Arthritis is the breakdown of cartilage in the joints. Thinning cartilage allows bones to rub together and form bone spurs, or humps of bone. Bone spurs then rub together and cause pain and inflammation in the joint. According to MayoClinic.com, there is no know cure for arthritis, but treatments can help to reduce pain and help sufferers complete activities of daily living. Effective pain medications should reduce arthritis pain, inflammation or both. Patients should always consult a doctor prior to taking any pain medication for arthritis.
NSAIDs
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are effective in reducing pain and inflammation associated with arthritis, states MayoClinic.com. These medications are available over-the-counter (OTC) and include Advil, Aleve, Motrin and others. NSAIDs alter chemical signals related to pain and inflammation in the affected joint. Patients with heart, stomach, kidney or liver problems should not take these medications as they can complicate existing problems. Furthermore, healthy patient should be aware of the side effects, which include stomach upset, ringing in the ears, heart problems, liver and kidney damages, states MayoClinic.com. NSAIDs should not be taken for more than a few days without a doctor's supervision.
Tramadol
Tramadol, brand name Ultram, is a narcotic-like pain reliever, states Drugs.com. This medication provides pain relief by reducing chemical signals in the brain related to pain. Tramadol does not reduce inflammation, but has fewer side effects than NSAIDs, states MayoClinic.com. However, common side effects include nausea and constipation. Furthermore, doctors may prescribe tramadol with acetaminophen as this combination may increase pain relief in acute flare-ups, states MayoClinic.com
Cortisone Shots
A doctor may recommend a cortisone shots into the affected joint, states MayoClinic.com. Cortisone is a corticosteroid medication that has strong anti-inflammatory effects, and is effective in reducing pain, inflammation and swelling. This procedure involves the injection of the medication directly into the joint. Cortisone is usually combined with numbing medication, or anesthetic, which provides immediate pain relief. The anesthetic wears off after a few hours, and the effects of the corticosteroid medication take effect in a few days. Risks of this procedure include infection, bleeding or tissue damage. According to MayoClinic.com, the doctor may limit the number of injections per year, because too many corticosteroid injections can cause further joint damage.
