Arthritis Treatment: Available Options for Arthritis Sufferers
Arthritis is a rheumatic disease wherein the joints become inflamed, causing pain and loss of movement. There are over 100 variants of the condition, and the common causes include infection, aging, and trauma, causing damage to the affected joints. At it gets worse, it can be degenerative, making arthritis treatment essential to prevent the disease from worsening.
Arthritis Treatment
Arthritis treatment will depend on what joint was affected, what kind of arthritis it is, and the medical history of the patient. As such, there is no tried-and-true formula to treat the condition; instead, each program is devised to fit the unique needs of each patient. However, the goal of all kinds of arthritis treatment is to reduce the pain and inflammation, as well as to prevent lasting damage to the affected joint.
Most of the time, treatment is not necessary for mild cases. However, even those that have little or no symptoms may still need to be attended to if the symptoms persist.
The simplest arthritis treatment is to apply ointments or creams that were formulated specifically for rheumatic conditions. Common ingredients of these cream-based pain relievers include capsaicin, salycin, methyl salicylate, and menthol. Hot or cold compresses can also be applied to the affected area to relieve the symptoms of arthritis. Over-the-counter pain medications can also be taken to get relief from the pain. However, these should not be taken for extended periods of time because these can cause side effects.
Arthritis Treatment
Prescription drugs may also be given to patients in case over-the-counter medication for arthritis treatment does not work. Common medications include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), naproxen, and dicolfenac, which have analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties to reduce the pain and the swelling caused by sever rheumatism. Prescription drugs such as sulfasalazine, methotrexate, azathioprine, penicillamine, and hydroxychloroquine can also be given to delay the progression of the arthritis. However, these can also cause severe side effects and should not be used for extended periods, especially since the effects can actually diminish over time.
Surgery is reserved for the severe cases, or for patients who do not respond to the other kinds of arthritis treatment. Orthopedic surgeons operate on joints to relieve the pain, improve the joint’s function, and correct any deformities that may cause or worsen the inflammation. Occasionally, tissue may need to be excised for biopsy to check if there are other problems. Osteotomy (bone removal), synovectomy (removal of tissue), and arthroplasty (replacement with an artificial joint) may be necessary to correct the condition.
Aside from the conventional arthritis treatment, homeopathic and natural remedies can also be applied to relieve the symptoms of severe rheumatism. Some advocate exercise to strengthen the muscles around the joints, while others prescribe resting the joints, especially if these are already inflamed. Homeopathic arthritis treatment, such as sulphuricum, apis mellifica, and arctium, can also be applied on the affected area to lessen the swelling and the pain.
It is important to consult with a doctor before applying any kind of arthritis treatment. That way, any other disorders may be ruled out, and you and the licensed medical professional will be able to come up with the most effective ways in order to treat your condition.