Osteoarthritis Connect Group

Hi Janet
I am not a Dr or Nutritionist, but in past Connect Groups with Dietitians they said that
Peanut butter can have both anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory effects, depending on its ingredients and how it's consumed. Here's a breakdown:

• Healthy Fats: Peanut butter contains monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

• Nutrients: It's rich in vitamins and minerals like magnesium, which has anti-inflammatory properties.

• Added Ingredients: Some peanut butters contain added sugars, unhealthy oils, and salt, which can contribute to inflammation.

• Omega-6 Fatty Acids: Peanuts are high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can promote inflammation if consumed in excess without a balance of omega-3 fatty acids.

To enjoy the benefits and minimize the drawbacks, opt for natural peanut butter with minimal added ingredients and consume it in moderation.
Also always talkto your Doctor re:dietary needs


Here is a recipe we had from a previous connect group

 

Making your own sugar-free and oil-free peanut butter is simple and delicious! Here's a quick recipe:

• 2 cups of unsalted, dry-roasted peanuts

• A pinch of salt (optional)

1. Roast the Peanuts: If your peanuts aren't already roasted, spread them on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This helps to bring out the natural oils and flavor.

2. Blend: Place the roasted peanuts in a food processor. Blend on high speed for about 5-10 minutes. You'll need to stop occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl. The peanuts will go through several stages: from crumbs to a thick paste, and finally to a smooth, creamy butter.

3. Add Salt: If you like, add a pinch of salt to taste and blend again for a few seconds.

4. Store: Transfer the peanut butter to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It should last for several weeks.

Enjoy your homemade peanut butter on toast, in smoothies, or straight from the jar!

Soaking peanuts before making peanut butter is optional, but it can offer some benefits:

• Easier Blending: Soaked peanuts can be softer, making them easier to blend into a smooth butter.

• Reduced Phytic Acid: Soaking can help reduce phytic acid, which can interfere with nutrient absorption.

• Enhanced Flavor: Some people find that soaking enhances the natural flavor of the peanuts.

1. Rinse: Rinse the peanuts thoroughly under cold water.

2. Soak: Place the peanuts in a bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak for 6-8 hours or overnight.

3. Drain and Rinse: After soaking, drain the water and rinse the peanuts again.

4. Dry: Pat the peanuts dry with a towel or let them air dry before roasting or blending.

If you prefer not to soak them, that's perfectly fine too. It's all about personal preference and what works best for you.

Hope that helps
Deb Andio

Hi Janet
I am not a Dr or Nutritionist, but in past Connect Groups with Dietitians they said that
Peanut butter can have both anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory effects, depending on its ingredients and how it's consumed. Here's a breakdown:

• Healthy Fats: Peanut butter contains monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

• Nutrients: It's rich in vitamins and minerals like magnesium, which has anti-inflammatory properties.

• Added Ingredients: Some peanut butters contain added sugars, unhealthy oils, and salt, which can contribute to inflammation.

• Omega-6 Fatty Acids: Peanuts are high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can promote inflammation if consumed in excess without a balance of omega-3 fatty acids.

To enjoy the benefits and minimize the drawbacks, opt for natural peanut butter with minimal added ingredients and consume it in moderation.
Also always talkto your Doctor re:dietary needs


Here is a recipe we had from a previous connect group

 

Making your own sugar-free and oil-free peanut butter is simple and delicious! Here's a quick recipe:

• 2 cups of unsalted, dry-roasted peanuts

• A pinch of salt (optional)

1. Roast the Peanuts: If your peanuts aren't already roasted, spread them on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This helps to bring out the natural oils and flavor.

2. Blend: Place the roasted peanuts in a food processor. Blend on high speed for about 5-10 minutes. You'll need to stop occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl. The peanuts will go through several stages: from crumbs to a thick paste, and finally to a smooth, creamy butter.

3. Add Salt: If you like, add a pinch of salt to taste and blend again for a few seconds.

4. Store: Transfer the peanut butter to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It should last for several weeks.

Enjoy your homemade peanut butter on toast, in smoothies, or straight from the jar!

Soaking peanuts before making peanut butter is optional, but it can offer some benefits:

• Easier Blending: Soaked peanuts can be softer, making them easier to blend into a smooth butter.

• Reduced Phytic Acid: Soaking can help reduce phytic acid, which can interfere with nutrient absorption.

• Enhanced Flavor: Some people find that soaking enhances the natural flavor of the peanuts.

1. Rinse: Rinse the peanuts thoroughly under cold water.

2. Soak: Place the peanuts in a bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak for 6-8 hours or overnight.

3. Drain and Rinse: After soaking, drain the water and rinse the peanuts again.

4. Dry: Pat the peanuts dry with a towel or let them air dry before roasting or blending.

If you prefer not to soak them, that's perfectly fine too. It's all about personal preference and what works best for you.

Hope that helps
Deb Andio

Hi Janet
I am not a Dr or Nutritionist, but in past Connect Groups with Dietitians they said that
Peanut butter can have both anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory effects, depending on its ingredients and how it's consumed. Here's a breakdown:

• Healthy Fats: Peanut butter contains monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, which can help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

• Nutrients: It's rich in vitamins and minerals like magnesium, which has anti-inflammatory properties.

• Added Ingredients: Some peanut butters contain added sugars, unhealthy oils, and salt, which can contribute to inflammation.

• Omega-6 Fatty Acids: Peanuts are high in omega-6 fatty acids, which can promote inflammation if consumed in excess without a balance of omega-3 fatty acids.

To enjoy the benefits and minimize the drawbacks, opt for natural peanut butter with minimal added ingredients and consume it in moderation.
Also always talkto your Doctor re:dietary needs


Here is a recipe we had from a previous connect group

 

Making your own sugar-free and oil-free peanut butter is simple and delicious! Here's a quick recipe:

• 2 cups of unsalted, dry-roasted peanuts

• A pinch of salt (optional)

1. Roast the Peanuts: If your peanuts aren't already roasted, spread them on a baking sheet and roast them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes. This helps to bring out the natural oils and flavor.

2. Blend: Place the roasted peanuts in a food processor. Blend on high speed for about 5-10 minutes. You'll need to stop occasionally to scrape down the sides of the bowl. The peanuts will go through several stages: from crumbs to a thick paste, and finally to a smooth, creamy butter.

3. Add Salt: If you like, add a pinch of salt to taste and blend again for a few seconds.

4. Store: Transfer the peanut butter to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It should last for several weeks.

Enjoy your homemade peanut butter on toast, in smoothies, or straight from the jar!

Soaking peanuts before making peanut butter is optional, but it can offer some benefits:

• Easier Blending: Soaked peanuts can be softer, making them easier to blend into a smooth butter.

• Reduced Phytic Acid: Soaking can help reduce phytic acid, which can interfere with nutrient absorption.

• Enhanced Flavor: Some people find that soaking enhances the natural flavor of the peanuts.

1. Rinse: Rinse the peanuts thoroughly under cold water.

2. Soak: Place the peanuts in a bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak for 6-8 hours or overnight.

3. Drain and Rinse: After soaking, drain the water and rinse the peanuts again.

4. Dry: Pat the peanuts dry with a towel or let them air dry before roasting or blending.

If you prefer not to soak them, that's perfectly fine too. It's all about personal preference and what works best for you.

Hope that helps
Deb Andio

I’m so sorry to hear about your struggles with osteoarthritis. It sounds like you’ve been through an incredibly tough journey. Your resilience and strength in facing these challenges are truly inspiring. It’s completely understandable to feel overwhelmed by the prospect of continuing these treatments.

Have you had a chance to discuss your feelings and concerns with your healthcare provider? They might be able to offer some options or support that could make things a bit easier for you. Also, connecting with others who have similar experiences might provide some comfort and new perspectives.

Remember, it’s okay to feel uncertain about the future. Taking things one day at a time and focusing on what brings you joy and comfort can make a big difference. You’ve shown remarkable courage so far, and I believe you have the strength to navigate whatever comes next.

And remember you have an entire arthritis community supporting you 

Hi I would suggest you ask your PCP to assist you as they know you and can be of better assistance. What may work for me may not work for you, so its best to talk to your doctor

I’m really sorry to hear about all the health challenges you’re facing. It sounds like you’ve been through so much, and it’s completely understandable to feel the way you do. You’re not a “Wendy Whiner” at all—your feelings and experiences are valid, and it’s important to acknowledge them.

It’s great that your son is thinking about your future care, but it’s also important to focus on what can be done to improve your quality of life now. Have you had a chance to talk to your healthcare providers about your pain and sleep issues? There might be some treatments or strategies that could help.

Also, connecting with others who have similar experiences might provide some comfort and new perspectives. Sometimes, just knowing you’re not alone can make a big difference.

Remember, it’s okay to ask for help and to take things one day at a time. You’ve shown remarkable strength in dealing with everything so far, and I believe you have the resilience to navigate through all of this.

Will your doctor gupive you pain meds?

Hi Jessica, I'd be open to talking to you! I found running about 2.5 years ago and I have knee OA. What's the best way for us to connect? Let me know!

Hello Ron! Welcome to the group. It’s great to have you here. I’m sorry to hear about your osteoarthritis, but it’s wonderful that you still enjoy being outside and going to the park. Nature can be such a great healer.

Feel free to share more about your experiences or ask any questions. We’re all here to support each other.

Hello and welcome to the group! Im not a doctor just an advocate so below are things to think about and talk to your PCP about .It sounds like you’ve been through a lot with your arthritis and other health challenges. It’s great that you’re proactive about seeking out therapies and treatments that might help.

For climate recommendations, I understand your pain- I am originally from NE Ohio and  we just moved to Fl 16 months ago, if you can take summer heat its nice my pain personally is about 50 percent less that what it was in ohio. If you cannot take the extreme heat and humid climates you might want to consider places with mild winters and lower humidity, such as parts of California Arizona or the Carolinas. These areas can offer a more comfortable environment during the colder months.

As for therapies, it’s wonderful that you’re already using compression sleeves and CBD cream. Some other options you might explore include:

• Physical Therapy: Working with a physical therapist can help improve strength and flexibility.

• Occupational Therapy: This can assist with daily activities and finding ways to reduce strain on your joints.

• Aquatic Therapy: Exercising in water can be gentler on your joints while still providing a good workout.

• Acupuncture: Some people find relief from pain and inflammation through acupuncture.

• Diet and Supplements: Anti-inflammatory diets and supplements like omega-3 fatty acids might help reduce symptoms.

It’s also great to hear that you find massages, saunas, and hot tubs helpful. Red light therapy is another promising option that many people have found beneficial.
I use red light therapy and enjoy it.

I hope you find some of these suggestions helpful. Feel free to share more about your experiences or ask any questions. We’re all here to support each other.
Please attend our groups when you can. 

Hi Sheila, 

I'm in San Diego, and find the weather rather tolerable on my hands and back. I am no where near as far as along with my OA as you describe though I have been living it with it for several years. My mom, also living here, has had 4 joints replaced and quite a bit more trouble with her OA and also finds our weather suitable. I find compression and heat the most helpful.

Hello Ann,

Thank you for sharing your experience with us. It’s interesting to hear about your treatment with low-dose radiation for osteoarthritis in your right foot. How has the treatment been working for you so far? I hope it’s providing some relief.

Looking forward to hearing more about your journey and any insights you might have.I sent you an email

I’m so sorry to hear about the severe pain and challenges you’re facing. It’s completely understandable to feel overwhelmed and depressed given everything you’re dealing with. Your feelings are valid, and it’s important to acknowledge them.

It’s great that you’re exploring different treatments, even though it sounds like finding effective relief has been difficult. Have you had a chance to discuss alternative pain management options with your healthcare provider? Sometimes, a multidisciplinary approach involving physical therapy, occupational therapy, and pain management specialists can offer new strategies.

Additionally, connecting with support groups or others who have similar experiences might provide some comfort and new perspectives. You’re not alone in this, and sharing your journey with others can sometimes make a big difference.

Remember, it’s okay to ask for help and to take things one day at a time. 

Deb... this is Ann Dix.  I am the person who
Reclived LOW DOSE  RADIATION for Osteoarthritis of my right foot.
You may contact me at
[email protected]..
FYI ...I have been in communication with Jason in the Atlanta office?? Prior to , during and after treatment.

Definitely get another opinion, my mom had 4 joints replaced (both hips and 2 knuckles) by the time she was 50.
Also, get a psychiatrist, anti depressants are life savers and many help with pain. I like Cymbalta, myself.

hello welcome i am glad your here!! stay tuned as i will be posting our next group in next few days 
I also always suggest a 2nd -3rd opinion
Deb Andio

I would also like to see a group in San Diego 

hello welcome i am glad your here!
there is one in orange county but not San Diego county see link https://connectgroups.arthritis.org/ go to state then California and select county closest to you

Deb Andio

Hi I am so sorry you are experiencing pain. 

if there are no groups in your local  area or state, you can join any group.  There are some in the DC area and as an example I am from Flirida and run the Orlando East Group in Fl, you can join that one also. I do virtual and in person group meetings. 

Feel free to reach out to me at [email protected] 
I understand the challenges and frustration of being overweight and living with joint pain as well. It's not easy to lose weight when our joints hurt . Talk to your doctor about maybe looking into medications for weight loss.  

Wishing you a wonderful day. 

Deb Andio 
(if you email me allow up to 48 hours for a reply. )

Hello and welcome. The best place to get the dosage is to talk to your PCP. We cannot give specific advice or dosages as everyone's health condition and needs are different.

Have a great day. 

Deb 

Ronald, is tramadol a narcotic. I see it mentioned frequently but don't know what class of drugs it is. TY

Talk to your Pcp (primary care physician) 
ask them what else they may suggest. 

you can ask  and  look into various over the counter pain rubs to apply.

have a great day. 
 

Might ask your doctor about Tramadol. Seems to help me.

Hi there are many things you can talk to you doctor about, acupressure , acupuncture ,massage therapy, and many more. 

there will be an event in next few months covering this. That I am working out final details. 
But until then ask your doctor.
have a nice day 

I see a therqpeutic message therapist. Some of my pain comes from poor body mechanics because I compensate with other joints to avoid pain in my osteo joints. I have found the message very helpful. I also do acupuncturre. My insurance covers acupuncture but not the message.

Hi Joe,

Balneotherapy is an effective treatment method in various diseases and commonly used treatment among people with musculoskeletal disorders.

Warm water soaks are more than just relaxing; they're a balm for aching muscles and stiff joints, thanks to increased blood flow.

The buoyancy offers a break from gravity's constant pull, easing joint pain and soreness, while also reducing swelling and boosting circulation. Spring waters, often hailed for their purity, are actually mineral-rich, containing elements like magnesium and potassium, which are believed to have healing properties.                                                                                                                                                                                                                           That's why many of us add salts like those from the Dead Sea to our baths, seeking to mimic nature's own healing spring, I personaly use them and find it is relaxing. good at easing joint stiffness and is good for the skin. 

Studies, such as those from the University of Birmingham, suggest that these minerals, especially magnesium, can be replenished through such baths,                                                                                                                 which is vital since many diets are deficient in this nutrient. While the full therapeutic potential of balneotherapy is still being explored, we do know that a                                                                                                                   20-minute soak with salts and essential oils can significantly soothe your muscles and quiet your mind, offering a form of healing that's beneficial for everyone.                                                                                                     

Sulfur water baths may improve erythrocyte deformability and aggregation parameters in patients with osteoarthritis along with reducing of neutrophile levels

Always check with your doctor before strying anything new, as often these hot springs can elevate blood pressure and some people with cardiac issues should use caution

Here are a few links I hope they help

https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/treatment/complementary-therapies/natural-therapies/water-therapies

https://seasalt.com/salt-101/about-bath-salt/balneotherapy

https://www.timeout.com/usa/things-to-do/best-natural-hot-springs-us

Hi Mercedes,

Sorry to hear you are experiencing pain again.

Since I have OA in various areas but not hips I really would suggest you speak to your ortho and or get a second opinion.

I can say the collection process is minimally invasive and involves extracting marrow from the patient's hip bone using a needle and syringe. The marrow is then placed in a centrifuge and spun at high speeds to separate the cells from the fluid. The cells are concentrated into a solution that is ready for injection. I can say Bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) helps the bodys healing that can help stimulate the growth of new tissue.

• Osteoarthritis: The in BMAC injections can help regenerate cartilage, improving joint mobility and reducing osteoarthritis pain.
• Tendon and Ligament Injuries: Since can also help regenerate tissue, BMAC injections can help with tendon and ligament injuries. 

Here a a couple links

https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/treatment/joint-surgery/preplanning/the-future-of-joint-repair

https://www.americanhipinstitute.com/blog/bmac-bone-marrow-aspirate-concentrate-a-guide-35100.html

HI Stephanie

Ankle replacement can take away the pain from the arthritis and preserve the motion at the joint.                                                                                                                                                                                                                  This helps patients perform tasks such as walking on uneven ground and going up and down stairs. It also protects the other joints of the foot to help prevent them from getting arthritis

In many cases your doctor will remove loose cartilage and bone spurs from your ankle. Arthrodesis: Joint fusion surgery reduces pain by eliminating motion in the ankle. Arthroplasty: In a total ankle replacement, damaged cartilage and bone are removed and replaced with metal or plastic parts

Here are some links

https://www.arthritis.org/science/events-publications/ankle-replacement-options

https://www.arthritis.org/news/news-and-events/arthritis-foundation-joins-forces-aofas

https://www.dukehealth.org/treatments/orthopaedics/ankle-replacement-surgery

Hi Keri

I have not had surgery in that area so I can only say wha I have researched  for you

A trapeziectomy is a surgical procedure in which the trapezium, one of the bones of the wrist, is removed to treat symptoms of thumb arthritis.                                                                                                                                      Most people experience an improvement in their arthritis symptoms after a trapeziectomy, including decreased pain and improved use of their thumb for gripping, pinching, and grasping.

Here are links

https://www.arthritis.org/health-wellness/treatment/joint-surgery/preplanning/five-surgeries-for-thumb-arthritis

https://www.verywellhealth.com/trapeziectomy-5089757

https://www.arthrex.com/resources/LT1-0410-EN/ligament-reconstruction-tendon-interposition-for-thumb-cmc-arthritis

https://www.touchsurgery.com/simulations/burtons-arthroplasty-trapeziectomy-with-ligament-reconstruction-and-tendon-interposition-4