orthopedic approach, physical therapy is useful because patients' residual "stiffness" is more often mechanical rather than inflammatory in nature. The paper relates that the Renal approach states that an excess of uric acid in the body causes gout; this excess can be caused by an increase in production by the body, by under-eliminating of uric acid by the kidneys or by increased intake of foods containing purines that are metabolized to uric acid in the body.
Table of Contents
Introduction and Thesis of the Investigation
The Onset of Gout and a Brief Glimpse at the History of the Disease
A Brief History of Gouty Arthritis from the Viewpoint of Orthopedics
Epidemiology
Pathophysiology
Clinical Features
Some Treatments
Alternative Treatment
The Other Side of the Gouty Arthritis Argument
What is Gout or Gouty Arthritis?
This Group's Causes for the Disease
What are the Symptoms of Gout from their Viewpoint?
How is Gouty Arthritis Diagnosed?
Gout and Hyperuricemia
Risk Factors for Gouty Arthritis Conditions and Concerns in the Treatment of Gouty Arthritis With Knowledge of Both Sides of the Issue, What One Can Do?
From the Paper "Bruce first described polymyalgia rheumatica in 1888 when he reported on five senior patients with a proximal muscular syndrome that he called "senile rheumatic gout." The syndrome next appeared under the name "humeroscapular periathrosis," in 1945 and later as "anarthritic rheumatoid arthritis." Bagratuni coined this latter term because he felt that such patients had a forme fruste of rheumatoid arthritis. Two of the 50 patients he reported went on to develop rheumatoid arthritis and 8 others had transient swelling of various joints. He felt that the term anarthritic rheumatoid arthritis was more appropriate than polymyalgia rheumatica coined by Barber in 1957. Finally, Healey has furthered the concept of PMR as a systemic articular disease by describing variant forms of PMR that he calls benign synovitis."
Abstract The purpose of this paper is to introduce, discuss, and analyze the disease of arthritis. Specifically, the paper discusses the differences between osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, and their commonalities. The writer notes that, although there are many types of arthritis, these two are the most common. Both of these forms of arthritis can be debilitating and painful. The writer points out that they can also lead to other complications, such as surgery and continued medication for pain. Arthritis is serious because it cannot be cured, only treated, and because it affects so many Americans and their daily lives. The writer concludes that arthritis should be a top research priority in America, because curing or preventing the disease could make a real difference in so many people's lives. One of the source articles used is appended to the paper.
From the Paper "The symptoms of the disease include stiffness after remaining in one position for a long time (such as sitting or sleeping), a sound of bone rubbing on bone or crunching when the bone is used, swelling or pain in the joint, and tenderness in the joint. Anti-inflammatory drugs, along with mild exercise and even re-alignment of misaligned joints, can treat osteoarthritis. Topical treatments, such as creams and hot and cold packs can also be effective in many cases. X-rays are the most common way to confirm a diagnosis of osteoarthritis, but a doctor may order joint aspiration in cases that are more difficult to diagnose. Often, the most effective treatment for this form of arthritis is surgery to replace the damaged joints. It is the most common reason most Americans undergo hip and knee surgery, and most patients report success and far less pain in those joints after surgery."
"Rheumatoid arthritis does not have as many sufferers as osteoarthritis, and it has different symptoms and treatments. This form of the disease can actually affect other areas of the body, such as the blood supply and lungs, and it is actually causes by inflammation of the joint lining, which causes loss of movement, pain, and swelling."
Abstract This paper explains that, previously considered a benign disabling illness, rheumatoid arthritis is now recognized as a cause of increased mortality due to the systemic effects of peri-cardial disease, interstitial lung disease and systemic vasculitis. The author points out that the differentiation of rheumatoid arthritis from other rheumatic diseases can be difficult; however, certain clinical features, such as joint inflammation and the number and specific joint sites affected can help indicate if the diagnosis should be RA. The paper relates that the etiology of rheumatoid arthritis is still unknown but there is some indication that a common virus or bacterium might serve as a triggering event; however, there is still no evidence to implicate a specific infectious agent.
From the Paper "Joint inflammation is characteristically polyarticular, symmetrical, and in severe cases may be warm and erythematous. Joints involved in Rheumatoid Arthritis include proximal interphalangeal, metacarpophalangeal (MCP), the wrist, elbow, knee, and ankle. Rheumatoid nodules, an aggregate of inflammatory cells surrounding a center of cellular debris, can occur on the extensor surfaces of the elbows or fingers. A poorer prognosis is likely for patients who experienced onset at an early age and who have elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rates and high levels of rheumatoid factor and swelling of more than 20 joints."
Abstract This paper discusses the effect of rheumatoid arthritis on the daily living of a patient. It describes the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis and how it presents. The paper then focuses on the impact of exercise and mood on the severity of the disease and discusses the importance of ensuring enough exercise and positive mood for patients with the disease.
Table of Contents:
Review Of The Literature
Introduction to Rheumatoid Arthritis Importance of Exercise for Individuals with Rheumatoid Arthritis RA & ADL
From the Paper "Patients with better mood "showed lower disease activity after one year of observation as compared with those with worse mood. As well as several reports relating diseases and mood, mental status has also been reported to affect immuno-regulatory systems. Chronic depression or chronic stress conditions lead to immuno-suppressive status and imbalance in corticotrophin-releasing hormone, which induces cancer and hyperthyroidism. It has been reported that depressive states induce suppression of mitogenic reaction in lymphocytes, decreases the number and activity of natural killer cells and decreases the production of interferon." Sadamoto, Ogawa, Ogura and Saito, 2006) The work of Gray (nd) entitled: "What Feature of Rheumatoid Arthritis are Hard to Cope with Psychologically and What Strategies Might be Helpful in Coping?" identifies the features of RA which are hard to psychologically cope with and explores the relationships between those features and negative psychological outcomes. The following figure shows the percentages of the disease symptoms and how the ability of those with RA are affected in coping."
Abstract The paper explains that although dance does not directly cause arthritis, improper techniques in dance can cause injuries that result in arthritis. The paper relates, however, that dance can also serve as a means of physical therapy for arthritic sufferers by increasing their range of motion, muscle strength and overall physical and mental health. More specifically, the paper discusses the relationship of dance at a young age to the development of arthritis as well as dance's therapeutic effect on arthritic sufferers.
From the Paper "Many dancers experience aches and pains though out their dancing careers. Despite the cause of the pain, many find it commonplace, and therefore ignore it. Others choose pain-dulling drugs to overcome the pain. However, pain and "discomfort should not be considered a normal result of dancing. If an ache or pain recurs after a few hours of rest or a good night's sleep, it must be confronted and the source examined." (Horosco, Cures and Myths about Arthritis 108) The causes of these pains are too many to number, but one that many do not realize may be linked to arthritis."
Abstract This paper explains that rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease affecting the synovial joints and virtually every tissue in the body joints and other tissues; it can affect persons of all ages. The author points out that treatment of rheumatoid arthritis demands a multidisciplinary approach that includes pharmacological control of inflammation; combinations of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and slow-acting anti-rheumatic drugs (SAARDs), which provide the basis for treatment; physical therapies, including general and specific exercises; educational programs; and psychological counseling. The paper relates that, especially for older patients, weight-bearing activities increase bone strength so that, in the case of a fall, there will be less likely to have a fracture.
Table of Contents
Introduction
Patient Perceptions
Surgeries Available
Exercise and Therapy
Conclusion
From the Paper "Physical activity and exercise is definitely a factor that can contribute to positive aging in general and RA prevention in particular, and has been researched methodically and thoroughly. Many researchers have focused on the mental and physical benefits that activity can bring to the elderly, who may be able to stave off physical deterioration by
engaging in an active lifestyle that highlights exercise and fitness. Although some studies have gone so far as to set the minimum time and intensity for physical activity, most agree that in terms of exercise, anything is better than nothing. "Updated ACR guidelines on the management of RA recommend that an optimal treatment strategy include physical therapy and regular participation in dynamic and aerobic exercise programs in addition to pharmacologic interventions."
Tags: research, exercise, synovial, drugs, surgery
Abstract This paper discusses the nursing management of rheumatoid arthritis. The paper discusses giving a diagnosis for rheumatoid arthritis and the main ways that the condition presents itself. It also suggests factors associated with its appearance and common clinical manifestations. The paper then goes on to review the role of nursing in the condition's management.
From the Paper "Nursing Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis Diagnosis According to Ryan and Oliver (2002, p. 45), rheumatoid arthritis is "an autoimmune symmetrical inflammatory arthritis of unknown cause". The condition involves inflammation of the lining of the joints and tendon sheaths of the body and thickening of the synovium and joint swelling. The condition mainly involves the hands and feet, but larger joints can also be affected. Factors associated with its appearance are infection, stress, and trauma. Clinical Manifestations The most common clinical manifestations, caused by the systemic nature of inflammation, are fever, weight loss, fatigue, anemia and lymph node enlargement."
Abstract This paper presents the case of 70 year old male with signs of possible arthritis and/or other comorbid states prevalent in the elderly. This paper highlights nursing assessment tools and techniques employed, identify risk factors, present nursing diagnoses and associated teaching plans, expected outcomes, interventions and evaluation criteria. This paper further provides detailed nursing interventions in the teaching plans for each nursing diagnosis provided.
From the Paper "According to Leenerts, Teel and Pendleton (2002) there are 35 million Americans over the age of 65 and that within the next 25 years that figure is expected to double to 70 million. It is believed that most of the individuals in this population have at least one chronic health disorder (Leenerts, Teel & Pendleton, 2002; Ferrell, Ferrell & Osterweil, 1990, Mobily, Herr, Clark & Wallace, 1994, and Roy & Thomas, 1987 as cited by David, Hiemenz & White, 2002). Helme, Katz, Gibson and Corran (1989 as cited by Davis, Hiemenz & White, 2002) state that arthritis is one of the primary causes of non-malignant pain suffered on a chronic basis by those aged 65 and above. "
Abstract This paper provides a description and explanation of the autoimmune disease - rheumatoid arthritis. The author lists the symptoms associated with this complaint as well as a few suggestions for treatment.
From the Paper "RA is an autoimmune disease that causes chronic inflammation of the joints. A joint is where two bones meet with cartilage in between the two bones which allows for movement of body parts. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) which is a chronic illness that can progress and be long lasting having the potential to destruct the joints and cause physical functional disability. Inflammation associated with RA usually leads to the destruction of the bone, ligaments, and cartilage causing a deformity of the joints. RA can affect other organs in the body which for these reasons they sometimes refer to RA as Rheumatoid Disease because it is considered a systemic illness. The most affected area associated with RA is the Synovial Membrane, this area is where the inflammation is and swelling occurs. RA causes healthy cells to be attacked, releasing enzymes that attack surrounding tissues (www.podiatrychannel.com/rheumatoidarthrits/.com )."
Abstract The paper explains that rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disease where antibodies meant to protect the body against infection end up attacking body tissue. The paper discusses the roles of a proper diet and nutritional supplements, exercise and optimism in building a strong and healthy immune system to fight this disease. The paper points out that if RA is left untreated, it can do serious damage to the various organs of the body.
From the Paper "Rheumatoid Arthitis (RA) is a disease that affects about 2.1 million Americans according to statistics from the Center for Disease Control (CDC). Although associated with senior citizens, the disease affects people of all ages including younger people. There is a form of RA that is common among young people called Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthitis. (JRA). JRA is believed to affect about 1 in 1000 children. RA affects women at higher rates than men and has been known to show up in certain families which leads scientists to believe it may be hereditary. RA is less common than ostheoarthristis which is caused by the wear in tear in the joints as people age. According to the book "Understanding Arthritis," by Stanton P. Newman, osthearthitis is found in the majority of people over the age of 75."
Tags: diet, exercise, optimism, inflammation, joints, antigens, immune, system
