Arthritis is a term that describes any inflammation of the joints. Arthritis typically leads to pain and stiffness in the affected joints and can become debilitating as it progresses. Arthritis can be caused by normal wear and tear on a joint (osteoarthritis) or by the immune system attacking tissue within the joint, leading to inflammation and pain. Regardless of the cause, arthritis symptoms can be reduced by quelling the inflammation and pain and by keeping the joint strong.
Step 1
Take non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. NSAIDs include over-the-counter medications such as ibuprofen and will reduce your arthritis symptoms not only by working as pain relievers but also by reducing the swelling and inflammation in your joints.
Step 2
Use topical pain relievers. Topical pain relievers come in many different forms. Some use chemicals called counter-irritants and contain ingredients such as menthol and camphor, which stimulate the nerve endings under the skin and distract the brain from pain. Others contain salicylate, which works like aspirin to reduce pain and inflammation. Other ointments contain capsaicin, which is a chemical found in chile peppers that can also be used to relieve arthritis pain.
Step 3
Take corticosteroids. Corticosteroids are medications that reduce inflammation. They can be injected into the affected joint, taken by mouth or absorbed through the skin using patches or creams. These medications are potent and typically are available only with a prescription.
Step 4
See a physical/occupational therapist. These professionals can help you improve the strength, flexibility and range of motion of your arthritic joints and can also give you an exercise program to follow at home to keep your pain levels down.
Step 5
Consider more invasive treatments. In some cases, arthritis (particularly osteoarthritis) can be treated using injections of compounds made from hyaluronic acid. These injections, which include the compound Synvisc, work to lubricate the joints and replace and protect damaged cartilage. In severe cases, surgery may be required either to repair the damaged joints or replace them.
Things You'll Need
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
- Topical pain relievers
- Corticosteroids
