Information About Of Arthritis Pain Relief Toledo

By Jocelyn Davidson


Arthritis is the condition in which there is inflammation in one or more joints. Joint pain and stiffness are the main symptoms. These tend to worsen as one grows older. The mode of treatment will vary depending on the type of the condition. Treatment is aimed at reducing symptoms and ensuring the affected people lead quality lives. In considering arthritis pain relief Toledo residents have many options.

At certain times, one has to try a number of treatment options or a combination of options for the best outcomes. There are various medications in use. Analgesics are used for reduction of pain but are not the solution to inflammation. For the treatment of soreness and inflammation, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, also known as NSAIDs, are used. Some drugs in this category are only bought with prescriptions. Oral NSAIDs may cause irritation of the stomach and increase the risk of heart attack. There are also gels and creams that are rubbed on the joints.

Counter-irritants are the creams and ointments that contain menthol or capsaicin. The latter is the ingredient that makes hot pepper spicy. When these preparations are rubbed on the skin, they will interfere with pain signal transmission from the joints. Disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs are used for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis. They stop the immune system from attacking the joints.

There are conditions that are better handled through physical therapy. Doing exercises helps to improve the range of motion while strengthening muscles surrounding joints. At times braces and splints have to be used. Surgery will be suggested in instances where conservative options fail to be of help. There are two main forms of surgery that may be performed.

Joint replacement involves removal of the damaged joints and replacing them with artificial ones. Knees and hips are the commonly replaced joints. For smaller joints, joint fusion surgery is used. Such joints include those in the ankle, fingers and wrists. Besides surgery and the use of medications, there is the use of lifestyle and home remedies. For instance, those that are obese should lose weight to reduce the stress on joints that bear the weight. Mobility will be improved and future joint injury limited.

Regular exercising will help in keeping joints flexible. Among the best choices of exercises are water aerobics and swimming. This is because the buoyancy of water minimizes stress on joints that bear weight. Heating pads and ice packs are also a good option to use. People can also consider the use of assistive devices such as canes, walkers and raised toilet seats.

The credibility of alternative medicine is yet to be fully ascertained but they are used widely as well. Acupuncture is one such option. Needles are inserted at particular points of the skin. This is believed to help in minimizing pain.

Yoga and massage are also effective. The slow and stretching movements of yoga improve flexibility of joints and the range of motion in those affected. Massage increases blood flow. The affected joints are warmed, relieving pain temporarily. The therapist should know the affected joints.




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