Many people suffering from arthritis are not aware of the role mineral deposits play in this debilitating condition. Mineral deposits as a matter of fact, play a major role because they tend to accumulate on the joints and crystallize, therefore, creating friction upon movement of the joints. Common mineral deposits are calcium, iron, manganese and cadmium. These deposits cause the cartilage to be gradually scraped away exposing the bare bone and the all too familiar inflammation and pain. In some cases, the mineral deposits will accumulate and fuse the joint alltogether.

One might ask, therefore, where this mineral deposits come from. A primary source is the water we drink. Various minerals are found in water, especially hard water and over the years these minerals deposit on the joint, and particularly the hips. Calcium deposits in particular, may have major debilitating effect on the joints as it deposits lime type residues.

Common symptoms of arthritis in the hips are difficulty carrying on normal day to day activities such as walking and moving about due to the stiffness and pain. Diagnosis is usually confirmed upon x-ray results.

The hips are largely affected by arthritis because they are weight bearing joints so they are particularly susceptible if the affected sufferer is overweight. The excess weight, therefore, will put extra strain on the already debilitated joints. A good weight loss program would be highly recommended and possibly associated with a good exercise regimen.

When the hips are affected by arthritis, anti-inflammatory medications may help ease some pain. The most common prescribed medications are NSAID's (Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs which can be obtained with a prescription or some even over the counter.

In many cases those who followed carefully an exercise regimen have noticed a good rate of improvement. It appears in particular that aquatic sports have been highly effective in reducing stiffness.

Walking aids may be necessary to help people distribute the extra weight on a cane or crutch.

Supplements with Glucosamine have proved effective in may cases. Many Glucosamine supplements are partnered with Condroitin and can be effective in improving the joint structure.

Physical therapy has helped many people suffering from hip arthritis. Along come also many other non traditional approaches such as acupuncture, massage therapy, chiropractic, holistic therapies and herbal remedies have been giving good results to its many followers.

As a last resort, however, in severe cases hip replacement may be necessary.

Calcium deposits found in the water we drink is often seen on containers in which we boil water as a whitish residue. This is a part of the mineral deposits that build up on our joints. Hard water seems to have the highest quantity of calcium deposits.

Green tea has been found to be a great ally in fighting the inflammation arthritis causes and help ease the pain. However, as the many different approaches suggested above it may work for some but not for everybody. There are various options to try first before resorting to hip replacement and luckily, many have proved beneficial.

Learn more about this author, Janet Farricelli.
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