Arthritis causes pain and inflammation in the joints, pain relief is necessary for maintaining the movement of joints before arthritis makes them completely immovable. Apart from this, the continuous pain can push the patient in a state of depression where he might even give up the will to fight the condition which can reduce the effects of the treatment.
Doctors usually prescribe medicines those can be categorized in to three NSAID, narcotic pain relievers and steroids. These medicines do provide immense relief from pain and even inflammation to the patient but along with this these are also susceptible for causing serious side effects. Though till today NSAID are considered safe but their complete effects on the body are yet to be known. In some arthritic conditions taking these medicines for pain relief can become compulsory.
Many people are switching to alternate medication for arthritic pain relief to avoid side effects of the drugs. There are many herbs which have been used since ancient times for arthritic pain relief and new herbs have been discovered too recently. Nettle leaves are natural counterparts of NSAID for anti-inflammation apart from this it has a natural substance called boron which is a helpful nutrient for arthritis patients. Cinnamon bark is a Chinese herb and very popular for its effects on arthritic pain relief, it improves blood flow and functioning of kidney and spleen. This herb is equally effective in relieving rheumatoid arthritis pain. Few other effective herbs for arthritis pain relief are alfalfa, angelica, licorice, ginseng, burdock, devil’s claw, howthorn, oregano, prickly ash, rosemary, turmeric, wild yarn etc.
Cayenne cream is popularly used as alternate treatment for arthritis pain as cayenne peppers have capsaicin which can inhibit the signals of pain flashing to the brain. However some people may not find it effective immediately and some may need more time, at least a week's time is recommended before making a decision. Consumption of vitamin E and vitamin B as supplement help the body in relieving arthritis pain. Chondroitin can draw blood to the cartilages, fish oil has natural anti-inflammatory properties and ginger has rich anti-oxidants which can help in relieving arthritis pain and inflammation. Glucosamine sulfate is a natural supplement which helps the body in rebuilding cartilages and is known to have very few side effects.
Some pain relieving methods are also helpful like hot water bath which can improve blood flow for some relief from pain. Hot and cold packs at the painful and inflamed joints can also relieve the pain and inflammation however in case of acutely inflamed joints only cold packs shall be applied. Hydrotherapy has exercises to be done in water to improve the movement of the joint for arthritis pain relief. Traction, massage and manipulation are included in mobilization therapies which promote joint movement for arthritis pain relief. TENS, relaxation therapy and acupuncture are also effective treatments for arthritis pain relief and reducing inflammation of joints. These therapies focus on improving the range of motion, strengthening the joint and improving endurance. These therapies shall be taken according to medical expert's advice as all the therapies are not suitable for every arthritic condition.
