How to Treat Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is a non-inflammatory form of arthritis that degenerates the joints in the body. It is the most common form of arthritis and is found mostly in men and women over the age of 50. You should seek treatment for osteoarthritis because it can cause pain and stiffness in the joints.

Instructions

1. Lose weight. If you lose weight, you are reducing stress on the joints. Exercising and a healthy diet will help treat osteoarthritis.

2. Use glucosamine sulfate and chondroitin sulfate. These nutritional supplements have been found to relieve the pain and stiffness that is caused by osteoarthritis.

3. Utilize heat and cold therapies. Osteoarthritis sufferers use heating pads to relax the muscles and relieve any pain. You can also sit in a warm bath or hot tub to find relief. Ice is used to numb the joint that is causing the pain.

4. Take an over the counter pain reliever. Aspirin and acetaminophen are both commonly used when the osteoarthritis pain becomes unbearable for the sufferer.

5. Visit a masseuse. Massage can help ease the pain caused by osteoarthritis and loosen the joints.

6. Get a prescription from your physician. Your doctor can give you several types of medications to treat osteoarthritis. These medications include muscle relaxants and Cox II inhibitors.

Tips & Warnings

• A holistic way to treat osteoarthritis is to combine acupuncture with the practice of yoga.

• Speak to your doctor before trying any type of treatment for osteoarthritis.

• Long term use of over-the-counter pain medications should be avoided in order to reduce the occurrence of ulcers or possible kidney damage.