In the US, approx 40 million people suffer from arthritis. This is a very serious condition that can cause severe effects when left untreated. Arthritis pain can be quite unbearable making it difficult to enjoy a normal life. It’s important to learn how to live with it by making all required changes. The process differs from one patient to another just like the severity of symptoms does. The material posted on this page on coping with Arthritis pain is for learning purposes only. If you have severe arthritis or pain consult a physician to determine the medication / treatment that is best for you. To learn to recognize and manage victims of severe joint and muscle pain enrol in a first aid course near you.
[youtube url=”https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uPblXTbdEXU” width=”200″ height=”200″]Healthy Lifestyle
Arthritis can easily be managed by adopting a healthier lifestyle which includes:
- Observing a low-fat diet
- Getting adequate sleep
- Eating more high fiber foods
- Exercising regularly
By living healthier, arthritis pain will be reduced to a very low, manageable level. Since this illness affects the joints, exercising makes a great deal of difference. Research proves that you’ll benefit from the following:
- Relief from joint stiffness and pain
- Enhanced mobility of the joints
- Stronger bones and muscles
- Less pain
- No fatigue
Doctors generally advise patients to stay in motion as it’s the best way of alleviating the symptoms. Cardiovascular exercises, like jogging for instance, revitalize the joints. Losing weight will also reduce pressure on the joints thus ease pain.
Hot/Cold Treatment
When using this technique, you’ll able to reduce soreness affecting the joints by using either hot or cold treatment.
Ice is used for limiting blood movement in the vessels consequently reducing arthritis pain. Put ice inside a towel and press it against the affected area for 15 minutes. Repeat several times a day. For hot treatment, take hot water and pour inside a bottle. Press the bottle against affected area. Repeat process.
Conventional Medicine
There are many types of arthritis medication readily available in chemists and in online stores. These are medications that help in relieving inflammation, pains and aches. Some of the most effective in the market are:
- Tylenol
- Ibuprofen
- Aspirin
Prescription medication is given for severe cases. They include:
- Relafen
- Celebrex
- Tramadol
- Feldene
- Codeine
- Morphine
- Demerol
Physical Therapy
For physical therapy, you’ll need to visit a therapist so that an effective management plan for your particular case can be created. Therapy helps in enhancing strength of the muscles. Arthritis pain will also be reduced as a result. Weakened joints are usually strengthened through the use of braces or splints.
Surgery
Surgical procedures are recommended for serious cases. To repair joints that have been damaged excessively, several procedures are used:
- Bone fusion
- Bone realignment
- Joint replacement
- Arthroscopic surgery
Supplements and Herbs
Numerous supplements and herbs are also used in managing arthritis. Some of these remedies for arthritis pain are:
- Capsaicin, the ingredient found in red pepper
- Turmeric
- Glucosamine
- Fish oil
- Vitamin C
- Soybean
Although research is still on-going with regards to the effectiveness of supplements in managing arthritis, some products are increasingly becoming popular. Always take care when using supplements. Consult your doctor first before attempting to use any remedies. This way, you’ll be sure that the treatment plan is suitable for your condition and generally safe.