Many forms of arthritis exist; however, rheumatoid arthritis is one of the most serious and disabling types, as the Arthritis Foundation explains. The Mayo Clinic defines it as a chronic inflammatory disorder that tends to affect the small joints of the hands and feet. An autoimmune disorder, rheumatoid arthritis occurs when the immune system mistakenly attacks the own body's tissues. It generally occurs between the ages of 40 and 60, and women are two to three times more likely to be stricken with it. While no cure exists, a number of medical and lifestyle treatments can help relieve the pain it causes.
Step 1
Speak to the doctor about prescription medications. A variety of medications are available to treat the pain rheumatoid arthritis causes; however, the Mayo Clinic warns that many of these drugs have potentially serious side effects. For this reason, doctors prescribe those with the fewest side effects first.
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are available both over-the-counter and by prescription. These include drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen. The purpose of these drugs is to relieve pain and reduce joint inflammation. In acute cases of pain,--cases in which the pain appears suddenly--a doctor may prescribe a steroid such as prednisone. Steroids not only provide pain relief and reduce joint inflammation, but also help slow joint damage as well. Steroids are not meant to be a long term treatment, and the goal is to slowly remove the patient from the drug.
Disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs are another option for patients suffering from the effects of rheumatoid arthritis. These drugs slow the progression of the disorder, thus saving the joints and tissues from permanent damage.
Step 2
Undergo occupational therapy. The goal of occupational therapy is to teach patients how to protect their joints while choosing various devices to help make daily tasks easier to perform. If a patient's fingers are sore, an occupational therapist may teach that patient how to pick objects up using their forearms, thus taking the stress off their fingers. The therapist will also help the patient choose specific devices, such as a cane, to make walking easier.
Step 3
Reduce the stress on joints. The John Hopkins Arthritis Center explains that maintaining a healthy weight, or losing excess weight, helps relieve the pain from rheumatoid arthritis. When a person is overweight or obese, it places undue stress on the joints.
Rest is another important aspect of pain management. While exercising the joints helps prevent them from becoming stiff and sore, doing so while inflammation is present can cause greater inflammation, or serious injury to body structures weakened by inflammation.
Step 4
Alternate between hot and cold applications. The Mayo Clinic explains that using both hot and cold applications helps relax joints that are stiff, while providing pain relief. The easiest and most effective way to relax tense, painful muscles is by taking a hot bath or shower for approximately 15 minutes. Heating pads on their lowest setting, or a hot pack may work as well.
Cold helps numb the painful joint and decrease muscle spasms. While beneficial, the Mayo Clinic warns not to use this treatment if problems with circulation or numbness exist.
Relief is sometimes found by alternating the two treatments: soak the aching joint in warm water for four minutes, and then in cool water for one minute. Repeat this for a half-hour, completing the cycle with a warm water soak.
Things You'll Need
- Medication
- Assistive devices
- Heating pad
