ARTHRITIS

Treatment

Unfortunately, no one treatment works for all types of arthritis. Your doctor will prescribe a unique treatment plan for you or your loved one.

Medications--People with osteoarthritis have very little inflammation, so pain relievers such as acetaminophen may be effective. Patients with rheumatoid arthritis might benefit from aspirin or nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen. Be sure to check with your doctor before taking these or any other over-the-counter medications.
Heat and Cold-- Warm baths or shower or heating pads may relieve pain temporarily, but be sure to check with your doctor or physical therapist first. An ice pack may help to reduce swelling and stop the pain—but you should not use ice packs if you have poor blood circulation.
Joint Protection--Using a splint or a brace to allow joints to rest and protect them from injury can be helpful. Your physician or physical therapist can make recommendations.
Massage—Massage can reduce the pain and bring blood flow/increased warmth to any sore or inflamed areas. Plus, it can be a relaxing treat. However, since arthritis-stressed joints are very sensitive, be sure the therapist is aware of the condition, and knows how to handle it.

Medications--Discuss with your doctor some of the long-term medicines prescribed for arthritis. These drugs can reduce the inflammation in the joints, and include nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), Corticosteroids and Hyaluronic acid.
Weight Reduction--Extra weight on your body means extra pressure on weight-bearing joints such as the knees or hips. Try to keep your weight down, but be sure to discuss any diet or weight loss programs with your doctor first.
Exercise--Swimming, walking, low-impact aerobic exercise, and range-of-motion exercises may reduce joint pain and stiffness. In addition, stretching exercises are helpful. Be sure to discuss any exercise program with your doctor first.
Surgery--In select patients with arthritis, surgery is necessary. The surgeon may perform an operation to remove the synovium (synovectomy), realign the joint (osteotomy), or in advanced cases replace the damaged joint with an artificial one (arthroplasty). Total joint replacement has provided not only dramatic relief from pain but also improvement in motion for many people with arthritis.