John Arts Abundant Living www.johnarts.co.nz

In March, I started helping someone who loved golf but was restricted due to an old shoulder rotator cuff injury, coupled with a more recent shoulder bursitis. Most rotator cuff injuries are tendonitis in the four muscles that attach to the shoulder. Bursitis is a slightly different problem, but can also be restrictive and painful.

A bursa is a fluid-filled sac that allows for smooth joint function by reducing friction between joint tissues. An inflamed bursa will restrict movement and can become swollen and red. Because bursae are located adjacent to tendons, it is possible to have both tendonitis and bursitis – and for an avid golfer it is no fun at all.

We started an anti-inflammatory programme, which was initially very intensive. Our goal was to change the diet and introduce potent anti-inflammatory supplements to help reduce inflammation as rapidly as we could. He was quickly able to reduce anti-inflammatory drugs; and after two months he rated his progress as five out of 10.

I spoke to him in October and he rated his progress at nine out of 10; and is now back playing golf. Additionally, he feels more energetic and 'just better” in himself. There was nothing particularly brilliant in what we did. We just added nutrients, which were able to dial back the amount of joint tissue inflammation, thus allowing the shoulder ability to heal.

It saddens me many people have this potential to heal, but accept second best as normal. My view is you never know unless you try. If a joint injury is holding you back, give me a call so we can see if we can help you to once again enjoy the things you love to do. To join my weekly newsletter, go to: www.johnarts.co.nz and visit: www.abundant.co.nz

John Arts is a qualified nutritional therapist and founder of Abundant Health. Contact John on 0800 423 559.