The body's joints are lined with cartilage, which helps protect and cushion them. Sometimes the cartilage gets damaged, either by physical stress or from an abnormal immune response. When this happens, the bones in the joint grind on each other, causing arthritis. Arthritis can result in chronic inflammation and pain which can be debilitating.
Step 1
Take over-the-counter pain medications. There are many different drugs that can be purchased without a prescription that can help relieve chronic arthritis pain. The Mayo Clinic recommends using naproxen or ibuprofen. These medications should be taken according to the instructions on the bottle.
Step 2
Apply over-the-counter joint creams. The Mayo Clinic notes that there are three major types of creams that can be applied to arthritic joints to relieve chronic pain. Some make your skin feel cold or hot and contain chemicals like menthol or eucalyptus oil. Salicylate creams contain chemicals that are similar to aspirin and can relieve pain and inflammation. Finally, capsaicin creams can be used to block the nerves that transmit pain signals to the brain.
Step 3
Take corticosteroids. Corticosteroids are prescription medications which work to suppress the immune system. Because chronic arthritis pain is often caused by inflammation, suppressing the immune system can relieve arthritis pain. Medline notes that there are many different kinds of corticosteroids, and they must be used under a doctor's supervision because they can cause serious side effects.
Step 4
Apply heat and cold to the affected joint. The Mayo Clinic notes that ice packs and heating pads can help relieve arthritis pain.
Step 5
Rest and support the affected joints. Medline notes that chronic pain can be relieved by not putting unnecessary strain and stress on arthritic joints. This involves not over-exerting yourself and, when possible, wearing splints or braces, which can give additional support to the joint.
