Do you know that morning stiffness is the first sign of osteoarthritis?

Morning stiffness, painful joints, restricted range of motion, bone spurs, and in some cases deformity of the joints – these are the symptoms of osteoarthritis. There are over 100 different types of arthritis; most commonly affecting the joints of the hands, hips, knees, and spine. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition where the cartilage that protects the joints wears down. This degeneration is partly due to free radical damage to the cartilage.
80% of Americans suffer from this disease!
It is estimated that over 40 million Americans have some degree of osteoarthritis and the likelihood of osteoarthritis increases as we age, affecting 80% of those over 50!
Are you at risk?
If you can say yes to any of the below statements, then you need to start a preventative treatment approach ASAP!

• I am overweight
• I have suffered from injuries early in life that led to inflammation and breakdown of the cartilage
• I have biomechanical imbalances (such as foot arch problems)
• I have poor digestion
• I have high concentrations of toxic substances
• I have hormonal imbalances
• I have nutritional deficiencies (not getting enough vitamins, minerals or essential fatty acids)
• I take NSAIDs or steroids

Take the Age Print Quiz developed by Eric Braverman MD, to determine your weakest body part and whether you are part of the 80% who will suffer from this debilitating and painful disease.
You may not have any of the physical symptoms now, but remember that every disease ultimately starts in your brain, so once you suffer the physical symptoms, you have already depleted those key communicators in your brain that controls your body and determines its state of health! At PATH we are able to take action and prevent disease progression, as we analyze your brain chemistry. We all have vulnerabilities and errors; knowing your weaknesses is crucial in order to prohibit genetic disposition from becoming genetic determination!
Contact us to learn more!
Natural alternatives to osteoarthritis drugs
Eric Braverman MD has successfully treated osteoarthritis via specific nutritional supplements – again, early detection is key!  At Path we have developed following naturopathic treatment protocol for osteoarthritis:

• A&P Support
  This supplement is specifically developed to block the COX-2 enzyme that makes prostaglandins that result in pain and inflammation. This supplement is a combination of various herbs used for centuries in Eastern medicine – at PATH we specialize in combining the best from Eastern medicine with traditional Western medicine.
• Ultra Omega-3
  Omega-3 fatty acids as found in fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel and sardines help to keep the inflammatory pathways in the body in balance. It also works to keep joints lubricated, which makes it especially helpful for osteoarthritis. When buying fish, make sure that it is free from mercury and toxins. Dr. Braverman gets his fish from www.VitalChoice.com. This is one of the few places that offer fish tested free from heavy metals. Use offer code 7777777 to get a 10% discount on your purchase.
• Mega Resveratrol
  Resveratrol inhibits the expression of proinflammatory mediators such as COX-217 and has a cartilage-protecting effect. More and more studies are confirming resveratrol to be one of the most efficient antioxidants available. As DNA damage is the culprit of osteoarthritis, taking antioxidants that protect your cells from oxidative stress is of great importance.
• Glucosamine & Chondroitin
  Several well designed studies have proven that glucosamine sulfate is just as effective as standard drug therapy for relieving the symptoms of osteoarthritis – and in some cases the supplement is even more effective than conventional medicine! Many of these studies compared glucosamine sulfate with standard NSAIDs (the pharmaceuticals that are often prescribed to reduce pain by reducing inflammation). Glucosamine was shown to produce better long-term results than these conventional medicines.

In addition to supplementing with the abovementioned, Dr. Braverman’s range of medicinal seasonings and flavanoid rich teas is an important part of a nutritional therapeutic program to combat inflammation.  Dr. Braverman’s teas, spices and supplements are available online at www.totalhealthnutrients.com or call 1-888-THN-7284 to speak to a nutritionist.
Reference: Rosenbaum CC, O’Mathuna DP, Chavez M, Shields K. Antioxidants and antiinflammtory dietary supplements for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Altern Ther Health Med. 2010:16:32-40