Unfortunately, arthritis patients must deal with joint pain and stiffness on a regular basis. Managing arthritis pain can help patients live a full and healthy life. Patients should remember that arthritis treatment is often a combination of therapies, and they may have a team of professionals working with them, rather than a single doctor.
Beginning Arthritis Pain Management
Patients should first speak to their doctor about their arthritis pain. Some therapies the doctor may recommend are:
- anti-inflammatory medications, which can reduce the inflammation caused by the disease, and relieve pain
- a physiotherapist to plan an exercise program with the patient, strengthening muscles and improving the range of motion of the patient's joints
- an occupational therapist to assist the patient with practical solutions for everyday life
Exercise and Nutrition
Patients dealing with arthritis symptoms should be sure to get regular exercise. Not only can exercise maintain joint health, but it can relieve arthritis symptoms by helping overweight patients lose weight, relieving impact on the joints. Patients beginning a new exercise regimen should consult their doctor or physiotherapist to be sure that their planned activities aren't too ambitious.
Although there is not yet a proven link between diet and arthritis, many arthritis patients do not eat as healthfully as they should. This may be for a variety of reasons: painful joints can make it difficult to prepare involved meals, or arthritis medications may play havoc with a patient's appetite. But eating a balanced diet is important to maintain energy, and to control weight. Patients concerned about their eating habits should consult a nutritionist or dietitian.
Arthritis Medications
There are two broad types of medication commonly prescribed for arthritis: drugs which control symptoms (such as painkillers and anti-inflammatory drugs), and drugs that treat the disease itself (usually used to treat inflammatory types of arthritis, these drugs prevent further destruction of the joints). Patients can help themselves and their treatment by understanding which types of medication they are on, how long they may take to work, and what side effects they may expect. Patients can discuss medications with their pharmacist, their rheumatologist, or even find more information on the internet.
Managing Daily Activities
The pain and fatigue associated with arthritis can make even the simplest of activities difficult. Fortunately, there are now many alternatives available to help arthritis patients, including orthotics and splints, as well as assistive devices that can help with activities like opening jars and cans, peeling vegetables, and getting in and out of the bathtub. Pharmacists can also dispense medications with easier-to-open caps. Patients seeking more information on arthritis products should consult their rheumatologist, their physiotherapist, their occupational therapist, or their pharmacist.
Getting a good night's sleep is very important for those living with arthritis, as it can stave off some of the fatigue that comes with the disease. Patients can also help make their own lives easier by prioritizing their daily activities, pacing themselves, and taking regular breaks if they need it. Avoiding staying in one position too long can also help reduce joint pain and stiffness.
Alternative Pain Relief Therapies
There are many alternative therapies available to patients looking for arthritis pain management, including the following:
- acupuncture
- massage
- biofeedback
- TENS unit therapy at a physiotherapy clinic
- applying hot packs or cold packs to joints and muscle
- guided imagery and self-hypnosis, facilitated by a psychologist
Patients should always consult their doctor before trying a new treatment for arthritis, and remember that not all things work equally for all people. It is often a combination of techniques and treatments that can make living with arthritis manageable for patients. Patients concerned about their level of pain relief should consult their health professional for further treatment options.
Source:
"Tips for Living Well", www.arthritis.ca , accessed February 8, 2010
Catherine Walsh - Catherine Walsh is a professional actor, playwright, and freelance writer. A graduate of the University of Ottawa, Catherine's film ...
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