1. a wrapping of inflatable cuffs around the calves and thighs
   a group of rheumatic diseases and conditions that can cause stiffness, pain and swelling of the joints
2. the muscles, internal organs and bones
   a condition that affects the extremities and the heart

The term arthritis means "joint inflammation." However, it is actually a group of rheumatic diseases and conditions that cause stiffness, pain, and swelling of the joints. In addition, certain conditions can affect other parts of the body, including the bones, internal organs and muscles. If it is not diagnosed, it can cause irreversible damage to the joints.

1. 46 million
   500,000
2. 10,000
   50

The Arthritis Foundation reports that 46 million Americans suffer from rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis, and other conditions that are related to arthritis. This includes gout, fibromyalgia, lupus, juvenile arthritis and Lyme disease. Arthritis is the primary source of disability throughout the United States.

1. in the '60s
   in the '70s
2. since the beginning of time
   the 1920s

Arthritis has been affecting people since the beginning of time. It is not just a modern-day disease. Even though it has been around forever, conventional medicine has still not proven how arthritis happens.

1. True
2. False

The neck and back have joints between the bones of the spine. In fact, there are many different types of joints. Their types of motion may be different, but their internal structure is basically the same. They are covered with a layer of cartilage and surrounded by a capsule filled with fluid.

1. men only
   women only
2. more women than men
   more men than women

RA affects more women than men. Basically, the immune system goes haywire and identifies the synovial membrane as a foreign substance. Pain, inflammation and eventual destruction of the cartilage can occur. The tissue gets damaged and is replaced with scar tissue, then the bones fuse together.

1. cancer
   too much exercise
2. fungal, bacterial or viral infection
   all of the above

Arthritis can be caused by a fungal, bacterial or viral infection. For example, streptococci, staph infection or Candida infection can travel to the joints through the bloodstream and eventually throughout the body. Surgery or even an injury can end up as a joint infection. Unfortunately, certain cancer treatments may increase the risk of RA as well.

1. Lupus
   Fibromyalgia
2. RA
   degenerative joint disease

Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease. It involves the deterioration of cartilage that protects the ends of the bones. It is most commonly caused by aging and normal wear and tear of the body including diet and lifestyle.

1. the brain
   weight-bearing joints
2. the heart
   the feet

Osteoarthritis affects the weight-bearing joints, including the back, knees and hips. However, it can also affect the knuckles and the hands.

1. Gout
   blurred vision
2. cataracts
   hair loss

Gout is an acute form of inflammatory arthritis that often appears in people who eat rich, high-fat foods and indulge in alcohol on a regular basis. Gout was called the "rich man's disease" and is often seen in people who are overweight. It typically appears in the feet, including the big toe, or in the smaller joints in the hands. Uric acid crystalizes in the joint and causes redness, a heat sensation, and swelling with intense pain.

1. a carbohydrate
   a protein
2. an enzyme
   a sugar

Bromelian is an enzyme that comes from pineapple It may help reduce the inflammation of arthritis, but evidence in inconclusive at best.

1. Essential Fatty Acids
   Empty Fatty Assets
2. Essential Folic Acid

Essential fatty acids (EFA) are important for people dealing with arthritis. Omega-3 fatty acids are abundant in some fish, including anchovies, herring, sardines, tuna and salmon. EFAs help control the pain and inflammation in those with arthritis.

1. Silica
   MSM
2. Vitamin E
   Sea cucumber

Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that helps protect the joints from damage caused by free radicals. If you are taking any medication, especially medicine to thin the blood, ask your doctor before you start taking Vitamin E.

1. a protein source
   an antioxidant
2. a vitamin
   a trace mineral

Boron is a trace mineral that is needed for healthy bones. It also helps the body absorb calcium. Boron can also reduce LOX and COX-2 enzymes, which in turn will help reduce inflammation in the body.

1. bones
   tendons
2. ligaments
   brain

Glucosamine sulfate is very important for the formation of ligaments, bones, tendons, and cartilage. It is also important for synovial (joint) fluid and can be taken in supplement form. Always follow label directions on any glucosamine supplement.

1. Enzyme loss
   Bone loss
2. Blood loss

Calcium and magnesium are important for the prevention of bone loss, and their ratio should be balanced. They function as electrolytes, which are important for communication between nerve and muscle cells.

1. Fibromyalgia
   ADD
2. Rheumatoid arthritis
   OA

Juvenile rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is the most common form of arthritis in children. Symptoms vary in children and there is no single test that establishes the condition. Heredity appears to play a role; however, scientists believe that the environment can also trigger RA.

1. tingling and numbness in the fingers
   nerve damage in the knee
2. numbness in the forearm

Carpal tunnel syndrome occurs when there is pressure on the median nerve in the wrist, causing numbness and tingling in the fingers. It can come on gradually or begin suddenly and may be related to another disease such as RA. It is important to treat carpal tunnel syndrome early for a complete recovery.

1. RA
   Scleroderma
2. OA
   Fibromyalgia

Scleroderma is a disease of the connective tissue in the body that causes a thickening and hardening of the skin. It can also affect the internal organs, blood vessels and joints.

1. living while female
   smoking
2. obesity
   all of the above

Some risk factors - such as being female or having a family history of arthritis - can't be helped. However, maintaining healthy habits in general may reduce your risk of developing arthritis.

1. an antioxidant
   a vitamin and mineral
2. shark cartilage

Pycnogenol is a powerful antioxidant that comes from French maritime pine bark. It functions as an anti-inflammatory, improves circulation and reduces blood pressure. It has anti-allergic properties as well.

1. an antioxidant
   a detoxifier
2. a vitamin and mineral

L-cysteine is an amino acid. It serves as a detoxifier that is essential for a strong immune system. This supplement comes with a host of potential side effects, so speak with your doctor before using.

1. damage from free radicals
   bone formation
2. kelp formation

Garlic is not only good for the heart, it also fights free radicals (toxins, chemicals, and pollutants) in the body. Free radicals can damage joints. You can add garlic to your favorite recipes and meals or take in supplement form. Look for odorless forms if you are concerned about the smell.

1. Cat's fever
   Cat's claw
2. Cat's sulfur

Cat's claw is an herb that is very helpful relieving arthritis pain in the body. However, you do not want to take cat's claw when pregnant or nursing.

1. cystitis
   cat's claw
2. capsicum

Hot peppers contain capsaicin, which can be very helpful in relieving pain by preventing the release of substance P - a neurotransmitter that communicates pain sensations in the body. You can absorb capsaicin through your skin.

1. lettuce and tomatoes
   broccoli, eggs, onions and garlic
2. white potatoes
   salty foods

If you are dealing with arthritis, you should eat more sulfur-containing foods, such as broccoli, eggs, onions and garlic. Sulfur helps to rebuild and repair bone, connective tissue and cartilage.

1. peppers and tomatoes
   pineapple and apples
2. wheat, rye and rice

Wheat, rye and rice contain an amino acid known as histidine that helps remove excess metals from the body. Many people dealing with arthritis have high levels of iron and copper, and these foods help eliminate them.

1. salt
   red wine
2. citrus fruits

While taking NSAIDs or ibuprofen for arthritis, you want to avoid excess salt and salty foods because they cause water retention and swelling. If you take these medications, be sure to do so with food.

1. plums
   red grapes
2. pears
   chicken

Boron is a trace mineral found in pears, red grapes, plums, apples and avocados. You can also find it in nuts and legumes, red wine and coffee. Dried fruits contain a higher amount of boron. Boron is needed for healthy bones.

1. warm castor oil
   a cold bath
2. cold pack

Warm castor oil rubs work quite well for pain relief of arthritis. Heat castor oil in a pan without boiling it and then use a piece of cheesecloth or washcloth and apply to the affected area. In general, ice is best for injuries and heat is best for chronic pain.

1. water
   food allergy
2. coffee and tea

Allergies can trigger inflammation throughout the body and many people with arthritis often suffer neck and shoulder pain. Relief is often experienced when the trigger foods are eliminated. This is especially helpful in those dealing with RA.

1. 79%
   44%
2. 31%
   12%

Arthritis sufferers who are obese should make an effort to lose weight, which will reduce stress on weight-bearing joints and improve health in general. Unfortunately, people with arthritis often find it difficult to exercise.

1. white potatoes, tomatoes, peppers and eggplant
   pineapple
2. apples and pears

Eggplant, peppers, white potatoes, and tomatoes are all nightshade vegetables. They contain alkaloids that can cause inflammation and discomfort in those with arthritis.

1. weight gain
   reducing pain and preventing deterioration of the joints
2. going to the gym

Regular exercise is extremely important for those dealing with arthritis because it can strengthen muscles, bones and ligaments. Good choices are bicycle riding, yoga, walking and water aerobics.

1. plasma
   lower blood levels
2. alkaline

The opposite of acidic is alkaline. If the blood is too acidic, the cartilage in joints can literally dissolve. In other words, the joints lose that smooth motion and bone on bone friction occurs, causing the joints to become inflamed and painful.

1. gout
   fibromyalgia
2. psoriatic arthritis
   osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis. About 31 million Americans suffer from OA. "Osteo" means "relating to the bones."