Category: Knee Osteoarthritis

Categories
Knee Osteoarthritis

Prescription Painkillers for Knee Pain

The first line of medication treatment to reduce knee pain is usually NSAIDs, however, sometimes opioids are used. But are they worth their risk?

The first line of medication treatment to reduce knee pain is usually NSAIDs, however, sometimes opioids are used. But are they worth their risk?

As we covered in previous articles, NSAIDs stand for Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and are used to treat inflammation, pain, and swelling. These medicines can be bought at the drugstore, grocery store, and even at one of your local gas stations.

They are common, they are everywhere, and they are helpful.

However, though NSAIDs are effective, they can be problematic when taken for long periods of time or at high doses. Higher doses and time spent taking these medications can increase the risk of gastrointestinal bleeding, and ulcers, and even lend themselves to cardiovascular problems. NSAIDs can also cause fluid retention and kidney problems.

For people with knee osteoarthritis who can not achieve adequate pain relief from over-the-counter medicines, or can not take them for other reasons, sometimes the prescription drug tramadol is used.

Tramadol, which is sold under the brand names Ultram®, Ultracet, and Ultram® ER (extended-release), among others, is an opioid pain medicine that is sometimes used to treat moderate to moderately severe pain. Belonging to a class of opiate analgesics, tramadol is a narcotic that works by changing the way the brain and the nervous system respond to pain.

When it comes to relieving acute pain, prescription painkillers are sometimes used because they can relieve acute pain very effectively. The most common of these are morphine, codeine, and oxycodone, among several others- and they are primarily used in emergency and intensive care situations to induce anesthesia or reduce severe pain.

Though prescription painkillers like tramadol are sometimes used to treat osteoarthritis knee pain, recent studies have shown evidence that they don’t necessarily work better than NSAIDs do. Not only that but opioids like tramadol have been shown to lose their effectiveness with time.

Recently, The Cochrane Review shared the results of some extensive research regarding the benefits and harms of tramadol for treating osteoarthritis. They examined 22 studies involving 3871 people taking tramadol and 2625 people in a comparator group.

What they found overall, was that compared with a placebo, the evidence showed that taking tramadol for up to three months had no important benefit on pain or function. They also found that many people in the tramadol group experienced side effects that led them to stop taking it, such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, constipation, tiredness, and headache.

Other studies have found that tramadol can be effective at relieving osteoarthritis pain in elderly sufferers, but, only when it is combined with acetaminophen ( Tylenol).

This makes one wonder if it’s the tramadol or the Tylenol that’s making the difference. In fact, a recent meta-analysis comparing NSAIDs and opioids for relief of knee osteoarthritis pain in over 5,500 patients found that on average, oral NSAIDs, less potent oral opioids (such as tramadol), and more potent oral opioids (such as oxycodone) all had similar efficacy and each reduced pain by about 30 percent.

There are also some studies that present evidence to support the claim that using opioids, such as tramadol to relieve osteoarthritis pain can actually make the condition worse. The problem is believed to be caused by the fact that opioids alter the perception of pain, but they do not do anything to help improve the symptoms of osteoarthritis.

Unlike NSAIDs, Tramadol doesn’t reduce inflammation and swelling, and it comes with its own set of side effects, ranging from nausea, vomiting, and dizziness, to addiction and even death.

Fortunately, most people do not need to take opioids for knee osteoarthritis, and most doctors will err on the side of caution when it comes to prescribing them. Though opioids, like tramadol, can be helpful in the short-term treatment of severe pain, in order to bridge the gap until a knee surgery or procedure can be performed- other than that, most find they are better off using NSAIDs for pain relief.

For those that wish to avoid taking medications as much as possible or who wish to focus on treating knee osteoarthritis directly, there are many other options. Not only can physical therapy and diet and lifestyle changes make a difference, but so can an invasive surgery such as a knee replacement, or a non-invasive procedure called Genticular Artery Embolization, which we specialize in here at MidAtlantic Vascular and Interventional.

The Bottom Line: Sometimes due to an inability to take NSAIDs due to gastrointestinal problems, cardiovascular risks, and kidney problems, a prescription opioid such as tramadol could be prescribed. However, even in these cases, the risks and potential problems that can come from using opioids may outweigh the benefits.

Categories
Knee Osteoarthritis

Frequent use of NSAIDs: Is it Worth the Risk?

In the United States, it is estimated that over 29 million people use over-the-counter pain medication such as aspirin or ibuprofen daily.

In the United States, it is estimated that over 29 million people use over-the-counter pain medication such as aspirin or ibuprofen daily.

You read that right.

29 million people are popping over-the-counter pain pills every day, for everything from back pain to joint pain, to knee osteoarthritis pain.

NSAIDs, which stands for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, are so widely used that they can be found everywhere from drugstores to supermarkets, airports, gas stations, and even in vending machines.

The most commonly used NSAIDs in the United States are:

  • Aspirin (available as a single ingredient known by various brand names such as Bayer® or St. Joseph® or combined with other ingredients known by brand names such as Anacin®, Ascriptin®, Bufferin®, or Excedrin®).
  • Ibuprofen (known by brand names such as Motrin® and Advil®).
  • Naproxen sodium (known by the brand name Aleve®).

Acetaminophen (Tylenol®) is sometimes mistakenly referred to as an NSAID, but it’s not. Though it is also a pain reliever and fever reducer, acetaminophen doesn’t have the anti-inflammatory properties of NSAIDs. However, acetaminophen is sometimes combined with aspirin in over-the-counter products, such as some varieties of Excedrin®.

Whether it’s NSAIDs or acetaminophen, the bottom line is that millions of Americans rely on these medications every day, to reduce aches and pains, inflammation, and joint pain, which brings in billions of dollars every year.

Consumer reports published the results of their research on the most popular over-the-counter pain medications, and the amount of money the sale of them brought in, in millions of US dollars, in 2019.

This is what they found:

Though these medications can be effective at reducing knee pain related to osteoarthritis, when used long-term, they can cause more harm than good.

In fact, the recommendation by the makers of these drugs is that they shouldn’t be used continuously for more than three days for fever, and 10 days for pain, unless it is under the suggestion and care of a physician.

Based on your particular situation, if your doctor gives you the green light to take NSAIDs for a longer period of time, it’s important to make sure that they monitor you for any harmful side effects. In which case, the medicine will need to be stopped entirely, and a different type of pain medicine or treatment will need to be administered.

Some common side effects like bloating, increased gas, heartburn, stomach pain, nausea, and constipation can generally be prevented by taking an NSAID with food, milk, or an antacid. However, if these symptoms continue even when combined with food, milk, or an antacid, it’s important to inform your doctor so the medication can be stopped and changed.

A few other common side effects of NSAIDs include:

  • Dizziness.
  • Feeling lightheaded.
  • Problems with balance.
  • Difficulty concentrating.
  • Mild headaches.

If these symptoms go on for more than a few days, stop taking the NSAID and call your doctor.

Though most of the aforementioned symptoms are mild and can be treated with another medicine, by reducing the amount taken, or switching medicines, some side effects are serious and when experienced should be followed by a call to your doctor immediately.

These serious side effects include:

  • Gastrointestinal/urinary
  • Black stools — bloody or black, tarry stools.
  • Bloody or cloudy urine.
  • Severe stomach pain.
  • Blood or material that looks like coffee grounds in vomit (bleeding may occur without warning symptoms like pain).
  • Inability to pass urine, or change in how much urine is passed.
  • Unusual weight gain.
  • Jaundice.
  • Head (vision, hearing, etc.):
  • Blurred vision.
  • Ringing in the ears.
  • Photosensitivity (greater sensitivity to light).
  • Very bad headache.
  • Change in strength on one side is greater than the other, trouble speaking or thinking, change in balance.

It’s also important to watch out for possible allergic reactions and other problems such as:

  • Fluid retention (recognized by swelling of the mouth, face, lips, or tongue, around the ankles, feet, lower legs, hands, and possibly around the eyes).
  • Severe rash or hives or red, peeling skin.
  • Itching.
  • Unexplained bruising and bleeding.
  • Wheezing, trouble breathing, or unusual cough.
  • Chest pain, rapid heartbeat, palpitations.
  • Acute fatigue, flu-like symptoms.
  • Very bad back pain.
  • Feeling very tired and weak.

Due to the risks involved in taking medications, some would rather avoid them as much as possible. Fortunately,  medication is not the only option when it comes to reducing knee pain caused by osteoarthritis. Nor is major surgery, such as knee replacement surgery, and other invasive procedures with long recovery periods.

Though some patients benefit from all sorts of other treatments ranging from injecting medication called corticosteroids or hyaluronic acid which can be injected when knee pain becomes severe- many find great benefits from Genticular Artery Embolization, which we specialize in here at MidAtlantic Vascular and Interventional.

To learn more about this state-of-the-art procedure to reduce knee pain and increase mobility, please call and set up a consultation with us today!

In our next article, we will look into the use of prescription painkillers that are sometimes used to treat osteoarthritis knee pain and the risks that come along with choosing these particular types of medication for pain relief.

 

Categories
Knee Osteoarthritis

Finding Relief From Knee Pain

It is estimated that over 800,000 Americans get knee replacement surgery every year and even more people experience daily knee pain.

It is estimated that 800,000 Americans get knee replacement surgery every year, however, the number of people that have painful knee osteoarthritis is significantly more.

This means that many people in this country and worldwide, are suffering from the debilitating knee pain that comes with untreated osteoarthritis.  Which as a result, can interfere greatly with their daily lives, and limit what they can and can not do.

No one deserves to live with the significant pain, limited physical capabilities, and reduced quality of life that comes from living with untreated knee conditions. Especially with the many treatment options that are available.

The most common method of finding relief from knee pain due to osteoarthritis is through the use of medications or injections.

Though these methods may be helpful for those with milder cases of knee osteoarthritis, these types of treatments only offer temporary relief, and often come with a slew of unwanted side effects, and other health risks.

The most common medications taken to provide some relief from knee pain belong to a class of medications called NSAIDs.

NSAID stands for “nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs”. Examples of these commonly used nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medicines are aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, and some narcotics.

Though helpful in the short term, long-term use of these medications can lead to serious side effects.

The most common side effects of NSAIDs are gastrointestinal problems, including stomach irritation and reflux. It has also been reported that in some cases NSAIDs can contribute to heart problems and increase the risk of cardiovascular conditions.

Other side effects associated with using NSAIDs:

• Stomach irritation and ulcers
• Gastrointestinal (GI) bleeding
• Increased potential for bruising
• Exacerbation of asthma symptoms
• Increased risk of stroke, heart attack, and blood clots
• Kidney damage

Another NSAID that is used to relieve osteoarthritis pain is a prescription-strength medication called celecoxib, also known by its brand name Celebrex.

This medication is more likely to be prescribed to patients that can not take some of the other over-the-counter NSAIDs due to stomach issues, as celecoxib is less likely to cause gastrointestinal bleeding. However,  there is evidence to suggest that celecoxib can contribute to the development of heart problems.

Some people can not take NSAIDs for a variety of reasons, in which case they might opt to take acetaminophen to relieve pain, also known by the brand name Tylenol.

Acetaminophen can relieve pain but does little to reduce inflammation. And, though it is widely used to treat pain, most doctors do not recommend acetaminophen as it is more likely to harm the liver than some of the other pain-relieving options that are available. In fact, too much acetaminophen can not only cause liver damage but can even lead to death.

Furthermore, some studies have even found that acetaminophen does little to help relieve osteoarthritis pain, especially when compared to the efficacy of NSAIDs.

When it comes to severe knee pain, another common pain reliever is a type of medication called an analgesic. These medicines are commonly known as “painkillers” and they work by blocking pain signals in the body. Though acetaminophen is technically an analgesic, the term is more often used to describe prescription painkillers such as tramadol, and opioids containing hydrocodone or oxycodone.

In our next article, we will dive deeper into looking at medications that are commonly used by those suffering from knee pain by focusing on their benefits as well as their risks.

In the meantime, if you would like to learn more about a non-invasive procedure to treat knee osteoarthritis, so as to avoid knee replacement surgery and the overuse of pain relievers, please call us today to set up a consultation at MidAtlantic Vascular and Interventional, 301-622-5360.

 

Categories
Knee Osteoarthritis

Enjoying the Fall, Pain Free

Though we can not control fluctuating temperatures during the changing of the seasons, we can take action to lessen the impact it can have on our bodies.

Though we can not control fluctuating temperatures during the changing of the seasons, we can take action to lessen the impact it can have on our bodies.

In our last article, we took a look at 5 simple ways to decrease weather-related knee pain, which were:

  • Turn up the heat and keep those joints warm by keeping your home warm.
  • Wear warm clothing to keep your body warm, especially when going outdoors, be sure to layer up.
  • Take warm showers and baths to help boost circulation and soothe achy joints.
  • Exercise even though it’s tempting to cuddle up under a warm blanket all day, by moving your joints, will help decrease joint pain, and make you feel better all around. If it’s too cold out, try walking on the treadmill, or swimming in an indoor pool.
  • Stretch those joints with some yoga, and light stretching. Even stretching for just 10 minutes is enough to make a positive impact.

All of these recommendations are effective and 100% doable, but it gets even better than that…because…there’s more!

Here are five more easy solutions to decreasing weather-related joint pain, so that you can enjoy the fall and all the joy and activities that can come with it.

1. Hydrate

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. Our muscles and bones are composed of a high percentage of water, and keeping them hydrated is crucial to the health and function of our bodies. If the weather is cold, try adding a few cups of tea to your daily water intake. Not only will this aid in hydration but it can also help warm up the body, which on a chilly day is definitely a win-win.


2. Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs)

Depending on the severity and frequency of pain, you may wish to speak with your doctor about taking anti-inflammatory NSAIDs, like ibuprofen, on days when the fluctuating temperature is aggravating your joints. NSAIDs can be very helpful at reducing pain and inflammation in the short term, however, they can interact with many other medications, so it’s important to speak with your doctor or pharmacist first.


3. Get Enough Sleep

Being sure that you are getting enough sleep is important for overall health, regardless of the changing weather. However, this may mean that you’ll need to make some adjustments to your sleep routine due to the days getting shorter, and thereby getting darker, earlier.


4. Eat Healthy Nutritious Food

This one may be obvious in its benefits for overall health including knee health- however, its benefits can be particularly helpful for those of us that are sensitive to weather fluctuations. Eating a diet that is high in anti-inflammatory foods, like those found in the Mediterranean Diet, can help keep inflammation low and reduce joint pain, regardless of the weather.


5. Stay Positive

Staying positive doesn’t mean that you should ignore your knee pain, but it does mean that you can change your attitude about it.

When the body hurts, it’s trying to communicate with us. This is valuable information that we can be grateful for. This information could mean we need an extra layer or two, or maybe we need to rest more, eat better, call a friend, take a walk, watch a movie, and just plain take good care of ourselves. And when it comes to weather-related knee pain, stay positive by reminding yourself that this too shall pass.

The Bottom Line: No matter how your body responds to the ever-changing weather, there is always something you can do to help ease any pain and discomfort. That being said, if your joint pain is persistent and interfering with your life, it should definitely be addressed by speaking with your doctor, and seeing if any further treatment may be necessary

Fortunately, there are many excellent treatment options to reduce joint part, and in particular knee pain caused by osteoarthritis. One of the best treatment options is a procedure that we specialize in here at MidAtlantic Vascular and Interventional called Genicular Artery Embolization. To learn more about this procedure give us a call today.

In the meantime, as the weather changes from summer to fall, get out the sweaters, and the blankets, and make your favorite cup of tea. Then get ready to cuddle up with a good book, a movie, or a long chat with a friend, while you enjoy the relief that comes from keeping those knee joints warm and cozy.

Categories
Knee Osteoarthritis

Reducing Weather Related Joint Pain

Preceding every change in temperature comes a change in barometric pressure which can increase knee pain and stiffness.

“In the Spring, I have counted 136 different kinds of weather inside of 24 hours.”

– Mark Twain

Preceding every change in temperature comes a change in barometric pressure which can increase knee pain and stiffness.

So why is this?

The general consensus among experts is that the increase in joint pain that can precede a weather change is due to changes in barometric pressure. When it is about to rain, the barometric pressure decreases, and this decrease in air pressure can cause the tissue surrounding the joints to expand. As a result of the expanding tissue, muscles, and tendons, more pressure is put on the joints which can increase pain.

Unfortunately, there is nothing we can do to control the ever-changing weather, however, there are plenty of things we can do to lessen the impact that these changes can have on our bodies, and more specifically our knees.

Here are 10 things you can do to keep knee pain at bay during barometric pressure and temperature changes.

1. Keep your home warm.

This one may be a bit obvious, but it’s worth mentioning nonetheless.

Making sure to keep your heater running, and even turning it up a bit first thing in the morning, can help keep weather-induced swelling at bay. And, along with heating your home, some find using an electric blanket or a heating pad can be helpful to keep the body and joints warm.


2. Wear warm clothes

Another action that can help decrease joint paint is to wear warm clothes- especially if you plan to venture outdoors. This includes putting on a hat and gloves and making an effort to layer up. The warmer you keep your body, the less it will be impacted by the changing temperature and air pressure.

3. Take warm showers and baths

Taking a warm shower or bath can help boost circulation, and soothe achy joints as your body absorbs the heat. It can also calm the nerves and help relieve stress which can positively affect overall health and wellbeing.

4. Exercise

Though it’s tempting to just curl up under a warm blanket in a warm house, no matter what the weather, exercise is one of the best things to do to keep joint pain at bay.

Though it may feel uncomfortable to be active during cold and rainy low air pressure days, moving the body and the joints can reduce joint pain and stiffness.

Simply walking on a treadmill, swimming in a heated pool, and stretching in a hot tub can all be helpful.

5. Stretch

Light stretching can go a long way when it comes to relieving joint pain, even on rainy days. Even just 10 minutes of stretching can make a difference.

Try doing any of the aforementioned suggestions above, and you may find that your weather-related joint pain is greatly decreased- and your mood is increased as well.

Just because we can’t control the ever-changing weather, doesn’t mean we have to just deal with the additional joint pain and discomfort that can come with it.

These five things can definitely make a difference, and that’s not all!

In our next article, we will take a look at five more easy actions that can be done to decrease joint pain aggravated by fluctuations in barometric pressure and temperature. With a little awareness and a pinch of effort, these simple tasks can have you feeling better, no matter what the weather brings.

 

Categories
Knee Osteoarthritis

Pain Before the Storm

When it comes to the effect that an upcoming rainstorm can have on our joints, the research backing this occurrence is mixed.

When it comes to people experiencing an increase in knee pain before a rainstorm, the research backing this occurrence is mixed.

Maybe you’ve heard a relative or friend predict a rainstorm based on an ache in their joints, or maybe you’ve experienced it. Is it possible?

A recent study published in the British Medical Journal found no connection between rainy weather and increased joint pain. The researchers came to this conclusion by looking at more than 11 million medical visits that occurred on rainy days versus dry days and found that there was not only an increase during rainy days but there was in fact an increase on dry days. That being said, this could be due to people being more likely to cancel or postpone a medical visit during bad weather.

Another study published in Arthritis Care & Research, took a look at the weather at the time that the study participants first began to experience arthritis symptoms, and compared it to the weather a week or a month before the symptoms first appeared.

What they found was that there was no link between joint pain, rain, or temperature. However, further research has shown that the impact of the outside environment on joint pain is real, it just isn’t necessarily caused by the type of weather or the temperature. It’s caused by a change in something known as barometric pressure.

A study published in The American Journal of Medicine followed 200 patients for three months and found that their knee pain did in fact increase when the temperature dropped due to the drop in the air pressure.

Furthermore, another study that looked at 712 people with osteoarthritis, found that 469 people (69%) reported that their joint pain is weather sensitive. However, again, it wasn’t the type of weather or the temperature that caused this, but the change in barometric pressure.

So what is barometric pressure?

Barometric pressure is the measurement of air pressure in the atmosphere. More specifically it is the measure of the weight exerted by air molecules.

Barometric pressure is measured and analyzed by meteorologists so that they can track weather changes and predict storms. When the barometric pressure changes, the weather changes as well.

So how does a change in barometric pressure cause an increase in knee pain?

Though the exact reason for this increase in knee pain is unknown, most experts agree that a decrease in air pressure pushes less against the body, thus allowing the tissue to swell and expand. This expansion of tissue can thereby put more pressure on the joints, and cause an increase in pain, as well as tightness, stiffness, and overall discomfort.

Some of the other possible reasons for the increase in pain based on weather and barometric pressure changes are:

  1. The cartilage is worn down in the joints of those with knee osteoarthritis which exposes nerve endings. These nerve endings are sensitive to pressure changes and result in pain.
  2. Changes in barometric pressure can cause expansion and contraction of the ligaments, tendons, and cartilage within the joints. Which as a result, causes an increase in knee pain.
  3. The viscous fluid in the joints, which reduces friction between the bones actually becomes thicker in cold weather, which increases joint stiffness and pain.
  4. Cold and wet weather often causes people to be less active. Therefore without proper exercise, inactivity worsens joint pain and stiffness.

Fortunately, the impact that the changes in weather and barometric pressure have on knee pain is temporary. When these changes occur, our bodies will eventually either adjust to the change or return to normal when the air pressure increases.

Even though the research regarding a connection between weather changes and knee pain is not entirely clear in either direction, most doctors and people with knee osteoarthritis will agree that in their personal experience, a connection indeed exists.

Unfortunately, there is nothing we can do to prevent the weather and barometric pressure from fluctuating, however, there are things we can do to help lessen the impact that these changes have on our joints.

In our next article, we will take a look at a few simple things that can be done to decrease pain during times of air pressure fluctuation and temperature changes.

Categories
Knee Osteoarthritis

Drinking Water For Your Health

You may want to drink a few extra glasses of water once you find out the benefits it can have on your health and your knees.

Before you reach for that morning cup of coffee, you may want to drink a glass of water, especially when you find out the benefits this can have on your health, including your knee osteoarthritis.

Drinking adequate amounts of water, as most of us already know, has many health benefits. It keeps our skin healthy and clear, it helps control our blood pressure, and it helps us maintain a healthy digestive system. Staying hydrated can also aid in the prevention of kidney disease, help with weight loss and weight management, it can boost our energy levels, and improve our mood. And, on top of all that, drinking enough water can help support our joints and reduce osteoarthritic knee pain.

All of that from just drinking water?

Yes.

Today, let’s focus on the effect drinking enough water specifically has on the health of our knees.

Believe it or not, most of the water in our bodies is stored in our connective tissues and joints. This means that it is critical for our tendons, ligaments, etc, to be supplied with enough water, as it lubricates these joints and flushes out toxins. This also means that when you’re dehydrated, these joints can become inflamed, and cause a dramatic increase in knee pain.

One of the ways water helps the knees specifically is through its ability to help create synovial fluid.

Synovial fluid is a thin layer of fluid that provides essential nutrients to the joints and keeps them lubricated. And, according to a study published by the Journal of The National Library of Medicine, this fluid also reduces friction created when moving the joints. Without enough water, this friction increases and leads to more knee pain.

Making sure you are getting enough water, is also crucial for your cartilage.

Cartilage is the strong and flexible tissue that covers the ends of our bones. Protecting the bones, cartilage allows the bones to glide over each other, rather than rubbing against one another. In fact, it is estimated that roughly 65 to 80 percent of our cartilage is made up of water. Therefore, by drinking enough water, the cartilage stays hydrated and soft, and the production of synovial fluid is stimulated, thus decreasing pain and reducing inflammation.

Proper hydration also supports the blood supply needed to keep the body working properly, and thereby protects our organs. It also helps our muscles to function properly- which in turn, helps with our joint function which increases mobility and decreases knee pain.

So how much water should we drink to get these benefits?

Well, before you go chugging glass after glass of water, it’s important to know that though the recommendation is about 1 to 1 1/2 liters of water a day- this water shouldn’t be consumed all at once. Instead, medical experts recommend staying hydrated gradually, throughout the day.

Experts also agree that the best time to get that first full glass of water is first thing in the morning. After a night of sleep, the body hasn’t been getting any hydration, so it’s important to start the day by beginning to replenish the supply.

Furthermore, experts recommend that we should aim to drink a cup of water with each meal, in between each meal, and always drink water before and after exercise. It is also recommended to carry a water bottle with you, as a reminder to drink water, and for an easy-to-access source of it.

The main objective of drinking enough water is to increase the health and healing abilities of the body- And, of course, to prevent dehydration. The side effects and risks associated with dehydration can wreak havoc on your body and your day-to-day life.

Some of the side effects of dehydration include:

– Headache
– Dizziness or lightheadedness
– Sleepiness
– Decrease in urination
– Dark yellow- or amber-colored urine
– Decreased skin elasticity
– Dry mouth and mucous membranes (lips, gums, nostrils)
– Low blood pressure

Not only can dehydration cause those side effects, but it can be specifically harmful to the knees and cause:

Loss of Joint Lubrication: Water is a major component of the synovial joint fluid which prevents friction between the ends of bones and enables smooth painless movement.

Reduced Shock Absorption: Water makes up greater than 70% of the cartilage tissue which acts as a shock absorber during high-impact activities such as jumping and running.

Increases Muscle Cramping: Dehydration can cause muscle spasms and cramping leading contributing to joint pain.

Joint Degeneration: Chronic dehydration can result in loss of blood volume sparking of chain reaction resulting in overall functional decline and joint degeneration.

Fortunately, dehydration can be avoided.

All it takes is a little awareness, and a little extra effort to make drinking water a part of your daily life. It may take some getting used to, especially if you’re not in the habit of keeping a water bottle with you, however with some practice, it can easily become a part of your day-to-day routine.

So next time, don’t wait until you’re thirsty to get that glass of water. Instead, start your day with it, and go from there.

Categories
Knee Osteoarthritis

Soda and Knee Osteoarthritis

There is a connection between the development of knee osteoarthritis and the regular consumption of soft drinks.

Research has shown a connection between knee osteoarthritis and the regular consumption of soft drinks.

In one of the studies that found this connection, the researchers kept track of the amount of soda consumed by 2,000 men diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis, over a four-year period.

After years of regularly measuring their cartilage and accessing their knees health, the team of researchers found that the men with the fastest progression of knee osteoarthritis were indeed those that drank the most soda.

It’s easy to assume that the connection between drinking soda and worsening knee osteoarthritis is related to the connection that drinking soda has to weight issues and obesity. Of course, there is a research-backed connection between soda consumption and obesity. And, there is a research-backed connection between obesity and an increased risk of knee osteoarthritis. However, the results of the aforementioned study found that amongst the 2,000 men with knee osteoarthritis that drank soda, the men with the worst progression, were not necessarily overweight or obese. In fact, weight had little to do with it.

Most researchers purport that the reason behind the adverse relationship between soda drinking and worsening knee problems is the amount of refined sugar in these beverages. The high sugar content in soda causes a spike in blood sugar which creates stress on the body and as a result, triggers inflammation. In the case of daily soda drinking, this inflammation can become chronic.

At this point, you might be thinking, “Ok, that all makes sense, but this study looked only at men. So what about women with knee osteoarthritis that drink soda? Does it adversely affect them as well?”

Why, yes. Of course, it does. Furthermore, thanks to the research studies that looked at the impact of soda drinking on women’s health, we now have a better understanding of the intricacies of the relationship between high sugar content and inflammation. It involves a little something called uric acid.

Uric acid is a waste product found in our blood, that usually dissolves and passes through the kidneys, and then leaves the body through urine. Uric acid is created when the body breaks down chemicals called purines, which are found in some food and drinks.

Soda is high in purines due to its high fructose content, which causes the body to respond by creating more uric acid. Too much uric acid in the body leads to the production of crystals that are deposited in the joints, resulting in inflammation, increased pain, and can even cause gout, which is a form of very painful arthritis.

According to a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association, women who consume soda on an almost daily basis, have a 75 percent higher risk of experiencing inflammation and even joint damage from uric acid.

And it gets even worse.

A study conducted at Tufts University found that women who consume three or more sodas a day have a bone density that is nearly 4% lower than those who do not drink soda. Not only does this decrease in bone density exacerbate osteoarthritis, but it also greatly increases the risk of osteoporosis. Yikes.

So what does this mean? No more soda…ever?

Though that’s probably a good idea, depending on your particular health issues, most doctors will agree that drinking soda on occasion is usually ok. However, for those of us with knee osteoarthritis, soda consumption should be extremely limited and exist only as a very minor part of an overall healthy diet.

That being said, given the connection between soda and obesity, diabetes, osteoporosis, and increased knee osteoarthritis, the best bet for all of us may be to reach for a cool crisp glass of water instead.

 

Categories
Knee Osteoarthritis

Pain from Soda?

Soda, diet soda, and its many flavors and brands are not only unhealthy, but they can cause increased knee pain.

Most of us know that soda, diet soda, and the many flavors and brands of it, are not considered to be a part of a healthy diet. In fact, far from it. And, for those of us with knee osteoarthritis, it may be best to avoid it altogether.

If you’ve read some of our previous articles that took a look at the connection between being overweight and knee osteoarthritis, you may think that the issue with soda is the potential for weight gain.

Yes, that is true, as sodas a packed full of sugar- and when consumed in excess it can lead to obesity, diabetes, and even osteoporosis- however, there is more to it than that.

According to a recent study conducted at Harvard University, drinking too much soda can increase knee pain, especially in men. Researchers kept track of the soft drink consumption of more than 2,000 men who had a diagnosis of knee osteoarthritis. These men were asked to come in regularly over a four-year period, where the researchers studied the progression of their knee osteoarthritis and measured their cartilage in order to check for any changes in thickness. Upon analyzing all of the data collected, the study found that the men with the fastest progression of knee osteoarthritis were indeed those who drank the most soda.

This information probably isn’t too surprising. It makes sense that men who drink a lot of soda are more likely to do so along with a not-so-healthy diet. In the western fast food diet, soda tends to pair well with foods that are high in trans fats, red meat, and sugar- Think of a McDonald’s value meal.

So yes, that makes sense. However, believe it or not, that wasn’t what the research found. In fact, the men who were the heaviest did not have the most knee arthritis. Those with the greatest progression of knee osteoarthritis were the soda drinkers that were thin.

What??

You read that right.

The study found that the impact of soda intake on knee osteoarthritis is independent of the wear and tear on the joints that are caused by simply being overweight. So what is causing it then? What is it about soda that could increase the progression of knee osteoarthritis in men?

Inflammation.

When a soda, which is high in refined sugar, is consumed this causes a major spike in blood sugar, which creates stress on the body and triggers inflammation. Add up that response to drinking soda several times a day, and you’re looking at a case of chronic inflammation and of course, increased knee pain and injury.

So does this mean that men with knee osteoarthritis can never drink soda again?

Though that would be a great idea, it’s not entirely necessary as long as your soda intake is very limited and is only an occasional part of an overall healthy diet and lifestyle. That being said, when it comes to your knee health, you may want to think twice before popping that can of soda and opt for a nice cool glass of water instead.

Categories
Knee Osteoarthritis

Alcohol Use and Knee Osteoarthritis

When consumed too often, or in excess, alcoholic beverages can have serious effects on your brain, your overall health, and...your knees.

When consumed in moderation, a glass of wine with a nice meal or an ice-cold margarita on the beach can be an enjoyable treat. However, when consumed too often, or in excess, alcoholic beverages can have serious effects on your brain, your overall health, and…your knees.

Yes. You read that right. Too much alcohol can adversely impact your knees, especially in those of us already diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis.

The problem with alcohol is that it can trigger an inflammatory response in the body which can aggravate joint pain caused by osteoarthritis. Too much alcohol can also adversely affect immune function, which can inhibit the joints from healing.

In 2019 a study at the University of California took a deeper look at the link between alcohol consumption and knee osteoarthritis. The researchers measured the effect that a 12-month period of alcohol consumption had on the knees of 2,061 participants.

Using MRI imaging, and T2 mapping- which provides more sensitive information on the cartilage including its collagen fiber orientation, the scientists were able to determine that there is indeed a connection between alcohol consumption and knee issues.

In fact, they found that those participants that consumed 1-7 drinks per week, on average, had worse cartilage biochemical composition. And, in addition to that, they found that alcohol use was also negatively associated with cartilage and meniscus joint morphology.

Though this and other studies back the claim that alcohol use has a negative effect on knee health, the predominant information available to us seems to say the opposite. Even the American Heart Association has stated that “drinking alcohol in moderation is associated with a reduced rate of heart disease-related mortality in some patients”. This claim has led many people with various ailments including osteoarthritis, to think that drinking alcohol will actually help them. Especially drinking red wine.

We’ve all heard the many health benefits of antioxidant, reservatol, and flavonoid-rich red wine. We’ve heard that it’s “heart healthy” and can reduce inflammation, lower bad cholesterol, and even help reduce the risk of certain cancers. However, the reality is, for many of us, the risks associated with consuming alcohol, even red wine, may outweigh the benefits.

Some of the most common adverse effects of excessive alcohol consumption include, but are not limited to:

Accidents, violence, and suicide
Certain types of cancer
Heart failure
High blood pressure
Liver and pancreas diseases
Stroke
Weight gain and obesity

Alcohol can also interact with many medications that are used to treat and reduce knee osteoarthritis pain. These interactions can not only inhibit the efficacy of the medicine but can also cause serious, even life-threatening health complications as well.

The Bottom Line: Though consuming alcohol, particularly red wine in limited amounts may have its health benefits, it is not a recommended part of any treatment plan for knee osteoarthritis or any medical condition for that matter.

Consuming even a moderate amount of alcohol can have an inflammatory effect that can aggravate degenerative joint pain and autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis. Alcohol can also inhibit healing in the body, and, in particular, the knees.

Therefore, if you do choose to drink alcohol it should be done so as a very small and occasional part of a healthy diet, and a healthy lifestyle.