Most conditions of the body either cure themselves with time or they get better in response to the weather, diet or stress in one's life. Therefore, there's plenty of chance for people to try a naive or fraudulent 'cure', then praise it for any improvement that occurred naturally.

Me, when evaluating a treatment, I'm impressed by two things.

   1. Is there a logical, observed chemical or physical reason why the 'cure' helps the body?

For example, aspirin works because it neutralizes the acids produced by inflamed muscles and makes the muscles stop hurting. Simple.

A brace for the wrist at night keeps me from putting weight on my sore wrist.

   2. Has it proved definitely helpful in a double-blind test?

As for you, RoyH, you tell us you have diabetes. Mudcatters have no business suggesting 'cures' which might affect the treatment of your diabetes. All I can do is suggest that you talk to your doctors about your longing for mobility and see what they can do for you.

Encouraging story: I came back from a trip to France with one foot and ankle in bad pain. The foot doctor said, "You've overworked it." I wore a special boot for two weeks, and my foot has been fine ever since - a period of one year.