Treatment For ArthritisArthritis comes in almost as many types as the local ice cream shop has flavors. Each type of Arthritis has common symptoms and other symptoms specific to the type. No wonder this makes treatment complicated. Treatment options tend to be in these categories; drug therapy and alternative therapies. Medications for pain relief start with over-the-counter choices such as aspirin and Ibuprofen (Motrin and Advil). For Rheumatoid Arthritis, anti-inflammatory drugs like Naprosyn and over-the-counter Aleve (naproxen sodium) are helpful. Another treatment option is newer drugs known commercially as Celebrex and Vioxx, which are COX-2 inhibitors. COX-2 is an enzyme in the body that kicks up the inflammatory reactions in the body, which makes the symptoms worse. These COX-2 inhibiting drugs can help with symptoms of Osteoarthritis as well as Rheumatoid Arthritis. Even better is that the COX-2 drugs are kinder and gentler on the digestive system than other anti-inflammatory drugs for some patients. More complex drugs are also used such as Methotrexate, Cortisone, Remicade Gold salts and Penicillamine. These are powerful drugs that may bring unpleasant side effects such as hair loss, nausea, diarrhea, weight gain or loss and possible toxic exposure to other organs. Some must be taken intravenously or by intramuscular injection in the physician's office. Alternative therapies are non-invasive and bypass the side effects of prescription drugs. A nutritional consultation can show better ways to improve eating habits and include fish oils, antioxidants, vitamins A-C-E, selenium and zinc. These are elements believed to help the body deal with arthritis. Also helpful is changing to a diet low in animal fats and high in both cold water fish and flavonoid-dense berries (like blueberries, cherries and blackberries). Identifying any food allergies can make be extremely valuable in treatment of Rheumatoid Arthritis, an autoimmune disorder. Other alternative treatments to manage pain are hypnosis, visualization, yoga and acupressure. Hypnosis and visualization give control back to the patient with techniques to use anyplace, anytime to ease pain. Learning these techniques to relax even in the middle of a busy day at work or during a stressful procedure is very empowering. Gentle movements and stretching of yoga improves and maintains joint flexibility. Acupressure and skilled massage therapy bring comfort to painful joints while also stimulating those parts and applying a healing touch. A person with Arthritis needs to consider several options, some of which can be combined. For example, acupressure or therapeutic massage can be scheduled weekly while also taking over-the-counter or prescription medications. Remember to check with the physician before combining any prescription and over-the-counter medications. That means anything. Even a cough syrup or a new type of vitamin could play havoc with established treatment. To date, Rheumatoid Arthritis and other types of Arthritis have no cure. Treatments with drugs or alternative therapies focus on symptom relief, pain management, maintaining flexibility and trying to avoid getting worse for as long as possible. As the disease progresses, you can expect that treatments need to be changed or augmented for maximum benefit. Discover how a Thirty Five year Arthritis Suffererer cured herself in one month, without pills or diets ... Get "Arthritis Free For Life!" |