Arthritis Pain ReleifTo date, there is no known cure for arthritis. It is not a fatal disease, but it can greatly hinder a person’s ability to lead a normal and productive life. Arthritis can cause severe pain and swelling and even lead to physical deformities.However,there are many ways to effectively deal with the pain of arthritis and lead a normal, productive life. The most common tool for the management of arthritis pain is the use of over the counter pain relievers such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or naproxen sodium. These are known as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs. NSAIDs work by inhibiting generation of prostaglandins, which mediate inflammation and pain. There are also prescription strength pain relievers that come in higher doses than the over the counter ones. However, do not take more than the recommended dosage of any medication unless advised otherwise by your doctor. There are also some very practical and natural pain management solutions,including the use of a cold compress to ease the pain associated with the arthritis. An ice pack or cold towel placed over the affected area will often soothe the burning sensation that is accompanied by the inflammation of the joints. A hot compress can also be utilized to reduce the swelling around the arthritic joint. Acupuncture, which involves the insertion of needles into certain target points in the body to stimulate specific meridians or pathways can also be beneficial. It is believed that acupuncture blocks pain signals by releasing endorphins. Other alternatives include the use of natural supplements like fish oil, borage, or thunder god vine which can be very effective in reducing morning stiffness. Deep abdominal breathing is another effective tool. Breathe in slowly, taking air into your gut first, then filling your chest and then your mouth. Hold your breath for about three seconds and then release the air, first from your mouth, then from your lungs, and finally from your stomach. Repeat this process as many times as necessary. It effectively tricks the brain into believing you are entering a state of relaxation and in turn your heart rate slows, your muscles become less tense, and blood flows more freely through your system. This is primarily a stress management tool which can help you clear your mind and relax, but consider that the pain you feel in your body (especially in your joints when it comes to arthritis) is usually greatly intensified by our mental and emotional state. You are what you imagine yourself to be! In conjunction with these breathing techniques, visualization and meditation can also be very powerful pain management tools. Imagining yourself in a peaceful environment free of physicall and mental stress can have a very profound effect on you physically. Many times people will simply tolerate their pain, debilitating as it may be, believing that for whatever reason it is their burden to bear and they must endure it. Not true! Your pain can be dealt with. It can be alleviated so that it does not prohibit you from engaging it the routine activities of every day life. |