What Can Help Arthritis?

There are several ways to manage pain associated with arthritis. Rather than let arthritis pain control your life and limit your level of activity, consider ways to ease pain and incorporate more physical activity and movement into your life.

Symptoms

Arthritis primarily affects the joints. And although you may have muscle aches and deal with tiredness, joint pain and stiffness are classic signs of arthritis.

Effects/Complications

There are different degrees and types of arthritis, and mild cases may not require medication or treatment. But if severe cases are left unresolved, arthritis can become a debilitating and crippling condition, in which mobility is severely limited.

Prevention/Solution

Medications are normally used for the treatment of arthritis pain and inflammation. These include over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen, aspirin and naproxen sodium; and prescription anti-inflammatory drugs like prednisone or a cortisone injection.

Considerations

Alternating between heat and cold therapy may relieve arthritis pain by stopping inflammation or numbing achy joints and muscles. Experiment with a heating pad and ice pack to see which one provides the best results.

Expert Insight

Due to painful joints and fatigue, some arthritis sufferers avoid exercise or other forms of physical activity. But if trying to reduce pain and increase mobility, exercise can help you reach this goal. Exercise at least 30 minutes (low-impact workouts) a day to overcome fatigue and strengthen your joints.

References

• Medline Plus - Arthritis
• Mayo Clinic - Arthritis