This is an auto-immune disorder and a common form of inflammatory joint disease. It usually affects feet, ankles, fingers, and wrists. In the first stages, there is swelling of the joints and inflammation, this is later followed by erosion and loss of cartilage and bone. This condition can affect all age groups and both sexes although it has a higher prevalence in women and is more common in those aged 30 to 50. Rheumatoid arthritis is diagnosed by means of X-rays .

Symptoms:

The symptoms usually manifest slowly over time but there may be a rapid onset in some cases. Symptoms may include fatigue, a constant low-grade fever, anemia, weight loss, and stiffness. The affected joints will be inflamed and accompanied by tenderness, and pain, Deformities of the joints are likely to develop over time. In some cases, active symptoms may subside and a period of remission may follow.Treatment will include:
1. Dietary and lifestyle changes
2. Heavy metal toxicity or other environmental sensitivities and parasites may also be a factor to consider in treatment,
3. Physical therapy (such as massage) and light exercise to stimulate circulation after flare-ups have subsided.
4. Hot and cold compresses applied alternatively,
5. Intravenous ozone therapy,
6. Anti-inflammatory, and auto-immune medications,
7. Acupuncture.

Nutrients and supplements:
1. Joint Remedy – helps to maintain joint flexibility and mobility for pain-free movement. Repairs damaged cartilage. Prevents sore muscles and stiffness, and reduces inflammation. Speeds up muscle recovery. It enhances joint and bone fluid thus improving cushioning. It is used to treat both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
2. Arthritis Remedy – assists with arthritic conditions
3. MSM – is used for back, muscle, and joint pain, arthritis, headaches, fibromyalgia, and allergies. MSM helps reduce inflammation and repair joints and tissue.
4. Cellular Mineral caps – for swelling of one or more joints, body stiffness, and joint pain. Recurring pain and tenderness when moving joints, inability to move a joint. Unexplained weight loss, fever, or weakness combined with joint pain. Redness and warmth in a joint.
5. DMSO & Magnesium mineral oil rub – for painful joints
6. Auto-immune remedy – for balancing and healing the immune system when autoimmune diseases such as Lupus, MS, FMS, and Rheumatoid Arthritis are present.
7. Acid Remedy – is used for acidity, arthritis, heartburn, indigestion, and rheumatism. It will assist many other health problems and also balance your pH.
8. Immune Support – for supporting a low immune system and for auto-immune disorders
9. Vitamin B complex
10. Buffered Vitamin C – has anti-inflammatory properties so will aid in pain relief.

NOTE: Iron supplementation may be involved in pain, swelling, and joint destruction in RA sufferers, so this should be avoided wherever possible.

Causes:

RA is an autoimmune disorder resulting in your body’s immune system attacking healthy body tissues. The specific causes of RA are not yet known. Genetic factors may be involved, most people affected seem to have a particular antibody present (HLA-DR4)

Underlying Emotions:

Rigidity in life and relationships. Reluctance to ask for support, feelings of not being loved, resentment toward others over boundary issues. Feelings of being stuck in a cycle causing emotional turmoil.

Diet:

Increase intake of omega-3 and 6 fatty acids: vegetable, nut, seed oils, fish oils, walnuts, flaxseed oil, evening primrose oil, black currant oil.

Curcumin has potent anti-inflammatory properties. Ginger
Sesame seeds, kale, artichokes, green beans, millet, celery, barley, okra, almonds, collards, turnip greens, raw goat’s milk, goat whey and black mission figs, cherries, pineapple, quince, watercress, blackberries, black currants, mustard greens, limes, lettuce, and olive oil are all beneficial

Eliminate any potential allergen-causing foods from the diet, The following common foods that seem to aggravate arthritis are, milk products, wheat, and meat, also avoid nightshades (tomatoes, potatoes, eggplant, and peppers). Note: Some people have reported that citrus fruits have worsened their symptoms (although no clear link exists between inflammation and citrus), so eliminate from the diet if this is the case.

The following are associated with an increased risk of developing RA, high consumption of sodium, sugar (especially fructose), and meat.

Avoid caffeine, chocolate, and fizzy drinks

Remedies:

NOTE: Iron supplementation may be involved in pain, swelling, and joint destruction in RA sufferers, so this should be avoided wherever possible.