Common Treatments for Arthritis Sufferers

Common Treatment for Arthritis

While each type of arthritis is controlled differently, there are several common treatment options. Rest, ice, heat, splints and medications such as NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, which include ibuprofen, naproxen (Aleve), acetaminophen (Tylenol) are used to control pain and inflammation of the joints.

Using the RICE method, which includes Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation, can be used when you have a warm and swollen joint.

The right kind of exercise is very important, yes, I said exercise. Our joints get their nutrition and lubrication from movement, so obviously, they need to be worked, which can be painful in itself, but will become even more painful if we don’t work them. A good idea is to take every joint through its normal range of motion every morning, preferably when you first wake up and your muscles are still warm. T’ai chi would be a good for this.

Aerobic exercise such as walking or riding a stationary bike should be part of your exercise program. Light dumbbells or resistance bands (which I prefer) can be used to help build muscle strength and relieve the pressure on the joints. Water exercise classes are a great way to relieve arthritis pain. It combines the advantages of weight relief from the joints and still provides resistance for building muscle strength.



Self massage and gentle yoga can also be helpful.

And of course you have to remember to watch your weight and eat healthy.