OSTEOARTHRITIS

    A degeneration of joint material, including cartilage and bone, takes place when complex systems of mechanical injury, biological stress, biochemical irritation, and enzymatic or nutritional deficiencies are upset. There is no single cause for osteoarthritis. Healthy joints have such little friction that without some precipitating condition, they will never wear out. Apparently the amount of friction in the joint increases after repetitive injury, taking drugs for other conditions (many drugs affect joint and bone metabolism), toxic reactions to environmental pollution (pesticides, herbicides, food additives, etc.) trace nutrient deficiencies, or dietary habits that promote nutritional deficiencies (excessive coffee drinking, alcohol, limited diet selection. etc.). Osteoarthritic joints have less flexible cartilage and more infiltrated bones, causing the telltale enlarged joints on fingers. Exercise tends to pump nutrients in and wastes out of healthy cartilage. See the section on Arthritis in this book.


    * Exercise and movement are imperative. Some people who have complained of painful hands, especially in cold weather, have found relief by taking up knitting. Start each morning by washing the evening snack dishes by hand in hot water. Apply Pain-A-Trate to the affected joints. Take Replenex or Replenex Extra Strength for cartilage growth. ProVex and/or ProVex-Plus will help to reduce inflammation.
    It has been suggested that someone with osteoarthritis take the Vitality Pack with Oligofructose Complex, CellWise, Replenex, and ProVex-Plus. Drink 2 to 4 cups of Melaleuca Herbal Tea each day.