Cervical Spondylosis

Cervical spondylosis is a disorder caused by abnormal wear on the cartilage and bones of the neck (cervical vertebrae) with degeneration and mineral deposits in the cushions between the vertebrae (cervical disc). This condition is also known as Cervical osteoarthritis or Neck arthritis.

At the other extreme, cervical spondylosis may compress one or more of the spinal nerves branching out of the cervical vertebrae - a condition called cervical radiculopathy. Bone spurs and other irregularities caused by cervical spondylosis also may reduce the diameter of the canal that houses the spinal cord, resulting in cervical myelopathy. Cervical radiculopathy and cervical myelopathy can lead to permanent disability. Fortunately, most adults with cervical spondylosis - nearly 90 percent - will not lose nerve function, even temporarily.

Symptoms

Neck and shoulder pain are the most common symptoms. Types of neck and shoulder pain include:

· Stiff neck, most often one of the very first signs. Neck stiffness tends to grow progressively worse over time.
· Radiating pain to the bottom of the skull (chronic sub-occipital headache) and/or to the shoulder and down the arm. This radiating pain may seem like a stabbing or a burning, or it might present itself as a dull ache.

Along with pain, cervical spondylosis can be accompanied by altered sensations and muscle weakness in the neck, shoulders, arms and hands, and a syndrome called “numb, clumsy hands”.

In cases of cervical spondylosis with myelopathy, the legs may be affected, leading to an interruption of stability while walking. Loss of balance might also occur. When myelopathy is present, incontinence may become a problem. Muscle wasting also accompanies cervical spondylosis with myelopathy.

Screening and Diagnosis

Your symptoms and history, along with an examination, may suggest that you have cervical spondylosis.

Neck flexibility assessment. Cervical spondylosis limits the range of motion in your neck. To observe this effect, your doctor may have you tilt your head toward each of your shoulders and rotate your neck from side to side.

Neurological exam. To find out if there's pressure on your spinal nerves or spinal cord, your doctor will test your reflexes and make sure you have sensation all along your arms and legs. He or she may watch you walk to see if spinal compression is affecting your gait.

Neck or spinal X-ray. An X-ray may show abnormalities, such as bone spurs, that indicate cervical spondylosis.

Computerized tomography (CT) scan or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A CT scan of your spine uses X-ray technology, but produces a more detailed image than X-ray can. MRI uses a magnetic field and radio waves and can produce detailed, cross-sectional images of your spine. These tests may help your doctor determine the extent of damage to your cervical spine.

Myelogram. This test involves generating images using X-rays or CT scans after dye is injected into the spinal canal. The dye makes areas of your spine more visible.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

Cervical spondylosis results from chronic degeneration of the cervical spine including the cushions between the neck vertebrae (cervical disks) and joints between the bones of the cervical spine. There may be abnormal growths or "spurs" on the vertebrae (the bones of the spine).

These accumulated changes caused by degeneration can gradually compress one or more of the nerve roots. This can lead to increasing pain in the neck and arm, weakness, and changes in sensation. In advanced cases, the spinal cord becomes involved. This can affect not just the arms, but the legs as well.

A previous neck injury (which may have occurred several years prior) can predispose to spondylosis, but the major risk factor is aging. By age 60, 70% of women and 85% of men show changes consistent with cervical spondylosis on x-ray.

Prevention

You may not be able to prevent cervical spondylosis. However, you may be able to reduce your risk by:

. Skipping high-impact activities, such as running, if you have any neck pain
. Doing exercises to maintain neck strength, flexibility and range of motion
. Taking breaks when driving, watching TV or working on a computer to keep from holding your head in the same position for long periods
. Practicing good posture, with your neck aligned over your shoulders
. Protecting your neck from injury by using a seat belt when in a car

Self Care

For mild neck pain or stiffness:

. Take a long, hot shower every day
. Use hot fomentation aound the neck and shoulder
. Wear a cervical collar during the day
. Regularly walk or engage in low-impact aerobic activity

Treatment

The goal of treatment is relief of pain and prevention of permanent spinal cord and nerve root injury.

Symptoms from mild cervical spondylosis usually stabilize or regress with simple therapy including a cervical collar (neck brace) to restrict motion and doing prescribed exercises to strengthen neck muscles and stretch the neck and shoulders. Low-impact aerobic exercise, such as walking or water aerobics, also may help. For acute cases, complete bedrest and traction for 1 or 2 weeks may be needed.

Naturopathy- Alternate Hot and Cold Compress over the affected region, Infra-red heat application, Massage and soft- tissue manipulation, Neutral Spinal Bath and Warm Immersion Bath are specific treatments. Naturopathy treatment regimen however, starts with detoxification process where neutral temperature Enema, Hip Bath, Mud applications etc. with a diet consisting of mainly fresh fruits and vegetables and juices are given for first 2 weeks.

Treatment can be complemented with Physiotherapy (intermittent traction in mild cases), Magnet Therapy and Acupuncture (for pain-relief).

Yoga Therapy- Forward bending postures or exercises should be avoided. Backward bending postures like Bhujangasana, Shalabhasana, Dhanurasana, Supta Vajrasana, Gomukhasana, Ardha-Matsyendrasana, Ushtrasana, Matsyasana and Ardha-Chakrasana should be slowly and gradually introduced. Long and Deep breathing, Nadi Shuddhi and Ujjayi pranayama are helpful. Yoga Nidra should be practiced on a daily basis for deep relaxation.

Importance of Sleep in Wellness

Sleep is one of nature’s greatest inventions and blessings of life. It is a periodic rest of the body which is absolutely essential for its efficient functioning.

Sleep is the indispensable condition to the recuperation of energy. We go to bed fatigued and get up refreshed. Sleep repairs the wear and tear of the body and mind incurred during waking hours. Nothing is so restorative to the nerves as sound and uninterrupted sleep. Sleep is thus a vital element in a holistic way of life. It is a basic need in man’s mental as well as physical life.

During sleep most of the physiological functions of the body are carried on at the lowest level possible. Heat production is from 10 to 15 per cent below the basal level. The mechanism regulating the body temperature are less sensitive than in the waking state and are depressed by 0.5 to 1.0 degree F. The rate of the heart is reduced by 10 to 30 beats per minute and a decline in blood pressure of about 20 mm occurs in quiet restful sleep. The urine volume is considerably reduced, but its concentration in solids is increased. The tone of all the skeletal muscles is lessened. The eyes are usually rolled upward and the pupils constricted.

Loss of sleep exerts seriously detrimental effects upon the nervous system. Long periods of wakefulness may cause profound psychological changes such as loss of memory, irritability, hallucination and even schizophrenic manifestations.

Sleep versus Rest

It is essential to differentiate between sleep and rest. At rest the body is disturbed by all exterior noises; but in sleep it is screened from them by partial loss of consciousness and also by what is called " dream protection". One useful purpose of the dream is to convert outside noises that might awake the sleeping person into fantasies that do not disturb him.

During rest the limbs are normal, but in sleep they swell. Blood flows from the brain, distends the arteries, and makes the limbs bigger. In sleep more muscles are relaxed than in rest, though the sleeping person changes his position about 35 times in one night, without knowing it. Many organs which work during rest suspend their activities in sleep. Thus the recouping value of sleep is much more than that of rest or simple lying down.

Theories of sleep

Many theories of sleep have been advanced to explain the temporary loss of consciousness which we know as sleep. The oldest theory is that sleep is induced by a reduction in the blood supply to the brain or at least to conscious centres. This is known as ischemic theory. Even the ancient Greek physicians were aware that the carotid artery was in a way concerned with the onset of sleep. The name itself expresses this belief. The Greek word ‘ Karotides’ for carotid arteries is derived from karoo which means ‘put to sleep.’ In modern times, the drowsiness after a meal, presumably due to the diversion of blood from the brain to the digestive organs, is cited in support of the ischemic theory.

Another important theory about sleep is the chemical theory. As a result of experiments in the metabolism of sleeping subjects, it is considered that the fatigue inducing sleep may be a mild form of blood poisoning or toxaemia. This ” poisoning” is believed to be brought on by the expenditure of energy during the waking hours. According to this theory, every contraction of a muscle and every impulse passing through the brain or the nerves breaks down a certain amount of tissue. The debris from broken down tissue is then thrown into the bloodstream. In the waking state, much of the waste from broken down tissue is got rid of through the natural eliminating processes of lungs, kidneys, bowels and skin. But there comes a saturation point when there is such an accumulation of waste that it cannot be disposed of by these processes and it then invades the grey matter of the brain. In such an eventuality, mental and physical altertness are impaired. It is nature’s warning that the waste product must be reduced to replenish the lost energy. So we get tired and the urge to get sleep becomes irresistible. During sleep, the cells and tissues that break down to produce toxic waste become less active and the production of toxic waste is vastly reduced. Simultaneously, constructive activities take place within the body during sleep, which rebuild the broken down tissue.

Another theory places a sleeping centre in the hypothalamus. Many of the bodily changes in sleep such as constriction of pupils, reduced frequency of heart beat, increased gastric tone and secretion are manifestations of the activity of hypothalamus nuclei, especially parasympathetic centres. Perhaps some of the sleeping pills affect this centre in the brain.

Although the various theories have certain amount of experimental evidence to support them, none has really solved what is the most mysterious process in our lives. All we know is that sleep substitutes constructive measures for the destructive processes of our waking hours. We cannot live without sleep.

Duration of Sleep/ How much of it?

Another mystery about sleep is that no two persons need the same amount of sleep. Dr. Nathaniel Kleitman, Associate Professor of Physiology at the University of Chicago, who conducted years of extensive experiments at the University’s “Sleeping Laboratory” says that there is no more a normal duration of sleep than there is normal height and weight. A study of 25 subjects spread over thousands of nights showed that the average amount of sleep needed to feel well rested is seven-and-a-half hours, though individuals varied from six to nine hours.

According to Dr. Demmis Williams, a noted authority on sleep, the amount of sleep needed for an individual’s well-being, is determined by what he feels he needs, not by what other people, including the doctor, think is reasonable.

On the whole, women sleep from 45 minutes to one hour more than men. The amount of sleep required varies at different ages as follows :

New Born : 18 to 20 hours
Growing children :10 to 12 hours
Adults : 6 to 9 hours
Aged persons : 5 to 7 hours

The depth of ordinary restful sleep fluctuates throughout the sleep. In most adults, sleep deepens through the first hour, after which it lightens rather sharply and then more gradually until morning or until the usual time of wakening. IN growing children, however , sleep deepens a second time for a little while.

According to Dr. Lindlahr, a famous naturopath, two hours before and two hours after midnight are the most valuable for sleep of all the twenty-four hours of the day. In these four hours, mental and physical vigour are at their lowest ebb and sleep is soundest and most natural.

Physiology of Sleep

It is believed that three-quarters of our sleep consists of what is called ‘slow wave sleep’ also known as 'non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep'. The restorative processes occur during this time. The remaining quarter is taken by what is called ‘rapid eye movement (REM) sleep.’ It is also called paradosical or dreaming sleep and it comes in episodes of about 20 minutes duration about five times in a night. It involves dreaming, irregular heart rates, raised blood pressure and erection of the penis. It is in this phase of sleep that normal healthy young men may have wet dreams. Both forms of sleep are considered equally important, being normal sleeping rhythms.

Sleeping Positions

There are many theories about good and bad sleeping positions. Practically everyone changes positions several times during sleep. Hence how one starts out is of no consequence. It is a good thing we do turn about in our beds. If we did not, we would awake in the morning stiff, having maintained the same position all night. For proper sleep, however, one should not sleep on one’s back but on the side with one or both legs brought well up and the head and the shoulder slightly forward.

Other Considerations

Sleeping pills are no remedy for sleeplessness. They are habit-forming and become less effective when taken continuously. They lower the intelligence, dull the brain and can prove fatal if taken in excess or before or after alcohol. The side-effect of sleeping pills include indigestion, skin rashes, lowered resistance to infection, circulatory and respiratory problems, poor appetite, high blood pressure, kidney and liver problems and mental confusion.

Sleeping well is an art. It needs a perfect blend of healthy habits and control of mind. A clean body and mind, relaxed mood, physical exercises, and perfect dietary control are some of the basic sleep-inducing methods.

Unpleasant situations at bed time such as arguments, quarrels, watching a horror movie, listening to loud music etc. which would create anxiety, fear, excitement and worries should be avoided. Such situations stimulate the cerebral cortex and tend to keep one awake. Avoid Smoking and stimulating substances like Caffeine (found in Tea, Coffee, Coke and other Sodas) hours before going to sleep.

The sleeping place should be well ventilated, with balanced temperature and free from noises. The bed should be neither too hard nor too soft, but comfortable. The pillow should not be too hard or too high. The bed clothes should be loose-fitting and light coloured. Another important rule is not to have heavy food shortly before bed time.

Healing Power of Colours!

Chromotherapy is a method of treatment of diseases by colour. It is best used as a supportive therapy along with other natural methods of preserving health such as correct diet, adequate rest and relaxation, exercise, yoga and so on.

According to practitioners of chromotherapy, the cause of any disease can be traced to the lack of a particular colour in the human system. Colour therapy is a technique of restoring imbalance by means of applying coloured light to the body. It was a popular method of cure even in ancient times. Some 2,500 years ago, Pythagoras applied colour light therapeutically and ‘colour halls’ were used for healing in ancient Egypt and China.

The pioneer of modern colour therapy was Niels Finsen of Denmark. Following the discovery, in 1877, of the bactericidal action of solar ultra-violet energy, Finsen studied the possibility of assisting the healing of wounds with visible light. He subsequently used red light to inhibit the formation of smallpox scars and, in 1896, founded a Light Institute (now the Finsen Institute of Copenhagen) for the phototreatment of tuberculosis. In 1932, Gerrard and Hessay, two Californian psychologists, scientifically established that blue light had a calming effect and red a stimulating power on human beings.

Blue and red colours are considered at the two extremes with yellow representing the midpoint. These are also the three principal colours in a rainbow. A patient is first subjected to an examination to ascertain which colour he lacks. The deficiency is determined by observing the colour of the eyeballs, nails, urine and excrement. In cases of the lack of red the eyes and nails will be bluish, and the urine and excrement white or bluish. If there is a deficiency of the blue colour, the eyes and nails will be reddish and urine and excrement yellowish or red. Every substance on earth contains colour. Even the rays cast on earth by celestial bodies contain colour in the form of white light. The rays of the sun contain seven different colours - violet, indigo, blue, green, yellow, orange and red. These are natural colours which are highly beneficial to the maintenance of health and for healing diseases.

According to Dr. E. D. Babbit, a well-known authority on chromotherapy, “sunlight is the principal curative agent in nature’s laboratory and where light cannot enter, disease does". Sunlight plays an important role in the recovery from chronic diseases. Judicious use of sunlight can be part of the curing process in almost every affliction. The rays of the sun improve digestion and nutrition, quicken blood and lymph circulation and increase the elimination of impurities through the skin.

The action and effect of various colours on the body and their healing qualities are as follows :

Red :

Symbolic of heat, fire and anger. It is a stimulating and energising colour. It stimulates arterial blood and brings warmth to cool extremities. Used as a general tonic, it is very valuable in the treatment of diseases like low blood pressure, rheumatism, paralysis, anaemia and cases of tuberculosis.

Orange :

Symbolic of prosperity and pride, orange is useful for stimulating blood supply and energising the nerves. It is beneficial in the treatment of kidney and gall stones, hernia and appendicitis. It is also used to stimulate the milk producing action of breasts after childbirth.

Violet :

Violet is beneficial in the treatment of nervous and emotional disturbances, arthritis, acute cases of consumption and insomnia.

Yellow :

Associated with joy and happiness, yellow is laxative and diuretic. It is a stimulant to the brain, the liver and the spleen. It is also effective in the treatment of diabetes, indigestion, kidney and liver disorders, constipation, eye and throat infections and impotence.

Purple :

Purple or indigo combines the blood-warming red and the cooling antiseptic blue. It is an excellent stimulant without being an irritant. It is beneficial in the treatment of advanced stages of constipation, hydrocoele , leucorrhoea, many disorders of the stomach and womb , cataract , migraine and skin disorders. It exerts a soothing effect on the eyes, ears and the nervous system.

Green :

Made up of the blue and yellow, green is regarded as a colour of harmony. It is a mild sedative. It is useful in the treatment of nervous conditions, hay fever, ulcers, influenza, malaria , colds, sexual disorders and cancer. It preserves and strengthens eyesight. Being highly medicinal and depressive, it is of great help in the treatment of inflammatory conditions.

Blue :

Cool, soothing and sedative, blue alleviates pain, reducing bleeding and heals burns. It is beneficial in the treatment of dysentery, colic, asthma, respiratory disorders, high blood pressure and skin aberrations. In a study at the New England State Hospital in the United States, 25 members of staff with normal blood pressure were bathed in blue light for half an hour. It resulted in universal fall in blood pressure. The blood pressure rose when red light was applied.

Methods of Treatment

There are two methods of treating diseases by colour :

By the application of light through different coloured glasses ;

i. external or internal use of colour

In the first method , sheets of glass, 30 cms. X 36 cms. of the required colours are needed. These are placed at the window frames or any other convenient place in such a way that the sun’s rays can pass through them and fall directly on the patient’s body. The usual duration of the colour treatment is 30 minutes. In case of local application, a pane of glass can be placed in front of the diseased part so that the light passing through the glass falls on the afflicted area. At night lanterns can be used for the purpose. A single lantern can have glass panes of four different colours and the required colour can be focussed on the patient or the affected parts.

In the second method, coloured bottles are needed. These bottles should be cleaned and filled up to three-fourths level with fresh well water, distilled water or rain water. The bottles should be corked and then placed in bright sunlight for three to four hours. After this exposure, the water is said to acquire medicinal properties and this colour-charged water can be used both internally and for external applications. Wounds and ulcers can be washed with this water and it can also be used to massage the affected parts or applied as compress on them. For internal use, an adult can take 30 ml. of colour-charged water as a single dose. The dose can be repeated as required.

ii. Diet A correct and balanced diet is essential during the treatment of diseases through chromotherapy. The patients should take food items with analogous colouring. The various colours contained in different food items are :

Red : Beets, radish, red cabbage, tomatoes, watercress, most red-skinned fruits,red berries and water melon.

Orange : Orange-skinned vegetables and fruits such as carrot, orange, apricot, mango, peach and pappaya.

Violet : Egg plant, berries, black carrot and purple grapes.

Yellow : Lime and lemon, sweet lime, grapes, pumpkin, melon, banana, mango, yellow apple and guava.

Purple : Foods having both blue and violet colouring.

Green : Most of the green vegetables and fruits such as gourds, spinach, plantain, lettuce, pea, green mango, gooseberry, pears, beans , etc.

Blue : Blue plum, blue beans, blue grapes, etc.

Contraindications

There are some important contraindications to colour treatment which should be borne in mind while adopting this mode of cure. For instance, the red colour would be injurious in a naturally inflammatory condition of the system, and in case of persons with feverish and excitable temperament. If the red light is employed for too long and frequently, it may produce dangerous fevers. The danger can be obviated by using the red light for a few minutes at a time or by placing a wet bandage over the head.

Similarly, yellow should not be used when the nerves are very active or irritable. Yellow or orange reddish tones may prove injurious in fevers, acute inflammations, delirium, diarrhoea, neuralgia, palpitation of the heart and any condition of over- excitement.

In cases of paralysis, chronic rheumatism, gout, consumption and in all cold, pale and dormant conditions of the system, blue, indigo and violet may prove too cooling and constricting and should be avoided.

Osteoarthritis

Like age, osteoarthritis can creep up on you. It starts out quietly, with some occasional stiffness. Then, you may begin to feel some occasional joint pain.

What’s going on is ordinary wear and tear for the most part. Inside your body, it’s the smooth, rubbery cushioning called cartilage that starts to erode. The gliding surface that normally acts as a shock absorber between your bones can become compressed and irregular. As the underlying cartilage and bone disintegrate, painful bone spurs can form in the joint. Ordinary movements can produce a grinding symphony of creaks and crackles.

While no one really knows what makes cartilage break down, heavy use of the joint seems to be a contributing factor. That’s why osteoarthritis typically strikes the knees, hips, back and even fingers. Moreover, a joint injured in the past tends to develop arthritis later in life.

Among most people over age 60, signs of osteoarthritis show up in x-rays. But only about a third show any of the typical symptoms of pain, stiffness, limited range of motion, or inflammation. That’s one of the puzzling things about osteoarthritis. There doesn’t seem to be a relationship between the amount of pain and the degree of joint damage. Some people never have more than a mild ache. Others develop crippling pain.

Aspirin and other similar drugs called nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) focus on nursing arthritis pain, but that pain relief isn’t in your long-term interest. While NSAIDs are easing the pain, they can actually speed up joint deterioration.

Natural measures attempt to slow the progression of the disease and preserve cartilage and bone.

Holistic Approach to Osteoarthritis Relief

Although modern medical science view osteoarthritis as an inevitable part of growing older, naturopathic medicine contends that it is a metabolic disorder brought on by the body’s inability to regenerate bone and cartilage. Taking a holistic approach to treating arthritis, a naturopathic doctor looks at imbalances that may be occurring in the whole body, then attempts to correct those imbalances.

Among the factors that play a part are diet, exercise, and regular bowel movements to eliminate inflammation-producing toxins from the body.

Exposure to Sun for at least 20 minutes daily either between 9-10.30 in the morning or 4-5.30 in the afternoon will also be helpful to get adequate amount of Vit. D production. Underneath degenerating cartilage, bone also deteriorates. Vitamin D, a necessary nutrient for absorption of calcium, can help preserve bone and slow the loss of cartilage.

. Weight Management

Maintain a healthy weight since people with osteoarthritis are more likely to be overweight. Research shows that losing weight can significantly reduce the risk of developing it.

. Diet

Dietary changes can provide the proper nutrients needed to repair damaged joint tissue and eliminate foods that can damage joint tissue.

Removing foods in the nightshade family (solanaceae) from the diet may also be beneficial. The nightshade family includes tomatoes, potatoes, eggplant, peppers, and tobacco. They contain alkaloids (a plant constituent) that may interfere with joint repair and increase inflammation.

Eat- celery, turnips, sprouted items, whole grains and beans/ legumes, mustard greens, lettuce, millet, barley, almonds, figs, cherries, pineapple, blackberries, lemon, oranges, olive oil, carrots, papaya etc.

Avoid- sugar, dairy products, refined foods, fried foods, junk food, caffeine and the nightshade family.

Drink at least 4 litres of water a day.


. Exercise

Exercise is another essential. Low-impact activities like brisk walking, swimming, and biking are best at strengthening muscles and are easy on your joints. Stronger muscles help protect the joints by providing support and added stability.Exercise also helps the joints absorb fluid and needed nutrients. Unlike muscle or bone, cartilage doesn’t get its nutrients from blood. It soaks them up like a sponge from the fluid surrounding the joint. The more you exercise, the more you force fluid in and out of the joint.

. Hydrotherapy

Cold Sitz bath. A sitz bath is taken in just enough water to cover the buttocks, upper thighs, and lower abdomen. It powerfully affects the pelvic and abdominal organs. Very good to relieve constipation and balance functions of the internal organs and systems.

Heating Compress on the affected areas. The heating compress is an application of a cold compress to an area that is initially cooled by the water and then warmed by the influx of blood to the area. In three layers- first a wet cotton cloth, second a dry cotton cloth is applied and then covered with woolen blanket material to preserve the heat. Application is left to work for at least 40 minutes or till wet cloth goes dry.

Local Hot Fomentation is applied to reduce pain.

Molecules on the Bestseller List

Glucosamine is a word that’s pasted together from two words that may be familiar from biology or chemistry—glucose and amine. Glucose is just blood sugar, the 'energy food' that our body uses in its cells. As for amine—in chemistry it means that nitrogen and hydrogen are glued together in the same molecule. Put it all together, and you have a word that describes a simple molecule that combines the stuff of blood sugar, nitrogen, and hydrogen.

One theory holds that osteoarthritis results from the body’s inability as we age to make enough glycosaminoglycans, the major molecules that give cartilage its ability to bear weight. The second substance that may play a role, chondroitin sulfate, is actually built up from glucosamine. Chondroitin sulfate is a long chain of glucosamine molecules. It helps promote water retention in the cartilage, which is necessary for shock absorption. There’s a big difference in the way your body absorbs chondroitin sulfate, however. Studies show that if you take a supplement of chondroitin, your body absorbs less than 8 percent of it. By comparison, you absorb about 90 percent of glucosamine sulfate from a supplement.

Glucosamine hydrochloride, N-acetylglucosamine and Glucosamine Sulfate are the common forms available in the stores. Most naturopathic physicians in USA typically recommend taking glucosamine sulfate because it is the type that has been tested most thoroughly in clinical trials. 500 mg of Glucosamine Sulfate twice a day is the recommended dose.

Antioxidant Relief

Antioxidants—especially vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene—are another means of preventing your cartilage from wearing away.

Arthritis is known to be caused by increased free radical production, so your need for antioxidant nutrients increases. Those free radicals are free-roaming, unstable molecules that can set off a chain reaction in the body, aging cells prematurely and sometimes harming the genetic material. While the healing powers of antioxidants may seem somewhat mysterious, the process is crucial when it comes to protecting your joints.If you have arthritis, antioxidants can protect joints from damage caused by oxidative stress, a process that speeds up cartilage breakdown. Joints damaged by osteoarthritis release the unstable free radical molecules that are missing an electron. These highly reactive compounds look for a place from which to snatch an electron in order to stabilize themselves. They usually attack the nearest healthy molecule, which then becomes a free radical itself.

Antioxidants help break this chain reaction and stop cell damage by offering up their own extra electrons. No one is sure exactly how this process occurs in the joints, but research has shown that diets high in antioxidants help reduce pain and cartilage deterioration.

The benefits of vitamins C and E extend beyond their antioxidant properties. Together, they enhance the stability of components called proteoglycans that help to protect your cartilage. Vitamin C helps to form the structural protein known as collagen, the single most important protein in connective tissues. Vitamin E offers relief from Inflammation.

To protect your cartilage and quell those aches and pains, 1,000 milligrams of buffered vitamin C three times a day is recommended. Include 600 IU of vitamin E and 10,000 IU of beta-carotene once a day in your daily antioxidant regimen.

Turn Off Inflammation

The word arthritis, derived from Greek, literally means "inflammation of the joint." While this definition certainly applies to another kind of arthritis—rheumatoid arthritis—the term is somewhat contradictory in referring to osteoarthritis. People with osteoarthritis generally have very little inflammation. Nevertheless, allopathic doctors do recommend anti-inflammatory medicines such as aspirin and ibuprofen for pain relief. Are they effective?

Try increasing the intake of readily available herbs in our kitchen- Garlic, Ginger and Turmeric in your diet. They also relieve pain when applied warm on the joints and help repair the damage.


Just taking pills will not make someone healthy. It’s same as going into a really dirty house and just hanging a few pictures to try to make it look better. You’ve got to clean the house. What is suggested is to start with a low-fat diet that is high in fiber and complex carbohydrates and drinking at least eight full glasses of water a day.

Naturopathy Centres of India

MAJOR NATUROPATHY & YOGA HOSPITALS OF INDIA

ANDHRA PRADESH

Govt. Nature Cure Hospital
Dharam Karam Road, Ameerpet,
HYDERABAD-500 016
Ph. 040- 23731786, 23418183

60 years old well known Naturopathy Hospital having 150 Beds and other facilities like Cottages, General Wards & well equipped Treatment Sections.


Nature Cure Hospital
Laxmi Nagar, Peddapally Road,
Bommakal Stage,
Karimnagar-505 002
Ph.0878-2285221, 2285888 (R)

30 years old 70 bedded hospital serving the rural, backward area. Equipped with special wards, cottages and modern equipments.


Kasturba Nature Cure & Yoga Institute
S.V.P.N.P.A., Shivarampally,
HYDERABAD-500 052
Ph: 040-24019888, 24015381,
Fax: 040-23434537
E-mail : Hyd2-saboohyd@sancharnet.in

It is situated in 8 acres land in serene atmosphere full of greenary near to National Highway. Serving since 40 years.


CHATTISGARH

Arogyadham Nature Cure & Yoga Hospital,
Nagpura, Distt. DURG- 491 001
Ph. 0788-2411101, 2211695

Premier Naturopathy Hospital of Chattisgarh having 60 Beds capacity, wards and Treatment Sections etc. Established in 1997.

DELHI

Central Council for Research in Yoga & Naturopathy,
61-65, Institutional Area, Janakpuri,
New Delhi-110058
Ph: 28520430, 28520431, 28520432
E-mail ccryn@vsnl.net
Website: http://www.ccryn.org/

The Council has an OPD at its H.Q. as well as at Safdarjung Hospital, Specialized OPD for Cardiac patients at Dr. RML Hospital, OPD at Lady Hardinge Medical College, New Delhi and also OPD at University Medical College, Dilshad Garden, Delhi.


Balaji Nirogdham,
Palla Road, Bakhtawarpur,
Delhi -110 036
Ph. 011-64532820, 21
E-mail: nirogdham@gmail.com

80 beds new Hospital, outskirt of city area, off Karnal Road, Modern amenities with green atmosphere.

GUJARAT

V.A.M. Nature Cure Hospital
VALLABH VIDYA NAGAR-388 120
Distt. Anand
Ph: 02692-230835
E-mail: vamnaturecure@hotmail.com

A reputed 30 years old Naturopathy Hospital having 60 beds facility. The hospital is having deluxe rooms, semi deluxe rooms, general ward and well ventilated Yoga Hall, separate male and female Treatment Sections etc.


Nature Cure Hospital,
Karelibaug, Harni Road,
BARODA -390 008
Ph. 0265-2481623

It is a well established 100 Bedded Hospital working since ten years. It is having special wards, treatment sections and other facilities.

HARYANA

Prakritik Chikitsa Kendra,
Ashram-Pattikalyana, (SAMALKHA),
G.T.Road, Dist. Panipat
Ph. 95180-2569133/2569134

It is well established 120 bedded Naturopathy Hospital located in rural area and catering the needs of local people. This is one of the oldest and traditional Naturopathy Hospitals providing treatments on Gandian lines.


Haryana Prakritik Chikitsalaya,
Meham Road,
BHIWANI-125 021
Ph.01664-242660

60 bedded well equipped Hospital located in rural area. Established in 1981 on 5 Acres land.


Sanjeevani Kaya Shodhan Sansthan,
Ram Sharanam Ashram,
Jind Road, GOHANA-131301, (Sonipat),
Ph: 01263 - 257930,253740
Email: sanjeevanisansthan@.org

A well equipped Naturopathy Hospital having all modern treatment facilities, in lush green area with A.C. rooms with 100 Beds capacity.

HIMACHAL PRADESH

Kaya Kalp
Himalayan Research Institute for Yoga & Naturopathy, HOLTA,

PALAMPUR-176 062, Distt. Kangra
Ph.01894-235676,235666
http://www.kayakalppalampur.com/

90 bedded well built hospital with modern facilities. Located on the plane areas of Himalayas, surrounded by lush green hills.

KARNATAKA

Institute of Naturopathy & Yogic Sciences,
Tumkur Road, Jindal Nagar, BANGALORE-500 073
Ph: 080-23717777,23717785
Email: inys@vsnl.net

Internationally reputed, established in 1979 having 275 Beds and all other modern facilities, well equipped modern Treatment Sections for males and females, modern accommodation, Cottages, Huts, Nests, Diet Centre, Yoga Hall and well qualified staff etc. in a lush green campus of 70 Acres.


SDM Yoga & Nature Cure Hospital,
DHARMASTHALA-574 216
Ph. 08256-2317177

Eminent Naturopathy Hospital established in 1988 having 150 Beds and other modern facilities, wards, Treatments Sections and higher accommodation.


Prakruthi Arogyadham,
Hanumanthanagara, Maddur Taluk,
Dist. Mandya-571 422
Ph.08232-245595,245596,235006

60 bedded rural based hospital, well landscaped and having special wards facilities, surrounded by green agriculture lands. Establish in 2003.


J.G. Cooperative Naturopathy & Yoga Hospital,
Ghataprabha, Gokak Taluk,
Dist. Belgaum-591 321
Ph.08332-286987,286933

70 bedded rural based hospital upon a hill rock. Having cottages, special wards surrounded by greenery and near by river.


SDM Naturopathy & Yoga Hospital,
Pareeka, Parkala Post,
Udupi Tq.
Ph. 0820-2545025

Established in 2007. 60 Beds. Expansion up to 150 Beds.

KERALA

Govt. Nature Cure Hospital,
Varkala-695 141
Distt. Trivendrum
Ph: 0470-2600510

A Government Naturopathy Hospital having 60 beds and other requisite facilities. Established in 1978. Popular Health Tourism Centre for foreigners on the Beach.

MAHARASHTRA

Nisargopchar Ashram,
Urulikanchan-412 202
Distt. PUNE
Ph: 020 - 26926298, 26926230,
Fax: 26926225

A traditional Naturopathy Hospital having 150 beds established by Father of the Nation, Mahatma Gandhi in 1946. The hospital is having well maintained Library, Treatment Sections and different types of accommodations.


Naturopathy & Yoga Hospital,
Kapol Sanatorium, Ambervadi,
LONAVLA-412 202, Dist. PUNE
Ph.02114-275745, 271189, 274945(Fax)

80 bedded well equipped hospital having special wards and other facilities. Located in a summer tourist place. Establish in 2003.


Institute for Nature Cure & Yogic Sciences
Pune- Nasik Road, Bhojapur- Bosari,
PUNE-411 039
Ph.020-27232770, 27237033

60 bedded well equipped indoor hospital located in a peaceful area since 1998.

National Institute of Naturopathy,
(Govt. of India, Deptt. of AYUSH),
Bapu Bhavan, Tadiwala Road,
PUNE-411 001
Ph.020 -26059682 – 5, Fax: 26059131
Website: http://www.punenin.org/
E-mail ninpune@vsnl.com

Outdoor facility with modern Naturopathy Clinic. About 250 patients treated daily and about 300 people participate in Yoga Classes. Opens 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily. Also publishes a bilingual monthly magazine Nisargopchar Varta, which is a Standard National Magazine for Natural Health.

MADHYA PRADESH

Sri Sant Arogya Dham,
One Tree Hill,
Bairagarh, BHOPAL-462030
Ph: 2642572, 4244313, 2711125

60 Beds Modern Hospital. 100 O.P. capacity. Fully Charitable.

MANIPUR

Ananda Sing Nature Cure & Yoga Research Hospital
Machin Mano Hills, Kakching Bazar-795103
Ph. 03848-261320 Fax : 03848-261343
Mob.: 09856343571

60 bedded Hospital built up in 23 acres of lash green hill area having general wards, special dormitory, special room, single and VIP rooms attached with bathroom.

RAJASTHAN

S.P. Goenka Kayakalpa Centre,
Salasar, Laxmangarh,
Distt. SIKAR-332 318
Ph. 01570-264473 to 79
Fax: 01573-222588

Well known Naturopathy Hospital of Rajasthan having 150 beds capacity and all modern facilities like cottages, general wards and well equipped Treatment Sections etc. Established in 1996.


Navneet Yoga & Nature Cure Hospital, BASSI, Agra Road,
Jaipur-303 301
Ph. 0141-2206214, 2206394
01429-222352 (H)

Eminent Naturopathy Hospital near Jaipur in a serene, peaceful and pollution free atmosphere having 150 beds facilities with cottages, general wards and well equipped Treatment Sections etc. Established in 1990.


Shri Mahaveer Yoga, Naturopathy Institute,
Shri Mahaveerjee-322 220
Dist.-KARAULI
Ph: 07469-224344 (O), 224866 ( R)

Well established Hospital working in the field since more than 18 years. This place is famous for Jain temples.

UTTARAKHAND

Parmarth Niketan Naturopathy & Yoga Hospital,
Swargashram, RISHlKESH-249 304
Ph. 0135-2434305, 2434306

A well known Naturopathy Hospital on the bank of holy river Ganges having 80 beds capacity including private rooms, wards & Treatment Sections etc. Established in 1990.

UTTAR PRADESH

Arogya Mandir,
Aam Bazar, GORAKHAPUR-273 003
Ph. 0551- 2500469
E-mail :arogya-m@sancharnet.in

Premier institution of Naturopathy surrounded by green pollution free atmosphere. The hospital is having 150 beds including private rooms and wards and serving the country since more than 6 decades. Established in 1941.

WEST BENGAL

Prakriti Niketan,
Nature Cure & Yoga Research Institute,
Diamond Harbour Road,
Konchoki-743 503,
24 Paraganas (South)
Ph. 033-24533880, 81
Email: naturecurecal@hotmail.com

A renowned Naturopathy Hospital of West Bengal having 100 Beds capacity with modern facilities, cottages and separate Treatment Sections for males and females etc. Established in 1960.

Naturopathic Medical Schools in North America

Exclusive list of Accredited Naturopathy Schools:

Bastyr University
Naturopathic Medicine Program
14500 Juanita Drive, N.E.Kenmore,
Washington 98028-4966
425.823.1300
425.823.6222

Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine
Naturopathic Medicine Program
1255 Sheppard Avenue East
North York, Ontario M2K 1E2 Canada
416.498.1255
416.498.1576

National College of Natural Medicine
Naturopathic Medicine Program
049 S.W. Porter Portland, Oregon 97201
503.552.1660
503.499.0027

Southwest College of Naturopathic Medicine & Health Sciences
Naturopathic Medicine Program2140 E. Broadway Road
Tempe, Arizona 85282
480858.9100
480858.0222

University of BridgeportCollege of Naturopathic Medicine
Naturopathic Medicine Program
60 Lafayette Street
Bridgeport, Connecticut 06601
203.576.4109
203.576.4107

Boucher Instituteof Naturopathic Medicine
Naturopathic Medicine Program
Suite 300435 Columbia Street
New Westminster, BC V3L 5N8
Canada
604.777.9981
604.777.9982

National Universityof Health Sciences
Naturopathic Medicine Program
200 E. Roosevelt Road
Lombard, Illinois 60148
800.826.6285
630.889.6600

* Source- Council on Naturopathic Medical Education, USA.

Naturopathy Medical Colleges in India

INSTITUTIONS CONDUCTING 5 OR 5½ YEARS B.N.Y.S. DEGREE COURSE
(Bachelor of Naturopathy & Yogic Sciences)

Govt. Naturopathic Medical College
Ameerpet, Hyderabad- 500016 (A.P.)
Phone : 040-23730462 (C), 23731786 (H)
N.T.R. University of Health Sciences, Vijayawada, A.P.
Recognised by: Govt. of Andhra Pradesh
No. of Seats: 30
Estd. in 1970

S.D.M. College of Naturopathy & Yogic Sciences
Ujire - 574 240 (D.K.) Karnataka
Phone : 08256-236188 Fax : 236220
E-mail : sdmbnys@rediffmail.com
Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Bangalore
Recognised by: Govt. of Karnataka
No. of Seats: 60
Estd. in 1989

JSS Institute of Naturopathy & Yogic Sciences
Mysore Road, Ootacamund - 643001 (T.N.)
Phone : 0423-2440448 (c) 2444128 (H)
Fax : 2442937
M.G.R. Medical University, Chennai
Recognised by: Govt. of Tamil Nadu
No. of Seats: 60
Estd. in 1997

Shivaraj Naturapathy and Yoga Medical Collage
Siddhar Kovil Road, Thumbathulipatty, SALEM - 636 307
Ph. 0427-2481006, 2481007, 2481206 (F)
www.sivarajcolleges.org
M.G.R. Medical University, Chennai
Recognised by: Govt. of Tamil Nadu
No. of Seats: 40
Estd. in 1997

Govt. Naturopathy & Yoga Medical College & Hospital
Anna Govt. Hospital of Indian Medicine, Anna Nagar, Chennai - 600106
Phone : 044-26281563, 26216244, 26214844
M.G.R. Medical University, Chennai
Recognised by: Govt. of Tamil Nadu
No. of Seats: 15
Estd. in 2001

S.R.K. Medical College of Naturopathy & Yogic Sciences
Kulasekharam - 629161, Kanyakumari District, Tamil Nadu
Phone : 04651-2578425, Fax : 2577164
M.G.R. Medical University, Chennai
Recognised by: Govt. of Tamil Nadu
No. of Seats: 40
Estd. in 2002

Mahavir College of Naturopathy & Yogic Sciences
Nagpura, Dist. Durg - 491001. Chattisgarh.
Phone : 0788-2647297 Fax : 0788-2221695
Pt. Ravi Shankar University, Raipur
Recognised by: Govt. of Chattisgarh
No. of Seats: 40
Estd. in 2002

Alva's College of Naturopathy & Yogic Sciences
Moodbidri - 574227 (D.K.), Karnataka
Phone : 08258-238111, 238104
Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Bangalore
Recognised by: Govt. of Karnataka
No. of Seats: 25
Estd. in 2003

Morarji Desai Institute of Naturopathy & Yoga
Karelibaug, Vadodara - 390022, Gujarat.
Phone- 0265- 2463685 (C), 2481623 (H)
Gujarat Ayurveda University, Jamnagar
Recognised by: Govt. of Gujarat
No. of Seats: 50
Estd. in 2005

Govt. Nature Cure & Yoga College
PKTR Hospital, KRS Road, MYSORE - 570002
Rajiv Gandhi University of Health Sciences, Bangalore
Recognised by: Govt. of Karnataka
No. of Seats: 25
Estd. in 2006

Narayana College of Naturopathy & Yoga
Chintareddypalem, NELLORE - 524 002 A.P.
Cell 9490166164, Ph. 0861-2337433
N.T.R. University of Health Sciences, Vijayawada
Recognised by: Govt. of Andhra Pradesh
No. of Seats: 60
Estd. in 2008


* Source- http://www.ccryn.org/

Scope of Naturopathy Practice in UAE

As a result of increasing interest and use of Traditional, Complementary, and Alternative Medicine (TCAM) therapies in medical practices and as a necessary function of its duty to protect the public interest, the UAE Ministry of Health requires all TCAM physicians and practitioners to comply with professional, ethical and practice standards, and act as responsible agents for their patients.

The following guidelines assist in educating and regulating:
(1) TCAM practitioners who may work independently and
(2) Those TCAM practitioners who co-manage patients with licensed Medical practitioners in clinics or polyclinics and hospitals

Licensing:

In exercising its licensing authority the Ministry of Health has the inherent power to determine precisely the qualifications a TCAM applicant must possess. It may investigate educational credentials, professional competence, and moral character. The applicant bears the burden to prove his fulfillment of all requirements for licensure.

The practice of medicine consists of the ethical application of a body of knowledge, principles and methods known as medical science and that these objective standards are the basis of medical licensure for physicians and TCAM practitioners. Therefore no person shall practice TCAM in the UAE without first being licensed by the Ministry of Health. Successfully passing TCAM qualifying examination is a precondition for evaluation and grant of TCAM practice license.

Following is a list of M.O.H recognized TCAM specialties:

Herbal Medicine
Traditional Islamic Medicine (Unani)
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Traditional Indian Medicine (Ayurveda and Siddha)
Homeopathic Medicine
Naturopathy
Chiropractic Medicine
Osteopathy

Eligible qualifications for TCAM Examinations:

1. Examples of Masters level Courses (Usually 2 years Post Graduation):

Member of Faculty of Homeopathy (M. F. Hom. from Faculty of Homeopathy, UK) or equivalent Doctor of Medicine in Homeopathy (MD in Homeopathy) or equivalent
Doctor of Medicine in Ayurvedic Medicine (MD in Ayurvedic Medicine) or equivalent
Doctor of Medicine in Unani Medicine (MD in Unani Medicine) or equivalent
Doctor of Medicine in Traditional Chinese Medicine (MD or Masters in TCM)

2. Examples of Bachelor level Courses (Usually 4 to 5 ½ Years College Level Education):

Doctor of Chiropractic Medicine (DC) or equivalent
Doctor of Naturopathy (ND) or equivalent
Bachelor of Naturopathy and Yogic Sciences (BNYS)
Bachelor in Homeopathic Medicine and Surgery (BHMS)
Bachelor in Ayurvedic Medicine and Surgery (BAMS)
Bachelor in Siddha Medicine and Surgery (BSMS)
Bachelor in Unani Medicine and Surgery (BUMS)
Bachelor in Osteopathy
Bachelor in Traditional Chinese Medicine

3. Examples of Diploma Level Courses (Usually 3 to 4 years College Level Education):

Diploma in Naturopathy
Diploma in Homeopathy
Diploma in Osteopathy
Diploma in Acupuncture
Diploma in Herbal Medicine

Practice Category:

The educational qualifications, depth and field of experience, and results of the TCAM examinations and recommendations from examination board would be considered for evaluating the candidates and the category for their practice.

The evaluation committee may permit the following two categories of TCAM practice privileges on the licenses:

1. Independent TCAM practice category: Usually TCAM practitioners, who have basic medical degrees or MD level qualifications in TCAM specialties or those who have extensive proven experience and/or as per recommendations of the examination board, may be awarded independent TCAM practice. These practitioners may start their own clinics or treatment centers and may employ other supporting staff like nurses, technicians and even other TCAM specialists, as per their needs and requirements.

2. Under Clinic License category: These practitioners would be permitted to work only in an established polyclinic or clinic where a licensed Medical General Practitioner is on duty. Based on the policy or decision of the management of the clinic, these TCAM practitioners may see patients directly or after referral from the resident Medical G.P.

Courtesy- http://www.moh.gov.ae/

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Brief information about Licensing Exam and its preparation

An examination for a license shall be in writing and oral and if necessary practical.

The written exam shall include testing in-
a. The basic sciences including but not limited to anatomy, physiology, bacteriology, pathology, hygiene, and chemistry as related to human body or mind.
b. The clinical sciences, nutrition, preventive and public health medicine
c. Professional ethics and any other subjects that the examining board may deem advisable

The written exam generally consists of Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs). Short-answer-objective type questions and questions based on diagrams/ pictures/ images depicting medical conditions may be also included in the written exam. MCQs may be structured in such a way that only one answer would be correct, in such a case there would be no negative markings. There may also be MCQs with multiple correct answers. In such a case, there would be negative marking for wrong answers chosen. Instructions for each type of MCQs would be clearly given during the examination. Indicate your answer by circling the appropriate letter on the question paper and also by filling in the appropriate circle on the computer answer sheet.

Here are a few examples:

1.Osteoarthritis, also called _________ , is the most common known joint disorder and the most common cause of joint pain.
. Rheumatic joint disease
. Psoriatic joint disease
. Inflamatory joint disease
. Degenerative joint disease

2. Which of the following diseases is not typically acquired from animals:
. Brucelosis
. Lyme disease
. Hepatitis A
. Mad Cow Disease

3. The pain of Mycardial Ischemia:
. Is typically induced by exercise and relieved by rest
. Radiates to the neck and jaw but not the teeth
. Rarely lasts few seconds
. Can be treated with Panadol

Interview

Candidates who successfully pass the written examination would be called for interview in their field of specialty. An examination board consisting of professionals from different specialties conducts the interviews. As per needs and requirements, the examination board may invite TCAM professionals from the private sector to assist in conducting the interviews. Successful candidates who have passed both written and oral/practical examinations would then be awarded the license to practice in their field of specialty. This would be held as soon as possible after Step 1 results are announced. (Usually within a week).

Usually 3 exams are conducted per year. You have only 3 chances to attend. 80-90% marks in theory necessary for attending the interview.