Non Surgical Treatment Options
Hot and Cold Treatments
Both hot and cold treatments can be reduce pain from arthritis and help to increase flexibility. To reduce joint pain and swelling use a cold compress to decrease blood flow. Heat will increase blood flow and help muscles to relax.Vitamins and Supplements
Vitamin C and D
Some studies have shown that patients with low vitamin C and D may have higher incidence of arthritis.
Glucosamine
Glucosamine is a natural building block found in cartilage. Studies have indicated that it may be useful in reducing pain, particularly for arthritis of the hand. Supplemental Glucosamine comes from the shells of crabs and shrimp. Those with shellfish allergies may be allergic. It has been said by some that glucosamine can rebuild cartilage, this is an exaggeration.
Chondroitin Sulfate
Chondrotin sulfate is found in cartilage. It absorbs fluid and makes the cartilage more elastic and spongy. Chrondroitin may help prevent the breakdown of cartilage.
Self-Help Tools and Devices
Joint pain can restrict your ability to accomplish everyday tasks. The following is a list of tools and devices that can help. Be sure to consult your physician about these tools before attempting to use them:
- Orthotics to improve foot alignment
- Braces for knee support
- Jar openers
- Button threaders
- Large grips for pencils, garden tools or other hand-held objects.
- Abdominal supports to reduce stress on the back
- Long-handled reachers or grabbers to help you pick things up without bending
- Sock sliders to help you put on socks/shoe horns to help you put on shoes
- Canes, walkers or crutches limit stress on joints
Pain Control
Over the Counter Medications
Medications help relieve joint swelling and pain, which can help to improve your quality of life. All medications have potential side effects, be sure to consult your doctor before taking any medication.
Acetaminophen
The non-narcotic analgesic Tylenol® is generally safe and effective in relieving minor pain and discomfort. The Academy of Rheumatology has suggested this as the first line in treatment of arthritis. Tylenol®, however, does not reduce the inflammation caused by arthritis. Patients with liver disease should avoid Tylenol®. Ask your physician about dosing and safety.
NSAIDs
Your doctor may suggest non-selective nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as Motrin®, Advil®, and Aleve®. These can help with mild pain from arthritis and may work when Tylenol® does not.
Topical Creams
There are numerous pain reducing, topical creams on the market. Capsaicin is recommended by The American College of Rheumatology along with a treatment plan. Capsaicin comes from the red pepper and is thought to help release the body’s natural pain killers and block a chemical which transmits pain signals. Check with your doctor before using any cream.
Injections
Injections are often prescribed to reduce swelling and pain in joints.
Cortisone
Cortisone may be injected directly into joints. Produced from the adrenal gland, cortisone is a naturally occurring hormone which helps to regulate inflammation. When injected into a joint it may reduce swelling and relieve pain. Injections can be done only a few times per year because of some negative effects on soft tissues and joints.
Hyaluronate
Hyaluronate injections are used for arthritis of the knee. Hyaluronate is found in the joint fluid that provides cushioning and lubrication to the joint. It may help to relieve osteoarthritis pain and restore joint function. Osteoarthritis causes the joint fluid to lose hyluronate and is therefore unable to sufficiently lubricate and cushion the joint cartilage. Please talk to you doctor about any injection treatments.