Is it arthritis or rheumatism? Distinguish rheumatism from arthritis in homeopathy

Is it arthritis or rheumatism? Distinguish rheumatism from arthritis in homeopathy

According to the Oxford Dictionary, rheumatism is, by definition, “inflammation and pain in joints, muscles, or fibrous tissue.” Arthritis is “painful inflammation and stiffness of the joints.” The main difference is that although both affect joints, rheumatism also affects muscles and fibrous tissue (arthritis only affects joints). Most of the time, people don’t differentiate between the types of pain or the causes – they call everything “arthritis.”

Is this important to know the difference? Yes.

Both arthritis and rheumatism can affect any joint in the body. However, the usual first places where arthritis is noticed are joints that are used more often than others, such as the fingers, neck and knees. Rheumatism can affect any muscle and joint, but is more commonly noticed in areas of frequent overuse (arms, upper back, hips, legs).

Causes and usual medical care

Arthritis pain and stiffness are usually caused by a reduction in the space between joints and then a reduction in the cartilage that covers the ends of bones, causing bone to rub against bone. The usual medical care is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as Motrin or ibuprofen. If the degeneration of the joint becomes severe and the joint can be replaced, this is the case.

Rheumatic pain is caused by inflammation of the affected muscles, joints or tissues. This is usually the result of overuse, repetition, or “misuse” of an affected part. For example, a common area of ​​rheumatic pain in people who frequently use computers is the trapezius muscle of the upper back of the arm that the person uses the mouse. The frequent movement of the arm from the mouse to the keyboard and back again. This repetitive motion is made worse when the mouse and computer are at different heights. Added to this is the incorrect use of the arm.

Rheumatism can also be caused by stress or emotional turmoil. Typical medical treatment for rheumatism is an NSAID and rest. There is no surgical option as nothing needs to be replaced - the joint is not damaged.

A homeopathic case

Dan, 75, was a healthy farmer whose complaint was back pain. He had gone to his chiropractor who explained it was arthritis and recommended calcium supplements and chiropractic care. When he couldn't improve, he sought my help because he didn't want to "go the medical route."

Because the chiropractor did not take x-rays, it was impossible to determine whether Dan had arthritis or rheumatism. An x-ray would have shown the decrease in joint space and thus confirmed arthritis.

Based on the case, I determined that Dan's problem was rheumatism. His pain occurred after lifting bags of feed, during sexual intercourse, and when he was emotionally upset (they were trying to sell their farm and house). The pain was not constant, not weather dependent and there was no stiffness. The pain did not radiate but was centered between the shoulder blades and was disabling. When he had emotional turmoil, the pain was sudden and severe. During intercourse or after lifting the food bags, he had to stop and rest to relieve the pain. Occasionally he took a baby aspirin, which helped (he was reluctant to take medication); but he was worried about all the bruising he was having (a side effect of taking aspirin).

There are 3 important homeopathic remedies that help with typical rheumatic pain:Arnica montana, Ruta graveolensandRhus toxicodendron.

Arnica montanais ideal for sprains, strains, back pain and muscle pain.

Rhus toxicodendronis for aching joints, lower back pain and pain between the shoulder blades.

Ruta graveolensis one of the best remedies for joints and tendons. Ideal for injuries caused by repeated use.

I gave firstRhus toxbased on Dan's symptoms and findings in his evaluation. I also recommended a glucosamine supplement to stabilize the upper back joints and stop taking the calcium supplement. One month after taking theRhus toxDan's symptoms had improved only slightly. He didn't take the glucosamine because of the cost.

At the time I was doing a study on cell salts and decided thatCalcarea fluoricawas very similar to Dan's symptoms, which were very similarRhus tox(e.g. better in heat and after exercise). However, what came to mind was thisCalcarea fluoricahad a mental symptom that fit Dan: groundless fear of financial ruin or poverty.

Dan and his wife had retired from conventional employment, maintained a farm, and planned to sell the farm and house. Every time the phone rang and it was the realtor, Dan was terrified. His fear was based on the fear of becoming homeless and losing all their money. This was unfounded because if the house was sold they would have money. They were already planning to buy an apartment or rent an apartment once the house was sold. Her retirement pension was sufficient even without selling the house. Even Dan felt his concerns were unfounded; but those were his fears.

I gave this to DanCalcarea fluoricaand it helped wonderfully. He still had periods of increased pain, but these were far less frequent than before. He also stated that he wasn't that scared when the agent called.

Conclusion

AlthoughArnica, Rhus toxandRutacan help with both arthritis and rheumatism. Distinguishing between the two diseases can help the doctor narrow down the remedy that will best aid healing - or point to another that would be more effective, as in Dan's case.

Arthritis degeneration often requires a deeper healing agent as well as nutritional support (to help rebuild the joint), while rheumatism often responds to a more superficial agent or cell salt without the need for nutritional support.

A special note on rheumatoid arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is a disease in which the immune system attacks the joints, causing them to swell and deform. It is an autoimmune disease that requires constitutional healing and is unlikely to respond to any of the three common joint remedies mentioned in this article. Rheumatoid arthritis requires the help of a homeopath.

Disclaimer: The information provided is for educational purposes only. It is important that you do not make any health decisions or discontinue medications without first consulting your personal physician or healthcare provider.

Inspired by Ronda Behnke