With over seventy million Americans suffering from arthritis and joint pain, many experts would agree that we are in the midst of an epidemic. There is much speculation as to exactly what causes arthritis, and there are many different forms of joint disease. As a physician that primarily treats arthritis, each patient’s case is somewhat unique.  However, the one universal factor is that no matter what form of arthritis or joint dysfunction a person may have, that person will benefit greatly from following a doctor-recommended detoxification program.

We are exposed to toxins in many forms on a continuing basis.  Toxins may cause free-radical damage to cells, interfere with DNA replication and directly cause inflammation that can severely worsen joint symptoms. Toxins are brought into our body on a daily basis from dry-cleaned clothes, new paint or carpeting, car exhaust, artificial or refined foods, pesticides, herbicides, air pollution, etc. Believe it or not, the major source of toxins that we are exposed to come from inside our own body.  Our trillions of cells are powered by generators called mitochondria that produce toxins around the clock that must be effectively eliminated, lest the cell face dire consequences.

The human body has “inside” and “outside” methods of eliminating toxins.  The liver is the major organ of inside detoxification. There are four routes of outside elimination. The first two are respiration (exhalation) and perspiration; the second two routes are utilized in the bathroom. These pathways have been manipulated by natural means for treating diseases since the dawn of mankind in the form of sweat lodges, herbal teas and various purges. Recent technology has made available powerful enzymes and anti-oxidants that support the body in eliminating toxins.

Naturopathic physicians are trained to engineer individualized detoxification prescriptions that may include hydrotherapy, botanicals, anti-oxidants, vitamins and minerals, homeopathy, acupuncture, or intravenous therapy.  In my practice, a precision detoxification program is prescribed in conjunction with other advanced treatments such as regenerative injection therapy which can greatly reduce arthritis symptoms and dramatically improve your condition.