A study focused on lei gong teng, also known as thunder god vine. As it turns out, the herb has been shown to be an an effective treatment for Rheumatoid Arthritis.  207 patients were observed over a period of six months. Some of these patients were given just the herb, a popular pharmaceutical drug known as methotrexate, or a both the drug and herb.

Of the patients that were administered just the methotrexate, only forty-six percent achieved the standard improvement level. In contrast, the improvement level for those just given the herb was up to fifty-five percent. For the patients that were administered the drug and herb, the improvement rate was significantly higher at seventy seven percent. Thunder god vine has been used in traditional Chinese medicine for hundreds of years and is known as Tripterygium wilfordii  to botanists.

Rheumatoid Arthritis can make everyday living difficult.  If you are contending with pain in your foot or ankle as a result of arthritis, see podiatrist Dr. Carl Ginsberg, DPM of Pennsylvania. Dr. Ginsberg will address your foot and ankle pain.

 
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 occur, 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 feel free to contact our office in Jenkintown, PA. We offer the newest diagnostic and treatment technologies for all your foot ankle injuries.

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