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Various Arthritis Pain Relief Arthritis in its various forms is one of the most common age-related health conditions. The three most common varieties are osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and gout, all of which are accompanied by symptoms such as inflammation, stiffness, redness and joint pain.
When it comes to arthritis pain relief there are a quite a few options available ranging from simple home remedies to very powerful anti-inflammatory drugs. The effectiveness of these treatments depends on the nature and severity of the condition.
New steroid anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) have been the most commonly prescribed medication for arthritis. These drugs could effectively reduce inflammation and the associated painful symptoms. However, it was recently discovered tat prolonged use of the medications could increase the risk of heart attack and stroke. One very popular NSAIDs, Vioxx, was actually recalled due to these findings and there are, at present, quite a few court cases pending.
There are many alternative treatment options that exist. Some of these are home concocted at home while others are in the form of herbal supplements which are available for sale. Dietary changes also play a big part in helping reduce inflammation.
Supplements
Two of the most well-researched supplements to treat arthritis are Glucosamine and Chondroitin.
Glucosamine - an amino sugar derived from oyster and crab shells, aids in the repair of connective tissue in the body by stimulating the proteins involved in the process. It can offer arthritis pain relief by slowing down the degeneration of cartilage.
Chondroitin - derived from shark cartilage, has been shown to decrease the activity of the enzymes involved in breaking down cartilage.
These two substances together are the one-two punch in most of the popular osteoarthritis treatment supplements.
Omega 3 oils - found in oily fish and cod liver oil, have been shown to slow the destruction of joint cartilage.
Omega 6 oils - help the body to control inflammation, and can be found in evening primrose oil and starflower oil.
Olive oil - studies have shown this to be helpful to people with rheumatoid arthritis, although the reasons for this are unknown.
Ginger - research suggests ginger extract is more effective than a placebo in treating osteoarthritis pain; however, the study was not considered conclusive.
Devil’s claw - two studies have shown this anti-inflammatory supplement to be effective in reducing pain.
Phytodolor - trials show that this is effective in reducing the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis.
Vitamin C - research into diet suggests that vitamin C may reduce the risk of developing some forms of arthritis.
Green tea - may play a preventive role in the development of arthritis, as it contains compounds that block the enzyme that destroys cartilage.
MSM - a natural sulfur compound with anti-inflammatory capabilities
Bromelain - an enzyme derived from pineapple that inhibits tissue destruction
Boswellia - an herbal extract with powerful anti-inflammatory capability
Alternative relief measures
Alternative arthritis pain relief is not usually prescribed by doctors, but can be very effective in controlling your pain.
Heat A natural but temporary painkiller for arthritis pain that induces muscular relaxation. The pain will continue again in about ten minutes after removing the heat.
Massage Can achieve results similar to that of heat by allowing your mind to let go of stresses that lead to most pain. You loosen up your body and this allows for less pain. Of course this too, is temporary.
Foot Spa Offers heat and massage, so both benefits can be enjoyed if you are experiencing foot or ankle pain.
Acupuncture The art of inserting small needles at specific places on your body to reduce pain and pressure. Some of the needles are heated and some are twirled by the acupuncturist. The various techniques are designed to produce certain effects in the body thus reducing your particular pain.
This method would not be suitable for intense pain. If you can feel pain by just touching your skin, without applying pressure, then acupuncture is not for you.
Other Therapies
Magnet therapy Claims to reduce pain and speed up healing, but experts are sceptical and opinions are divided as to its effectiveness. There are some trials in its favour, though but they are inconclusive. Magnet jewellery should not be worn by anyone with a pacemaker.
Copper bracelets Often worn by people with arthritis, but there is no evidence that they have any effect. However, its undeniable that some people swear by them, and this faith in itself may have a positive placebo effect.
Seek Consultation
Please ensure that you consult your GP about your own condition. They will be able to explain options available to you and might even come up with a treatment plan that uses both conventional and alternative treatments.
Authur: Jay Shah
