Category: Joint Pain Education

As the old saying goes, “you are what you eat”! Diet plays a crucial role in our overall health and wellbeing, and this is especially true for those managing chronic joint pain. In this article, our founder Dr. Robert Dean talks about the science behind how food impacts joint pain and shares one of his favorite meal plans that helps keep him on track without sacrificing flavor.

“There are two key components to explain how diet impacts joint pain,” says Dr. Dean. “First, and this one is obvious, your daily caloric intake impacts your weight, and weight gain can contribute to additional strain on your joints. So, it’s important to follow a diet that helps you maintain a healthy weight. Second, the types of food you choose can have either a positive or negative impact on inflammation. When inflammation increases, this can worsen existing joint pain.”

According to Dean, there are a variety of nutritious options available to create your own joint-friendly meal plan without sacrificing variety and flavor.

“Most people managing joint pain are at a point in their lives where they want to get the most out of life, which means they don’t want to sacrifice enjoying their meals,” says Dean. “The good news is that you don’t have to trade one for the other. In fact, once you adopt a new joint-healthy diet you may find that you are no longer craving the less healthy foods that you once enjoyed. You may also lose weight and gain other health benefits, like lower cholesterol.”

So, what does Dr. Dean specifically recommend for his patients with chronic joint pain who still want to enjoy delicious meals?

“First, it’s important to understand what ingredients are best for joint pain such as lean protein, fruits and veggies, olive oil, and fatty fish like salmon,” he says. “Then, you can build out daily meal plans with these ingredients to ensure you get enough flavor and variety to stick with it. And don’t forget that it is OK to indulge every once in a while, with treats like heart-healthy dark chocolate or a glass of red wine!”

According to Dean, it’s also important to consult with your doctor before making any major dietary changes to manage joint pain. “While there are generally accepted guidelines to follow, each patient is unique and should talk with their doctor before switching up their daily meal plan.”

Need a little inspiration to start building your joint pain management meal plan? Here’s one of Dr. Dean’s go-to daily routine that can help keep you feeling full and satisfied while helping to manage chronic joint pain:

Breakfast: Avocado toast made by smashing half an avocado on a toasted piece of whole-grain bread, drizzling lightly with olive oil, and sprinkling with turmeric. You can add an egg for a boost of protein and if you are adventurous, add some red pepper flakes!

Lunch: Greek Salmon Salad made with mixed greens, chopped cucumbers, tomatoes, kalamata olives, feta cheese, and chilled cooked salmon topped with a drizzle of olive oil, lemon, and spices.

Midday Snack: Hummus and Peppers. Mix up your veggies for variety and try different hummus flavors, too. Not a hummus fan? Go old school by dipping apple slices in almond butter.

Dinner: Lemon-Rosemary Chicken made with boneless, skinless breasts and seasoned with olive oil, lemon-pepper, and other seasonings, lemon and rosemary. Check out this recipe from the Arthritis Foundation, which is fast and easy to make.

With these joint-healthy meal plan tips, you can continue to enjoy filling and delicious meals while helping to maintain a healthy weight while reducing inflammation. Of course, don’t forget Dr. Dean’s earlier tip about indulging every once in a while, too!

While being conscious about your diet is a great way to manage your joint pain on your own, some people find that self-care is not the right long-term solution if the pain worsens over time. If you are living with knee, hip, shoulder, or other joint pain that isn’t improving, or if you have been told that total joint replacement surgery is your only option, AROmotion may be able to help. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation with Dr. Dean to see if you are a candidate for our non-surgical treatment that has helped more than 1,800 patients stop their joint pain fast.

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CBD oil has been growing in popularity since hemp-derived CBD became legal with the passing of the 2018 Farm Bill. Today, it seems like CBD is everywhere from local health food stores to restaurants adding it to cocktails and dishes – and those who have been using it for a while are believers in its potential to naturally help with things like sleep, stress, and pain.

For those who are not completely familiar with CBD, it can be difficult to wade through the sea of information, brands, and types available today – especially when it comes to its effectiveness for arthritis and chronic joint pain. We talked with our founder, Dr. Robert Dean, to get his take on the CBD phenomenon and whether or not CBD oil is a good solution for those looking to manage joint pain.

“Every avenue is worth researching when it comes to natural ways to help reduce joint pain that can interfere with our daily lives,” says Dr. Robert Dean, founder of AROmotion. “If you are new to CBD oil, you probably have a lot of questions before considering it as a new addition to your daily routine, so I’m here to help shed some light on what it is, how it works, and how it can be used to manage joint pain.”

What Is CBD Oil?

“CBD oil is a natural, plant-based substance that works with the body’s endocannabinoid system which plays a crucial role in bringing a state of balance to the body,” says Dean. “While CBD and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) both come from the Cannabis Sativa species of plant, CBD comes from the hemp plant and will not cause the psychoactive “high” associated with THC which comes from the marijuana plant. In other words, CBD is legal and safe to use in moderation when discussed and agreed upon with your doctor.”

What Types of CBD Oil Are Available Today?

“The most common types of CBD oil products are ingestible such as tinctures (oils takin orally) or capsules and topical lotions or creams,” says Dean. “Which types you use really depends on what you want to achieve as well as your individual preference. For example, those looking for help with calm and focus to get better sleep typically prefer ingestible while those looking for immediate pain release turn to topicals.”

According to Dr. Dean, no matter which type you decide to try, it’s important to do your research to ensure you are purchasing from a reputable company that uses natural ingredients and conducts the proper lab testing to ensure product safety.

“CBD oil is still a relatively new thing in the United States, and many companies have tried to capitalize on the fast-growing popularity,” he says. “I tell my patients to only choose high-quality brands made with natural, plant-based products, with the proper certifications to ensure efficacy and safety.”

Using CBD Oil for Joint Pain

While more studies are needed, early research and anecdotes from CBD users suggests that it may help reduce inflammation that causes joint pain and offer other benefits such as help with anxiety and promoting better sleep.

“It’s important to remember that CBD oil is not a substitute for the regimen prescribed by your doctor for joint pain,” says Dean. “If it’s something you are interested in trying, talk with your doctor and come up with a plan to start with lower doses until you find what works for you. This includes topical creams as well as tinctures, capsules, other CBD products.”

In Summary

“Managing chronic joint pain requires a holistic approach that includes diet, exercise, and any medications prescribed by your doctor,” says Dean. “CBD oil can be a great addition to your routine as long as you do your research and choose trusted brands and develop the best plan to start using it with your doctor.”

According to Dean, it’s best to level-set your expectations before trying something new like CBD oil. “While many patients have told me that CBD oil has helped them with pain management, every individual is unique and will respond differently to CBD. Like anything else in life, what works for one may not work for all, so patience is key.”

There are a variety of safe and reputable CBD oil brands available today. Dr. Dean suggests researching through trusted third-party websites that do independent research for ratings and recommendations as well as asking your doctor if there are specific brands they are comfortable with recommending. Also, look for brands that have real customer reviews available on their website to ensure that real people have shared positive experiences to build additional trust.

If you are living with knee, hip, shoulder, or other joint pain and have been told that total joint replacement surgery is your only option, AROmotion may be able to help. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation with Dr. Dean to see if you are a candidate for our non-surgical treatment that has helped more than 1,800 patients stop their joint pain fast.

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While menopause is a natural part of healthy aging, many women may find themselves struggling with increased levels of pain during this time. Whether it’s the retriggering of an old injury, frequent headaches, or increased joint pain in the shoulders, knees, or hips, the hormonal changes that come with menopause can cause additional discomfort. The good news for women experiencing pain from menopause is that you are not alone – and that there are simple things you can do to help manage it.

“I always tell my patients to view aging a gift,” says Dr. Robert Dean, founder of AROmotion. “Yes, we are going to experience changes but these things are all manageable as long as we are willing to make some minor modifications to our daily routine. The same is true for women going through menopause and experiencing new or increased joint pain.”

What Is Menopause?

 “To put it simply, menopause happens when a woman’s menstrual cycle stops and it’s typically marked one year from the cessation of monthly periods,” says Dean. “While this is a natural progression of the female body, it can come with symptoms such as hot flashes, weight gain, and increased pain. It’s important for women going through menopause to talk openly with their doctors because these symptoms can be treated for less disruption to everyday life.”

According to Dr. Dean, the average age for menopause is the early 50’s although this can vary widely based on factors such as genetics, underlying health conditions, and hormone levels.

What Is the Connection Between Menopause and Joint Pain?

“These symptoms occur because the body is responding to lower levels of hormones – specifically, estrogen and progesterone,” says Dean. “Estrogen plays a key role in helping to manage inflammation. So, as your levels drop, you may experience increased joint pain especially in your knees, hips, and shoulders.”

Thankfully, the stigma around menopause has been lifting, with more doctors sharing information and tips for managing the symptoms and more patients sharing their personal stories.

“Menopause is something that every woman will go through, so it is something we should embrace and discuss openly,” says Dr. Dean. “If you are going through menopause and experiencing an increase in joint pain, it’s important to have an open and honest discussion with your doctor because there are things that can be done to manage the pain.”

While prescription and over-the-counter medications will vary from patient to patient, Dr. Dean has a short checklist for his patients to help them manage their joint pain during menopause:

Keep moving. You don’t have to run a marathon or turn in an hour of cardio at the gym. 30 minutes of low-impact movement each day will help loosen your joints and muscles while also burning extra calories. You can make it social by going out for a brisk walk with your significant other, friends, or your pup. Be sure to talk with your doctor before starting a new exercise routine to ensure you are protecting the areas of your body that are sensitive to pain.

Watch what you eat. It’s no secret that our metabolisms change as we age, and with menopause comes the potential to gain weight more easily – and weight gain can take a toll on your joints. This does not mean that you have to deprive yourself; rather, you just need balance! Fill up with lean proteins like fish and chicken alongside seasoned veggies; avoid processed foods and refined sugars; drink plenty of water. And indulge from time to time with a glass or two of heart-healthy wine or some dark chocolate!

Find your calm. Aging can feel stressful at times, especially as we learn to adapt to new ways of healthy living. Don’t let the stress get the best of you! Make time to relax both your body and mind to reduce tension and worry. Some helpful activities include gentle yoga, using a meditation app, journaling, taking a hot bath, or treating yourself to a spa day. Hint – regular massages can also do wonders for helping to manage pain!

Sleep. The idea that we need less sleep as we age is just a myth. Most adults need at least 7 hours of uninterrupted sleep to feel good the next day. Stick to a regular sleep schedule, limit the use of electronics in the bedroom, and make sure you are sleeping on a comfortable and supportive mattress. If it’s more than 15 years old….it’s probably time for a new one!

“Everyone deserves to age healthily and happily,” says Dr. Dean. “Changes like menopause are inevitable, so why not embrace them and enjoy the ride while doing what we can to keep pain at bay?”

If you are going through menopause and are struggling to manage your joint pain, or if you have been living with chronic knee, hip or shoulder pain, AROmotion may be able to help. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation with Dr. Dean to see if you are a candidate for our non-surgical treatment that has helped more than 1,800 patients stop their joint pain fast.

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According to the CDC, more than 1 in 4 adults in the United States with arthritis report living with severe joint pain that limits their daily activities. With joint pain being such a common problem in our society, it’s no wonder why there’s such a plethora of self-managed pain management solutions available today. From over the counter medications to natural/herbal remedies to customized workouts for joint pain, many patients rely on self-care to lessen the pain on a daily basis. While these steps are important for everyday pain management, they are often not a viable long-term solution as arthritis is likely to worsen over time. When this happens, patients not only have to limit their daily activities and stop doing many of the things that they love – but they also have to manage the stress and anxiety that comes with this change in lifestyle. Unfortunately, this can then have a negative impact on our most important and intimate relationships, causing those with joint pain to “lose that loving feeling”!

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, we asked our founder, Dr. Robert Dean, to shed some light on how chronic joint pain from arthritis can impact romantic relationships and to share his tips on how couples can work together to not only manage the pain but also the emotional toll it can take.

“When you are living with arthritis, you have to manage more than just the pain,” says Dr. Dean. “You have to manage how the pain impacts your daily activities and make decisions around what you should and should not do keep the pain in check. For example, some patients may have to switch from their regular exercise routines to low-impact ones designed for joint pain. Others may have to take caution when playing with their grandkids, walking the dog, or gardening.”

According to Dr. Dean, this is where additional stress and anxiety that can impact intimate relationships can come into play.

“As human beings, we are used to being in control of our daily activities based on what makes us feel happy and healthy,” he says. “When those options are reduced or taken away, this can lead to feelings of sadness and isolation. This is when patients need to pay close attention to their stress and anxiety; if not managed properly, this can have a negative impact on their relationships.”

So, how can individuals living with chronic joint pain work with their significant others to get the help and support that they need? Dr. Dean recommends the following tips:

• Be open and honest about the situation and what each partner needs. Often, we tend to reach for the right words to soothe our loved ones when they are struggling, but in the case of chronic joint pain, there’s really no way to sugarcoat the issue. While the partner living with the pain needs to feel unconditionally supported through the journey, the other partner may need permission to participate in some activities that the other cannot. Knowing that you have the full emotional support of your significant other will go a long way in reducing stress and anxiety and reinforce the trust and love that’s been the foundation of the relationship.
• Schedule activities that you can do together. If one person in the couple is limited but the other isn’t, it’s important to continue to do things together to strengthen the bond and enhance the feeling of support. So, if your loved one has to skip tennis, golf, or whatever activities you both enjoy, then make sure to schedule a time to walk around the neighborhood together instead.
• Hold each other accountable. Part of joint pain management involves making better dietary choices and to minimize weight gain due to any reduction in activity. Making these types of lifestyle changes is never easy, but if you have a partner along with you it’s much easier. And it will help you both to stay accountable!
• Make time for romance. There’s nothing better than shutting out the noise of the world around us and sharing a romantic date with our significant other – no matter how many years you’ve been together. Some ideas include cooking your favorite healthy meal together at home, sipping your favorite wine by the fire or while watching the sunset or just carving out distraction-free time to talk with one another. Not only will this help keep stress and anxiety at bay, but it will also help to keep that spark that brought you together alive and well!

“Nurturing our romantic relationships is one of the keys to a happy and healthy life,” says Dr. Dean. “We can’t control the body’s natural aging process, but we can control how we accept it and how we support our loved ones along that journey. It may not cure the pain, but it can go miles in terms of motivating patients to keep up their pain management routines.”

So, if joint pain has caused you to lose that loving feeling, try following Dr. Dean’s tips this Valentine’s Day! Not only will these tips help you stay connected with your significant other each and every day, but they will also help you stay positive and focused while you manage your joint pain.

If you are living with chronic knee, hip, or shoulder pain and have been told that joint replacement surgery may be your only option, AROmotion can help. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation with Dr. Dean to see if you are a candidate for our non-surgical treatment that has helped more than 1,800 patients stop their joint pain fast. Just fill out the form below and a team member will contact you!

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When faced with joint pain, people most often turn to medications, exercise, or home remedies or to help soothe the discomfort. While these can provide temporary relief, one thing that is often overlooked regarding long-term solutions is the role of the digestive system– otherwise known as the gut. In fact, your gut houses the majority of immune cells in your entire body, which means that it plays a critical role in your overall health and wellbeing!

So, we turned to our favorite medical expert, our founder Dr. Robert Dean, to get the breakdown on the connection between gut health and joint pain as well as some helpful tips for supporting a healthy gut for those living with chronic knee, hip, or shoulder pain.

“Many people don’t realize that the immune system has a significant impact on our joints,” says Dean. “When the immune system is weakened, this can contribute to increased inflammation, which in turn can increase existing joint pain. And, since we know that the majority of our immune systems are in our guts, then we know that maintaining a healthy gut is an important part of joint pain management.”

So, how can people living with chronic joint pain promote a healthy gut? According to Dr. Dean, the best way is through diet.

“You know the expression ‘you are what you eat’? Well, it’s true on many levels,” says Dean. “The food we consume impacts the balance of bacteria in our guts, and when that balance leans towards bad bacteria or is out of whack, that’s when we don’t feel our best. So, eating foods that promote the balance of good bacteria is one of the best ways to easily promote a healthy gut!”

Dr. Dean recommends a long-term approach to gut health through dietary changes that will have other health benefits such as increased energy, lower cholesterol, and help with weight management goals. Of course, he recommends that you speak with your physician before making any significant changes to your diet to ensure the changes are right for you.

Long Term Dietary Changes to Implement:

• Increase your fiber, micronutrients and phytonutrients by adding more colorful fruits and vegetables to your diet.
• Reduce or remove refined sugars and grains found in foods like cookies, cakes, and breads.
• Improve the quality of your fat intake by adding in foods such as avocados, eggs, fish and nuts.
• Eat better animal proteins by sticking to grass-fed beef, free range chicken and wild fish.
• Avoid processed foods by staying away from boxed or canned items.

In addition to these recommended dietary changes, there are natural and commercial supplements available that are safe and easy to integrate into your daily routine.

Adding Gut Repair Supplements:

• Herbal Treatments such as berberine, and oregano oil, and garlic.
• Enzymes that assist with digestion include betaine for stomach-acid production; lipase, amylase and protease to improve pancreatic function and bile acids or dandelion root to support the liver and gallbladder.
• Probiotics for restoring gut bacteria. If you prefer to get your probiotics through food, low-sugar yogurt is a great and delicious source!

As Dr. Dean mentioned, making these basic and long-term changes to your diet will not only help promote a healthy gut, but will offer more benefits for your overall health and wellness. After all, when you feel your best you will have more energy to enjoy life and the activities you love – which is all crucial when it comes to pain management.

“Diet plays such a huge role in our overall health and wellbeing and it’s one thing that we can completely control,” says Dean. “When patients come to me with chronic joint pain, they often haven’t even thought about the role that food and digestive health can play in long-term care and management. It’s important to educate them on this so they can make better choices to help manage their joint pain as well as their overall health and wellbeing.”

Of course, Dr. Dean points out that gut health is just one factor when it comes to joint pain. While some patients can manage their pain over time through self-care and over-the-counter medications, some pain has progressed so far that patients will need other alternatives.

“Patients whose pain has reached a critical level and have been told that they need total joint replacement surgery often feel that they have no options,” says Dean. “But we offer a real alternative to invasive surgery at AROmotion with our minimally invasive procedure. Anyone facing surgery should contact us for a second opinion. It’s a free consultation that can be done virtually for convenience, too.”

If you are living with chronic joint pain and have been told that surgery is your only option, fill out the form below to request your free consultation before you commit to an invasive procedure with a long recovery period.

By entering your information and clicking Submit, you are consenting to be contacted by our company representatives by phone, email, text/SMS, and through the use of automatic telephone dialing systems and prerecorded messages at the number(s) and email address(es) listed above even if your number provided on the form above is on a National or State Do Not Call List. Your consent does not require you to purchase any goods and/or services and you understand that you are not required to sign this authorization to receive services.