A study has found a Chinese herb known as thunder god vine is more efficient at treating rheumatoid arthritis as opposed to a widely prescribed drug known as methotrexate. The study, published in the journal Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, consisted of 207 patients who were prescribed the herb, methotrexate or both. The patients who are administered just the herb gained a fifty-five percent improvement rate on the ACR scale while those who were given both the herb and the drug achieved that rate by seventy-seven percent.
Those who were treated by just methotrexate only achieved a 46 percent improvement rate. However, the herb does have side effects as well, including gastrointestinal upsets and irregular menstruation. The herb itself has been long used in China to treat arthritis and is known as “lei gong teng”.
Rheumatoid arthritis is a painful condition that requires medical attention. If you believe you are suffering from rheumatoid arthritis you should seek the care of a podiatrist such as Dr. Jeffrey Wachtel of Wachtel Family Foot Care. Dr. Wachtel can diagnose foot conditions you may be suffering from as well as help you determine treatment options that are right for you.
What Is Rheumatoid Arthritis?
Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) is an autoimmune disorder in which the body’s own immune system attacks the membranes surrounding the joints. Inflammation of the lining and eventually the destruction of the joint’s cartilage and bone occurs, causing severe pain and immobility.
Rheumatoid Arthritis of the Feet
Although RA usually attacks multiple bones and joints throughout the entire body, almost 90 percent of cases result in pain in the foot or ankle area.
Symptoms
– Swelling & pain in the feet
– Stiffness in the feet
– Pain on the ball or sole of feet
– Joint shift and deformation
Diagnosis
Quick diagnosis of RA in the feet is important so that the podiatrist can treat the area effectively. Your doctor will ask you about your medical history, occupation, and lifestyle to determine the origin of the condition. Rheumatoid Factor tests help to determine if someone is affected by the disease.
For more information about rheumatoid arthritis please follow the link below.
If you have any questions, please contact one of our offices in Lansdale, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot care needs.
Read more on Rheumatoid Arthritis.
