Arthritis occurs at any age and with anyone, though it is more commonly found in women and as they age. The swelling, pain, and stiffness in the joints caused by arthritis make it difficult or nearly impossible to do everyday tasks, such as walking the dog, getting out of bed, or even picking up a drinking glass. While this disability can occur within any joint of the body, it is more commonly found in the knee. OSTEOARTHRITIS (OA) AND RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS (RA) Although there are hundreds of types of arthritis, the two most common forms to appear in the knees are OA and RA. OA occurs gradually and usually reduces range of motion and starts to cause joint stiffness, pain, and discomfort around age 50. With normal wear and tear as we age, the cartilage wears away and
spaces between the bones start to rub against each other, which can cause bone spurs. Over time, OA can move from a minor discomfort to extreme pain as it worsens. While mostly older folks suffer from OA, anyone can contract RA, which is an autoimmune inflammatory condition. Often, RA attacks not just the knee but also joints throughout the body in a symmetrical pattern: If it affects one knee, it will attack the other as well. Unlike OA, where the cartilage wears down, RA causes tissue to swell as the immune system damages normal tissue and softens bone. TREATMENT Unfortunately, there is no cure for arthritis; however, many adjustments can help relieve the pain and discomfort of the condition. One of the best ways is to minimize the time spent on an
activity that causes your arthritis pain. Avoiding stairs, engaging in low-impact activities, and losing weight are all fairly easy lifestyle adjustments. Using assistive devices, such as a cane or shock- absorbing shoes, can also help reduce pain while walking. Additionally, using a knee brace can help stabilize and increase knee function while going about your daily life. Another form of treatment that can help reduce arthritis pain is physical therapy. Certain exercises can increase your range of motion, flexibility, and strength to help combat your condition. Physical therapy strategies are individual; the physical therapist develops a unique plan based on their patients’
Sudoku abilities. If you’re suffering from arthritis, the therapists at Kinetic PT Specialists can help. Call us at 847-515-8970 to learn how.
Minty Carrot Top Pesto
Inspired by YupItsVegan.com
Pesto may sound like a fancy ingredient on restaurant menus, but you can make it at home in minutes! This vegan recipe is a great way to use spare carrots tops, and it tastes delicious as a pasta sauce (thinned with water) or a cracker spread.
INGREDIENTS • 1 large bunch carrot tops • 1 clove garlic, chopped
• 2 tbsp red wine vinegar • Salt and pepper to taste • 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh mint • 4 chives, chopped
DIRECTIONS 1. To blanch the carrot tops, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Meanwhile, prepare a large bowl of ice water. Remove the stems from the carrot tops and add the greens to the water. Boil for 3 minutes, then drain the water and dunk the tops in ice water. When they’re cool, wring out the extra liquid. 2. Use a food processor to blend the carrot tops and all other ingredients except olive oil. Add 1 tbsp of olive oil at a time to the food processor and blend until the pesto is smooth. Taste and serve!
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