What is it?
	The term ‘arthritis' refers to many different diseases and means inflammation (‘itis') of a joint or joints (‘arthros'). It is probably one of the most widespread and debilitating diseases of our time. The two main types are osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid (RA). Osteoarthritis is the most common and is defined as a chronic disease involving mostly the larger, weight-bearing joints (e.g. knee, shoulders, hips). It is usually associated with wear and tear and is characterised by destruction of joint cartilage, overgrowth of bone and spur formation which leads to impaired movement. It tends to affect women more than men, and usually develops in people aged 50+ but can develop as early as 30 years old. Rheumatoid is defined as a chronic, progressive inflammatory disease that usually affects the smaller joints such as fingers and wrists. This type can strike at any age. The causes of RA aren't known but common belief is that a faulty immune system is to blame. For reasons not understood the immune system attacks its own healthy tissues - something known as an auto-immune response. There is no known cure available for these ailments. Conventional treatment usually comes in the form of NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs), steroid treatment and other more invasive methods. However, these can produce severe side effects, so for this reason many people combine these treatments with complementary therapies such as osteopathy.
	How can osteopathy help?
	The osteopathic approach is directed mainly towards reducing swelling, pain and inflammation, and to maintain mobility and range of movement in the affected joints. This may be achieved in several ways. An appropriate self-help exercise programme may be devised to stretch tight muscles. This will help to improve blood flow and encourage the tissues to relax Heat treatment, massage and soft tissue work may be applied to relax contracted muscles and tendons. The object of this is to improve circulation, reduce pain and swelling and remove harmful waste products from affected tissues, thus improving mobility and range of movement by interrupting the cycle of:
	PAIN - INFLAMMATION - REDUCED MOBILITY - MUSCLE SPASM
	Articulatory techniques may also be employed. These are gentle, rhythmic, passive movements often combined with stretching and springing techniques designed to improve mobility and range of movement as well as reducing stiffness. It also acts as a powerful stimulation to circulation in joints and may be used to free adhesions in tight joint capsules. You may also be offered dietary and nutritional advice as some foods have anti-inflammatory properties but others can aggravate the conditions and as such are best avoided. Certain vitamin and mineral supplements may also be recommended to aid pain relief, boost the immune system and help control degeneration of joint cartilage. As previously stated, osteopathy cannot cure arthritis but many thousands of sufferers will bear testament to the relief from symptoms that this gentle, effective form of therapy brings.