Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease is a condition in which the body’s immune system dysfunctions and confuses “self” with “non-self.” The immune system begins attacking the body’s own cells. Any tissue or organ of the body can be targeted. Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder that primarily effects synovial joints of the body (i.e. hands, shoulder, knee, elbow). The disorder involves a deterioration of healthy synovial fluid in between bones, leading to a painful inflammatory response in the affected joint and can often lead to systemic inflammation over time (William C. Shiel Jr., 2011).
Posts Tagged ‘pain’
Tuesday, June 12th, 2012
Fibromyalgia is a syndrome of the muscles that affects major control areas of the body and can therefore manifest as a myriad of seemingly unrelated symptoms. People have widespread pain in the joints, muscles, tendons, and other soft tissue areas. In addition to pain, people with fibromyalgia also suffer from digestive problems and insomnia.
Tuesday, May 29th, 2012
NSAIDS stands for “non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs” and they are not healthy options for pain management.
They are common over-the-counter pain medications that reduce pain and inflammation. Unfortunately, they also have detrimental side effects. They inhibit an enzyme system called cyclooxygenase (COX). These enzymes are involved in the production of prostaglandins, messenger molecules that respond to inflammation in the body.
