Treatments for Joint Pain

Joint pain which is characterized by swelling, redness, heat, and pain.  Since there are many causes of joint pain, treatment options can vary with each individual case.  Joint pain that is caused by another, more serious medical condition can still be treated successfully.  One of the main causes of joint pain is arthritis.

Although a cure has yet to be found for arthritis, there are treatments available to reduce joint pain and increase an arthritis sufferer’s range of motion and quality of life.  The following treatments are very effective on treating joint pain whether it is caused by arthritis or another condition.

Drug Treatments

Non Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs otherwise known as NSAIDs are commonly used for pain relief.  You can get these drugs over the counter or a higher dosage may be prescribed by a health care professional. These drugs are used for pain and inflammation of the joint.

Steroids can also be used to treat joint pain.  Steroids can be taken orally in low doses but the normal treatment is to get the drug injected into the affected area.  Cortisone is the most used steroidal drug for treating joint pain.  It provides quick relief and helps reduce swelling around the joint.  This treatment is performed by a health care professional.

Dietary Supplements

Glucosamine has been used in studies of arthritis and has proven to be very effective in relieving joint pain.  This supplement is widely used by osteoarthritis sufferers to reduce pain and helps to repair the cartilage in the joint.  In osteoarthritis sufferers the cartilage becomes damaged, dry and brittle which can lead to bone exposure, thus causing pain.  Glucosamine is a natural supplement that helps repair the cartilage helping it regain its healthiness.  As we age, our bodies may not produce enough glucosamine to keep the cartilage healthy, so by adding this supplement can make up the difference.

Chondroitin is another natural supplement that can help rejuvenate the joint.  Chondroitin is usually used along with glucosamine to provide an even better effect on the joint.  Chondroitin and glucosamine are natural products and therefore carry no harmful side effects like you might get by using drug treatments.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy or exercise is an essential part of treating joint pain.  By stretching, walking, or doing low impact exercises, you are keeping the joint loose, which reduces stiffness.  When a joint is being used, the body will help to rejuvenate that area.  By just taking a short walk every day, or doing thirty minutes of low impact exercises you are improving your mobility, and the health of your joints and your body.

Massage is also a good treatment for joint pain.  Massaging the painful area will increase blood flow which can reduce inflammation, and help promote healing in the joint.  Massage is also beneficial for the mind.  Joint pain can cause mental anguish and stress, which massage can help eliminate.

Lifestyle Changes

Some joint pain sufferers may need to make some lifestyle changes like lose weight, have dietary changes, stop smoking, and change their sleeping habits.  The body needs plenty of rest, while you are sleeping the body takes this time to rejuvenate itself.  Being overweight can cause stress and pressure on the joints, especially the hips, knees, and ankles, which can cause joint pain.  Eating a proper diet including plenty of fruits and vegetables can aid in the relief of joint pain.

Surgery

Surgery is usually the last option for treatment except in certain conditions.  Doctors will usually try self-help, medications, then surgery is the last resort if no other treatments are providing relief for one’s joint pain.

Depending on what is causing your joint pain will determine your treatment plan.  There are other treatments available for your condition like hot/cold compresses can relieve pain and inflammation.  Epsom salt baths also can have a positive effect on joint pain.  There are topical creams that can be used also.

Remember it is very important to speak with your doctor about any treatments you may be considering.