It is more common in older people and predominately affects the hands, knees, hips and spine. Osteoarthritis can also result when there are joint abnormalities, trauma or inflammatory conditions of the joints. Rhematoid arthritis is an inflammatory condition of the joints, and most likely an autoimmune condition. It usually affects younger people and most often affects the hands, wrists or ankles on both sides of the body. Besides the inflammation of the affected joints, it is often preceeded by fatigue, fever, weakness and joint pain or stiffness.
Natural medicine has a lot to offer in the treatment of both kinds of arthritis.
Diet for both types should be whole foods, lots of vegetables and fiber, low in animal fat, sugar, and refined carbohydrates. People with rheumatoid arthritis should also include lots of cold water fish and avoid foods they are allergic to. Both should include a good multi-vitamin mineral supplement daily. For osteoarthritis, a supplement of glucosamine sulphate is beneficial. For rheumatoid arthritis, a supplement of flaxseed oil and a supplement of betaine hydrochloride and pancreatic enzymes will be helpful.