Osteoarthritis is the most common form of joint disease, and is a chronic disorder of joint cartilage and surrounding tissues. It is a degenerative joint disease and is characterized by pain, stiffness, and loss of function.
Osteoarthritis most often begins with an abnormality of the cells (collagen and proteoglycans) that synthesize the components of cartilage. The slow, progressive changes seen in osteoarthritis consist of an increase in water content, decrease in the production of glucosamine, loss of proteoglycans, and reduction of PG aggregates in cartilage. The net result is failure of the cartilage to repair itself. Because of water retention, the cartilage may swell, become soft, and develop cracks on the surface. The bone beneath the cartilage is weakened as tiny cavities form on it. As this process progresses, the joint no longer moves smoothly as the cartilage becomes rough and pitted. Eventually, all of the parts of the joint fail, so the joint is altered.
Osteoarthritis can occur without any known cause (Primary), or it can be based on a known abnormality, overuse, or trauma (Secondary). In secondary Osteoarthritis, people in occupations that require repeated motions of one joint tend to develop Osteoarthritis. Obesity also tends to affect the occurrence of Osteoarthritis, particularly in women.
The chondrocytes control the synthesis of degradation of the ECM by affecting the production of collagen and proteogycans. The collagens provide tensile strength and maintenance of tissue volume and shape. Glucosamine is the basic building block of cartilage. The proteoglycans (PGs) provide the "stuffing material" for the matrix. The PGs consist of protein core and at least one or more glycosaminoglycan chains (chondroitin sulfate, keratan sulfate, and dermatan sulfate). These aggregates retain and maintain the water content of the cartilage because of their highly hydrophilic and anionic properties. This is what gives cartilage its resilience and load bearing properties.
There are many causes. Age-related changes in collagen-matrix repair mechanisms, reduction in the body's ability to produce glucosamine, altered biochemistry, fractures and mechanical damage, genetic predisposition, hormonal and sex factors, doube jointed/above average flexibility or joint instability, inflammation, inflammatory joint disease, and others.
Foods that have been proven to help with arthritis:
Omega 3 Fatty Acids, avocados and soy beans.
Other Nutrients that have been proven to help with arthritis:
Omega 3 and 6 essential fatty acids, Glucosamine, Chondroitins, Vitains C, E and B3, boron, boswellia, grape seed etract, Cat's Claw, turmeric, and ginger. Plant source digestive enzymes (i.e. protease, lipase, amylase) especially helpful are the proteolitic enzymes.
Exercises that have been proven to help with arthritis:
The National Institute of Health recognizes three types of exercise are best for people with arthritis: Range-of-motion exercises (i.e., dance) help maintain normal joint movement and relieve stiffness. This type of exercise helps maintain or increase flexibility.
Strengthening exercises (i.e., weight training) help keep or increase muscle strength. Strong muscles help support and protect joints affected by arthritis.
Aerobic or endurance exercises (i.e., bicycle riding, swimming) improve cardiovascular fitness, help control weight, and improve overall function. Weight control can be important to people who have arthritis because extra weight puts extra pressure on many joints. Some studies show that aerobic exercise can reduce inflammation in some joints.
Formula IV, Vitamin E Plus, Vitamin C, Full Motion,
Beta-Zyme Digestive Enzymes, Omega III Salmon Oil
***As set down by the Food and Drug Administration, vitamin supplement products cannot be advertised as intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.***

Chewable Vitamin C

Full Motion

Formula IV Multiple Vitamin

Vitamin E Plus

Alfalfa Plus Fiber

Beta-Zyme Digestive Enzymes

Omega III Salmon Oil Plus
Osteoarthritis is the most common form of joint disease, and is a chronic disorder of joint cartilage and surrounding tissues. It is a degenerative joint disease and is characterized by pain, stiffness, and loss of function.