By: Bertil Hjert
Arthritis is an inflammatory and painful condition of joints that most people suffer from across the globe. Most people are under a notion that there is no treatment for arthritis once it has occurred.
Even medical experts have claimed that there is no effective treatment available for arthritis once it strikes. There are several medications topical creams and oils available for relieving the symptoms of arthritis.
However, a recent research and medical claims have proved that arthritis can be effectively treated. In fact, there are several exercises and medicines available on the market, these days for treating arthritis.
If you are not aware of the treatment options available for arthritis, here is detailed information on all types of treatment options that can be opted for treating different types of arthritis.
Most of the medications for arthritis aim towards reducing the arthritis symptoms, delaying the progression of the disease, preventing joint damage, reducing deformities, preserving mobility, reducing deforming chances and preserving range of motion.
People who observe early symptoms of arthritis usually like to go for over the counter or not prescription medication such as topical creams, traditional methods such as massages, ice, heat and pain relief medicines without consulting a medical expert.
Medical experts feel that if a joint pain, swelling or stiffness persists for more than two weeks, you must rush for medical help. It is only a doctor who will diagnose arthritis. Remember that an accurate diagnosis it is very important to initiate the right treatment.
Visit a rheumatologist or an arthritis specialist who will prescribe you the best treatment options after analyzing your condition.
Some common drugs used to treat arthritis:
- COX-2 Inhibitors
- NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs)
- Pain medication or analgesics
- Corticosteroids
- DMARDs (disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs)
- Biologic response modifiers or biologies
It is important to ask your doctor for prescriptions of medication for arthritis rather than deciding one on your own.
-Other treatment options for arthritis:
a) Injections into a joint
This is also a common procedure for treating arthritis. You would find a wide variety of injections that can be giving to the joint locally. The five common types of injections available include Synvisc, Supartz, Hyalgan, Orthovisc and Euflexxa.
b) Natural Treatments
These are really common and popular among people because there are no side effects. The treatment options include Biofeedback, Tai Chi, Acupuncture, Chiropractic, Acupressure, Massage, yoga, meditation, magnets and supplements such as chondroitin, fish oil, MSM, glucosamine etc.
c) Complimentary medications
These are alternative medications that can be used interchangeably. These include regular work out, stress management and eating a nutritious diet.
d) Surgical options
A joint surgery is considered a last option when it comes to arthritis treatment. There are several options available under this treatment category such as resection, partial knee replacement, arthrodesis, osteotomy, synovectomy, and revision joint replacement.
e) Pain relief
Arthritis pain can be really troubling. It can even interfere in our daily life. Several pain relief techniques and medications are available these days to help people with arthritis.
